Student Handbook

Click on the link below to go directly to that item or scroll down to see the entire handbook.

WATERTOWN BOARD OF EDUCATION

POLK SCHOOL P.T.O.

Polk School has a very active and enthusiastic Parent/Teacher Organization. Our P.T.O. provides parents and teachers an opportunity to work together to provide our children with programs and activities during the year to enhance their education.

A membership drive will take place during the fall. Meetings are held the second Wednesday of each month. Every family is encouraged to join. Your involvement will not only benefit your child, but our entire school community.

POLK SCHOOL MISSION STATEMENT

The Polk School community provides a nurturing and engaging learning environment dedicated to meeting the diverse needs of every child. Polk School is committed to developing respectful, responsible and caring students who strive for excellence in all areas.

ARRIVAL/DISMISSAL PROCEDURES

Parents should drop off/pick up children on French Street and not in front of the school or in the top parking lot. This is where our busses are either arriving or departing and would create a serious safety issue.

Children who are picked up prior to the normal dismissal time must be signed out in the office. A note should be sent in that day with your child indicating the time and the person who is picking up your child. In the event that a note is forgotten, only verbal permission from the guardian will be accepted over the phone.

Students are to arrive no earlier than 8:30 in the morning.  Grade 5 students report to the cafeteria and Grade 3 and 4 students report to the gym.  All students sit with their assigned class.  Students are to remain seated and to use six inch voices at all times.  Students are dismissed one class at a time.

At dismissal time, all students who are walking home or are being picked up are to leave the building and grounds promptly.  Bus students report to the gym and sit in a line according to bus number.  Students are to remain seated in a quiet and orderly manner.

LUNCH PROGRAM

A hot lunch program is offered at Polk School. Students may buy hot lunch or bring their own. Students who bring their own lunch may purchase half pints of milk from the cafeteria. A juice machine is available to purchase juice, which costs $1.25 and ice cream and snacks are sold daily. The cost of school lunch is $2.75.  Students are not allowed to bring drinks in glass containers.

Monthly lunch menus will be sent home in advance and are posted in classrooms and in the office. Students may buy hot lunch each day or may purchase a weekly ticket on Mondays. Please make checks payable to the Watertown Hot Lunch Program. Tickets remain at school at all times. In the event that a student forgets or loses lunch money, he/she may charge a lunch. We ask that this charge be paid within a reasonable amount of time.

Applications for the Federal Lunch Program are distributed to all students at the beginning of the school year and upon enrollment. Should the need arise, applications for free or reduced lunch are available throughout the year in the main office. The forms are reviewed and those eligible for free or reduced lunch are notified in writing.

RECESS/LUNCH TIMES

STAYING IN THE BUILDING AT RECESS

The recess period is an opportunity to relax from the tasks of the classroom and to play outdoors in the fresh air. On stormy days, the teachers supervise games in the classroom during this relaxation period.

On occasion, part of a recess period may be used in order to provide a student the opportunity to complete his/her daily work or to be given extra help, or to have time to reflect about inappropriate behavior. On single session days or delayed openings, recess WILL NOT BE HELD. 

POLK SCHOOL DISCIPLINARY CODE

Student Oath

P     I PERSEVERE by staying positive, setting goals and learning from my mistakes.

R     I RESPECT myself, others, property and use appropriate language and behavior at all times.

I     I have INTEGRITY. I am responsible, I do my own work, and I am trustworthy.

D     I am DISCIPLINED. I strive for self-control, come to school on time and do my homework regularly.

E     I strive for EXCELLENCE by doing my personal best, going above and beyond and encouraging others to achieve.

I AM PROUD TO BE A POLK SCHOOL STUDENT!

POLK SCHOOL EXPECTATIONS

BUILDING AND GROUNDS

Students are expected to:

• Follow adult directions

• Report all problems to the teacher on duty

• Walk quietly and orderly to assigned locations

• Keep hands, feet, and objects to themselves

• Refrain from throwing objects of any kind on school grounds (stones, snowballs, etc.)

• Refrain from climbing on fences, backstops, etc.

• Refrain from entering the wooded area and bordering property

• Play on blacktop when grassy areas are muddy and/or snowy

• Refrain from wearing hats in the building

• Refrain from chewing gum on school grounds

CLASSROOM/SCHOOL

Students are expected to:

• Listen carefully and follow directions

• Work quietly while not disturbing others

• Respect others and their property

• Keep hands, feet, and other objects to themselves

• Be polite and friendly in both words and actions

• Use the lavatory facilities in the appropriate manner.

CAFETERIA

Students are expected to:

• Remain quiet and orderly when entering/leaving the cafeteria

• Respect adults in charge

• Raise hands if they need help

• Take seats in assigned locations and remain seated until given permission to leave

• Observe lights out signal

• Talk quietly using a conversational tone

• Use good table manners at all times.

RECESS/GAMES

Students are expected to:

• Behave in a safe manner. No rough play.

