Cyrus J. Morris Elementary School Parent & Student Handbook

**Updated May 2024**

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Cyrus J. Morris Elementary School Parent & Student Handbook

**Updated May 2024**

Welcome to CJ Morris!

This handbook is your one-stop guide to a successful year at CJ Morris, a proud International Baccalaureate (IB) Primary Years Programme (PYP) school. We believe in a strong partnership between parents, teachers, and students, and this handbook equips you with all the information you need to support your child's unique learning journey within the PYP framework.

At CJ Morris, we challenge each student to reach their full potential in a nurturing environment that celebrates individuality. We set high expectations while recognizing that each child learns differently. Our dedicated staff is committed to helping your child discover their strengths and achieve academic excellence.

This handbook is a valuable resource for fostering open communication between parents, staff, and students. We encourage you to read it together as a family and refer back to it throughout the year.

Don't hesitate to reach out! Your child's teacher is always happy to answer questions. You can also contact Mrs. Veneracion directly at jveneracion@wvusd.org or (909) 594-0053.

We're excited to have you join the CJ Morris Elementary School family!

Warmly,

Mrs. Jen Veneracion

Principal, CJ Morris Elementary School

Parent Communication 

At CJ Morris, we believe in a strong partnership between parents and the school. To keep you informed and connected, we utilize two main communication channels:

Daily Schedule 

TK/Kindergarten

Mon/Tues/Wed/Fri 8:15 a.m. – 1:25 p.m.

Thursdays 8:15 a.m. – 11:33 a.m.

1st-5th 

Mon/Tues/Wed/Fri 8:15 a.m. – 2:45 p.m.

Thursdays 8:15 a.m. – 12:45 p.m.

Minimum Day Dismissal

TK/K 8:15 a.m. – 11:33 a.m.

Gr 1-5 8:15 a.m. – 11:20 a.m.

Late Pick-Ups

We kindly request that students are picked up promptly after school dismissal. To ensure a smooth transition, we ask that pick-up occurs within 15 minutes of the final bell.

For any late pick-ups, students must be signed out at the school office. We understand that unforeseen circumstances can arise; however, frequent late pick-ups can disrupt a student's routine. If there's a pattern of lateness, we may schedule a meeting with the principal to discuss alternative pick-up arrangements or childcare options that can help ensure timely student dismissal.

Rainy Day Arrival and Dismissal 

Rainy Day Arrival: Students will walk through the front office doors and wait in the MPR.

Rainy Day Dismissal:

To keep students dry during dismissal, we have different procedures depending on grade level:

Office Hours 

The school office is open daily during the school year from 7:30 AM to 3:30 PM to assist you with any questions or concerns.

Important Notes:

Attendance and Tardiness

Reporting Absences

Regular school attendance is crucial for your child's success. It allows them to fully participate in lessons, stay engaged with classmates, and maximize their learning potential. Additionally, our school funding is partially determined by daily attendance figures.

Attendance Categories

We understand that absences may occur. When your child misses school, please notify us and categorize the absence as either:

Reporting an Absence

To report an absence, please call the school office before 9:00 AM on the day of the absence:

Providing a reason for the absence helps us maintain accurate records. If you call to report the absence, a written note is not required.

Extended Absences and Tardiness

For extended absences or frequent tardiness, we encourage you to reach out to the school so we can work together on personalized learning plans or home instruction options.

School Attendance and Review Team (SART):

Chronic absenteeism can negatively impact student achievement. If attendance concerns arise, the School Attendance and Review Team (SART) may reach out to discuss solutions and support. Their goal is to work collaboratively with families to improve attendance.

Homework Request

We understand that your child's health comes first. When your child is sick and misses school, prioritize their rest and recovery. Light reading or educational apps can be a good option if they're feeling up to it.

For excused absences of 1-2 days, missed homework can be made up over a reasonable timeframe determined by the teacher. We encourage you to work directly with your child's teacher to discuss specific details and deadlines for catching up.

If your child misses more than two days of school due to illness, you can request their homework by calling the school office before 11:00 AM on the third day. The homework will then be available for pick-up by 3:15 PM in the front office.

Communication with your child's teacher plays a key role. Working together ensures your child receives the necessary support to successfully catch up on missed work.

