2023 - 2024
Ouray Elementary School
Student Handbook
21st Century Skills in Colorado's Reading, Writing, and Communicating Standards
The 21st century skills are the synthesis of the essential abilities students must apply in our rapidly changing world. Today’s students need a repertoire of knowledge and skills that are more diverse, complex, and integrated than any previous generation. Reading, Writing, and Communicating are inherently demonstrated in each of Colorado’s 21st century skills, as follows:
Self-Direction
Students who read, write, and communicate independently portray self-direction by using metacognition skills. These important skills are a learner’s automatic awareness of knowledge and ability to understand, control, and manipulate cognitive processes. These skills are important not only in school but throughout life, enabling the student to learn and set goals independently.
Critical Thinking
Critical thinking and reasoning are vital to advance in the technologically sophisticated world we live in. In order for students to be successful and powerful readers, writers, and communicators, they must incorporate critical thinking and reasoning skills. Students need to be able to successfully argue a point, justify reasoning, evaluate for a purpose, infer to predict and draw conclusions, problem-solve, and understand and use logic to inform critical thinking.
Informational Literacy
The student who is information-literate accesses information efficiently and effectively by reading and understanding essential content of a range of informational texts and documents in all academic areas. This involves evaluating information critically and competently; accessing appropriate tools to synthesize information; recognizing relevant primary and secondary information; and distinguishing among fact, point of view, and opinion.
Invention
Applying new ways to solve problems is an ideal in reading and writing instruction. Invention is one of the key components of creating an exemplary writing piece or synthesizing information from multiple sources. Invention takes students to a higher level of metacognition while exploring literature and writing about their experiences.
Collaboration
Reading, writing, and communicating must encompass collaboration skills. Students should be able to collaborate with each other in multiple settings: peer groups, one-on-one, in front of an audience, in large and small group settings, and with people of other ethnicities. Students should be able to participate in a peer review, foster a safe environment for discourse, mediate opposing perspectives, contribute ideas, speak with a purpose, understand and apply knowledge of culture, and seek others’ ideas.
Table of Contents
Equal Opportunity Nondiscrimination Statement 2
School and Staff Contact Information 4
Healthy School Meals for All Program 10
Multi Tier System of Support (MTSS) 14
Special Instructional Programs 14
Attendance and Eligibility for Extracurricular activities 17
School Communication for Absent Students 17
Code of Conduct Violation Matrix 25
GENERAL INFORMATION
Equal Opportunity Nondiscrimination Statement
Ouray School District R-1 is an equal educational opportunity institution and does not unlawfully discriminate on the basis of racial or ethnic background, color, creed, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, genetic information, ancestry, disability or need for special education services, marital status, and family composition in admission or access to, or treatment or employment in its educational programs or activities. Please refer inquiries concerning;
- Title IX to Meghan Roenicke, Activities and Athletic Director or Tod Lokey, Superintendent
- Section 504 and ADA to Ted Fellin, 504 Coordinator
P.O. Box N
Ouray, CO 81427
(970) 325-4505
You may also contact the Office for Civil Rights, U.S. Department of Education, Region VIII
Federal Office Building
1244 North Speer Blvd., Suite 310
Denver, CO 80204
(303) 844-5695
Parents/Guardians and students are hereby informed that the Ouray School District R-1 has an asbestos management plan available for review in the Superintendent's office. The District asbestos manager is our Head Maintenance / Custodian.
Any caregiver or staff member in the Ouray School who has reasonable cause to know or suspect that a child has been subjected to abuse or neglect or who has observed the child being subjected to circumstances or conditions that would reasonably result in abuse or neglect MUST IMMEDIATELY REPORT or cause a report to be made of such fact to the Ouray County Department of Social Services at 970-626-2299.
If a parent has suspicions of Early Learning Center licensing violations they may file a complaint by calling 1-800-799-5876 or write:
The Colorado Department of Social Services
1575 Sherman Street
Denver, Colorado 80204
School and Staff Contact Information
OURAY ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
PO BOX N, OURAY, CO 81427
(970) 325 – 4505 | FAX (970) 325-7343
ADMINISTRATION
Tod Lokey, Superintendent/HS Principal
Kenneth Nelson, PreK-8 Principal
Jaceson Cole, School Counselor
Ted Fellin, School Counselor
Vicky Trujillo, Administrative Assistant
Paige Sackman, Administrative Assistant
LaShel Crandall, Business Manager
Tom Tyler, Director of Maintenance
Meghan Roenicke, Activities and AthleticDirector
OURAY ELEMENTARY TEACHERS
Patty Ray, Early Learning Center
Meda Situngkir, Early Learning Center
Abbie Mahlin, Kindergarten
Jenny Anesi, First Grade
Melissa Cervone, Second Grade
Virginia Davis, Third Grade
Rhonda Jack, Fourth Grade
Karisa Hoover, General Music
Melissa Demuth, Art Education
Christy Wilbur, Physical Education
Cappi Castro, Teacher-Librarian
Jen Feeser, Title I Teacher
Evelyn Nelson, Special Education
Meghan Roenicke, Special Education
BOARD OF EDUCATION
Sandy Kern, President
Aimee Vann, Vice-President
Vale Hirt, Secretary
Tom Fedel, Treasurer
Jane Schiffer, Member at Large
Ouray School Mission Statement:
The mission of Ouray School District R-1, an educational community built on high expectations, is for all students to reach their full potential and contribute responsibly in a global society by ensuring them an exceptional education in a safe and supportive environment.
Superintendent Message
It is a pleasure to serve Ouray School as the Superintendent. When students, staff, or community members walk the halls and classrooms of our historic school, one can’t help but appreciate the view from any window and how it resonates with our statement, “Developing Minds to Match our Mountains.” They are grand, glorious, and steadfast, and Ouray youth have both the individual potential and the support and guidance of great teachers and staff to excel. Elementary school is a time of excitement, exploration, and finding oneself. The world before them is like the mountains out the windows: steep and imposing but ready to be explored and conquered.