• Use equipment safely and properly (use swings and slide in a sitting position, etc.)

• Show good sportsmanship.

• Cease activities/games and line up quietly when the bell rings or when instructed to do so.

RELATIONSHIPS

Students are expected to:

• Treat classmates and adults with respect and kindness.

• Show respect by using appropriate language.  

LAVATORY

Students are expected to:

Use the lavatory facilities in the appropriate manner.

Sign out in their classrooms before using the lavatories.

Classroom teachers develop classroom management plans that support the above expectations and encourage appropriate standards of behavior.

Consequences for Breaking School Rules

If inappropriate behavior is observed, the classroom teacher may implement logical and appropriate consequences after any infraction which may include loss of recess, after-school detention, developing a plan, loss of privileges, etc. A behavior plan, parent contact and/or support from other school personnel may be necessary.

At times, students may demonstrate inappropriate behaviors in other settings throughout the building such as in the hallways, lunch room, bus line or on the playground. To assist in these settings,  a behavior referral form will be completed and submitted to the classroom teacher for action. The discipline guidelines include the following:

CONSEQUENCES FOR BREAKING SCHOOL RULES

However, referral to the principal at any time may be made depending on the seriousness of the offense regardless of setting and number of offenses. The principal reserves the right to take a disciplinary action, such as loss of recess, after-school detentions, loss of privileges or in-school or out of school suspension.

NOTE: This is a working document and is reviewed periodically. Changes are made as necessary.

EMERGENCY INFORMATION

Emergency information sheets are required for all students.  Accurate information is essential to ensure individual safety and to facilitate home/school communication.  The information sheets should contain the names of all people we may call in the event we cannot contact you in an emergency.

CHILDREN WILL BE RELEASED ONLY TO THOSE PERSONS LISTED ON THE INFORMATION SHEET!

It is important for parents to contact the office immediately if there is a change in address, telephone number (home or work), childcare provider, or person to contact in case of emergency. 

CHANGE IN NORMAL BUS TRANSPORTATION

If your child is going to daycare or taking a bus to another designation other than the bus (or bus stop) he/she is assigned, a “Change in Normal Bus Transportation Form” must be completed and the change approved by the Board of Education in advance.  A complete copy of the Transportation Guidelines can be obtained in the school office.

CLOTHING/LOST AND FOUND

Each year numerous articles of clothing are left at school. Many children cannot identify what they have lost. It is imperative that all clothing, including backpacks, and lunch boxes, be labeled with a child’s full name and grade. If items are lost, they will be placed in the lost and found box located in the cafeteria. Students and parents should check frequently for missing items. Periodically, if articles are not claimed, they will be donated to charity. 

FORGOTTEN MATERIALS

During the course of the year children have the tendency to forget items necessary for school (i.e. sneakers, lunches, homework, musical instruments). In order to minimize the number of unnecessary classroom interruptions, children will not be allowed to use the office telephone to call home for any items that are forgotten. Should a child forget an item and a parent brings it to school, they are to bring it to the office. Items should contain the child’s full name and classroom teacher. Homework will be placed in the teachers’ mailbox.

In the event that no lunch is dropped off, children will be allowed to charge their lunch. Lunch money should be placed in an envelope and left in the office. Prior to their lunch period, children will be notified of their money. 

NO ITEMS SHOULD BE DELIVERED DIRECTLY TO THE CLASSROOM.

SCHOOL PHOTOGRAPHS

Each year students are given the opportunity to purchase photographs of themselves and their classmates. This is a traditional school fundraiser and allows families to obtain quality pictures at a reasonable price. Notices will be sent out early in the fall regarding school photos.  

BIRTHDAYS/INVITATIONS

Birthdays are special times for children and parents often wish to have their child share refreshments with his/her class. Please send a note to the teacher to make arrangements in advance.

Reminder: Some students may have serious food allergies, which could result in severe illness or worse, so please consult the classroom teacher as to the type of snack being provided. He/she will be able to alert you to any students in the class who may have food allergies.

All food items. whether purchased or homemade must be checked by the school nurse prior to being distributed. Therefore, please be sure to include the original box with the list of ingredients so that allergy triggers in foods can be avoided.

If your child is going to bring invitations to school for a party at home, make sure that all children in the class are invited. If not, please make other arrangements to distribute invitations.

In the spirit of healthy eating, please consider food items with greater nutritional value. Pretzels, popcorn, fruit, vegetables, etc. are excellent choices.

SNACKS

Most classroom teachers schedule a snack time during the day. This snack provides sustained energy supporting focus and attention to learning tasks.  Healthy snacking is promoted in the classrooms.  Please assist your child in packing a healthy snack.

