NOTICE OF NONDISCRIMINATION

The Pembroke School Board hereby notifies all parents/guardians and students that the Pembroke School District does not discriminate in its educational programs, activities or employment practices on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, sex, or handicap under the provisions of Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, the Age Discrimination Act of 1967, Title IX of the Educational Amendment of 1972, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the Education for all Handicapped Children Act of 1975. Any person having inquiries concerning compliance with the regulations implementing these laws may contact:

THE ASSISTANT SUPERINTENDENT OF SCHOOLS

SCHOOL ADMINISTRATIVE UNIT #53

267 PEMBROKE STREET

PEMBROKE, NEW HAMPSHIRE 03275

PHONE: 603-485-5187

Any person may also contact the Assistant Secretary of Civil Rights, U.S. Department of Education, or the Director, U.S. Department of Education, Office of Civil Rights, Region I, Boston, Massachusetts.

PEMBROKE SCHOOL DISTRICT CONFLICT RESOLUTION POLICY

If a parent or adult student does not agree with a decision made by building administrators, an appeal may be made first to the Superintendent of Schools and, if resolution is not reached, to the Pembroke School Board via request to appear on the agenda of their next scheduled meeting. Decisions on all policy matters made by the Pembroke School Board are final.

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PEMBROKE MISSION STATEMENT

THE MISSION OF THE PEMBROKE SCHOOLS IS TO EDUCATE EACH STUDENT WITH INTEGRATED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND CHARACTER NECESSARY TO ACHIEVE, CONTRIBUTE AND THRIVE THROUGHOUT LIFE BY ACTIVELY ENGAGING EACH STUDENT WITHIN A SAFE ENVIRONMENT DEDICATED TO EXCELLENCE AND THE BETTERMENT OF SOCIETY.