Tardiness

Being on time for school sets your child up for success. Arriving early allows them to participate fully in the first moments of the instructional day, which often lay the foundation for later lessons. It also minimizes disruptions in the classroom, ensuring everyone gets the most out of each learning minute.To ensure your child arrives on time, we recommend planning a morning routine that allows them to be at school between 7:50 AM and 8:15 AM. This gives them a buffer to account for unforeseen delays and ensures they're settled and ready to learn when the bell rings at 8:15 AM.

Students who arrive after 8:15 AM are considered tardy. The school gates will be closed at this time. Tardy students should report to the office to receive an admittance slip before heading to class. We understand that occasional tardiness can happen. However, excessive tardiness can disrupt the learning environment. If your child experiences frequent tardiness, the principal may reach out to discuss solutions and support strategies. Tardiness will also be reflected on your child's report card.

By working together, we can ensure your child arrives on time, prepared, and ready to learn each day. Please don't hesitate to contact us if you have any questions or need assistance in establishing a smooth morning routine.

Truancy

It is unlawful for any minor, who has not graduated from high school, to loiter in public between the hours of 8:15 a.m.  and 2:45 p.m. on days when school is in session. Any student found in violation of this truancy law will be issued a  citation, and the student's parents will be expected to pay a fine and/or appear in court.

Independent Study

The Walnut Valley Unified School District believes that regular attendance plays an important role in student  achievement. The District recognizes its responsibility under the law to ensure that students attend school regularly. According to the Education Code 48205, there are eight reasons for an excused absence and family travel is not included  in the list as an excused absence. Therefore, neither the California Department of Education nor the Walnut Valley  Unified School District acknowledges family travel absences as excused and are not obligated to provide students with  class work.

Independent Study (cont.)

Independent Study is only assigned for extraordinary circumstances which prevent the student from attending school.  Family vacations are not excused absences and do not warrant an independent study contract. (Ed. Code 48205)

The District acknowledges that there may be extraordinary circumstances when a family must travel during the school  year and procedures are in place for a student to request a Short-Term Independent Study Contract. Please be aware  that excessive student absences may impact learning and final grades.

Please adhere to the guidelines below to initiate independent study due to extraordinary circumstances which prevent  your child from attending school.

• Must request work in reasonable advance

• Necessary instruction to be provided by parent

• Submit complete work upon return for credit. No credit is given for late or incomplete work

Visiting Campus 

The Walnut Valley Unified School District considers the safety and health of our staff and students a top priority. To further safeguard the safety of your child we use a  Visitor Management System to ensure that individuals  visiting our campus are authorized to do so.  

When entering our campus, you will be required to present your identification to the office staff. Accepted forms of  identification are as follows:

• Any state issued driver’s license or identification card

• Matricular Consular card

• Military ID (active duty or retired)

• Permanent resident card

Once the office staff scans the identification provided, the Visitor Management System instantly checks the name against registered sex offender lists nationwide. Once the visitor has been cleared through the system will print a visitor badge with your name. It is important to note that the system only scans the visitor’s name, and date of birth with the national database of registered sex offenders. This scan may also include a photo for comparison. Any additional information is not gathered nor stored. The system is not connected to any other system such as the Department of Motor Vehicles, Department of Justice, Immigration, etc. The data we screen is not shared or communicated. It is confidentially secured through a web-based system.

 

You will not be required to complete this process if you are simply dropping off an item in the office or picking something up. However, if the purpose of your visit is to sign out a student prior to dismissal, or visit a location on campus, you will need to go through the new process.

If you currently do not have access to a government issued form of identification here are some resources to assist you:

• For a CA License visit a local DMV office or go to www.dmv.org. 

• For a Matricular Consular card please visit a consular office. The card is issued without regard to immigration status and provides no immigration information.

• For a Military ID card please go to www.cac.mil/uniformed-services-id-card/ 

• For a Permanent Resident Card please go to www.uscis.gov/i-90 

All parents have a right to participate in their child’s education. If you have any questions or concerns about the implementation of this system, please schedule a meeting with your child’s Principal.

Student School Supplies 

Your child will be provided with school supplies. However, we understand that many students want to bring their own  supplies. Here are the grade level school supply lists and items that the classroom needs. 