WATERTOWN PUBLIC SCHOOLS

GOALS OF EDUCATION

The schools of Watertown should strive to impart to each student a mature understanding of himself, his needs, and the needs of the people around him. Education within the Watertown Public School System should enable the student to demonstrate that he can learn on his own and that he can translate his learning into worthwhile action. To this end, the school system shall provide educational experiences matched to the student’s capability, personal development, and interests by providing flexibility with respect to content, and support of the community because education not only serves the individual but also society.

The following educational goals have been established:

GENERAL BEHAVIOR GUIDELINES

Our goal is to develop the whole child. In addition to established academic standards, behavioral guidelines have also been developed in order to provide a safe and productive learning environment for all students. It is expected that students will show RESPECT for all adults and classmates. It is the responsibility of every student to care for school and personal property and to always work in a responsible manner.

CHAIN OF COMMAND

If you should ever have a concern that involves your child, please be aware of the steps that you should follow:

• Speak to the teacher or other professional who works with your child first.

• If not resolved satisfactorily, go to the principal.

• If not resolved, contact the Superintendent of Schools.

• If not resolved, contact the Board of Education liaison for your building.

It is very doubtful that you will need to proceed through all of these steps since all members of the school staff are eager to work with you and your child. Please contact your child’s teacher whenever you have a concern or question.

ABSENCES

PLEASE CALL the nurse’s office at 945-4845 after 8:30 AM to notify us each day your child is absent. If a call is not received the school nurse or office will make every effort to contact parents. When a child returns to school following an absence, please write a brief note stating the date and the reason for the absence.  

TARDINESS

All students must report to the office when they arrive late to school. If your child is going to be more than a few minutes late, please notify the school office. If a call is not received, the nurse will call the parents.  At Polk School, students are officially late after 8:45 AM.

LEAVING SCHOOL GROUNDS/RELEASE OF STUDENTS FROM SCHOOL

Under no circumstances may a student leave the school or school grounds during school hours without permission from his/her parents or guardians and school administration. In the event it is necessary for a student to be dismissed early, a parent or guardian should send a written request to the office. The time to be dismissed and the person picking up the child must be stated in the note. The parent or designee should pick up the child at the main office.

If someone other than a parent/guardian picks up the student, the person appearing in the school office should bring a note of identification from the parent or guardian.  In cases of single parents, both parents will be assumed to have rights of access unless copies of legal documents to the contrary are filed with the school principal.

SCHOOL CLOSING-STORM DAYS

When there is a question whether school will be in session or not, the following radio and television stations will provide such information:

The “NO SCHOOL” announcement for Watertown/Oakville will be made between 7:00 and 7:30 a.m. If you do not hear a “NO SCHOOL” announcement during this time, parents should use their own judgment on whether or not their children should attend school.

In most cases, when early dismissal occurs, after-school activities are canceled. If an after-school activity is canceled, children will be sent home the way they normally go home from school each day.

Arrangements should be made between you and your child as to what they are to do, and where they are to go in the event of an early dismissal due to inclement weather. It is also recommended that a written note be sent to the office specifying what your child is to do in this event. When we have notification of what is to transpire we will share it with your child’s classroom teacher.

It is impossible to call and notify parents of an early dismissal. Please make sure that you listen to the radio, or have a designated friend, relative, etc. do so during inclement weather and notify you. 

FIRE DRILLS

All students must leave the building quietly and in an orderly manner. Students must remain at the assigned area until permitted to return to the building.

LEGAL CUSTODY

When a child’s parents are separated or divorced, the issue of custody often becomes a matter of concern for the school. In order to protect the child and the rights of the custodial parent, it is important that the school be given a photocopy of the custodial agreement. Without this document in our files, we must legally release a child to either parent. In addition, school records will be released to either parent without this document. 

PARENT VISITATION

Parents are welcome and indeed encouraged to visit the school. All visitors are asked to stop at the office for assistance or direction to the proper room in the building. If you would like to observe in your child’s classroom, please call in advance to set up a time which is mutually convenient for you, the classroom teacher and the building principal. 

EXCUSED ABSENCE FROM PHYSICAL EDUCATION

A child will be excused from physical education for short-term illnesses or injuries with a note from his/her parents. However, if a child has been under a doctor’s care for a long-term illness or injury, particularly a fracture or sprain, the school must have the DOCTOR’S WRITTEN PERMISSION to readmit him/her to class.  A parent’s note will not be sufficient in this case. 

PETS IN SCHOOL

Pets are generally not allowed in school unless permission is obtained from the principal. 

SOLICITING

There will be no soliciting of any form on school grounds. 

INSURANCE

Each family is offered an accident policy at a small cost per child. An application form will be sent home with each child during the month of September. If you want your child insured, please follow the directions on the envelope form and have your child return it to the school. If your child is injured, please contact the school office so that an accident report can be filed. 

STUDY SKILLS

Good study skills can help students to learn. Good study skills can become habits throughout life. The Watertown Public Schools are dedicated to improving students’ demonstration of learning as reflected in student achievement and overall academic performance. It is our aim to foster the development of independence through self-motivation, self-discipline, and responsibility. With these goals in mind, parents’ support and cooperation with homework is essential.

