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Bethlehem Lutheran School Parent/Student Handbook Parent and Student Handbook updated 8-5-10 B E T H L E H E M L U T H E R A N S C H O O L ~ Established 1999 ~ 1240 South Maple Avenue ~ Fairborn, Ohio 45324 (937) 878-7050 Fax: (937) 878-8794 “Lutheran Schools – A Great Place to Grow” E-mail: BethlehemSchool@aol.com http://www.blsfairborn.org Our Mission Bethlehem Lutheran School believes that children are precious gifts from God, and as such, we, in partnership with their parents, work together to foster Christ-like qualities in all we pursue: spiritual growth, academic excellence, physical, emotional, and social development. Our Purpose Bethlehem Lutheran School is an integral part of the total ministry of Bethlehem Lutheran Church of Fairborn, which is a member congregation of the Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod. The purpose of this school is to assist and support Christian parents in their God-given vocation of raising children in the nurture and discipline of the Lord (Ephesians 6:4). Children are gifts from God. Christian parents desire that their children grow up knowing and believing in their Lord and Savior Jesus Christ and also that they learn to live as faithful, responsible, God-fearing citizens in the world in which God placed them. It is the goal of Bethlehem Lutheran School to do all it can in the fields of elementary education and Lutheran catechesis to assist parents in their God-given calling. Our School strives for excellence in basic elementary education, language arts, mathematics, history, science and the fine arts. We are committed to the Christian faith, as taught in the Word of God and confessed in the historic Confessions of the Lutheran Church. Parents who desire a strong partner in the vocation will find an important ally in Bethlehem Lutheran School and Church. Our Philosophy Bethlehem Lutheran School functions in obedience and response to:  God’s promise that we are to “train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not part from it.” (Proverbs 22:6)  God’s command that the parents are to bring up their children “in the nurture and admonition of the Lord.” (Ephesians 6:4)  God’s commission that the church makes disciples of all nations, including children, and teaches them to “observe all things commanded by the Lord.” (Matthew 28:19-20) We believe that God is our loving Father and that we are His children. All are sinful and in need of a Savior. God sent His only Son, Jesus, to die for our sins. Those who believe in Jesus’ death and resurrection are His disciples. Jesus’ disciples follow his commands. Our goal then is to lead students to be disciples of as well as disciplers for Jesus. We believe that the family is a child’s primary discipler. Our school is in partnership with parents in enhancing the development of the whole child. This partnership provides a solid base of communication, the purpose of which is the furthering the student’s relationship with God and the enhancement of positive Christian family interaction. We believe children develop at their own individual pace. We believe a positive learning environment, which utilizes a variety of teaching styles to accommodate diverse learning styles, is essential. Our aim is to have students realize and achieve their own God-given potential and recognize failure as a valuable part of the learning process. As a diverse, professional team, our staff is committed to the total development of our students. We are dedicated servants who carry out the mission of the church through our personal witness and involvement. We desire to be encouragers, yet set high academic standards and behavioral boundaries. Our educational plan is built, with academics being the highest priority. Yet, in ministering to the whole child, we include co-curricular and student-support programs. We understand the importance of continually reviewing our programs to insure success. We also believe that students in our school need to achieve and grow in areas outside the academic domain. The ability to accumulate, evaluate and apply information in order to develop problem-solving skills based on Scriptural guidelines is important. We want students to develop self-discipline, and demonstrate forgiveness and respect for others. Admission Bethlehem Lutheran School recruits and admits students of any race, color, or ethnic origin to all its rights, privileges, programs and activities. In addition, the school does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, or ethnic origin in the administration of its educational programs and extracurricular activities. Children entering Kindergarten must be 5 years old by September 30th of the year of admittance. Screening will be done for all students entering Kindergarten before the first day of school. Children entering First Grade must be 6 years old by September 30th of the year of admittance. Screening will be done for all students entering First Grade before the first day of school. Students whose birthdays fall between September 30th and December 31st may be enrolled if placement testing shows a readiness and parents, teachers, and the school administration agree this would be an appropriate measure to take. This approach is strongly discouraged. Parents enrolling a student who is transferring to our school from another must sign a “Transfer of Records” form so that we receive any and all records of past performance. It is the responsibility of the parents to mail the form to the past school to ensure the retrieval of records. Student Records Student records shall contain the following information:  Application for enrollment  Student registration form  Copy of child’s birth certificate  Copy of any custody documents in effect  Social Security number  Immunization record  Medical form  Emergency authorization form  Copies of report cards  Copies of achievement test scores Attendance God has given parents a very big job; to raise His precious children. As parents, it is your responsibility to ensure that your child comes to school rested, fed, and ready to learn. Parents are responsible for seeing that their children attend school with punctuality and regularity. By law, the school year consists of 182 pupil attendance days. Students missing more than 18 days of school during the year are in jeopardy of progressing to the next grade. Absences If the student is absent, the parents/guardians must notify the school before 9:00 am. By law, each day of student absence requires