PEMBROKE HILL/VILLAGE STAFF

RYAN QUINN MONA SANDBERG

PRINCIPAL ASSISTANT PRINCIPAL

MARY ROSENTHALL KATHLEEN MAYER

SCHOOL NURSE SCHOOL NURSE

ELIZABETH TERRELL VERONICA SPOFFORD

SECRETARY - HILL SCHOOL SECRETARY - VILLAGE SCHOOL

MICHELLE BUTLER

SECRETARY - HILL SCHOOL

VILLAGE SCHOOL

CAROL CURTIS KINDERGARTEN NORMA BLANCHARD FIRST GRADE

LINDA MANOLIS KINDERGARTEN NANCY DWINNELLS FIRST GRADE

TROIS MONTANA KINDERGARTEN JENN JONES FIRST GRADE

CYNDI PROULX KINDERGARTEN JOYCE QUINN FIRST GRADE

LORI SERAFIN KINDERGARTEN CRYSTAL TILTON FIRST GRADE

HILL SCHOOL - VERTICAL TEAMS

TEAM SUNAPEE TEAM KEARSARGE

GRADE 2 RENEE CALLISON REBECCA BUTLER

SUSAN COWAN LUCILLE CONSTANTINE

STEPHANIE WASSON

GRADE 3 GRACE FOREST HARRIET CUNHA

SANDY VALINE JILL KRUNKLEVICH

ERIN TOWNSEND

GRADE 4 ANDREA DUCHESNE LISA COLPITTS

KIM PRATT SARAH HILL

SHEENA LESNIEWSKI

HILL / VILLAGE SHARED STAFF

ART KATY O’GORMAN

BEHAVIOR TEACHER LISA LAFLAMME

COMPUTER SUPPORT JOSH BERUBE

GUIDANCE CRISTLE CORCORAN

INCLUSION FACILITATOR VICKY THERRIEN

LIBRARIAN JUNE ADINAH

LIBRARY ASSISTANT SANDRA JACQUES

MUSIC SARAH GRASSO

OCCUPATIONAL THERAPISTS SARAH BARTLETT

LORI LACASSE

MARCIA WURSTER

PHYSICAL EDUCATION CRAIG STAM

PSYCHOLOGIST CAITE LINEHAN

READING SPECIALIST SYLVIA HUNTER

SPED COORDINATOR DOROTHY O'ROURKE

ADDITIONAL STAFF

HILL SCHOOL VILLAGE SCHOOL

TUTORS

AMANDA BEAUCHESE

STACY DRISCOLL KIM ZENGA

JUSTINE GASCO MICHELLE LERICHE

SUSAN KINNEY

SPECIAL EDUCATION

CAROLYN BERGETHON

KATHLEEN HERING SUSAN SEIDNER

LISA PELLERIN

MARGARET POZNANSKI

SPEECH THERAPISTS

KATIE KECK SARAH GRAVEL

TEACHER ASSOCIATES

JODI EHLER

JENNIFER ALLEN KATHLEEN FLEURY

KATHY BRASLEY CINDY LITTLE

GAIL CHABOT LISA NOEL

DIANE CURRIER DIANE PARASKEVA

MEGHAN HARDY DOROTHY PARRY

TINA HUSSEY ROBIN PLOURDE

TAMMY LACASSE LISA SMITH

PEG LEIGHTON

LISA LEVASSEUR

TIFFANY MULCAHY

CINDY MITCHELL

DEB RICHARD
DENISE STEELMAN

LINDA VINCENT

REBECCA WALDECKER

KATHY YANULAVICH

CYNTHIA YOUNG

TRANSPORTATION COORDINATOR

LINDA BEAUDOIN

CUSTODIANS

JENNIFER BARTLETT STEVE CHASE

JOHN BAILEY JEFF FLEURY

NORMA LASALLE

LUNCH PROGRAM

TRACEY BEARDSLEY-DUBE BETTY BEARDSLEY

DEBBIE SEYMOUR CHARLIE WHITE

BASELINE EXPECTATIONS FOR STUDENTS

IN THE PEMBROKE SCHOOL SYSTEM

Everyone in the Pembroke School District is responsible for contributing to a safe and healthy environment, which allows students to receive an education.

The following are the expectations for students in school, on school grounds, on the way to and from school, on buses, and in the community:

We expect students:

* to show respect for themselves, all people and their environment.

* to demonstrate that the primary purpose of school is to receive an

education.

* to attend school daily and be punctual.

* to show courtesy to others at all times.

* to respect everyone’s rights as individuals.

* to behave in a socially acceptable manner at all times.

* to resolve differences in a non-violent way.

* to use student leadership groups effectively to maintain a positive

atmosphere.

* to behave in a safe manner when coming to and leaving school; whether walking, driving, or riding the bus.

* to recognize everyone’s right to receive the best education possible.

* to contribute to a positive environment, free of disruptions.

* to practice good citizenship and share the responsibility of creating a

positive school community.

* to understand that staff will help students recognize, process, and take

responsibility for negative incidents.

ACCIDENT/ILLNESS AND EMERGENCY INFORMATION

The school is responsible for immediate first aid only; first aid will be administered by the school nurse if she is in attendance or, if not, by a designated person in the school. In the event of a serious accident or illness at school the parents are called, or if necessary, the emergency number that you completed on the registration card is called. Please make sure that your emergency contact person is someone local who can be reached. The person should be forewarned that you are using them for emergencies at school. If at any point during the school year emergency information changes, please notify the school immediately so that we may keep our records up to date. Your attention to this detail could save your child’s life!

If a parent or other people listed on your emergency card cannot be reached in case of serious injury, it may be necessary to transport your child to the hospital via ambulance.

ATTENDANCE

HOURS OF ATTENDANCE

8:00 - 2:05

(No child should be dropped off at school before 7:30 AM)

EARLY RELEASE DISMISSAL: 12:05

Every child should attend school daily unless he/she is ill. Important concepts are presented each day in school, and foundations for future years are built. Please help your child develop good attendance habits early in their school experience.

Parents are asked to call the school if their child is going to be absent or late. If your child is absent and we have not heard from you, we will be calling to verify your child’s absence. If a child is arriving late to school, parents should come into the office to sign them in. Children are not allowed to enter classrooms without checking in with the office.

A small percentage of children are consistently absent or late. It is disruptive to the class and difficult for children to join a class that has already begun. Once a child reaches first grade, attendance is mandated by state law. If children are absent or tardy an excessive number of days, the school may contact the necessary authorities to address the issue.

THE BEHAVIOR PLAN FOR THE PEMBROKE HILL

AND PEMBROKE VILLAGE SCHOOLS

This behavior plan is designed to provide an orderly environment that promotes education and safety for everyone in the school. It will ensure that a consistent behavioral approach will be understood and used for all students. The following rules apply to students of each school. The goal of this plan is to teach respect and responsibility.

1. I will be cooperative, courteous, and respectful.

2. I will focus on my own work and behavior.

3. I will respect the personal space of others.

4. I will respect the property of others.

5. I will follow directions.

When a student does not follow these rules the following steps will occur.