I encourage all families to be familiar with the student handbook as it contains both your rights and responsibilities. Colorado school attendance law makes attending school compulsory; this is a value statement not an iron fist. We ask that you read the attendance policy carefully, so that you can be prepared to support your child’s attendance and school work when they do have to miss school. Ouray School will be using new tools to support student learning this year, and I hope they will also support students who have to miss school for personal reasons.
The staff is ready to help make this a great year. Please keep in touch with teachers as your primary point of contact. Contact us with any questions or concerns, and we will do our best to serve students, parents, and community.
Tod Lokey
Superintendent
School Mascot: Trojans School Colors: Orange and Black School Song: Teams in a huddle, captain bowed his head. We all got together and this is what he said: We’re gonna give a cheer for old Ouray, ‘Cause we’re fighting hard to win this game. And when the game is won we’ll tell the tale, And the Ouray team is gonna yell ’n yell ‘n yell! Take your banners now and raise them high. Let the cheers and shouts ring through the sky, ‘Cause the Ouray team is gonna win, gonna win. Fight girls/boys, fight girls/boys, fight! Hip hip hooray! Hip hip hooray! Hip hip Ouray! Ouray Trojans, hip hip hooray! |
WHO OWNS THE SCHOOL? You do! Your parents/guardians and all taxpayers are legally required to pay taxes that build and maintain the public school system. Everyone pays taxes in one form or another. Therefore, any damage done to the building, equipment, buses, or books must be paid for with your family’s money! It is not enough that you should refrain from doing anything to increase this cost to your parents, neighbors and yourself, you must help protect the schools by discouraging such activity by others.
School Year Calendar
Changes to the Handbook
New policies and/or procedures may be added at any time according to need and with School Board approval. Students and parents will be informed when a change has been made to policies governing Ouray School.
ELEMENTARY SCHOOL POLICIES
PLEASE SEE THE FOLLOWING DISTRICT POLICIES:
- JJA-1 - Student Organizations
- GBEBC - Gifts to and Solicitations by Staff
- JIH - Student Interviews, Interrogations, Searches and Arrests
- JLCD - Administering Medications to Students
- JICJ - Student Use of Cell Phones and Personal Electronic Devices
- ADD - Safe Schools
Students wishing to see the principal may do so as long as they have received permission from their classroom teacher. Parents are also encouraged to seek the help of the principal with concerns that they might have about their child.
CPI- (Crisis Prevention Intervention)
CPI is a Nonviolent Crisis Intervention philosophy that involves restraint as a last resort. CPI certified members are trained in verbal and non-verbal de-escalation techniques to prevent behaviors from intensifying. We have teachers in our district that have been trained in these techniques to protect the student(s) from harm to self or others.
Bicycle Rules- Students are allowed to ride their bicycles to school. Parking facilities are provided; however the school is not responsible for any losses incurred. Students riding their bicycle to school are requested to wear a helmet. Bus riders are not permitted to bring bicycles on the bus. Bicycle riding is not permitted on the playground during school hours. Colorado law states that all bicycle riders must obey all traffic rules which are applicable to them.
Care of School Property- Students are held responsible for the loss or damage of textbooks and school property. Fines will be levied to cover the cost of replacement.
Cell Phones- Use of cell phones for personal use during school hours is not permitted and may be confiscated and returned only after a parent conference is scheduled. Refer to our district policy for exceptions on such devices.
Corridor Courtesy- Pass through corridors quietly. Be considerate of others in the halls and classrooms. DO NOT RUN through the corridors. Treat everyone with respect. Discard trash in the containers provided. Keep the school clean by picking up trash from the floor. Recycle whenever possible.
Outdoor Recess- Outdoor play during the noon hour and scheduled recesses is expected of all PK – 4th students except when severe weather necessitates that they remain indoors. If a child is ill and not in condition to go outdoors for fresh air they should remain home for the sake of their health and that of other students.
Parties- Classroom parties for students in grades PK – 4th may be held annually during the following times of year: Halloween, Winter Holiday, and Valentine’s Day. An alternative activity will be provided for those students who cannot participate in classroom parties for personal reasons.
Birthdays- Please do not send party invitations to school unless the entire class is invited. If you would like to send something special for your child's birthday please notify the teacher ahead of time.
Cafeteria-
Proper conduct in the school cafeteria includes:
- Allow students with sack lunches to proceed through the line.
- Eat only in the cafeteria; do not take food from the cafeteria.
- Deposit all litter in the trash containers.
- Pick up trash in the area where you eat.
- Return all trays to the dishwashing area.
- Cooperate with the cafeteria staff and supervisors.
- Remain in the cafeteria sitting quietly when you’re done eating until dismissed by the supervisor.
- Practice good table manners.
- Visit with an appropriate noise level.
- K – 4th students are not allowed to leave campus for lunch unless supervised by a parent.
Student Dress Code (JICA)-
The responsibility for the dress and grooming of a student rests primarily with the student and their parents or guardians. The school district and individual schools are responsible for seeing that student attire does not interfere with the health or safety of any student, and that student attire does not contribute to a hostile or intimidating atmosphere for any student.
Allowable Dress & Grooming
- Students must wear clothing including both a shirt with pants or skirt, or the equivalent and shoes.
- Shirts and dresses must have fabric in the front and on the sides.
- Clothing must cover undergarments. Exceptions are waistbands and bra straps.
- Fabric covering all private parts must not be see-through.
- Hats and other headwear must allow the face to be visible and not interfere with the line of sight to any student or staff. Hoodies must allow the student’s face to be visible to staff.
- Clothing must be suitable for all scheduled classroom activities including physical education, science labs, wood shop, and other activities where unique hazards exist.