a phone call and a written excuse upon the child’s return. This should be completed and presented to the student’s teacher upon the child’s return from the absence. If the parent does not provide a written excuse within 3 school days of the absence, the absence will be recorded as an unexcused absence. Excused absences include: 1. Illness 2. Death in the immediate family 3. Medical or Dental appointment 4. Inclement weather 5. Emergency (at the discretion of the principal) 6. Other legitimate reasons where the principal receives prior written notification. Absences continued Unexcused absences include: 1. Birthdays or other celebrations 2. Car trouble/missing the bus 3. Family vacations 4. Oversleeping 5. Any absence deemed unexcused by the principal Please understand that excused absences and unexcused absences are all recorded as absences on the student’s record. After the tenth absence, a doctor’s note is required. Parents must call the school to report any absence of their child from school. If a phone call is not received, then the State law requires: 1. A phone call will be made in an attempt to notify the person responsible for that student. First, to the home, then, to the parent’s place of employment. 2. Reasonable attempts to notify the parents or person(s) responsible for the absence will be made by phone. If these attempts fail, a postcard will be mailed in that afternoon’s mail. 3. If the parent does not respond by note to the office within 3 school days of the absence, the absence will be considered unexcused. 4. After the second occurrence of non-reporting, a conference will be held with the parents. Make-up Work It is the student’s responsibility to request work missed and to make up the work promptly. The length of time to make up work will be no more than the number of days absent. Work not completed within this time period will result in no credit. If the student’s absence is unexcused, they will be given make-up work in order to keep pace with classroom assignments. They will be expected to complete the work, but they will not be given credit for any assignments missed. Tardiness/ Release During School Hours The school day at Bethlehem Lutheran School begins at 8:30 am. Students may arrive at 8:15 a.m. and are considered tardy at 8:30 a.m. It is the responsibility of the parents to make sure that their child arrives at school in a timely manner, ready to learn. Furthermore, parents are encouraged to schedule doctor/dental appointments before or after school hours. If an appointment must be scheduled during school hours, a note from the parents requesting early dismissal should be sent to the child’s teacher the morning of the appointment. Any students missing more than two hours of instruction time will be considered absent ½ day. If tardiness becomes a regular problem, the principal will set up a conference with the parents to discuss the situation. Dismissal Procedures Students riding the bus will be lined up inside the building and escorted by a staff member to the bus which will be picking up on the south side of the building. Likewise students attending extended care will be lined up and escorted to the extended care classroom by a staff member. All other students will be dismissed at the back door by the classroom teacher. Anyone picking up a student must park in one of the parking stalls. Under no circumstances will a student be allowed to walk out into the parking lot to get into a vehicle which has just pulled up alongside the sidewalk. If you park across the parking lot then you must get out of your car and meet the student on the lawn before escorting him/her across the parking lot. Students will NOT be allowed to cross the parking lot by themselves. Inclement Weather Weather related closings and delays are announced on local TV channels, 2, 7, and 22. Delayed opening plans are as follows: 1-hour delay – School and morning preschool students arrive at 9:30 a.m.; Afternoon preschool as usual 2-hour delay – School students arrive at 10:30 a.m., no a.m. preschool; Afternoon preschool as usual Calendar The State of Ohio requires that the school year consist of 182 days. Two of these days are set aside for parent/teacher conferences, and two days for teachers to attend the Ohio District Lutheran Educators conference in the Fall. In addition, five calamity days are provided for in the school year calendar. Any additional days required would be made up at the end of the school year. School begins Thursday August 21st and ends May 29th . There is no school on the following days: Labor Day 1 day Lutheran Teachers Conference 1 day Thanksgiving 2 1/2 days Christmas 9 days Martin Luther King Day 1 day Presidents Day 1 day Easter 6 days Preschool begins the Tuesday after Labor Day and ends the Friday before Memorial Day. Lunch Room Policy Bethlehem Lutheran School does not have food services. Students must bring a lunch from home. They will not be allowed to share food with other students. A microwave is available to reheat food. Please do not send frozen dinners, as they require too much time to heat. Lunch should be a nutritious meal and contain items from the basic food groups. Milk may be purchased at a small expense. Students are to eat their dessert treats only after they have finished their meal. Students are not allowed to bring soda to school. The students are given 20-30 minutes to eat their lunch. They must sit at their seat and eat in an orderly fashion. Please send containers that your child can open. An adult staff member and a volunteer will always be in attendance with the students during lunch time. You are invited to occasionally have lunch with your child. A separate lunch table will always be available for you and your child to have lunch and spend quality time together. When the lunch period is over, your child will line up with his/her classmates and return to the classroom. Please call the office to let us know if you plan to have lunch with your child. Lunch suggestions: Sandwich/leftovers Fruit Veggies Starch item – pretzels Napkin and eating utensils – not a knife Drink Communicable Disease Policy Children should not come to school if they exhibit any of the following conditions:  Skin Rash  Diarrhea and/or vomiting within last 24 hours  Difficult or rapid breathing  Yellowish skin or eyes  Evidence of lice infestation  Conjunctivitis (pink-eye)  Untreated infected skin patches  Unusually dark urine, and/or gray or white stool  Stiff neck  Inflamed and swollen tonsils, severe cough, or continual nasal