STEP 1

After a rule infraction the teacher involved with the student will give the student a direction to stop the inappropriate behavior. The teacher will indicate to the student what school rule is being broken and let the student know that the misbehavior is expected to stop. (For serious rule infractions, involving blatant, dangerous or hurtful actions, the teacher is not expected to give this warning but to go to step 3 of the behavior plan.)

STEP 2

If the misbehavior continues, the student will be told s/he has a log-in. Behavior logs will be maintained in classrooms. The log will be a sheet with a place to indicate the date, time, teacher signature and number of the problem that occurred. The teacher will fill in the log.

In some instances, a student might be directed to go to a time-out area. A time-out area, designated by a blue dot, will be located in each classroom. Arrangements for a time-out area will be made in the lunchroom and on the playground as needed.

STEP 3

If a student receives 3 log ins in the same day and/or for more serious rule infractions such as the following:

· throwing rocks/snowballs

· misbehaving during a school assembly

· misbehaving on a field trip

· stealing

· throwing food in the cafeteria

· being out of assigned area

· rough play/pushing/fighting

· harassment/bullying

· inappropriate displays of affection

· other infractions as designated

The student will be required to complete a Problem Solving Report (PSR).

The Problem Solving Report (PSR) includes the following:

1. I made a poor behavior choice. I….

2. The rule I broke was….

3. My behavior caused a problem because….

4. What I can do instead is….

If the student has successfully processed with the teacher, s/he will rejoin the class. The teacher will document on the behavioral log that a Problem Solving Report needed to be filled out. A copy of the PSR will be sent home for parents to sign and return to school the next school day. If the student does not return the PSR, a copy will be mailed home. The teacher will indicate the date mailed on the log.

STEP 4

Chronic or serious behaviors will be addressed by the Principal and the Behavior Team according to a set protocol.

Accepted January 2003

BUSES

The school district provides busing each morning and each afternoon. Bus drivers request that kindergartners and first graders sit near the front of the bus.

If you live outside the walking limits to school, you are granted the privilege of riding a school bus to and from school. Bus pick-up points are established as needed. Students must use their assigned bus stop. The School Board’s responsibility for each child begins when the child sets foot on the school bus. The responsibility ceases at the end of the school day when the school bus departs the bus stop after dropping students off.

In an effort to make the time spent on the bus safe, it is necessary to cooperate with the bus drivers and the school in adhering to the rules and regulations below:

1. The driver is in full charge of the bus and the riders. The drivers should be obeyed promptly.

2. The student should occupy the seat designated by the driver.

3. Students should be on time at the point of pick-up; this should be at least 5 minutes earlier than the scheduled pickup time. If a student misses the bus it is the parent’s responsibility to

transport the student to school.

4. While waiting for the bus to arrive at the bus stop, children should stand 6 feet from the road edge. Line up at the stop with the oldest children at the front of the line. As you load the bus, go to the appropriate seat.

5. Approach the bus only after it has come to a complete stop and the red lights are flashing.

6. Walk onto the bus with care and sit down. There shall be no more than 2-3 people to a seat, depending on the size of the students.

7. Feet should be on the floor and out of the aisle.

8. Hands and arms should be kept out of the aisle and inside the windows.

9. Musical instrument cases must be placed in the area designated by the driver.

10. Standing in aisles or jumping on seat areas is prohibited.

11. Students should remain seated until the bus reaches school, home, or other designated area and the bus comes to a complete stop.

12. Physical abuse and/or the use of abusive language to others or to the bus driver will not be tolerated.

13. Please refrain from loud talking, whistling, shouting, or singing. Please remember unnecessary noise is distracting to the driver, and his/her concern is your safety.

14. Once the bus is stopped, please depart in an orderly and polite manner.

If there is any misconduct on the bus, the driver shall complete a bus conduct form. Misconduct includes violation of the above rules or other behavior that is inappropriate on a school bus.

The first time misbehavior occurs the student receives a warning and a report is sent home (unless the misbehavior was flagrant or physical). Receipt of a second report will mean a three-day loss of bus riding privileges and a parent meeting. Receipt of a third report will mean a five-day loss of bus riding privileges and a parent meeting. Receipt of four or more reports will result in further action as is necessary and appropriate.