**The Constitution of the State of California requires that we provide a public education to students free of charge,  unless a charge is specifically authorized by law. Please direct questions about school-specific matters needing  clarification or explanation directly to the school's principal.**

Transitional Kindergarten 

Kindergarten 

1st Grade

2nd Grade 

3rd Grade

4th Grade 

5th Grade 

Breakfast

Students will be offered a free breakfast during their morning recess. Morning Recess Times: TK/K 9:45 a.m.,  1st-3rd 10:00 a.m., 4th-5th 10:25 a.m. For the 2024-2025 school year, the government approved the issuance of free  breakfasts.  

Lunch

Students may bring their own lunch or receive a free lunch from the cafeteria. For the 2024-2025 school year, the  government approved the issuance of free lunches.  

*If you would like to sign up for the school lunch menu to be emailed to you automatically, please follow these steps:

1. Go to www.walnutnutrition.org 

2. Click on Menus at the top

3. Click on the GOING GREEN MENUS icon

4. Sign up

WVUSD Wellness Policy

C.J. Morris honors this policy which promotes nutritional education and physical activities. If a  student forgets to bring a lunch to school, parents should bring the student’s lunch to the office by 9:30 a.m. with student’s  name, teacher’s name and classroom number written on it. We will not interrupt instruction to deliver lunches. If you  are delivering a lunch, instruct your child to pick it up at the lunch area.

Provisions are made for free and reduced-price meals for qualifying students. An application, available from the school  office or on this website Lunch Application must be completed to determine if a family qualifies for free or reduced-price  meals. Only one application is required.  

Nut Allergies 

Student safety is our top priority. We have several students with peanut and tree nut allergies. Nut allergies must be  taken seriously as they can be life threatening. A child with a serious peanut or nut allergy can suffer a reaction merely  by touching a peanut or nut containing food. Additionally, foods that have been cross-contaminated by utensils in  contact with peanuts or nuts, such as knives used to spread peanut butter, can be dangerous. These students must  watch every bite they eat. Please do not send the following foods to school: peanuts, peanut butter, tree nuts (e.g.  walnuts, cashews, almonds, pecans, pistachios, chestnuts, macadamia nuts, pine nuts, hazelnuts, etc.), Nutella, or food  containing peanuts or tree nuts.

Food items containing peanuts or nuts will NOT be served at the class parties. There will be no classroom projects  involving peanut butter, Nutella, peanut shells, or nuts.

If a student accidentally brings a nut food item, he/she will sit at our designated SAFETY Zone lunch table for grades 1-5.  For Kindergarten students, they will sit at the end of every row of their lunch table. Their classmates without nut  allergies may sit with them.

Bicycles, Scooters, Skateboards, Skates, and Roller Blades 

Only students in grades 3, 4, and 5 are allowed to ride bicycles to school. Bike riders must obey all safety rules and the  California Vehicle Code. Students must walk their bicycles at all times while on school grounds. This includes the parking  lot, playgrounds, fields, and to/from the bike rack. Students who ride a bicycle to school must park and lock their vehicle  in the bike rack at school. The school does not provide locks for students.

For the safety of all bicycle riders, students must wear protective bike helmets, as per California law.

Repeated or serious infractions of school and safety rules may lead to the suspension of the student's privilege of riding  the bicycle or scooter to school.

Birthday Policy 

Teachers will recognize student birthdays in their classrooms as they deem appropriate. Therefore, it is school policy  that we will NOT be accepting parent contributions (goody bags, food, snacks, etc.) on the day of your child’s  birthday. However, you can donate a new or gently used book to your child’s classroom in honor of their birthday. Your  child may glue a picture of themselves inside the front cover of the book and write a message to the class on the inside  front cover. The book will become the property of the classroom and will stay in the teacher’s classroom for years to  come.

Climate and Discipline 

In order to build a sense of community and a school climate in which all members feel a sense of belonging, ownership,  pride and contribution to the goals of the group, various programs are implemented by teachers and support staff. For  example, the PBIS Program, which is implemented school-wide, is a positive behavior intervention support program that  teaches the students the values of “Be Caring, Be Principled, and Be Reflective.”

Classroom Discipline 

Classroom teachers develop individual classroom discipline plans that are age appropriate and effective in assisting  students to develop individual responsibility. Rewards for good behavior and consequences for inappropriate behavior  are included as part of each plan. We firmly believe that education is a partnership; therefore, teachers take a proactive  approach in contacting and communicating with parents regarding discipline issues.

Teacher/student conferences, time-outs, phone calls, recess/lunch detentions, parent/teacher/principal conferences, in house suspension, or suspension to home are interventions used to help the student learn responsibility.