discharge  Fever in the last 24 hours Parents are asked to call the school if their child will not be attending school due to illness. Communicable Disease Policy Continued In cases of illness occurring at school, the student will be sent to the office. A parent will be contacted to come and pick up the student from school if he/she has:  A fever over 100 degrees  A sore throat with a temperature over 99.5 degrees  Abdominal pain  Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea  A rash of undetermined origin  Signs or symptoms of communicable disease  Has been injured and it is determined that medical attention is needed. The following diseases must be reported immediately to the Ohio Department of Health and will also be reported to parents: Botulism, cholera, diphtheria, plague, rabies (human), smallpox, yellow fever, pertussis (Whooping Cough) and disease outbreaks of any public health concern. Medical Information In accordance with the laws of the State of Ohio, all students, preschool through 12th grade, must have on file prior to the 15th day of school, evidence of one of the following: 1. The specific date (month/day/year) that each dose of the following required immunizations were given: Preschool - 4 DPT; 3 polio; 1 MMR; TB/Tine; HIB - 15 mos., 4 yrs Kindergarten - 12th Grade - 4 DPT (or 5) Kindergarten students will need 5 doses if their primary 4 doses were before their 4th birthday. 3 polio (or 4) Kindergarten students will need 4 doses if their first 4 doses were before their 4th birthday. 2 MMR 1 must be given on or after the first birthday. The second dose must be administered at least 28 days after dose 1. 3 Hepatitis B/all children entering Kindergarten Varicella (chickenpox) 1 dose of varicella vaccine must be administered on or after the first birthday 2. A written statement from the physician stating that immunizations were withheld due to medical reasons. 3. A written statement from the parents or guardians stating that immunizations were withheld due to philosophical/religious beliefs. Report of Immunization records will be provided to the Greene County Health Department as required each fall. Preschool and Kindergarten Students In addition to immunization records, a physical by a Doctor is required by the State of Ohio. This form must be turned into the school office by the first day of school. Medical and Dental Emergency Policy All students must have a current Emergency Medical Authorization Form on file. These are distributed at the time of registration and should be turned in to the school office no later than the first day of school. Parents must sign either the “to grant consent” part of the form or the “refusal to consent” part of the form. Parents should notify the school of any phone number changes during the year. The office should also be notified in writing of caregiver plans if the parents are out of town. A staff member trained in CPR, First Aid, Communicable Disease Detection and Child Abuse Recognition is in the building at all times as required by the Department of Human Services. A first aid kit is located in the school office. The Ohio Department of Health dental first aid chart is located in the school office. Staff members are required to know and follow the instructions as listed on the dental first aid chart. In case of an injury or illness, the student will be taken to the school office where he/she may lie down on a cot while the parents are notified. In case of an emergency, the parents are telephoned and the ambulance called at 911. The child is taken to the hospital or released to the parents, depending on the situation. Other emergency numbers that are posted by each telephone are: Fire Department 754-3100 Police 754-3000 Poison Control Center 222-2227 Children’s Medical Center 226-8320 Children’s Services 426-8334 If the parents cannot be located, the emergency numbers are called. A file will be kept in the school office containing two emergency numbers for each child, as well as the child’s home telephone number and parents’ work numbers. If the parents or emergency contact people cannot be reached, and it is determined that urgent care is required, a staff member will accompany the child to the Emergency Room at the hospital chosen by the paramedics. The staff member will take the child’s school registration form and emergency transportation authorization form and remain with the child until the child’s parent or guardian assumes responsibility. These forms are on file in the school office. The incident is then recorded on the form provided and filed. During emergency situations, the administrator will attend to the child in crisis and the teacher will remain with the class. Medication Policy Usually children needing medication can better be cared for at home. The law permits schools to allow administration of medication only under strict guidelines. If a doctor determines it is necessary for a student to take oral medication, the parent should try to arrange the dosage so that the medication may be given at times other than during school hours. In such cases where the dispensing of medication at school is necessary, the following procedures must be adhered to: 1. A Medication Form signed by a parent or legal guardian with the child’s name, the dosage, and the dates the dispensation begins, must accompany all medicine. In the cases of children who suffer headaches, a bottle marked with the required information, may be sent to the school office with a blanket permission slip for the year. 2. Both Medication form and medicine must be placed together in a paper bag with the student’s name on it and brought to the office. 3. Medications to be taken at school will be stored, out of view, in the school office. (Refrigeration will be provided when necessary). 4. Children are not allowed to self-medicate. A school staff member must dispense all medication taken at school. 5. Injections will not be given at school. 