Suspension from riding the bus is not to be considered a suspension from school. When a child is suspended from riding the bus it becomes the parent's responsibility to transport him/her to and from school. If a child is absent during a suspension, the suspension continues when the child returns to school. The days the child is out do not count as part of the suspension.

Buses are occasionally filled to capacity and it is necessary to refuse permission for children to ride to or from school on a bus other than the one assigned them.

The school district has a bus coordinator to handle problems related to busing. If you have any concerns regarding the buses please leave a message for the coordinator at Hill or Village Schools (whichever school your child attends).

FIELD TRIPS

Field Trips are supplementary to the regular school program and are to be regarded as a privilege, not a right of students. In order to be eligible to participate, a student must:

a) have a disciplinary record which demonstrates an ability and willingness to conduct him/herself in an appropriate manner, as a heightened degree of cooperation is necessary on field trips;

b) have an attendance record which shows no more than a 10% absence rate or tardy/dismissal rate at the time of the specific field trip;

c) have academic work completed and up-to-date in all areas.

CHILD CUSTODY

In most cases, where parents are divorced, both parents continue to have equal rights where their children are concerned. If you have a court order that limits the rights of one parent in matters such as custody or visitation, please bring a copy to the office. Unless your court order is on file with us, we must provide equal rights to both parents. Mailings are sent to the custodial parent's address. If a non-custodial parent would like copies of progress reports and/or report cards, they must provide, upon school enrollment, a letter requesting this information.

CLASSROOM INTERRUPTIONS

- Every effort is made to minimize classroom interruptions so that the student’s attention can remain focused on the lesson being presented.

- No teacher or student will be called out of a class to answer the phone unless it is an emergency.

- When being picked up from school during the day, the student will remain in their classroom until the parent/guardian arrives in the office to dismiss him/her.

- Students will not be called out of class for delivery of flowers, balloons, etc. They will be notified at lunchtime or at the end of the day that a delivery has been made. The flowers, etc. may be picked up at the office at the end of the day. They are not allowed to take flowers/ balloons on the bus.

- When dropping items off at school – birthday cupcakes, lunches, etc., we will accept them in the office and deliver them to the classroom.

DISCIPLINE

Discipline in our school is based on “Facts of Life” that are easily understood by students.

1. The main goal in school is education, which is worth having just for its own sake. It’s also a tool which helps you learn more, faster. And finally, it prepares students for the rigorous demands of a job later on.

2. So, any person preventing anyone from reaching this goal is going to be disciplined. You’ll find that most problems in a classroom center around people disrupting others. This school protects student's rights to an education without interference.

3. Much like home, there are authorities. These authorities have made it their business to study young people as well as their own particular subjects. Their goal is student welfare. Their main interest is children. They care enough about children to keep after them so that they will succeed. If teachers aren’t all alike as far as rewards, punishment, discipline - students will have learned a fact of life. Teachers aren’t all alike - and neither are the many people with whom they’ll come in contact outside the school. In whatever job, vocation, or profession they eventually will find themselves, they will have to adjust to a variety of demands from a variety of personalities.

On the other hand -

1. No one is perfect. Some of us have more “bounce” than others. Sometimes we have “bad” days. Sometimes we are distracted. So what? Mistakes will not be held against a child.

2. School can be a pleasant experience. You get out of it exactly what you put into it.

3. Rules apply to all. No one is singled out for special favors or punishment.

So -

The average student intent on doing a good day’s work and holding a pleasant attitude will rarely have to worry about being disciplined.

Because this is a large school it is necessary to have certain rules and regulations that must be adhered to for the good of the entire school body.

Students are responsible for their actions and should accept that responsibility to ensure that our school will run smoothly. There are certain behaviors that will not be accepted in our school. If and when a student becomes involved in inappropriate behavior, specific consequences will result.

In this school:

1. We are polite, courteous and friendly to each other, school personnel and guests.

2. We treat each other fairly.

3. Everyone has the right to be safe.

4. We help keep our school a place in which we can have pride.

5. We follow the rules in special areas of the school, such as the lunchroom, hallways, bathroom, etc.

DRESS CODE/CLOTHING

A. The Pembroke School District relies on its students to exhibit common sense and good

judgement in their manner of dress and to respect the rights of others.

B. Children should wear comfortable clothing to school suitable for playing outside or for sitting on the floor. In the winter children continue to go outside for recess. Please make sure your child wears appropriate cold, snowy weather attire. High-heeled shoes and/or boots are not conducive to taking part in PE or recess activities.