School-Wide Discipline Plan 

At Cyrus J. Morris, a School-wide Discipline Plan has been developed to further ensure student safety and compliance  with school rules. This plan, which is detailed on the following pages, is supported by the Board of Education Policy and the  Education Code.  CJ Morris Elementary prioritizes student safety through a proactive approach. To minimize physical contact and potential injuries, we maintain a respectful, hands-free environment. This allows students to focus on learning and build positive relationships without physical touch.

Desired Behaviors

GENERAL SCHOOL RULES

1. Follow directions the first time they are given

2. Use polite words

3. Remove hats/hoodies when entering the building

4. Stop, look, listen

5. Make good choices.

6. Keep hands and feet to yourself

7. Pass things hand to hand

8. Remain on school grounds until permission to leave is granted

9. No playfighting

HALLWAY RULES

1. Keep hands to the side

2. Use walking feet

3. Use a soft voice

4. Walk in line

5. Stay with your group

6. Keep hands and feet to yourself

7. No playfighting

PLAYGROUND RULES

1. Include everyone

2. Take turns, share

3. Follow all playground equipment rules

4. Freeze in place when the bell rings

5. Line up when the signal is given

6. Stay in designated play areas

7. Walk on the blacktop

8. Keep hands and feet to yourself

9. No playfighting

LUNCH AREA RULES

1. Be polite to others and sit in your assigned area

2. Eat your food properly

3. Do not share food

3. Use a soft voice

4. Listen to adults

5. Keep hands and feet to yourself. No playfighting

6. Clean up your area after eating, leave no trace

7. Raise your hand to be excused from tables

Explicit Language 

Students that use explicit language (profanity, inappropriate content, name calling, words of hate), verbal threats, or  engage in name-calling, either verbally or on the computer at school, will be held accountable using the following policy  (see below). This information will be shared with our students. 

Bullying 

The staff of CJ Morris Elementary School believes that all students have the right to a safe and healthy school environment.  The school will promote mutual respect, tolerance, and acceptance.  We will not tolerate behavior that infringes on the safety of any student. Bullying is defined as any severe or pervasive  physical or verbal act or conduct, including communications made in writing or by means of an electronic act, and including  one or more acts committed by a pupil or group of pupils. Bullying is an aggressive behavior that is negative and  intentional, carried out repeatedly over an extended period of time, and where the behavior occurs in a relationship where  there is an imbalance of power between the parties involved.  

Acts of bullying include, but are not limited to:  

• Name calling  

• Rumor spreading  

• Verbal abuse  

• Non-verbal acts (e.g., social isolation)  

• Physical acts  

• Inappropriate online communication (e.g., cyber bullying)  

CJ Morris Elementary expects students and/or staff to immediately report incidents of bullying to the principal or designee.  Staff are expected to intervene when they see a bullying incident occur. Each complaint of bullying will be promptly  investigated. CJ Morris feels strongly about its responsibility to nurture students and will immediately intervene when a  bullying incident occurs.

CJ Morris will promptly follow up with incidents of name-calling in order to prevent ongoing bullying at the school. This  policy applies to students on school grounds, while traveling to and from school on a school- sponsored activity, during  the lunch period, whether on or off campus, and during a school-sponsored activity. Parents will be notified by the teacher  and/or administrator regarding the incident(s).  

The school will cultivate acceptance and understanding in all students and staff to build its capacity to maintain a safe and  healthy learning environment. If needed, students will receive additional support from the school counselor.  

Positive Consequences for Following School Rules 

PBIS Tokens

Tokens are given to students who choose to follow the school rules and are thereby demonstrating acts of respect,  responsibility, and safety. The tokens serve as a means for rewarding students who behave appropriately both inside  and outside of the classroom. They are not used to reward academic achievement. Students receiving these tokens add  the tokens to our token jar to earn a school-wide reward for all students.

Other Rewards

Teachers daily reinforce positive behavior by highlighting their strengths and recognizing their  achievements through a variety of rewards and special privileges. Examples include extra recesses, homework passes,  etc.

Progressive Discipline for Students Who Choose Not to Follow School Rules 

As indicated above, each student is responsible for his/her actions. Parents and teachers both have an important part in  helping a student develop responsibility. Discipline is necessary for any group if the goals of the group are to be realized. Orderly conduct is both a necessary condition and an important goal of learning. Since all individuals are unique, no one  procedure or method for a given situation is appropriate in every case. In light of this, listed below are steps that are typically taken as interventions to assist students in behaving more responsibly at school.