6. Prescription medication must be in the original container. Bethlehem Lutheran School will not administer medicine unless all of the above conditions are met. If there is an unusual circumstance or you have any questions, please call the office. Allergies Parents are responsible for informing the school of the child’s allergies, especially allergies to bee stings and life threatening foods. In the case of bee sting allergies, the parents are responsible for providing the school with bee sting medication and a doctor’s statement about how the medication is to be administered. Discipline Students at Bethlehem Lutheran School are expected to behave in a Christ-like manner at school and at home. They must show respect for parents, teachers and other students. This means obedience to parents and teachers, respect of other students’ right to learn, and kindness to their fellow students. Development of self-control is a sign of maturity and growth. Our policy for behavior is one of love and forgiveness as taught to us by our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Unacceptable behavior will be pointed out and the consequences of that behavior will be dealt with depending upon the seriousness of the behavior. The following are likely to be the only steps necessary in dealing with unacceptable behavior however please read the section entitled Student Code of Conduct for a more detailed description of the official Bethlehem Lutheran School discipline policy as well as the rights of the student as mandated by State Law: 1. Discuss proper behavior with student. 2. Separate the child from the situation by having her/him work in a different area. 3. Discuss the problem with the parents or guardians in hopes that they will help solve the problem. While the discipline of the child is the parents’ responsibility, home and school both must work together in the correction of the child. The school will discipline the child with love and firmness. Discipline is not punishment but punishment may be used to instill discipline. The ultimate goal of our discipline policy is: 1. To provide a loving and forgiving environment. 2. To help the child see the consequences of her/his actions and to accept responsibility for them. 3. To administer discipline with loving concern. A child will never be left alone or unsupervised; never be subjected to physical, cruel, harsh or unusual punishment; no discipline technique will be delegated to any other child; no child will be humiliated or subjected to verbal abuse; and no child will be shamed or frightened. 4. To provide a safe environment that displays respect for both children and staff. Parents are strongly encouraged to make an appointment to discuss problems or questions with the teachers and to alert the teachers of any changes at home that may affect the child’s behavior. All information will be kept confidential. Conduct that impedes the learning process of other children is not acceptable. The school strives to give the most complete education to all students, but the individual behavior of one child can sometimes become so disruptive as to obstruct the ability of other children to learn. Our school has neither the facilities, nor the staff to permit the specialized type of constant one-on-one supervision required for a child who continues to demonstrate this type of behavior. If a student’s behavior continues to impede the learning process of other children, or puts that child or others in danger, permission to attend the school may be withdrawn by the School Board. Our School must maintain order since it is a vital prerequisite to learning. Each teacher may have slightly different rules in her/his classroom, but it is understood that each teacher must be allowed to teach and each student be allowed to learn, without interruption. Each teacher will have the Classroom Rules posted and there should be no question as to what is expected of the students. Even though the ultimate aim is self-discipline, the fact must be accepted that authority of the teachers and principal is necessary as children are led slowly and gradually to the point where they can participate in the disciplining of themselves. It is our intent to give children freedom, but it is possible only where children have demonstrated that they can accept freedom by using is wisely. General Rules and Regulations 1. NO running in the hallways, in the classrooms, on the stairs, or on the sidewalk. 2. NO pushing or shoving anywhere. 3. Students will remain quiet during movement from one classroom to another area. 4. Students will behave well during fire drills, and tornado drills. 5. NO rowdiness in the restrooms. Students will make sure to dispose of trash in trashcan. 6. NO gum chewing or candy. 7. Respect the rights of others. 8. Respect school and church property. 9. NO abusive, vulgar, or profane language. 10. NO throwing rocks on the school playground. 11. Do not harass other students or school staff. 12. Follow the directions given by any member of the school staff the first time given. 13. Do not bring toys to school, except on permitted days for show and tell. This includes but is not limited to cameras, video recording devices, MP3 players, I-Pods, Blackberry devices, and cell phones (basically big kid toys). If a student needs to bring an electronic device to school for any reason, then a note must be written by the parent and the device must stay in the school office until the end of the school day. We do not feel that allowing students to keep such devices in their backpacks is sufficient as they have access to the backpacks at lunch, recess, and other times throughout the day and there is a concern that they may retrieve the item and take it into a restroom or out on the playground. Any staff member discovering such a device in a student’s possession will confiscate it and turn it into the school office, at which time a phone call and/or conference with the parents will be scheduled to discuss the matter. Student Code of Conduct The State of Ohio requires that all Ohio schools develop a set of conduct rules and steps for enforcing those rules as well as consequences for non-compliance under which students may be removed, suspended or expelled from school. These rules, when developed, must be made known to all students and their parents or guardians. Part I - Student Rights and Responsibilities All students have rights as bestowed by Ohio Law, the Constitution of the United States, the School Board and their parents/guardians. In the exercise of these rights, students have basic responsibilities. Every right has a corresponding degree of responsibility. A student may temporarily forfeit his/her right to educational opportunities when his/her conduct disrupts the educational process, deprives others of their basic right or violates the school rules established herein. Part II - Administration of Rules of Conduct The principal or designee shall administer the student rules of conduct contained herein, and shall use his/her professional judgment in determining the most appropriate disciplinary action to be take in each individual case. Part III - Due Process The school administration will keep a disciplinary record on every student who violates a school rule listed herein. Procedural requirements of Ohio State Law will be implemented in conjunction with a suspension, expulsion or emergency removal (over 24 hours) from school. Procedural requirements shall include: 1. The principal will hold an informal meeting with the student to discuss his/her violation of the rule and to permit the student to explain his/her action. 