C. School authorities do have the legal right to forbid articles of dress that endanger the health or safety of the student or others, cause a disruption of classroom or school order or present a potential maintenance problem. A student wearing inappropriate clothing will be sent to the office and will be asked to call a parent so arrangements can be made so they may change their clothes. Time missed from class will be unexcused.

D. Basic cleanliness and good grooming habits are vital to the well being of the individual and those with whom he/she attend classes and events.

E. Appropriate shorts are permitted at any time during the school year. Appropriate shorts may include Bermuda shorts, jams, walking shorts, and other shorts extending to or beyond the student’s fingertips with arms extended straight at the sides.

F. Inappropriate items of clothing include but are not limited to: cut off shirts and shorts, mesh shirts, muscle shirts, tank tops, halter tops, tops with string straps, biking pants, spandex shorts, gym shorts, boxer shorts, or any clothing with offensive printed or gestural messages or meanings. Items of clothing that are a distraction to students will be treated as such.

For better or worse, we donate over 100 pounds of clothing to social service organizations from our lost and found box yearly. Please mark all of your child’s clothing and lunch boxes with their first and last name. We make every attempt to return those items that are labeled.

EARLY DISMISSAL AND PICKUP

PLEASE SEND A NOTE if your child will be leaving school earlier than regular dismissal time or if you will be picking your child up from school. Parents should come to the office and your child will be summoned from class. Children are not released to parents at the classroom. Parents should sign the notebook just outside the office door so that we know the child has left the building. For security reasons children are not released to anyone other than a parent unless we have written permission from the parent giving approval. If you are more than 10 minutes late in picking up your child after school has been dismissed, your child will be sent to the New Morning After School Program and they will charge you accordingly.

If you need to call in last minute changes for your child's after school arrangements, please DO NOT leave a voice mail message after 1:30 in the afternoon. The school offices get very busy at that time of day and messages may not get checked immediately. Please keep trying until you reach a person if you're calling about dismissal changes. We don’t want any child to go home to an empty house because of a missed message.

PLEASE NOTE: The handicapped parking spots by the main door are NOT a drop off or pick up site. This is for handicapped parking only and violators run the risk of a ticket.

EARLY RELEASE DAYS

Early release days are scheduled to allow school staff to develop curriculum, attend inservices and work on other school-related projects. These days are marked on the enclosed school calendar. School is dismissed at 12:05 on early release days.

SCHEDULED EARLY RELEASE DAYS

SEPTEMBER 20 OCTOBER 23

NOVEMBER 15 DECEMBER 5

JANUARY 10 MARCH 15

APRIL 10 MAY 29

JUNE 17 (If there are no snow days, this will be the last day of school)

GUM

Failure to properly dispose of chewed gum presents a health and cleanliness concern. Therefore, gum may not be chewed at school, on the bus, or the playground.

HEALTH POLICIES

You must remain out of school with:

Chicken Pox For one week after rash first appears or until vesicles have dried

Conjunctivitis - pink eye Bacterial - 24 hours after treatment is started

Viral - until symptoms clear

Fever Temperature must be less than 100 degrees for 24 hours without

medication

Hepatitis, Infectious Until jaundice has cleared and physician advises return

Impetigo 48 hours from time treatment is started

Mononucleosis Doctor’s recommendation accepted

Pediculosis (Lice) Until adequate treatment is completed and no nits or lice are present

Ringworm Until treatment is started

Streptococcal Diseases For 24 hours after treatment is started

Staphylococcal Diseases For 24 hours after treatment is started

Scabies Until treated

Vomiting &/or Diarrhea None for 24 hours

If your child has a contagious disease, please let the nurse know so she can be alert to signs and symptoms in other children.

If your child becomes ill during the day, (i.e., diarrhea, vomiting, signs of contagious illness, fever above 100 degrees or is injured) you will be called to pick up your child promptly. PLEASE keep emergency numbers current and provide available alternative contacts. In the event of an emergency an ambulance will be called at the nurse's discretion.

If your child must take medicine as ordered by your doctor during school hours, you can do so by either of the following ways:

1. On a short-tem basis (two weeks or less), parents can come to school and give medicine at the prescribed time in the nurse’s office.