Intervention

When a student chooses to break a school rule, and a staff member has observed or has concrete proof of a student  breaking a rule, a conference will be held between the student(s) and the staff member who observed the infraction.  This may or may not be the child's classroom teacher, and it may be a noon aide, custodian, office staff member,  instructional aide, principal, or any other staff member. Parents who are visiting or volunteering on campus are not to  intervene in disciplinary matters.

The staff member will then decide to

1) consider the matter as handled

2) refer the matter to the student's teacher, or

 3) refer the matter to the Principal.

Progressive Discipline 

Following an intervention as described above, one or more of the following positive discipline steps may be taken:

• The teacher may decide to conduct a class meeting for airing problems and brainstorming problem solutions. • The teacher may decide to assign an appropriate consequence or school service to be performed. • The teacher may decide to make a referral to the Principal for further action.

Other Possible Interventions

Recognizing that the strategies above may not be an effective deterrent to misbehavior for all students, the following  options may be used as needed:

• Provide a service to the teacher or the school

• Behavior Contract

• Time-out in the office or an alternate classroom

• In-house Suspension

• Suspension to Home

• Expulsion

Referral to the Principal’s Office 

Students may be sent to the Principal's Office for disciplinary reasons when sent as a consequence of the classroom  teacher's established discipline plan or in the event of a severe infraction (e.g., intentionally harming another student,  foul language, stealing, destroying property, defiance, etc.). The Principal will contact the parent by phone or in writing  when a student has been counseled by the Principal more than once or in the case of a severe infraction. The first time a student is referred to the Principal, except in the event of a severe infraction, he/she will be counseled  by the Principal and will receive a warning. If a student must visit the Principal again within a short period of time,  parents will be contacted, and the student will face the appropriate consequence(s) of his/her actions. If a student must  visit the Principal a third time within a short period of time, other interventions will be considered.

In the case of suspension, the parent will be notified in writing, indicating the offense and length of the suspension. A  telephone conference with the parent will be conducted, and a personal conference may also be requested.

Detailed Playground Rules & Other Related School-Wide Rules 

Dress Code 

All students are expected to dress sensibly for school. Students' attitudes, conduct, and safety during school hours can  be affected by the clothing they wear. In accordance with the California Administrative Code, students shall be neat,  clean, and properly attired for school. It is the parent’s responsibility to see that their children are dressed for school in a  safe, appropriate manner for learning. Please use the following information as you plan your child(ren)'s wardrobe. Our  dress code is posted on our website.

Uniform Policy

Our school has a uniform policy to create a sense of community and equity. Uniform shirts and pants can be purchased  from any retailer. CJ Morris Community Club (our parent organization) will sell Spirit Wear which is acceptable.

Standards of Dress for Students

The district takes a strong stance against gang- affiliated clothing and/or styles of dress or grooming affiliated with  gangs/hate groups, due to safety concerns for students while at school or going to and coming from school. Because of  changing trends in such attire, specific clothing, jewelry, accessories, and/or grooming style restrictions may change  during the school year. Notice will be given to students and parents/guardians as soon as it is reasonably possible after  these trends have been identified through the assistance of the local law enforcement authorities.

It is hoped that this information will not offend, but rather assist you in determining those clothes that will positively  influence your child's school experience. Teachers may also use their discretion in determining if a student's dress is  appropriate. Any time a member of the staff believes that a student is disrupting the educational process by his/her  appearance, or believes that the student's safety is in jeopardy, the teacher may send the student to the office.

  1. All baggy, oversized clothing is prohibited. No clothing may be worn more than one size larger than the student's measured size.
  2. No jeans are allowed.
  3. Shirts must have a collar unless they are a CJ Morris spirit wear shirt.
  4. Jackets, sweaters, and sweatshirts should be a solid color, but may have a print. Approved CJ Morris spirit  wear sweatshirts are acceptable.
  5. Shorts’ length must not extend below the knee or above the fingertip.
  6. Skirts may be no shorter than fingertips and must be hemmed. Pant legs must be hemmed at the shoe top.
  7. Navy, black, or khaki (beige) colored leggings or sweatpants are permissible. NO PRINTS. 8. No undergarments may show. Girls may wear bike shorts under their skirts provided they do not show.
  8. Hats can be worn outside, but must be taken off indoors. The same for sweatshirt hoods.
  9. Jewelry or belts that symbolize drug or alcohol use or expresses inflammatory statements, or is considered to  be gang-related or dangerous may not be worn. Dangling wallet and key chains are not permitted.
  10. For safety reasons, students are required to wear covered, closed toe shoes. Flip-flops, Crocs, any open toe shoes, slippers and bare feet are not acceptable or permitted.
  11. On Dress-up Days, students must adhere to the dress code policy unless otherwise notified.
  12. Any student in non-compliant clothing will be given: #1 verbal warning; #2 letter sent home by teacher; #3 taken to the office and parents will be notified.