Please consider the following guidelines when working with your child at home:

1. Provide a quiet and uninterrupted area in the home for the student to work.

2. Establish a specific time each night when homework will begin and a time for it to be completed.

3. Encourage a buddy system to check on homework when your child is absent or unclear about a particular assignment.

4. Review homework with your child when it is completed. This will reinforce written standards and also keep parents aware of the quantity and type of work your child is responsible for in school.

5. Maintain good communication with the school. This is essential if there are questions about the amount, type, or content of the homework.

HOMEWORK

Homework is recognized as an integral part of the school’s educational program. It is a form of independent practice directly related to classroom work. Homework will be assigned in all grades- kindergarten through grade twelve. The kind and amount of homework will be determined at each level by the administrator and teachers. Incomplete homework may result in lowered grades.

Guidelines:

If homework appears to be too difficult for the student and an excessive amount of time is being spent on homework assignments, the classroom teacher should be notified immediately. 

MAKE-UP WORK REQUESTS

If your child is going to be absent for an extended length of time, arrangements for make-up work should be made with the teacher(s). Teachers are to be given 24-hour notice to prepare work for students who are absent for extended illness. Students are expected to complete the work missed within a reasonable time period. Teachers are expected to assist the children in make-up work when necessary. 

PERSONAL PROPERTY

Toys, games, or other personal items should not be brought to school unless the child is directed to do so. The school is not responsible for any loss or damage to these items.

TEXTS/LIBRARY BOOKS/SCHOOL SUPPLIES

All books/textbooks must be returned to the teacher in the same condition as when distributed. If a student loses a textbook or other school property, he/she must report it immediately to the teacher or librarian. If not found in a reasonable amount of time, the student will have to pay for it.  All textbooks must be covered unless otherwise directed by the classroom teacher. 

LIBRARY

All elementary schools have a central library. Students visit the library on a regular basis during the week to borrow books. Pupils are responsible for any and all books charged out to them, and are expected to return all books when due. If books are lost, the child is responsible for payment to replace them. 

FIELD TRIPS

Field trips are an integral part of our educational program. Students can read or be told about many topics, but when they can actually see something that relates to what they are studying, it is much more meaningful. When a field trip is planned, your child will bring home a form describing the trip and its cost. The form will also contain a permission slip. Please sign and return it to the teacher. Children who do not return a signed permission slip prior to the field trip will not be allowed to participate in that trip.

In some cases a child will be denied the right to attend field trips due to disciplinary measures. Parents will be notified if a child is not to participate in the field trip.

WATERTOWN’S INTERVENTION STRATEGIES TEAM (W.I.S.T.)

Each Watertown Public School has a team of school personnel who meet on a regular basis to discuss, review, and develop action plans for students with demonstrated needs. The team is comprised of the building administrator, the nurse, a regular and special education teacher, the school’s psychologist or social worker and other trained personnel. The goal of the W.I.S.T. is to promote early identification, assistance and alternatives to students whose problems are interfering with school performance. 

SPECIAL EDUCATION

Identification of a student as eligible for special education services begins with a written referral. That written request may come directly from the parent/guardian or directly from the school’s Intervention Strategy Team. Either route requires that a request be in writing.

A forty-five day clock “ticks” from the date of receipt. By or before the 45^th day a meeting of staff and parents will have been called to review the evaluations done by school staff, a decision arrived at regarding eligibility for services and a program designed, ready to be implemented on the forty-fifth day if the child is declared eligible.

VANDALISM

Vandalism, which is the willful and/or wanton destruction of public or private property, and an anti-social act, cannot be tolerated in our schools.

Vandalism includes the damaging or destruction of:

As stated in the Connecticut General Statutes 52-572, “the parent or legal guardian of any minor/emancipated child who willfully cuts, defaces, or otherwise injures in any way real or personal property belonging to the school district shall be held liable for all such damages up to the maximum allowed under state law.”

Liability provided under CGS 52-572 does not relieve the minor child of any personal liability for damage or injury. This liability is in addition to any other liability, which exists under the law.

The parent or guardian of a minor child is also liable for all property belonging to the school system lent to the child and not returned upon demand/returned damaged or defaced. The student may also be subject to disciplinary action. 

BUS SAFETY/REGULATIONS

Bus service is provided under contract through First Student Transportation Company (274-5212) for all students who meet the guidelines for distance from school. Children are assigned to a bus at the beginning of each school year. Children may not ride any bus other than the one assigned to them.

The primary objective of the bus transportation system is to provide safe bus transportation for the students of Watertown Public School System. Good bus safety is the business of everyone…not just the driver. Courtesy and good manners are essential in achieving this objective.

Once a child boards the bus, he or she becomes the responsibility of the school district. This responsibility will end when the child is delivered to the regular bus stop at the close of the school day.