2. If the medication form is filled out and signed by doctor and parent:

a. The medication must be delivered directly to the school nurse, principal or teacher by the parent/ guardian, or designated responsible adult.

b. The medication should be delivered in the original prescription container from the pharmacy or in the manufacturer’s container.

c. A second prescription bottle containing one day’s dose of medication should be provided to the nurse for field trips. A field trip form will be sent home for each field trip that medicine is needed for and the parent must fill out, sign and return.

d. Non-prescription medication (i.e., Tylenol) may be left in the nurse's office to be taken by student if it is needed during the school day. The parent must bring the medication to school in an original sealed container and sign the medication permission form. Cough drops are considered medicine and may be left in the nurse's office with a permission note from the parent.

e. Students are allowed to carry and self administer asthma inhalers and EPI-PENS under the following conditions:

Medication permission and release forms stating that the pupil has the knowledge and skills to safely possess and use the inhaler or EPI-PEN in the school setting. This must be submitted by the doctor, signed by the parent and returned to the school. If the child has to give the EPI-PEN, he/she must go to the nurse immediately for follow-up care. We encourage the student who has to self-administer his/her inhaler to go to the nurse for evaluation of his/her condition for the child's safety. An extra EPI-PEN or inhaler should be left at the nurse's office for an emergency.

If the parents decide they want their child to possess and self-administer the EPI-PEN or asthma inhaler and have met the above conditions, the state law releases the school district, school board, and school employees from liability for any damages as a result of any act or omission related to the student's use of the EPI-PEN or asthma inhaler.

The school nurse will supervise the taking of the medicine. All medication should be picked up on the last day of school (unless other arrangements are made with the school nurse) or the medication will be destroyed.

If a child’s fever reaches 100 degrees during the school day you will be called to come and bring your child home.

SCREENINGS: Vision and hearing screenings are done on students K-4 yearly. Parents will be notified and a physician referral form sent home if a student fails the screening. Please have the physician fill out the referral form with the results of the evaluation and return the form to the school nurse.

If you need assistance finding a doctor or paying for the evaluation, please contact the school nurse for help.

Students will be screened at appropriate times for head lice. Please check your child regularly and call the school nurse if you find nits or lice so that the child's class can also be checked. This issue is handled as confidentially as possible.

HOMEWORK POLICY

Homework is an important part of a child’s education but the form that homework takes varies with the age and grade of the child. Homework is designed to reinforce concepts that have already been taught and to develop good study habits. In grades K-1 there is a limited homework schedule. Initially, activities and/or papers are sent home to be done with parents but do not need to be returned. Later in the year, in order to begin to develop responsibility, the teacher may request that homework be returned. When papers or projects are sent home, parents are always encouraged to review and discuss schoolwork with their child.

In grades 2-4, homework is assigned more regularly. Spelling and math homework are given on a regular basis. In addition, other assignments and longer term projects will be given. The purpose of homework is to review and reinforce skills and concepts that have already been taught. It is also meant to develop a child’s organizational skills and sense of responsibility. Children are held responsible for completing and returning homework assignments to their classroom.

APPROVED: October 1994 REVISED: February 2002

I.C.E. BLOCKS

Each week students at the Hill school are given the opportunity to participate in Integrated Curriculum Enrichment blocks of time. These blocks are planned and implemented by Pembroke staff members. These staff members meet once a week to coordinate their efforts. I.C.E. Blocks expose students to activities that include various skill areas such as critical thinking, problem solving, fine arts, literature and wellness.

These “blocks” help us to use the expertise of our staff members in a very innovative way. They have created an opportunity for staff members to learn from each other. The increased communication among staff members provides additional consistency between and among a variety of areas. The I.C.E. Blocks are a result of staff efforts to implement several strategies of Pembroke’s Strategic Plan.

INTERNET/COMPUTER POLICY

PEMBROKE SCHOOL DISTRICT

The Internet is an electronic highway connecting thousands of computers all over the world and millions of individual subscribers. It allows students and teachers access to a wealth of information and research materials and offers vast, diverse, and unique resources. Teachers and staff are encouraged to integrate educationally appropriate resources available on the Internet into their curricula. The district’s goal in providing this service is to promote educational excellence in schools by facilitating resource sharing, innovation, and communication.

Internet Guidelines: The use of the Internet is a privilege; users shall take personal responsibility for their behavior while on-line. It is expected that Pembroke School District users will conduct their Internet activities under the following guidelines:

1. All use of school resources to access the Internet shall be in support of and consistent with the educational objectives of the Pembroke School District.

2. Transmitting any material in violation of any U.S. or state regulation or school board policy is prohibited. This includes, but is not limited to, copyrighted material and threatening or obscene materials.