- Specialized courses or specific assignments may require specialized attire, such as job readiness, sports uniforms, or safety gear.
Non-Allowable Dress & Grooming
- Clothing may not depict, advertise or advocate the use of alcohol, tobacco, marijuana or other controlled substances. Exceptions are local food service industries.
- Clothing may not depict pornography, nudity, or sexual acts.
- Clothing may not use or depict hate speech targeting groups based on race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, religious affiliation, or any other protected groups.
- Clothing must not threaten the health or safety of any other student or staff. Gang identifiers are considered such threats and may not be worn.
- If the student’s attire or grooming threatens the health or safety of any other person, then discipline for dress or grooming violations should be consistent with discipline policies for similar violations.
Classes missed after the second offense due to a dress code violation will be considered unexcused.
Field Trips
The Board recognizes that the first-hand learning experiences provided by field trips are a most effective and worthwhile means of learning. It is the desire of the Board to encourage field trips as part of and directly related to the total school program. Educational field trips shall be planned and conducted in accordance with the following guidelines:
- The teacher shall review the educational value of the field trip and alignment to District Standards with the principal or Superintendent and receive approval prior to making arrangements for the field trip.
- Students will not leave the school grounds without the written permission of their parents. This includes any and all field trips off campus during the school day.
- The teacher will provide the parents/guardians with information concerning the purpose and destination of the trip, transportation and eating arrangements, date and time of departure, estimated time of return, the name of a local contact person, and an itinerary when a field trip will extend beyond a school day.
- Parents are asked during online registration at the beginning of the year to allow teachers to take students on short, walking field trips near the school. Teachers will generally not send home an additional permission slip for these short trips. Students will not be allowed to participate if their parents have not completed this part of registration.
Any child who is receiving a failing grade in class or displays unacceptable behaviors may be required to remain at school during the field trip to complete work. This includes overnight or day trips. This decision will be made by the classroom teacher and principal. If a student displays unacceptable behaviors during a field trip the parents will be required to pick up their child.
Injured or Ill Students
If your child has a specific health condition, please inform the office as well as the teacher. Please be sure we have emergency numbers, as we make a practice of calling parents when children become ill at school. Any head injury will be reported to parents. The main office will maintain emergency cards for every student. Information will include: parents' or guardians' name, address, and phone number; names of two relatives or friends who may act on the parents' or guardians' behalf if the parents are unreachable; health problems or allergic reactions; parents' signature(s).
Procedures for student accidents or illness shall be as follows:
A. An accident requiring minor treatment (Band-Aids, ice, etc.)
- The supervising staff person will notify the school office staff.
- If the accident involves a head injury, an office staff member will notify parents.
- If parents or emergency contacts cannot be reached, the administration will act in the best interests of the child.
- The supervising staff person will complete an Accident Report, get an administrator’s signature, and turn it in to the school office staff. A copy will be mailed home to parent(s).
B. More serious accidents or those requiring a doctor's attention
- The supervising staff person will notify the school office staff.
- A school office staff member will notify the parents.
- Injured students will not be moved from the accident scene unless dangerous conditions exist. If parents or relatives/friends cannot be reached, the administration will act in the best interests of the child.
- The supervising staff person will complete an Accident Report, get an administrator’s signature, and turn the form into the school office staff.
C. Illness that occurs during school hours
- Supervising teacher or an office staff member will notify parents or relatives/friends.
- Supervising teacher will notify administration.
- Student will be released to parents or relatives/friends and will not be sent home on their own.
- If a serious condition exists and parents cannot be reached, the administration will act in the best interests of the child.
Healthy School Meals for All Program
Ouray School District R-1 is excited to offer free breakfast and lunch to all students starting with the 2023-2024 school year thanks to the Healthy School Meals for All program! Breakfast will be available before and after the tardy bell, and lunch will be available to all students during scheduled times. Even though meals will be provided for free, it's important for families to continue sharing household income information in order for our schools to receive full access to federal funding. Keep an eye out for more information and steps you can take during school registration.
Medications
School personnel must administer any medication, including Tylenol, in the school office. Parents who wish to have their child take medication follow procedures outlined in policy JLCD and complete the Permission for Medication form. This includes OTC and prescribed medicine. A student may not self medicate or be in possession of personal medication. (Note: If your student has a medical condition that necessitates that they be in possession of their medication on campus, please notify the office immediately. A meeting will be scheduled with you and the school nurse in which a school medical plan for your child will be written.
Nurse- Ouray School’s nurse is at school five days per week, for two to three hours each. Students who wish to visit the nurse should receive permission from their classroom teacher.
Playground Rules
Respect | Responsibility | Role Model: Please discuss the PBIS (Positive Behavior Intervention Support or R3) playground rules with your child.
Respect:
- Listen to the playground supervisor.
- Be kind to one another.
- Get permission before leaving the playground.
Responsibility:
- Play safely; leave rocks and snow on the ground, please.
- Walk to and from the playground.
- Dress appropriately for winter.
Role Model:
- Include others in games.
- Be an “Upstander” not a “Bystander.”
Ask for supervisor’s help when needed.
Safety Rules
The safety of your child is one of our major concerns. The cooperation of the parent is needed to build good safety habits. Instruct your child to:
- Walk on the shoulder of roads or sidewalks
- Cross streets at corners or designated crosswalks
- Refuse to enter strange automobiles
- Go directly to school or home before beginning to play
- Be considerate of smaller children
- Always pass in front of the bus
- Do not drop your student off at school before 8:20am
Withdrawal from School
A student who wishes to withdraw from school in the district must report to the school's main office and ask the administrative assistant for a check out form. Each teacher, organization sponsor, coach, and librarian must sign the form and note any bills or charges. The completed form should be returned to the administrative assistant in the main office. No information will be forwarded to other districts regarding a student unless all charges and obligations have been satisfied.