2. The principal will give and review a written “intent to suspend notice” to the student which states the reason(s) for suspension. 3. The school will notify the parent in writing within 24 hours of the intended suspension or expulsion from school. 4. The school will attempt to notify the parent by phone of the intended suspension, expulsion, or emergency removal prior to sending the letter. A conference may be arranged within 72 hours to discuss the seriousness of the misbehavior and the action taken. 5. The parent has the right to request an informal hearing with the Superintendent. He/she then has the right to request an additional hearing with the School Board designee. Part IV - School Sponsored Activities The rules of conduct listed herein apply to all school sponsored activities. A student who is suspended or expelled from school shall not be permitted to participate in or attend a school-sponsored activity. Part V - Discipline Whatever disciplinary action the school uses shall be done considerately and courteously. In all cases, the principal will use his/her professional judgment in determining the most appropriate disciplinary action to be taken in each individual case. Under the laws of the State of Ohio, principals and teachers are given the authority of parents in discipline and control of students. Physical restraint may be used against a student, when circumstances dictate that immediate action is necessary for self-defense, for the preservation of student order to instruction to proceed, or the protection of other persons or property of the school. Part VI - Methods of Discipline Discipline shall include but not be limited to the following methods: 1. Time-out. Students may be separated from an activity in the classroom, either to a chair in the classroom or to the administrator’s classroom. Students may lose recess time or time at a special event or activity. 2. Detention. Detention may be served before or after school, as assigned by the teacher or principal. A student will begin his/her detention after the notification of the parents. The school is not responsible for transportation home. See Detention Policy following this section. 3. Removal. Parents may be called to come and remove the child from the school premises when the student’s presence poses a continuing danger to persons or property or a threat of disrupting the learning process in the classroom. 4. Suspension. The removal of a student from the school premises and all related school activities for a period of one school day and up to ten school days for each occurrence. 5. Expulsion. The exclusion of a student from all school attendance and related activities for a period of 10 school days but not to exceed 80 school days. 6. Corporal Punishment. Bethlehem Lutheran School does not practice corporal punishment at the school. We believe this falls under parental authority. 7. Notification of Legal Authorities. Notification may be made to juvenile court or other legal authorities for extreme unruly behavior. VII - Rules of Conduct The following acts by students shall constitute sufficient cause for discipline. The Principal will consider past behavioral performance and age of the child when considering the appropriate form of discipline. Arson, possession and/or use of fireworks and/or explosives Assault or attempted assault, fighting Possession and/or concealment of a dangerous weapon False alarms and/or threats Verbal abuse of staff or students, disrespect and/or defiance of authority Stealing, extortion, forgery, destruction of or defacing school or private property Lying or cheating Bullying or harassment of another student Vulgarity, profanity or obscenities or other disruptive or unacceptable behavior Use, possession, distribution and/or sale of drugs, drug substances, drug-like substances, drug paraphernalia, alcohol, tobacco, and/or tobacco products Detention Policies The intent of these policies is to work with parents, students and the school in a positive manner to resolve the issue and to encourage accountability on the part of the student towards his/her school work. The following policy regarding students in grades 3-5 who do not turn in homework will be used by each classroom teacher to ensure accountability by the students Step 1—The teacher will discuss the problem with the student and emphasize the importance of turning homework in on time. Step 2—A phone call will be made to the parents with the student present. Step 3—The student will serve 20 minutes of detention after school on the Friday following the week in which the detention was assigned. For example, if a teacher determines on Wednesday December 6th that detention is necessary, the detention will NOT be served on that Friday December 8th, but instead will be served on the following Friday December 15th. This will allow ample time for parents to be notified that the student is required to serve detention. Step 4—If the student persists in failing to turn in homework even after serving detention, then a conference will be scheduled between the teacher, principal, student, and parents to discuss how to help the student understand the importance of being accountable for his/her homework. The following policy regarding students in grades 6-8 who do not turn in homework will be used by each classroom teacher to ensure accountability by the students: 6-8 grade students who do not turn in a homework assignment, will serve detention the following day. The length of the detention will be at the discretion of the principal and based on the number of previous violations. For all students in grades 3-8 Failure to follow the rules at any time and/or behavior deemed inappropriate by the principal may also result in detention. In such cases, the parents will be notified and the reasons for the detention will be addressed by the principal. There are also individual classroom repercussions for failure to turn in homework (i.e. percentage points off the late assignment). These are determined by the individual classroom teacher and are part of the classroom rules. Safety Policy Beyond providing a happy and stimulating program for our students, it is important that the environment be safe. The following safety guidelines will be observed: 1. No child is ever left alone or unsupervised. 