3. Hate mail, harassment, discriminatory remarks and other antisocial behaviors are unacceptable in Internet communication including, but not limited to, posting, downloading and printing. Access to USENET Newsgroups, unless specifically authorized by teaching staff, is prohibited.

4. All information accessible via the Internet shall be assumed to be private property and subject to copyright laws.

5. Users have a responsibility to respect the privacy and property of other users. Users shall not intentionally seek information about, obtain copies of, or modify files, data or passwords of other users.

6. For their own safety, users shall not reveal any personal information regarding themselves or others, such as addresses or phone numbers on the Internet.

7. Employing the Internet for any commercial purposes not formally approved by the School Board is prohibited.

8. Users shall not expect that files stored and/or messages processed (e-mail) on district servers will always be private. School and network administrators may review files and communications to maintain system integrity and to ensure that the network is being used responsibly.

9. The supervising teacher/adult has the right to limit access.

10. Use of individual accounts is at the discretion of the supervising teacher.

11. Use of the Internet to purchase goods and/or services, unless approved by teaching staff, is prohibited. If authorized purchases are allowed using a credit card, the approval of the cardholder must be presented to the teaching staff in writing.

12. All downloaded files must be screened for viruses, following established procedures, before they can be executed on school district computers and/or servers.

Computer/Network Guidelines: The use of computer equipment is a privilege; users should take personal responsibility for their behavior. It is expected that Pembroke School District users:

1. Will protect the privacy of other computer users’ areas by not trying to learn their passwords or copy, change, read, or use another person’s files.

2. Will not attempt to gain unauthorized access to system programs or computer equipment and will not use computer systems to disturb or harass other computer users by sending unwanted mail or by other means.

3. Mail must be restricted to messages appropriate to school curriculum and activities.

4. Will not disclose password and account name to anyone to ascertain or use anyone else’s password and account name.

5. Will not attempt to log into the system as a system administrator.

6. Will use all computer equipment to meet instructional objectives.

7. Will not waste or take supplies such as paper, printer ribbons, toner and diskettes that are provided by the Pembroke School District and will try to conserve these resources. Materials will be provided by the supervising teacher, as applicable.

8. Will not use the network for financial gain or for any commercial or illegal activity.

9. Will not attempt to bypass security systems on computer workstations or servers.

10. Will not maliciously attempt to harm or destroy data of another user or data that resides anywhere on the Pembroke School District network or on the Internet. This includes, but is not limited to, the uploading or creation of computer viruses.

Penalty for Violation of Responsibilities

If users violate any part of this policy or engage in any other activity which school authorities deem inappropriate, they will be subject to disciplinary action consistent with due process procedures. Discipline could include, but would not be limited to, the immediate suspension or termination of Internet access and/or computer privileges and/or legal prosecution, if applicable.

Parents will be notified of violations of this policy in writing, including any disciplinary action to be taken requiring their acknowledgement.

Any violation of law will be reported to the appropriate authority.

Rights and Responsibilities of Pembroke School District

For the purpose of this policy, user means any person authorized to access the school district’s computer systems or networks including, but not limited to, the Internet.

The Internet is supplied for use on an “as is, as available” basis. The Pembroke School District does not imply or expressly warrant that any information accessed will be valuable or fit for a particular purpose or that the system will operate error-free.

The Pembroke School District is not responsible for the integrity of information accessed or software downloaded from the Internet.

The Pembroke School District will not be responsible for any liability or expense incurred in connection with the use of the system. Users agree to indemnify the district for any expenses, including legal fees, arising from use of the system in violation of this agreement.

The system administrators reserve the right to refuse posting of files and to remove files. The system administrators further reserve the right to immediately terminate the account or access of a user who misuses the network resources.

APPROVED: October 29, 1997 by Pembroke School Board

LUNCHROOM RULES

The lunchroom is a place where students should be able to eat and socialize in a relaxed atmosphere. Everyone should follow the directions of the lunchroom supervisors. The following rules will apply:

Use table manners.

Use indoor voices and kind words.

Keep cafeteria clean.

Listen, follow adult directions, and raise hand for help.

Ask permission to leave table.

We encourage parents to join us for lunch!