To meet this objective, full cooperation in adhering to the following rules and regulations is necessary.

PENALTIES FOR VIOLATIONS OF BUS POLICY

In the event that a student misbehaves on a bus or endangers the safety of others, the bus driver will submit a conduct report to the principal.

FIRST OFFENSE: A warning is given to the student and a written notice is sent to the parents.

SECOND OFFENSE: A phone call and notice to parents that the child has lost bus privileges for 3 days. Days listed on the notice.

THIRD OFFENSE: A phone call and notice to parents that the child has lost bus privileges for 5 days. Days listed on notice. Should student be referred again, a meeting will be held with the principal, parents, child, bus company representative, and an official from the Board of Education to discuss future action.  A suspension of up to ten days or a possible expulsion from the bus could result. If you have any concerns, you are entitled to a hearing before the suspension.

FOURTH OFFENSE: Any additional difficulties will result in a phone call, and a written notice stating the time and date a conference has been scheduled. At this conference the principal, parent, child, bus company representative, and an official from the Board of Education will be present.  A suspension of up to ten days or a possible expulsion from the bus will be considered.

Administration reserves the right to take immediate measures necessary to preserve the health and safety of the other students riding the bus. 

SCHOOL NURSE

The school nurse is available five days a week and operates under the standard orders of the town’s medical officer. She provides first aid for anyone injured on school grounds. She should not be expected to treat injuries that have occurred outside school activities. If the school related injury requires additional medical attention, the child’s parent will be contacted. If the parent cannot be located and medical assistance is imperative, the school doctor will be contacted, and the child will be taken to the emergency room at a local hospital.

If the child becomes ill during the school day, the parent will be contacted. It is the parents’ responsibility to arrange for transportation home.

All injuries and surgery should be reported to the school nurse. After an injury or surgery, a child will be able to resume physical education classes ONLY after the school has received a WRITTEN RELEASE from his/her doctor.  A parent’s note will not be sufficient. 

SCREENINGS

Vision and hearing screenings are done yearly on each child. A scoliosis screening is conducted on all children in Grade 5.  Height and weight are measured on a yearly basis.

PHYSICAL EXAMS

Children entering third grade are encouraged to have a physical exam. This exam may be done by our school physician or by the child’s private doctor. Notification and information about this physical will be sent home during the spring the child is in second grade.

Children in sixth grade are required by law to have a physical exam. A physical for Grade 6 will be accepted if it is done between the end of May in Grade 5 and one week prior to the end of Grade 6. This will allow parents twelve months to comply with this regulation. Notification and information about this physical will be sent home during the spring the child is in the fifth grade.  

MEDICATION ADMINISTRATION

A PHYSICIAN’S WRITTEN ORDER and a WRITTEN AUTHORIZATION from the parent are necessary for the school personnel to administer medication during school hours.

Medication administration forms are available in the school office. All medication brought to school must be in a container with a prescription label. NO MEDICATION SHOULD BE SENT IN WITH A CHILD. Only the school nurse, principal, or child’s teacher may administer medication in school and only with a properly filled-out authorization form. ONLY MEDICATIONS THAT NEED TO BE GIVEN DURING SCHOOL TIME WILL BE GIVEN.

All over the counter medicines require a doctor’s authorization. The use of cough drops/hard candies in school is not permitted due to the possibility of choking.

Please notify the school if your child has contracted a contagious disease. A record of incidence of contagious disease must be kept for the State Board of Health.

QUARANTINE PERIODS (MINIMUM CONTROL)

GENERAL INFORMATION REGARDING PEDICULOSIS (HEAD LICE)

Each school year our community experiences a number of cases of head lice. This bulletin is intended to both inform and offer assistance to parents should an infestation occur.

Infestation of the hair with head lice is a common condition, frequently found among school age children. There is no way of preventing a child from acquiring the condition. The goal should be to detect it quickly and clear it up as soon as possible. We are offering some helpful hints as to how to look for, identify, and treat pediculosis (head lice).

The louse, which is the adult form, looks like a tiny crab and is grayish in color. It lays its eggs (nits) on the shank of the hair close to the scalp, usually about 12 nits at a time. Each one can mature and become a louse. Lice are wingless insects. They do not fly or jump. Most parents have the impression that lice become established on persons who are unclean. In the case of head lice, this is NOT true.

Signs to look for are itching of the scalp or small-reddened areas like pimples on the scalp. Check the hair for nits, which look like creamy tan, sand, or grayish specks on the hair. Dandruff will fall off, nits will not.

If you are suspicious, call the school nurse and/or discuss the condition with your family physician. They can order medicated shampoo and advise you as to the frequency of its use. Ordinary shampoo will not work. Non-prescription medicated shampoos are also sold over the counter at your local pharmacy. Other articles of contact (sheets, pillowcases, blankets, etc.) will also need appropriate treatment.