2. Parents are responsible for their child (and any children in the car pool) until the children enter their classroom. Preschoolers should always be accompanied to their classroom by parents. Students in the elementary may enter the building unaccompanied and go straight to their room. If you walk your elementary age child to the school door, you should then send your child to his/her own classroom on their own. This enables the teachers to begin the day on time and builds the child’s self-confidence. Messages should be written and given to an Administrator or the student should give it to the teacher. 3. The doors are locked at all times. Parents wishing to enter the school should ring the school buzzer and wait for a teacher to open the door. At no time should you ask a student to open a locked door for you (even your own child). The children are taught never to open the school doors, even for someone they know. 4. At pickup time, students will be dismissed at the back door of the school by their teacher (please see the section entitled, Dismissal Procedures, for important and detailed information on pickup). Preschool students are to be picked up at their room door. 5. During drop off and pickup times, students will be met at and escorted to the bus by a staff member. 6. It is the policy of the school to release a student to the custodial parent or guardian or to others specifically designated by the custodial parent or guardian. Parents must make us aware of any car pool plans and inform us in writing of any changes. 7. Bethlehem Lutheran School does not assume responsibility for the transportation of its students to or from school. The parents must make these arrangements. This includes making arrangements with the appropriate Department of Transportation for your area. The school must have a written list of specified drivers and children from car pools. The school should receive written notice of any changes. In case of an emergency, a telephone call should be made to the school. 8. Fire drill information is posted inside all the schoolrooms and the teachers are aware of actions to be taken if there is a severe weather warning. 9. A weather alert plan is posted inside all the schoolrooms and the teachers are aware of actions to be taken if there is a severe weather warning. First aid kits are available in the school office. A teacher trained in first aid is at the school at all times. During field trips the first aid kit will accompany the class and each child will wear a nametag with the child’s name and the name, address, and telephone number of the school. Each student’s medical and emergency medical authorization form will be available on each field trip. 10. Teachers are alert at all times to any activity, which could cause accidents, and will encourage children to walk rather than run in the classrooms and halls. Climbing on chairs, tables, and play furniture is not permitted. No toxic materials such as cleaning supplies are stored in or near the classrooms. Electrical outlets are covered. All equipment and games are continually monitored for cleanliness and safety with broken items removed immediately for proper repair. Spray aerosols are never used when school is in session. 11. The Administrators and teachers are required by the State of Ohio to report any suspicions of child abuse or neglect to Children’s Services. 12. Annual inspections by the local fire department are made to ensure building safety. 13. Annual inspections by the Greene County Health Department are made to ensure building safety. 14. Should an accident or injury occur or if any other incidents necessitate the administration of Syrup of Ipecac in accordance with Rule 5101:2-12-51, OAC, or the emergency transportation of a child in accordance with Rule 5101:2-12-49, OAC, the teacher will complete a report in accordance with Rule 5101:2-12-39, OAC. This report will be given to the parent or guardian on the day of the incident and a copy will be on file at the school. 15. The State of Ohio requires all schools to work in cooperation with state and local officials to develop a Crisis Management Plan. Bethlehem Lutheran School does have such a plan in place. A copy of this plan is located in the school office and is available for parents to view upon request. Servant Activities Bethlehem Lutheran School believes that young people need to receive stimulation and training in servant education in order to: A. Gain a world view of missions. (Matthew 28:19-20). B. Share their God given talents with others without thought of personal gain. (Matthew 6:1-2) C. Understand what it means to look outside of themselves, become less egocentric, and more Christ-like in their dealings with others. (Colossians 3:17, 23-24/Romans 12:6-8/Luke 6:38). D. Become personally involved in their school, church and community. (II Corinthians 9:7) The Bethlehem Lutheran School Board has, therefore, adopted a servant activity policy which will go into effect at the beginning of the 2008-2009 school year. The goal is for the student to experience the joy of serving; thus the fulfillment of this requirement, as it is outlined below, is made purposely flexible. Students Beginning with the 2008-2009 school year, Bethlehem students in all grades will be strongly encouraged to perform service hours at Bethlehem Lutheran Church and School, at their own churches, and/or in their community. Students in grades K-2 may volunteer to serve in an activity which is appropriate for their age and abilities. Students in grades 3-8 must perform at least 10 hours of servant time each school year. Servant opportunities available at Bethlehem include but are not limited to assisting with VBS, helping with Easter breakfast, helping with the pizza supper, cleaning the nursery toys, visiting shut-ins, gardening on the church grounds, folding church bulletins, sorting Market Day, and serving as a student aide in the school (see separate document regarding this opportunity). There are also many opportunities available within each child’s own church and in the communities in which they live. We want to stress that the servant time can be but does not have to be spent at Bethlehem. Verification sheets of servant activity hours for students in grades 3-8 need to be turned in