MARKING PERIODS

KINDERGARTEN THROUGH FOURTH GRADE

FIRST MARKING GRADES CLOSE-NOVEMBER 9, 2007

PERIOD CONFERENCES/REPORT CARDS-NOVEMBER 15, 2007

SECOND MARKING GRADES CLOSE-MARCH 7, 2008

PERIOD CONFERENCES/REPORT CARDS-MARCH 13, 2008

LAST DAY OF SCHOOL REPORT CARDS ISSUED

PARENT-TEACHER CONFERENCES

Formal parent-teacher conferences are held twice yearly. Teachers will be in touch with you about dates and times to set up appointments.

Feel free to call for an appointment at any other time you would like to meet with your child’s teacher. Teachers are always happy to communicate with you about your child’s growth and progress. Marking periods and conference dates are listed above.

PARTY INVITATIONS

Please do not send party invitations to school to be given out. We will supply a list of addresses - not phone numbers - if you request it so that you can mail the invitations. It is a very sensitive issue when some students in a class are invited to a party and others are not. We recognize that it is a part of growing up but please help us minimize hurt feelings and distractions from academics.

PEMBROKE ACTION LEAGUE FOR SCHOOLS

The Pembroke Action League for Schools (PALS) is our local parent group. PALS parents represent the Hill, Village and Three Rivers Schools. They provide many services including a very active parent/ senior citizen volunteer program. PALS sponsors various fundraisers yearly. These funds are used to purchase school equipment and to provide special learning opportunities for our students. We encourage and welcome all interested community members to join, parents in particular.

For more information about how to become involved in PALS, contact the school. The PALS organization meets the third Monday of each month at 7:00PM. Meetings are open to all parents and interested community members.

PICTURES

On occasion, pictures of students, usually in groups, are taken at the school during special events. It may be the event is being covered by a local paper or a group that is sponsoring the event may be documenting the activities. In your opening day packet there is a notice that needs to be signed and returned if you don't want your child's photo published.

RECESS AND PLAYGROUND RULES

On the playground students should be able to socialize, relax, and play together in a manner that is enjoyable to everyone and in a way that avoids possible injury.

Respect the boundaries of the playground and other games

Ask permission to go back inside.

Play away from the windows of the building so you do not bother other people inside (or break windows).

Use all playground equipment the way it was meant to be used.

Do not bring electronic toys outside.

Dress according to the weather.

No throwing snowballs or climbing snow banks.

As always, act safely, responsibly, and respectfully toward all people; adults, students, and oneself.

REMEMBER: All children go out for recess each day unless recess is cancelled due to weather. If a child cannot go outside for medical reasons, please send a note signed by a physician.

RESIDENCY

In order for a student to attend school in Pembroke the student must live in Pembroke. Proof of residency must be shown at registration. The school board may on occasion grant exceptions to this for special circumstances. That type of exception can only be granted by the board. If it is shown that a family is not residing in Pembroke you will be contacted to enroll your child in the appropriate town.

SCHOOL ENTRY/ENROLLMENT

A. Basic Criteria for all Entry Situations

The following will be required of all who wish to be enrolled in the Pembroke School District:

Fully complete all registration forms at the school the student is entering.
Provide a copy of the child’s birth certificate/birth certificate information.
Meet all state/school district requirements for proof of immunization/physical examination.
Show proof of residency and show proof of legal guardianship, which supports residency in Pembroke.
Provide a release of information for educational files and materials from previous educational placement(s) including, but not limited to, transcripts, report cards, health records, educational testing, portfolios, and special education material.

The Pembroke School District will not permit matriculation without completion of the basic criteria for entrance.

B. Initial Entry into School

1. RSA 193:1 makes it legal duty of parents/guardians to enroll all students between the ages of 6 and 16 into school. Children who are six years of age by September 30 are eligible to enter first grade.

Children who are five years of age by September 30 are eligible for kindergarten.

C. Special Education Initial Entry

When a child enters the Pembroke School District from a special education placement, the special education team will review the IEP and confer with the sending school/program to maintain a comprehensive program designed to meet the needs of the child within the framework outlined by federal laws and state mandates.

D. Admission and Attendance of Nonresident Students

“No person shall attend school, or send a pupil to the school, in any district of which the pupil is not a legal resident, without the consent of the district or of the school board.” (RSA 193:12 I)

The legal residence is where a student’s custodial parent(s) or legal guardian resides, except as specified further in RSA 193:12 II.

For purposes of this policy, grade 9-12 students whose parent(s) or legal guardian resides in a Pembroke Academy A.R.E.A. sending district are authorized to enroll at Pembroke Academy.