Volunteers
There are many ways you can volunteer your time in school. Each teacher has different needs and will tell you how you may help in your student’s classroom. You will be setting an example for your student by collaborating with the teacher and the school. Students are very proud of their parents who volunteer.
Being a volunteer fills the needs of:
Teachers: By performing important but sometimes routine tasks.
You free the teacher to teach.
Students: The students get enhanced individual attention. You affirm
the school process.
District: We need a strong volunteer resource of community involvement.
Yourself: Knowing you are a valuable asset to the school community.
You may be asked to: Make copies, collate materials, work on the newsletter, make phone calls, type, run computer input, organize special events, accompany students, create bulletin boards, everything and anything that needs doing! If there is any time in your schedule, please also remember the other teachers in the school who need your help in their areas, but who have no parent base to draw from: the library, art and music room, special education, and physical education. Please come to actively contribute. Contact your child’s teacher or the principal, and sign up to volunteer.
Tips For Parents
- Teamwork between parents and the school helps ensure a student's success. Good communication is an essential element to promote a spirit of cooperation.
- Model good learning and reading skills.
- Allow your child to experience specific praise and the experience of feeling good about accomplishments. We all like to hear when we do something good.
- Allow your child to experience the natural consequences of their actions or decisions.
- By communicating and working together we can help your students realize a positive school experience.
School Staff Authority
Any school staff member has the authority to warn and correct students anywhere in the building, on the school grounds, and at school sponsored functions for misconduct. Students are expected to show respect and cooperation to all school staff members at all times.
ACADEMICS INFORMATION
PLEASE SEE THE FOLLOWING DISTRICT POLICIES:
Report Cards
Ouray Elementary report cards will reflect student performance on the Colorado Academic Standards (CAS), which specify what all students should know, understand, and be able to do. Standards-based report card will list the standards being taught in each subject at a particular grade level. This course of study is based on the Colorado Academic Standards, developed by the Colorado Department of Education, which are closely linked to the Common Core State Standards, developed by a national panel of experts. You can access the Standards at http://www.cde.state.co.us/scripts/allstandards/COStandards. Elementary report cards will:
- specify what all students should know and be able to do;
- assess each student's performance against the CAS (not comparing student to student); and
- provide the parent or guardian an accurate assessment of how their child is progressing.
Before making a determination regarding a student's proficiency and marking it on the report card, teachers analyze a student's progress from multiple measures over the course of the reporting period. It is important to note that teachers have been reviewing the results of assessments and student work throughout the reporting period to determine next steps for instruction. The analysis for student proficiency noted on the report card is based on key pieces of evidence:
- Collecting key samples of student work in a body of evidence.
- Analyzing the entire body of evidence in comparison to grade level proficiency as identified by the CAS.
Instead of traditional letter grades (A, B, C, etc) each student will be graded on a performance scale from 4 to 1. The academic performance levels are as follows:
4 = Advanced indicates that the student consistently exceeds grade-level academic standards and expectations. This means the student has not only demonstrated the ability to consistently perform at grade level, but has time after time exceeded the grade level expectations as defined by the CAS. For example, there could be an expectation that the student demonstrates the ability to “read and understand grade-level text independently and proficiently”. A student who demonstrates this skill every time and goes beyond this skill consistently to demonstrate the ability to read and understand texts that are above grade level would receive an “Advanced” score for this particular grade level skill.
3 = Proficient indicates that the student consistently demonstrates grade-level academic skills, standards and expectations. The overall goal is to have students demonstrate proficiency in all grade level expectations-- as defined by the CAS-- by the end of the school year. In other words, the student is expected to show 3’s on the report card by the end of the year. Most students do not start the year with 3’s.
2 = Partially Proficient (or Developing) indicates that the student is working toward the grade-level academic standards and expectations, but has not been able to consistently demonstrate the learning. This can possibly indicate that the student is functioning below grade level expectations. However, this usually indicates that the student has been introduced to a new skill and is progressing at a normal pace, but at this point in the grading period the student is not consistently demonstrating proficiency with the new learning.
1 = Beginning (or Unsatisfactory) indicates that the student does not always demonstrate grade-level academic standards and expectations. This occurs often when the skill has been recently introduced. If a student scores 1 after the introduction of a new skill, the student can demonstrate their growth in this area by scoring 2 during the next grading period and possibly 3 by the end of the year.
I = Incomplete/Insufficient Work indicates that the student has not completed sufficient work to demonstrate grade-level academic standards and expectations.
Blank or X = If a blank square or X shows up on a report card, it is because the standard or skill has not yet been introduced and/or assessed.
Learner Qualities
In another section of the new elementary report cards, students will get separate marks for effort and work habits called “Learner Qualities”. These Learner Qualities are very important to keep track of, even if these characteristics aren’t included in the assessment of the student’s academic skills.
The following Learner Qualities reflect our school’s PBIS (Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports) language:
Responsible Student - able to follow directions promptly; organize time, tasks, and materials; complete and turn in work on time; seek help when needed; demonstrate perseverance.
Respectful Citizen - demonstrates self-control and appropriate manners; demonstrates respect for the rights and opinions of others; follows school/classroom rules; correctly resolves conflict in a variety of ways.
Role Model - demonstrates age appropriate behavior at all times; acts as an appropriate role model for others to follow, without force or coercion.
Report cards are issued at the end of each nine-week grading period. It generally takes about a week to tabulate the grades and compile them in the office. Report cards will be emailed to the parent/guardian email provided at student registration.
Presentations of Learning
In lieu of traditional Parent/teacher conferences, student-led presentations of learning are scheduled with all parents during October and March. A specific parent/teacher conference to address specific issues may be requested by parents, teachers, students or administration throughout the year.