Alert your children and enlist their help to let you know if they have any signs of head lice. Caution them about using anyone else’s comb, hat, or other articles of clothing.

Our school health regulations specify that children with head lice are to be excluded from class until treated with a pediculocide. Following treatment, the child will be checked by the school nurse before re-entry. Our schools have a “no nit policy” which means children are not allowed to return to school until their hair is “nit free”. The parent will be required to show proof of treatment. The school nurse will check children regularly in any grade level where the condition has been identified, as well as those classrooms where siblings are enrolled. Parents of those identified with infestation in school will be contacted directly by the school nurse. However, if you identify and treat your child at home, please notify the school nurse so that appropriate steps may be taken to prevent any further spread in school, as well as re-infestation of your child.

If you have any questions, feel free to contact the school nurse.

ATTENDANCE POLICY

Recognizing that absenteeism reflects negatively upon the quality of education received by students, the Board of Education has adopted the following policy:

1. Any student who is absent from school or a course for more than fifteen (15) days in any one school year will lose credit for the course or repeat the grade unless valid evidence is presented to the school administration explaining the absence. In the case of one-half year courses, the total number of absences permitted would be eight (8).

2. If a student has ten (10) unauthorized absences; a conference or telephone contact will be held with the parent to discuss the situation and to take corrective action. The conference and/or telephone conversation will be followed by a letter to the parent from the school administration. If a student taking a one-half year course has five (5) unauthorized absences; the procedures will be the same as specified in this section for students taking full year courses.

3. The parent may request a meeting with the school administration at any time to discuss attendance problems. In the event a student is absent fifteen (15) days for unauthorized reasons, the administration will notify the parent by phone, and will follow up in writing, that the maximum number of days has been reached. This notification is to be in writing and will include the information outlined in #1 above.

4. It is the responsibility of the parents to call the school each morning to indicate the absence of their child and the reason for it. It is important upon returning to school that the student must bring a written note for an absence to be excused; otherwise, the student’s absence will be considered as an unauthorized absence.

5. The Watertown School District will accept a statement signed by a parent/guardian, which indicates a specific medical problem, which precluded a student from attending school as an approval absence.

6. Excused absences shall include medical reason, bereavement, family obligations, legal reasons and other legitimate reasons as may be approved by the administration.

* Item #6 was approved by the Board of Education in an effort to support its existing policy and procedures and to indicate its belief in parent responsibility regarding student attendance.

WATERTOWN BOARD OF EDUCATION

DRESS CODE POLICY

The responsibility for the appropriate appearance of students rests with the parents and the students themselves. They have the right to determine such student’s dress providing that such attire is not destructive to school property, does not endanger the safety of students, complies with the health code of the State of Connecticut, and does not distract from the educational process. This right may be restricted by the school administration in order to provide the best educational environment for the student.

Regulations:

The following restrictions have been made by the administration after much discussion with teachers, parents, and students. The administration reserves the right to restrict any other attire that is considered detrimental or distractive to the educational process.

K-12

The administration reserves the right to determine what is appropriate and to restrict any other attire that is considered detrimental or destructive to the educational process.

It must be understood that the Board and/or Administration reserves the right to periodically review these regulations; and if, at their sole discretion, they determine that there is significant abuse of the guidelines, they will impose appropriate changes.   

Guidelines K-5

It is very important that students wear shoes that are safe for school and the playground. Sandals, flip-flops, clogs, open-toed and backless shoes/sneakers, and heelies are too dangerous and should not be worn to school.

Backpacks: If possible, please avoid purchasing roller backpacks. They are too big, hard to manage on the stairs, and do not fit in the lockers.

PHILOSOPHY FOR PROMOTION AND RETENTION

The curriculum in the Watertown Public Schools is constructed as closely as possible to permit students to proceed from year to year in classes designated to meet their needs and abilities.

FRAMEWORK FOR PROMOTION AND RETENTION

On the elementary and middle school level (K-8) students are assigned to a particular instructional level. The criteria for determining this level are the following:

In the elementary and middle school, a student’s promotion or retention is determined by the teacher(s), other professional staff, principal, and parents. Consideration is based upon:

Generally, it is not deemed educationally sound to retain a student more than once in the elementary schools (K-6) and once in the middle school(7-8), even though the student may not have mastered the skills of a grade. The student may be transferred to the next grade with the recognition that more varied programs and additional help will benefit the student. A parent conference will be held whenever a student is to be transferred rather than promoted. If a student has to be retained at the elementary level, preferably that retention would be in the primary grades.

WATERTOWN BOARD OF EDUCATION

USE OF INTERNET POLICY

The Watertown Board of Education permits the use of electronic information resources in the schools, under staff supervision, to permit students to reach out to human resources, to share information, learn concepts, and support research. The use of on-line services must be in support of education and consistent with the education objectives of the Watertown School District.