Leaving the Campus During School Hours 

It is necessary for the student's protection that he/she be accounted for and on school grounds at all times during school  hours. For this reason, the following rules are enforced:

Medication at School 

The Education Code, Section 49423, allows school personnel to administer medication only if the following steps are  taken:

Personal Belongings 

Items that may be needed in the classroom, such as notebook binders in the upper grades, may be brought to school.  However, the school is not responsible for lost or missing items. Additionally, students should bring no more money to  school than is necessary to buy lunch. Students should not bring trading cards or toys from home, unless there is a  classroom or school party.

Cell Phones and Electronic Devices 

The Walnut Valley Unified School District acknowledges the importance of electronic communication between students  and parents, particularly in school-wide emergency situations. Further, the district recognizes that instructional time is  precious and must be protected from unnecessary interruptions.

Cyrus J. Morris students may have a cell phone or calling device (iWatches etc.) on campus; however, it must be  turned off and kept in the child’s backpack during school hours. Students not adhering to this will have cell  phones/calling devices confiscated. Parents will be called to pick up the phone from the school office.

Other electronic devices, such as iPods and handheld video games are prohibited except in the event of a school  sponsored event under the direct supervision of a staff member. The district assumes no liability for the loss or misuse  of these devices.

Safety to and from School 

At the beginning of each school year and at periodic intervals throughout the year, safety instruction is given to all  students. Parents are urged to help their children learn the proper and safe way to travel to and from school. A route  should be planned by the parents and reviewed with their children with full regard to sidewalks, street crossings, bike  lanes, parking lot safety, and the property of others.

Student safety before and after school is an on-going concern. In order to reduce congestion and safety related  problems, please use the following guidelines when transporting your child to and from school:

Traffic Etiquette 

Due to ongoing concern about student safety during the before and after school periods of high traffic flow, please be  reminded of the following safety rules:

Instructional Program Information 

English Language Learners

All students at Cyrus J. Morris School receive instruction in English. Instructional support is provided for our English  Language Learners through highly qualified teachers and specialized materials. Parents with questions are encouraged  to contact Mrs. Jenny Kwan-Hata, District ELD Specialist at (909) 595-1261.

CORE CURRICULUM

The Walnut Valley Unified School District is committed to providing a high-quality education for all students. In an effort  to implement educational programs that are of the highest quality for all students, we at Cyrus J. Morris are committed  to the following:

Library 

All students visit the newly renovated learning center on a weekly basis to check out books for independent reading,  read alouds, and for use with class projects. The learning center is also used as a reference/research center under the  direction of our Digital Media Technician and/or the teacher during class time. Students assume responsibility for books  when checking them out. Please help your child take proper care of the books as we will expect reimbursement for lost  or badly damaged books and materials at the end of the school year before issuing report cards. The learning center,  outside of library times, will serve as a space that fosters creativity by having a functional makerspace and technology  tools.

Textbooks 

Since textbooks are expected to last for several years, it is recommended that students cover them as soon as they are  received. If necessary, it is requested that parents help with this task. Protecting textbooks in this way helps ensure that  they will be usable for many years. Lost or damaged textbooks are the financial responsibility of the student and  parents.

Physical Education 

Physical education is required by state law and is included as an integral part of the instructional program for all  students. With the assistance of the District's itinerant PE team, our teachers plan and implement a physical education  program for their students that is developmental, age-appropriate, frequently integrated with other aspects of the  curriculum, and is in alignment with the Physical Education Framework for the State of California. The physical education program for students in grades 1-5 is significantly augmented by the District's itinerant PE team.  All students are expected to participate in the program which also is aligned with the Physical Education Framework for  the State of California. The focus is on sportsmanship, flexibility, agility, aerobic endurance, the skills needed to play  various games and competitive sports, learning the rules associated with those games/sports, and practicing the  games/sports.