Multi Tier System of Support (MTSS)
The purpose of MTSS is to support teachers and parents in the programming for individual students. The MTSS team will assist teachers and parents by generating classroom instructional suggestions, classroom modification and intervention plans, developing material modifications, recommending resources, and making appropriate referrals, e.g. Title I, Special Education, or Gifted Education/Mentoring programs. Academics as well as behavioral challenges will be dealt with. The MTSS team will consist of classroom teachers, Title I coordinator, and the principal.
Special Instructional Programs
In keeping with the intention of the state of Colorado to offer educational opportunities to all students, which will enable them to lead fulfilling and productive lives, the district shall provide appropriate educational opportunities to all resident students in accordance with the requirements of state and federal statutes. The Board shall have the final determination of programs.
Ouray School District R-1 has contracted with the Uncompahgre BOCES to:
- Provide formal testing of students referred.
- Furnish a written report of the testing and academic recommendations as a result of the testing.
- Conduct conferences and follow-ups with parents and school personnel.
- Establish an individualized education plan (IEP) for students who qualify for Special Education.
A Resource Room will be provided and staffed for meeting the educational needs of students with special needs. The education of children with special needs will be in regular classrooms in so far as practicable, and they will be assigned to the Resource Room only when the nature of the child’s needs makes the inclusion of the child in a regular classroom impractical.
Testing Program
The purpose of the Ouray School District testing program is to provide the district, teachers, and parents with information that will be beneficial to the overall educational program of the school. The information derived from the test results will be used for curriculum planning, guidance for the student, and for program development to meet the individual needs of the student. The results of the tests will be recorded in the student’s cumulative records by school staff. Students in grades 3 and 4 will be tested with NWEA MAPS in the fall, winter, and in the spring. Colorado Measures of Academic Success (CMAS) will be administered according to State timelines in the spring of each year to students in grades 3 and 4.
Homework
Parent involvement in a child's education can mean the difference between success and failure. Helping your child with her/his study skills can make a difference. The following are suggestions that you, the parent, can use to help your child study at home:
- Take home folders to and from school each day.
- Help your child realize that studying is an independent project. However, show willingness to assist your child when the need arises.
- Help your child to consider and decide what time of day is most effective for study and plan accordingly.
- Help your child plan time for fun activities and television so that these can have their place. A child's attention span can be short, so vary activities.
- Help your child by creating an environment in the home conducive to study.
- Let your child choose a place to study, preferably furnished with a desk or table. Provide a good light and a straight-back chair. Study time is not a time to relax or daydream.
- Have available all of the materials and references that may be needed, such as paper, pencils, school devices, dictionary, etc.
- Study time should be a quiet time. Insist that the TV or personal devices be turned off during study time.
- Believe that your child can learn, and express that belief to them. Support your child in their efforts to learn.
- Recognize and compliment your child's efforts in learning.
- Discuss and show a positive interest in your child's school.
- Watch for warning signs of problems and meet with the teacher if homework assignments cause frustration at home.
- Guide your child in planning ahead for reports and projects.
- Understand that each child is different and varies in learning rate and ability.
These few tips will assist your child in completing a successful school assignment. Work with your child. Developing good study habits can pay big dividends for your child in school and in life.
Take Home Folder
Each day all PK – 4th grade students will bring home a take home folder, which contains important information as well as upcoming activity dates. Please be sure to take a few minutes to review the contents of this folder with your student.
ATTENDANCE
Students who want to obtain the greatest benefit from public education must recognize that regular attendance is essential. Ouray Elementary School expects that ALL students will attend each of their assigned classes every day. Policy from the Ouray Board of Education and Colorado Compulsory School Attendance Law are intended to support the importance and value of public education.
Students who have unavoidable appointments during the school day must bring a note from their parents/guardian to the office prior to leaving the building. Students MUST check out of school when leaving during the school day and check in upon returning. The front office will maintain the records of these departures and returns. Students failing to check out and check in will be given unexcused absences. Parents/guardians must notify the school (note, phone or email) as soon as possible when their child is absent and state the reason for the absence. Please use the primary office phone number (970-325-4505) or email attendance@ourayschool.org for reporting a student absent.
PLEASE SEE THE FOLLOWING DISTRICT POLICIES:
- JH - Student Absences and Excuses
- JHB - Truancy
- IKE - Promotion, Retention and Acceleration of Students
Excused Absences
The following shall be considered excused absences.
- A student who is temporarily ill or injured or whose absence is approved by the administrator of the school of attendance, including bereavement, on a prearranged basis. Prearranged absences shall be approved for appointments or circumstances of a serious nature only which cannot be taken care of outside of school hours.
- A student who is absent for an extended period due to physical, mental, or emotional disability.
- A student who is pursuing a work-study program under the supervision of the school.
- A student who is attending any school-sponsored activity or activities of an educational nature with advance approval by the administration.
- A student who is suspended or expelled.
- Student whose absence is permitted pursuant to C.R.S. 22-33-104(2)
The school will determine whether an absence is excused or not. State law allows for some discretion upon the determination of the administrator. The district may request documentation to excuse an absence.
Unexcused Absences
An unexcused absence is defined as an absence that is not covered by one of the foregoing exceptions. Each unexcused absence shall be entered on the student's record. The parents/guardians of the student receiving an unexcused absence shall be notified orally or in writing by the district of the unexcused absence The administration may impose penalties for unexcused absences including warnings, loss of open-campus privileges, detentions, or in-school suspension. The school may not impose academic penalties for unexcused absences.. Judicial action or referral may take place to enforce compulsory attendance after the student accrues ten (10) days of unexcused absences.
Prearranged Absences
If a student anticipates an absence of more than one day, the student should have the parent or guardian complete the district’s “Request for Excused or Prearranged Absence Form” and return it to the office at least seven (7) days in advance. A prearranged absence does not indicate approval, only that the school has been notified. It is the student’s responsibility to make up all the work according to the make-up work policy. Prearranged absences not approved by the administration are subject to attendance penalties.