It is the responsibility of the students, parents, and staff to abide by the Board’s Electronic Information Resources procedures to ensure that the resources provided by the District are not abused and potential inappropriate materials are not accessed. Failure to abide by the Board’s policy and agreement signed by parents and students will lead to loss of privileges to use the Internet and disciplinary action including assessment of cost caused by willful misuse.

WATERTOWN BOARD OF EDUCATION

ELECTRONIC INFORMATION RESOURCE ACCESS POLICY

Violations of the Policy

It is the opinion of the Internet Policy Committee that it would be appropriate for the student population to be divided into two segments for disciplinary purposes, K-6 and 7-12.

It is understood that no student should be on a computer that can provide Internet service without staff supervision. Close supervision is recommended, and the staff member should be able to see the computer screen. It is planned that filtering software will be evaluated and installed on Internet capable computers.

At this time, any reference to “system administrator” should be interpreted as the building principal.

In addition to school rules, which address a student’s suspension, etc., the following will be enforced:

K-6

7-12

While it is always the prerogative of the building administrator to set disciplinary action, it is important that there is a consistent disciplinary policy throughout the district.

TRUANCY POLICY

Connecticut law requires that the Watertown Public Schools provide you with this written notice of your obligations under Connecticut General Statute 10-184. This law provides that each parent or other person having control of a child seven years of age and older and under sixteen years of age is obligated to cause the child to attend school regularly during the hours and terms school is in session, unless such or other person shows that the child is elsewhere receiving equivalent instruction. Connecticut General Statute S10-185 provides that each day’s failure to comply with these requirements is a separate offense, punishable by a $25.00 fine.

Regular student attendance is essential to the educational process. So that we may seek to inform you if your child is absent without explanation, the law also requires that we obtain from you a telephone number or other means of contacting you during the school day. Please be sure to return the Emergency Information Card and keep it updated throughout the school year.

An Excused Absence is when a child does not attend school due to illness or injury, death in the immediate family, religious obligation, an emergence or other legal or exceptional circumstance as approved by the child’s building Principal and attested to by the child’s parent or legal guardian.

An Unexcused Absence is any and all other absences, with or without written explanation by the parent or legal guardian.

WATERTOWN BOARD OF EDUCATION

SEXUAL HARASSMENT POLICY

Sexual harassment will not be tolerated among students of the school district. It is the policy of the Board of Education that any form of sexual harassment is forbidden whether by students, supervisory or non-supervisory personnel, individuals under contract, or volunteers subject to the control of the Board. Students are expected to adhere to a standard of conduct that is respectful and courteous to employees, to fellow students, and to the public.

PROCEDURE FOR STUDENTS TO FOLLOW

It is the expressed policy of the Board of Education to encourage victims of sexual harassment to report such claims. Students are encouraged to promptly report complaints of sexual harassment to the Vice-Principal or Principal of the school. Complaints will be investigated promptly and corrective action will be taken when allegations are verified. Confidentiality will be maintained by all persons involved in the investigation and no reprisals or retaliation will be allowed to occur as a result of the good faith reporting of charges of sexual harassment. A copy of the Watertown Board of Education’s Sexual Harassment Policy, Grievance Procedure, and Grievance Form can be obtained from your Principal or from the Title IX Coordinators, Mr. Thad Hasbrouck, (945-4802) or Mrs. Marylu Lerz (945-4830).

WATERTOWN BOARD OF EDUCATION

DANGEROUS WEAPONS IN THE SCHOOLS POLICY

It is the policy of the Board of Education to ensure the safety of its students and personnel by forbidding the possession or use of any dangerous weapon or any implement that can be deemed a dangerous weapon on school property, on a school vehicle, or at a school-related function.

Any student who is in possession of, threatens with, or uses any dangerous weapon or any implement that can be deemed to be a dangerous weapon will have the weapon/potential weapon confiscated by the building administrator and be held as evidence.

The building administrator will promptly conduct an informal hearing, affording the student his/her rights as protected by law.

WATERTOWN BOARD OF EDUCATION

NONDISCRIMINATION POLICY

The Board of Education is committed to comply with nondiscrimination practices to the end that no person in its employ or under its jurisdiction shall, on grounds of age, race, color, national origin, sex, religion, handicap, sexual affinity, marital status, present or past history of mental disorder or physical disability, and genetic information, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be otherwise subjected to discrimination in employment or in any program or activity.  The Watertown School district prohibits discrimination based on disability.

The Board designates the Assistant Superintendent of Schools or his/her designee, Watertown School Department, 10 DeForest Street, Watertown, Connecticut (Telephone, 945-4802) as compliance officer (hereinafter, “Equity/Title IX Officer).

All outside agencies and organizations given assistance by the Board shall be required to abide by this policy.

Persons who believe themselves to have been discriminated against in violation of this policy may file a grievance in accordance with the Equity/Title IX Grievance Procedures.