to the coordinator prior to the end of the school year. Parents Parents are strongly encouraged to set a good example for their children by performing at least 10 total hours of servant time for each school year. Servant opportunities at Bethlehem include helping in the classroom, helping in the lunch room, school special events, field trips, and Market Day. Again, we want to stress that the servant time can be but does not have to be spent at Bethlehem. Suspicions of Child Abuse Laws in the State of Ohio require that school staff report any suspicion of child abuse. This includes physical, sexual, emotional/psychological abuse and neglect. Even when the climate of the Lutheran school is loving, caring, warm and comfortable a child may suffer abuse, which prevents the child from fully benefiting from that environment. Because school is a caring place, teachers are concerned about what happens to their students both in school and away from it. No one, except for parents, spends more time or is more closely in contact with children than teachers. The consequences of not reporting child abuse and neglect are staggering. In many cases, the children are physical or emotionally impaired for life. Some children suffer neurological damage that results in mental retardation or severe learning disabilities. There are established links between abuse or neglect and social maladjustments, juvenile delinquency, and adult criminal behavior. Perhaps the most frustrating statistic is that many abused children grow up to be abusive parents. Parental Involvement Parents are welcome to visit and observe anytime, and we encourage all parents to attend school sometime during the year. We do, however, prefer that parents check with the teacher in advance so there are not several visitors at the same time. We also prefer that you wait until the second month of school to give the children a chance to adjust to the class situation without interruption. Parents are welcome to celebrate each child’s birthday. Because of health regulations, the treats must be bought rather than homemade. For children with summer birthdays, we can schedule a half-year birthday or choose a special day. Parents are welcome to telephone the school with any questions they may have and are also welcome to request a special meeting if necessary. We always encourage open communication between parents and teachers. If there is a problem, we will try to help parent and child any way we can. The school will prepare a roster of the names and telephone numbers of parents or guardians of the children enrolled in the school. Permission must be granted to be included in this roster and is up to the discretion of the parents. Parents are asked to help drive and supervise field trips. Parents are invited to the Thanksgiving Feast, Christmas Program and end of Year Program, and other classroom special events. They may be asked to provide treats for these events. Parents are invited to attend the Bethlehem School Board monthly meetings, announced in the Church Bulletin and also on the Church and School Calendars. Parents are informed in this way of upcoming school events, church events, and of any information pertaining to future plans of the school. Parents/teacher conferences are held twice each year, in the fall and in the spring. Additional conferences are available as needed. Parents are kept informed of their child’s progress through report cards and mid-term reports. We know that for a child to excel at school, there must be a partnership between parents and the school to help keep the student on target for his academic goals. Parents are strongly encouraged to attend Bethlehem Lutheran Church’s Adult Information Class. This class covers basic Lutheran doctrine. Parents should attend so that they know what their children are being taught with respect to the Lutheran Faith. Parents Responsibilities Get Involved 1. Talk to your child every day about what happened in school that day – successes and worries. 2. Read the Parents Handbook and ALL letters/newsletters that teachers and administrators send home. 3. Meet you child’s teacher and attend parent-teacher conferences. 4. Consult the administration and teacher with your concerns. 5. Attend open houses, school events, school programs and PTO meetings. 6. Review homework assignments every day and help your child organize study time and playtime. 7. Provide learning experiences – we have many museums and historical locations in the Dayton area. Have books and other learning materials available not just computer programs. 8. Participate in PTO activities. Volunteers are needed in the classrooms, on field trips, for the science fair, for the Festival of the Arts, at fundraisers and for many other activities throughout the year. Parenting Skills 1. Be a good role model. Your child follows your example. 2. Respect your child’s feelings, thoughts, and suggestions. 3. Make your child feel loved with words of praise and lots of hugs and kisses 4. Keep your word. If you must break it, apologize and explain the circumstances. 5. Encourage your child to be creative. Stimulate his/her curiosity and imagination. 6. Build your child’s self-esteem by showing your appreciation for all genuine efforts. 7. Know your child’s friends. 8. Discipline your child fairly, firmly, and with a great deal of love. Focus on the behavior. 9. Establish a routine and expectations. 10. Think positively. Help your child solve problems and achieve goals. Bethlehem Lutheran School Uniform Policy for Grades K-8 We believe that the manner in which we dress is a reflection of our character, values, and attitudes. We have created a uniform policy to serve such a purpose. The following items may be mixed and matched on any given day: • Pants/Shorts/Capris—Navy blue or tan. Plain with no colored stitching. No cargo pants. No jean type material. Not shorter than 3 inches above the knee. • Skirts/Jumpers—Girls may also wear uniform styled skirts and jumpers in tan, navy blue or plaid. Not shorter than 3 inches above the knee. • Shirts o For boys—Button down the front oxford dress shirts, long or short sleeved, in white or light blue. o For girls—Blouses, long or short sleeved, in white or light blue. o For both—Polo shirts, long or short sleeved, in white, navy, light blue, burgundy, red, or hunter green (Not regular green, or lime green or khaki green. If you need to see an example of hunter green, please stop by the office). No adornments except for the school polo shirts which are adorned with the school