Chronic Absenteeism
Excessive absences will negatively impact a student’s academic success. For this reason, a student who has 20 total absences in a school year, whether the absences are excused or unexcused, may be identified as “chronically absent” by the principal or designee. Absences due to suspension or expulsion shall not be counted in the total number of absences considered for purposes of identifying a student as “chronically absent.”
If a student is identified as “chronically absent,” the administration shall develop a plan to improve the student’s attendance. The plan shall include best practices and research-based strategies to address the reasons for the student’s chronic absenteeism. When practicable, the student’s parent/guardian shall participate in the development of the plan.
Nothing herein shall require the administration to identify a student as “chronically absent” prior to declaring the student as a “habitual truant” and pursuing court proceedings against the student and their parents/guardians to compel the student’s attendance in accordance with state law.
Attendance and Eligibility for Extracurricular activities
Attendance at school is necessary for extracurricular activity participation. A student who is absent from school during any part of the day, unless the absence is excused for appointments or family emergencies, may not be able to participate in extracurricular activities that day. If the absence is on Friday, the student may not participate in extracurricular activities on Saturday.
COVID-19 Related Absences
If a student needs to miss school due to COVID-19 related reasons, please contact the administrator for specific information. The school will work collaboratively with families to support excused absences when ill and remote learning presence when quarantining or isolated. Families should verify their situation with the school nurse who will make recommendations to the administration.
School Communication for Absent Students
The school will inform parents either by phone or in writing when students have an unexcused absence or an accumulation of absences warranting concern. The initial notices are not meant to impose action or consequences; rather they are intended to share information and validate potential concerns.
- When a student has accumulated five (5) absences for any one class in a semester, the attendance office will send an attendance notice detailing the concern and outlining next steps.
- When a student has accumulated seven (7) absences from any one class in a semester, a counselor or principal will have a phone conference with the parents/guardians. At this conference, the student will be placed on an attendance contract or attendance plan to understand the nature of absences, future need for absences, and a plan for academic support and future attendance documentation.
- When a student has accumulated a total of twenty (20) absences, defined as missing more than half of the academic day, for the school year, either excused or unexcused, the attendance office will mail a letter determining a “chronic absenteeism” status, as defined by state law. At this point, the principal will call a meeting to discuss the student’s attendance and academic plan.
Make-up work policy
Assignments missed during excused absences will be allowed to be made up for full credit. In cases of excused absences, including illness, bereavement, or emergencies, students will be given time to turn in missed work equal to the number of days missed plus one. Any make-up work for reasons other than these, including all unexcused absences, must be completed within the number of days of the student’s absence, subject to teacher policy. Work which was assigned before an absence, and due during an absence, will be due the first day a student returns to class, except in extenuating circumstances or by arrangement with the teacher. Only work assigned during an absence will be allowed the additional time to be made up. For larger, long term assignments for which the student has been given advance notice of the due date, the student is responsible for that assignment on the day they return. This includes projects, tests, and quizzes.
School Safety
Emergency Drills
Emergency drills will be held several times a year. The alarms or commands are easily recognizable to students and staff. All staff and students will be trained annually in our emergency procedures. Each room in the building has a set of instructions posted with the correct procedure for evacuating the building. Each teacher is responsible for the conduct of their students during a drill. When students evacuate the building, they should remain with their class and teacher, a safe distance from the building until the signal for a return.
Leaving School Grounds
Students are required to be on school grounds at all times during the school day. In order to leave school grounds during the day a student must have written permission from his or her parents/guardian approved by the office. They must then notify their classroom teachers that they will be gone. Students must have a parent/guardian sign them out at the office before they leave, and sign in again when they return. Parents are encouraged to help their children arrange appointments outside of school time whenever possible. Only the parents,legal guardians, or emergency contacts may gain release of a child without written permission.
Library
The Library is an integral part of the school program. Its purpose is to provide materials for both school and enjoyment, technology support, and a welcoming safe space to both students and faculty. Books may be checked out for a period of two weeks and may be renewed unless they have been reserved. Chromebooks are available for checkout from the library with a signed Use Agreement. If they are lost or damaged, students will be assessed replacement costs. The media specialist will be glad to help you in locating materials and any other help you may need.
Lockers
A locker shall be assigned to each student in grades 3 and 4. Lockers may be personalized as a student wishes as long as it is appropriate. All personalized items must be removed at the end of each school year. Tampering with another student’s locker warrants a disciplinary referral. The school will not be responsible for any lost or stolen articles or money that a student leaves in their locker.
- Lockers are school property, supplied as a convenience to the students to store their belongings in while attending.
- Lockers are subject to search at any time, with or without the presence of the students.
Lost and Found
There are 3 Lost and Found designated areas. They are as follows:
- On the 2nd floor of the main building in the stairwell. (Large items such as coats, backpacks, etc.).
- In the school office. (Small items such as jewelry, etc., only)
- The gym. (Gym shoes, clothing, and other items left in the gym building).
*During our winter, spring, and summer breaks, items that have not been claimed will be donated to charity.
Sexual Harassment
The Board recognizes that sexual harassment can interfere with a student’s academic performance and emotional and physical well-being, and that preventing and remedying sexual harassment in schools is essential to ensure a nondiscriminatory, safe environment in which students can learn. In addition, sexual harassment is recognized as a form of sex discrimination and thus is a violation of the laws that prohibit sex discrimination, as addressed in the Board’s policy concerning unlawful discrimination and harassment.
The district is committed to maintaining a learning environment that is free from sexual harassment. It shall be a violation of policy for any staff member to harass students or for students to harass other students through conduct or communications of a sexual nature or to retaliate against anyone that reports sexual harassment or participates in a harassment investigation. The district shall investigate all indications, informal reports, and formal grievances of sexual harassment by students, staff, or third-parties, and appropriate corrective action shall be taken. Corrective action includes taking all reasonable steps to end the harassment, to make the harassed student whole by restoring lost educational opportunities, to prevent harassment from recurring, and to prevent retaliation against anyone who reports sexual harassment or participates in a harassment investigation.
Unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, or other verbal, non-verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature may constitute sexual harassment, even if the harasser and the student being harassed are the same sex and whether or not the student resists or submits to the harasser, when:
- Submission to such conduct is made either explicitly or implicitly a term or condition of a student’s participation in an education program or activity.
- Submission to or rejection of such conduct by a student is used as the basis for education decisions affecting the student.
- Such conduct is sufficiently severe, persistent, or pervasive that it limits a student’s ability to participate in or benefit from an education program or activity or it creates a hostile or abusive educational environment. For a one time incident to rise to the level of harassment, it must be severe.
Any conduct of a sexual nature directed by a student toward a staff member or by a staff member to a student is presumed to be unwelcome and shall constitute sexual harassment. Acts of verbal or physical aggression, intimidation or hostility based on sex, but not involving conduct of a sexual nature may also constitute sexual harassment.
Sexual harassment as defined above may include, but is not limited to:
- sex-oriented verbal "kidding," abuse, or harassment,
- pressure for sexual activity,
- repeated remarks to a person with sexual implications,
- unwelcome touching, such as patting, pinching or constant brushing against the body of another,
- suggesting or demanding sexual involvement, accompanied by implied or explicit threats concerning one's grades or similar personal concerns,
- sexual violence.
Students are encouraged to report all incidences of sexual harassment to either a teacher, counselor, or principal in the school building and file a complaint through the district’s complaint and compliance process. All reports and indications from students, district employees, and third parties shall be forwarded to the compliance officer. For further information refer to Ouray School District Policies AC and JBB.
The student may file a grievance with the principal. Forms may be found in the office or on the school website. If the alleged harasser is the principal, then the grievance goes to the Superintendent or Board of Education. All matters involving sexual harassment complaints shall remain confidential to the extent possible.
* Filing of a grievance or otherwise reporting sexual harassment shall not reflect negatively upon the person doing the reporting.
CODE OF CONDUCT
Each student is responsible for their own actions. Learning can only take place when there is a climate of mutual respect, attention, and good student behavior. Students are expected to conduct themselves in a way that helps promote a positive school environment. School district rules and expectations shall govern students attending school-sponsored events (on campus or off campus). Disruptive, uncooperative, improper, or destructive conduct is not permitted.
PLEASE SEE THE FOLLOWING DISTRICT POLICIES:
- AC - Nondiscrimination/Equal Opportunity
- AC -E2 - Nondiscrimination/Equal Opportunity Complaint Form
- JBB - Sexual Harassment
- JIC - Student Conduct
- JICA - Student Dress Code
- JICDA - Code of Conduct
- JICDD - Violent and Aggressive Behavior
- JICDE - Bullying Prevention and Education
- JICH - Drug and Alcohol Involvement by Students
- JICI - Weapons in School
Referral Procedures
When a student is sent to the office with a referral for being disruptive or for any reason, they may not return to that class until the student has a conference with an administrator. If a student is repeatedly unable to refrain from inappropriate behavior, a referral will be given. A referral will often result in a detention. Serious violations such as defiance, disobedience, extortion, physical or verbal sexual harassment, lying or giving false information, possession or use of tobacco, alcohol, drugs or drug paraphernalia, threatening, fighting, or any form of physical abuse may result in an immediate suspension. The principal maintains the authority to modify the referral process if a specific individual incident requires consequences for referral.
- 1st referral: a conference with the principal and the teacher. Detention will be served that week.
- 2nd referral: Parent meeting with the principal and the teacher. The purpose of the meeting will be to address the reasons for the student’s disruptive behavior and to establish goals, objectives, and timelines to modify such behavior. The teacher, principal, and parents will establish behavior goals and prepare a written plan and objectives and any other information deemed necessary. It will include the consequences in the event the student receives a subsequent referral for being disruptive. Consequences may include in school suspension, work detail, denial of extra-curricular activities or field trips.
- Subsequent referrals: additional suspensions may be necessary or parents may need to accompany the student to class for a specified period of time. Another behavior plan will be developed.
In School Suspension
The purpose of in-school suspension is to keep the student separated from peers. The student will be placed in a classroom for the day under the supervision of that classroom teacher or in the principal’s office. All teachers of classes in which they are enrolled give the student assignments. The student eats lunch on campus, either a hot lunch or sack lunch. This lunch break will be with the principal or other designated staff person.
THE OURAY SCHOOL DISTRICT R-1 reserves the right to rescind the acceptance of out-of-district students in the event that their behavior is interfering with the learning and teaching environment.
Definition of Consequences
Responsibility – Respect – Role Model
Maintaining a positive school environment is essential to the education process and is the dual responsibility of the home and the school. Mutual cooperation among teachers, administrators, and parents is necessary to encourage acceptable student behavior. To ensure a positive school environment, each student has the responsibility to know and abide by the regulations of the school. School rules and procedures regarding student conduct apply to school hours, to school transportation while en route to school or home, and to all school sponsored events and activities. One of the most important lessons education should teach is self-discipline. While self-discipline does not appear as a class, students nevertheless should demonstrate self-control, character, orderliness, and consideration for other people. By holding high behavior expectations, we help ensure a good learning climate.
Inappropriate behavior will be subject to disciplinary actions. For more specific information, see Code of Conduct Violation Matrix located in this handbook.
Students, remember YOU are in charge. YOU decide. YOU choose your behavior. SOMEONE ELSE chooses the consequences!
Definition of Consequences:
Warning- a warning given to the student by a teacher and/or administrator. Inappropriate behaviors, alternatives for appropriate actions, and possible consequences will be discussed.
Parent Contact (PC)- communication with parents via telephone, letter, email, or personal conference at the school to discuss any concerns.