WATERTOWN’S ASBESTOS MANAGEMENT PLAN

In 1985, the State of Connecticut enacted legislation that required all public school buildings to be inspected to determine if asbestos was present and to evaluate the potential for human exposure to airborne fibers of asbestos. As is the case for most public and commercial buildings in New England, asbestos-containing products were found in the Watertown schools.

An Asbestos Management Program has been developed to guarantee that asbestos-containing materials are maintained in a condition in which they do not pose a health hazard. As part of this program, these materials are inspected on a bi-monthly basis.

Anyone wishing to know more about the Asbestos Management Program or the asbestos-containing materials found in the Watertown schools, may ask to read the Asbestos Management Plan which is on file in the office of the Business Manager.

THE WATERTOWN PUBLIC SCHOOL DEPARTMENT

NON-USE OF ALCOHOL AND OTHER DRUGS POLICY

PREFACE: This policy including its rules, regulations, and guidelines is a coordinated effort by the Watertown School District to openly and effectively respond to the potential and current use and abuse of tobacco, drugs, alcohol and mood altering substances by students and employees.

STATEMENT OF POLICY: STUDENTS

No person may use, possess, sell, or distribute alcohol or other substances, nor use or possess paraphernalia for the purpose of illicit/inappropriate drug use on school grounds or at school-sponsored events. The term “alcohol, drugs, and other substances” shall be construed throughout this policy to refer to the use of all substances including, but not limited to: alcohol, all forms of tobacco, inhalable substances (including gasses, solvents, butane, propane, adhesives), marijuana, cocaine/crack, LSD, PCP, amphetamines, heroin, methadone, scheduled narcotics, steroids, herbal stimulants, herbal euphoriants, look-a-likes, and any substance commonly referred to as “designer drugs”.

The inappropriate and/or illegal use of prescription and over-the-counter drugs shall also be prohibited. Prescription medication for personal use shall be allowed only under the supervision of school medical personnel, with written orders from a physician. State and local ordinances apply to students and employees alike.

Through the use of approved curricula, classroom activities, community support and resources, a strong and consistent administrative and faculty effort, and rehabilitative and disciplinary procedures, the Watertown School District will work to educate, prevent, and intervene in the use and abuse of all tobacco, drug, alcohol, and mood altering substances by the entire student population. (Section 10-19a)

Recognizing that drug use and abuse may be indicative of serious, underlying problems, every effort will be made to offer a student help and assistance, including early identification, referral to the parents for treatment and aftercare support by appropriate school staff.

A student, who on school grounds or off school grounds during a school session, or anywhere at a school sponsored activity is under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or mood altering substances or possesses, uses, dispenses, sells, or aids in the procurement of alcohol, narcotics, restricted drugs, mood altering substances, or any substance purported to be a restricted substance shall be subjected to discipline pursuant to the provisions and procedures listed in the administrative guidelines.

Smoking is prohibited in all school buildings and on all school grounds at all times.

Violation of this policy will result in discipline pursuant to the procedures listed.

ADOPTED BY THE BOARD OF EDUCATION: September 14, 1998

REVISED: June 12, 2000 EFFECTIVE: July 1, 2000

WATERTOWN BOARD OF EDUCATION

BULLYING POLICY

The Watertown Board of Education provides instruction to students and staff to prevent bullying in the schools or on public school property and has developed a policy and written procedures for reacting to reports of bullying in the schools or on school grounds.

Bullying is defined as any overt act by a student or group of students directed against another student with the intent to ridicule, harass, humiliate, or intimidate the other student while on school grounds, at a school-sponsored activity or on a school bus, which acts are repeated against the same student over time.

APPROVED BY BOARD OF EDUCATION: October 28, 2002 EFFECTIVE DATE: October 29, 2002 (for the Third Quarter) 

RADIOS, BEEPERS, OR CELLULAR PHONES IN SCHOOLS

Elementary students may not possess or use a remotely activated paging device or cellular telephone onschool property or at school-sponsored events or off school grounds.  Students who bring beepers or cellular phones to school will have them confiscated.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

The Office of Civil Rights of the U.S. Department may be reached at the following address:

U.S. Department of Education

Office for Civil Rights

33 Arch Street, Suite 900

Boston, MA 02110-1491

WATER-OAK CRIME STOPPERS, INC.

Water-Oak Crime Stoppers, Inc. is a community-based program involving the media, local police and citizens in the fight against crime. Crime Stoppers offers anonymity and cash rewards of up to $1,000 to people who furnish information leading to the arrest and filing of criminal charges against felony offenders and/or the capture of fugitives. Concerned citizens oversee the operation of this nonprofit organization. The board of directors, which meets on the first Wednesday of each month at 7:30 AM, is responsible for establishing policy, raising funds and overseeing the reward payments. Call 954-9940 to report a serious crime or the whereabouts of a fugitive. All calls remain anonymous and each caller is assigned a secret code number used in subsequent contact. For more information contact Sue Ponton, chairperson at 274-1647 or www.wocrimestooppers.org.