PE with the District's itinerant PE team is scheduled for every Friday. It is important for students to remember this  schedule as they must remember to dress appropriately on PE days. (If students abide by the Dress Code as described in  this Handbook, they will be dressed appropriately for PE.)

Excused from PE

If a student is unable to participate in PE, a written statement from a physician is required. The student should tell  his/her regular teacher of the note, then present the note from the physician directly to the PE teacher to ensure clear  communication with the PE teacher. It is important to note that the school office cannot excuse students from  participation in the PE program.

Vocal and Instrumental Music 

Students in grades 4-5 participate in the District’s standards-based music program during the regular school day. Fifth grade students participate in weekly vocal or instrumental music classes with a credentialed music teacher. Fourth grade students learn a variety of music concepts and skills including

playing the recorder.

When a fifth-grade student decides to take instrumental music, he/she is also assuming the responsibility of being  prepared for that class. This includes the commitment to practice and to remember to bring the instrument and music.  Students are not allowed to call home for forgotten instruments. They will, however, attend the music class and listen to  the instruction. If the student regularly forgets the instrument, the music teacher will contact the parents about the  problem.

If a parent notices that his/her child forgot the instrument and the parent chooses to bring the instrument to  school, the parent will be asked to leave the instrument in the office for the student to retrieve. It is important to note  that the office staff will not interrupt classes to inform students that instruments are in the office; however, students are encouraged to check the office on their way to music class.

All instruments and cases are to be clearly labeled with the student's name.

Spanish 

As an International Baccalaureate (IB) Primary Years Programme (PYP) School, our students in grades Kinder – 5th receive  weekly Spanish instruction to broaden their linguistic and cultural backgrounds.

Child Care Program 

The Child Care Program (Fun Club) is coordinated at the district level and is housed at various elementary schools. The  program provides quality before- and after-school care and serves as an extension of the school day. Day Care is  available before and after school from 6:00 a.m. until 6:30 p.m. for students in grades K-5. If you are interested in this  program for your child(ren), please contact the Child Care office at (909) 444-3460 or check the district website for more  information.

Community Club 

The Community Club at Cyrus J. Morris actively supports the educational process for all students. They are committed to  promoting the welfare of children and youth in home, school, and community. They are committed to fostering strong  home-school partnerships. They are committed to supporting the educational progress and well-being of every student at Cyrus J. Morris.

Among the activities and programs, the Community Club has helped to sponsor recently are: purchase of needed  technology equipment, room parent program and classroom parties, classroom supplies, family nights, two annual book  fairs, enrichment assemblies and programs for students, field trips, equipping classes with emergency supplies for disaster preparedness, and various fundraising activities. Also, the Community Club provides an annual Carnival in May,  complete with games, booths, food and assortment of inflatable games and obstacle courses which is well attended by  families, community members and alumni.

Administrative and procedural decisions concerning the Community Club are handled by an elected board. Budget  approval and major policy decisions are made by a vote of those in attendance at monthly Community Club meetings. All  Cyrus J. Morris parents are invited and encouraged to attend the monthly meetings.

Membership in the Cyrus J. Morris Community Club is open to any adult in the school community who is concerned  about the educational well-being of the students. Joining the Community Club does not obligate you to attend meetings, work in classrooms, serve on committees, or hold an office. It does enable you to support the objectives and programs  of the Community Club, to become more involved in your child's school, and to meet other parents who are also  interested in supporting the educational process for all students at Cyrus J. Morris School.

For parents who are interested in active involvement in Community Club, a variety of volunteer opportunities are  available. We need room parents, parents to help with sales for various fund-raising activities and other various  chairmanships.

If you have ideas or time to contribute, please contact the Community Club President. The contact information is on our  school website CJMCC.

School Site Council (SSC) 

The purpose of this Council is: 1) to recommend to the Board of Education a Single Plan for Student Achievement, which  is consistent with and supportive of the goals of the District, 2) to establish a budget based on the plan, 3) to review the  implementation of the plan on an ongoing basis with the principal, teachers, and other school personnel, 4) to assess  periodically the effectiveness of the plan, and 5) to annually review the plan and recommend to the Board any  modifications to the plan and the proposed budget for the expenditure of LCFF funds.