emblem. o For both—Turtleneck shirts in white, navy, light blue, hunter green, burgundy, or red. o For both—Bethlehem Lutheran school sweatshirts which are adorned with the school emblem. Please note that these are the only sweatshirts students are allowed to wear. o Shirts must be long enough to be tucked into waistbands. Girls should be conscience of their necklines as well as the thickness of the material. • Sweaters—Crew, V-necked, or Cardigan styled sweaters in white, navy, light blue, hunter green, burgundy, or red. • Belts—Shirts should be tucked in at all times • Shoes—Students may wear dress shoes or athletic shoes with no restriction on style or color. However, as with the rest of their appearance, shoes should be tasteful. Sandals are not permitted. Athletic shoes should be worn on gym days. No Heelies. No clogs including Crocs. • Hair—Hair should be neat and tidy at all times with no unnatural hair coloring or styling. Girls or boys with long hair are required to have it pulled back on gym days. • Jewelry—Moderate jewelry may be worn in good taste. Girls only may wear small pierced earrings (one in each ear). No dangling earrings. No bangel or multiple bracelets. No crazy bands. • Makeup—No makeup other than flesh colored cover stick for blemishes. No fingernail polish. • Body Art—No body piercing other than girls ears (one in each). No tattoos (fake or real). • Hats/Caps—Students must remove head apparel while in the school building. • In winter, students should always come to school with coats, hats, & gloves. • For identification purposes please put your child’s name on his or her outwear. Guidelines For Out of Dress Code Days Dress code rules are relaxed on special days such as School Picture Day, Field Day, Lutheran Schools Week and School or PTO sponsored out of dress code days. Even when not in uniform, students should still represent our school with a neat and tidy appearance. The following are guidelines for out of dress code days. Bottoms • Nice looking jeans or pants without tears or holes. Pants should not be baggy to the point of hanging off the body. • Shorts and skirts should be not be tight and must not be shorter than 3 inches above the knee. Tops • No midriff bearing shirts • No sleeveless shirts of any kind. • No camisole type shirts unless they are worn under another shirt. The outer shirt must be buttoned all the way. • Shirts should not have any picture, emblem, or writing on them which could be deemed offensive, insulting, or against our Christian beliefs (ex: no Halloween characters). • Girls should be conscience of their necklines as well as the thickness of the material. Not allowed • No hats or bandanas • No sweat pants or pajama pants • No slippers • No see through or mesh materials • All rules regarding hair, jewelry, makeup, nail polish and body art still apply on out of dress code days. Anyone dressed in a manner deemed inappropriate by the principal will be given a uniform and asked to change or if a uniform is not available, then the parents will be called and asked to bring appropriate clothing. Repeated violations of the above guidelines may result in out of dress code days being cancelled for all students. Special Needs Our small class sizes allow for some amount of one-to-one time with the teacher. We also have retired teachers available who help with tutoring, and additional help. A Special Education teacher has been added to Bethlehem’s staff for the school year 2006-2007, if a student requires special services and his/her needs can be meet, he/she will be admitted to school on an individual case-by-case basis. Parents, teachers, and the administrator will work together to write an individual service plan, which will be tailored to meet the student’s individual needs. This plan may include any extra help a student might need such as mentoring or tutoring. Additional services are available through our local public school system, Fairborn Public Schools. Assessments Students at Bethlehem Lutheran School are screened at entry to Kindergarten. Students are monitored for progress during the year with materials that are built into the curriculum programs we use. This involves worksheets, end of unit assessments, and teacher observations. Students reading skills will be assessed three times a year using DIBELS. Students also complete a standardized test in the spring, which enables us to compare our program with other schools nationally. The Kindergarten, First, and Second Grade students will be given the Iowa Basic Skills Test. The Third-Eighth Grade students will take the Stanford Assessment test. Beginning in the third grade, students will also be given the Ohio Achievement Tests in the spring. Subject areas tested will be those outlined by the State of Ohio Department of Education for each school year and will be announced during the school year. Parents are notified of their child’s progress through report cards and mid-term progress reports. Parent/Teacher conferences are held two times per year to keep parents up to date on the progress of their child. Promotion and Retention In some cases it may be determined after careful study that a child would benefit from an additional year at the current grade level. All areas of child development are taken into consideration including social and emotional growth, academic achievement level and physical development before a decision is made. The parents will be informed and have the opportunity to discuss the matter of additional time in the present grade with the classroom teacher and with the principal. The best interest of the child should always be center stage. The principal will make the final decision after the School Board has been advised. Tuition Payments Tuition can either be paid in full before the first day of school or arrangements can be made to pay on a monthly basis. Monthly payment arrangements are made through the FACTS tuition management company. Detailed information regarding this process is given at the time of enrollment. Tuition Assistance Tuition assistance is available through a discretionary fund consisting of donations designated for meeting tuition costs of families who cannot fully afford to send their children to Bethlehem Lutheran School. Guidelines and application forms are available in the school office. Withdrawal In the event of necessary withdrawal, thirty days notice in writing or one month’s tuition must be given to the school. All fees and tuition payments must be up-to-date before transfer of records can be completed.