Teacher Conference (TC)- conference between teacher/administration and student to discuss inappropriate behavior.
Detention (DET)- time assigned either before, during, or after school. Students must report to assigned rooms where they can work on homework, read, or study. Detentions are assigned from 30 minutes to one hour. Students will receive a day’s notice if parents cannot be contacted on the day the misbehavior occurs. Students are not allowed to participate in any school activities until the detention has been successfully completed. Teachers are encouraged to have a conference with the student at this time.
Referral- a conference between the student, teacher, and principal. The purpose of this conference is to discuss inappropriate behavior and possible consequences. A disciplinary referral results from repeated offenses or actions that are serious in nature.
Loss of Privilege- students lose privileges, such as eating in the cafeteria, attending activities, participating in field trips, etc.
Restitution- reimbursement to an individual (student or staff) or school for damages caused by inappropriate actions.
Counseling- counseling services provided as a means for modifying student behavior when appropriate.
Behavior Plan- a plan outlining behavior goals and expectations for students, as well as actions to be taken by students, teachers, and/or parents. Consequences are usually very specific if the plan is not followed. The plan is valid for a specified length of time.
In-School Detention (ISD)– an all-day detention served on school grounds, typically in the principal's office.
In-School Suspension (ISS)- a suspension from a student’s routine schedule. Students will spend one to three days isolated from their peers, including during their lunch period. In-school suspension will typically be served in the principal's office. Students will be given assignments to complete and receive credit for their completed work. Note: All In-School Suspensions will be noted in student files.
Out of School Suspension (OSS)- removal of a student from the school building and all activities for one to five days. Students are given due process, and parents are notified at the time of the suspension. Students will receive credit for any work completed during the period of suspension. Note: All Out-of-School Suspensions will be noted in student files.
Parent/Guardian Conference - Before removing a student from the school building and all activities, a parent-student-principal conference must be held.
Long Term Suspension - removal of a student from the school building and all activities for no fewer than five days or longer than policy allows.
Legal Action (RTLA – Referral to Legal Authorities)- contact is made with the Ouray Police or Sheriff's Office to pursue assistance, press charges, or help investigate school-related matters which warrant their involvement.
Expulsion– exclusion of a student from school for up to twelve months. Recommendation for expulsion is made by the principal to the Board of Education. Parents or guardians and the student will have a due process hearing prior to an expulsion. The Board of Education then rules on the situation. Parents are notified of the proceedings.
ANY STUDENT WHO IS SUSPENDED OR EXPELLED IS NOT PERMITTED TO ATTEND OR PARTICIPATE IN ANY SCHOOL FUNCTION, BE PRESENT ON SCHOOL PROPERTY, OR TRAVEL IN A SCHOOL SPONSORED VEHICLE.
NOTE: THE SAFE SCHOOLS LEGISLATION ACT OF COLORADO mandates expulsion for certain infractions:
- Carrying, bringing, using, or possessing a dangerous weapon without the authorization of the school district
- Commission of any act which, if committed by an adult, would be considered robbery or assault as defined by state law
- Sale of a drug or controlled substance
- Creating a dangerous and unsafe environment for students, teachers and other school personnel
- Being a ‘habitually disruptive student’ as declared by state law (causing a material and substantial disruption more than three times during a school year as determined by the principal)
Due Process- Due process is guaranteed to students in suspension and expulsion situations. Under the law, students and parents have the right to review reasons for the action and to discuss the situation with school administrators.
Bus Rules-
- Always remain seated, facing the front while the bus is in motion.
- Keep the noise level to a minimum.
- Keep the bus clean. Littering is unacceptable.
- Follow instructions of your bus driver.
Failure to abide by the bus rules results in the following consequences:
First offense: The student is assigned a seat, and parents are notified.
Second offense: A parent-student-bus driver-principal conference will be held.
Third offense: The student is suspended from riding the bus for one week.
Fourth offense: The student is suspended from riding the bus for the remainder of the year.
- Students getting on and off the bus at a different location regularly need to have a note on file. In the case of a one-time arrangement a note from the parent to the office or bus driver will be accepted.
- A student who is not a bus student but wants to go home with a friend needs to have a written note from the parent to the office, where a permission to ride the bus home slip will be issued to the student to give to the driver.
Distribution of controlled substances- Students who sell, distribute, give, or exchange alcohol, drugs, other controlled substances, or drug paraphernalia will be expelled and referred to law enforcement.
Use of Tobacco- The possession and/or use of tobacco products (chewing tobacco, cigarettes, etc.) or smoking paraphernalia on school premises or at school-sponsored activities is illegal and not permitted. See Code of Conduct Matrix for consequences.
Consequences for possession, use, or being “under the influence” of alcohol or drugs, or possessing drug paraphernalia- See Code of Conduct Matrix for consequences.
Code of Conduct Violation Matrix
These rules apply during school hours, at school events, and during any school-sponsored activities, including trips. Consequences listed below are to be considered the typical progression of interventions. The number of days for suspensions are to be determined by administrators depending on severity of infraction. Administrative discretion may apply in some circumstances.
Ouray schools believe that restorative practices is a preventative method of helping all students learn to resolve disagreements, take ownership for their behavior, use positive communication to increase empathy, and repair harm when caused while promoting forgiveness. This practice helps individuals restore relationships and build a sense of community by demonstrating that all people have something positive to offer to our schools.
TC = Teacher conference PC = Parent contact ISD = In-school detention ISS = In-school suspension
OSS = Out-of-school suspension RTLA = Referral to Legal Authorities ASD = After-school detention
Expulsion : Student cannot attend OES for up to one calendar year. Expulsion can be considered for first offense depending on the severity of the situation.
TYPICAL PROGRESSION OF INTERVENTIONS INCLUDE THE FOLLOWING:
OES Handbook 2023-24 Updated 08/22/2023