The membership of the School Site Council consists of an equal number of school staff and parents who are elected by  their peers to serve in this capacity. The school principal serves as an ongoing member of the Council. If you have an  interest in being elected to the School Site Council, please watch for the nomination form to be emailed in early August  and will also be posted on our school website. A parent can nominate him/herself or another Cyrus J. Morris parent.  Meetings are held quarterly during the school year. All official meetings are open to the public. An agenda is posted in  our front office one week in advance of the meeting.

Classroom Volunteers 

You may also volunteer in the classroom, library, or for the Community Club Parent Group. We need volunteers to help  with many activities throughout the year.  

The Walnut Valley Unified School District continues its policy designed to ensure our schools are safe. This policy  requires one extra step for our parent volunteers. Please be prepared to submit a completed application available  online, a copy of a California Driver’s License or California ID, and a current negative TB test. This information will be  kept on file for all volunteers and must be revised annually to ensure the safety of all children.  

General Information

The following information is provided at the beginning of each school year to assist parent/guardians with information  pertaining to parent/student rights, which the law requires the school district to provide per Education Code 48980.

STUDENT RECORDS AND NOTIFICATION OF RIGHTS

A cumulative record, whether recorded by handwriting, print, tapes, film, microfilm or other means, must be maintained  on the history of a pupil’s development and educational progress. The District will protect the privacy of such records.  Parents/guardians have the right to 1) inspect and review the student’s educational records maintained by the school, 2)  request that a school correct records which they believe to be inaccurate or misleading, and 3) have some control over  the disclosure of information from educational records. School officials with legitimate educational interests may access  student records without parental consent as long as the official needs to review the records in order to fulfill his/her  professional responsibility. Upon request from officials of another school district in which a student seeks or intends to  enroll, the District shall disclose educational records without parental consent. 

Parents’ request to access their student’s educational records must be submitted in a written form to the site Principal  and the school will have five (5) business days from the day of receipt of the request to provide access to the records.

Any challenge to school records must be submitted in writing to the Principal. A parent challenging school records must  show that the records are 1) inaccurate, 2) an unsubstantiated personal conclusion or inference, 3) a conclusion or  inference outside the observer’s area of competence, 4) not based on the personal observation of a named person  with the time and place of the observation noted, 5) misleading, or 6) in violation of the privacy or other rights of the  student. Parents have the right to file a complaint with the United States Department of Education concerning an  alleged failure by the District to comply with the provisions of the United States Family Educational Rights and Privacy  Act (FERPA) by writing to: Family Policy Compliance Office, U.S. Department of Education, 400 Maryland Ave., SW,  Washington, D.C. 20202-4605. 

EMERGENCY FORMS AND EMERGENCIES 

Emergency contact forms are included in the re-registration process in the AERIES Parent Portal. It is absolutely  essential that the information on the form be kept current. Any parent/guardian who does not have access to AERIES  Parent Portal can seek out help in the school office. In case of an emergency or a disaster (earthquakes, etc.), students  will be released only to those listed on the card. In case of an emergency, we will always call your home or place of  employment. If parent or emergency contact cannot be reached, the site will use their best judgment in getting medical  attention for an injured or ill child. Students are trained to respond and evacuate appropriately to emergencies through  fire drills conducted on a regular basis. Teachers are trained in emergency procedures and emergency supplies are  located in each classroom. 

SCHOOL ACCOUNTABILITY REPORT CARD 

A copy of the School Accountability Report Card will be provided by your child’s school, upon request. (EC 35256) A  hard copy of the School Accountability Report Card are available in the school front office and the District Office. Such  report cards shall be designed to inform parents or guardians and the community about the conditions, needs and  progress at each school to provide data by which parents or guardians can make meaningful comparisons between  schools. The collaborative process of developing the report cards gives school staff opportunities to review  achievements, identify areas for improvement, enlist local support and establish a vision for the future. School  Accountability Report Cards may also be downloaded from the District’s web site at www.wvusd.org 

PARENT INVOLVEMENT - BOARD POLICY 6020 

The Governing Board recognizes that parents/guardians are their children's first and most influential teachers and that  continued parental involvement in the education of children contributes greatly to student achievement and a positive  school environment. The Superintendent or designee shall consult with parents/guardians and family members in the  development of meaningful opportunities for them to be involved in district and school activities at all grade levels;  advisory, decision-making, and advocacy roles; and activities to support learning at home. (cf. 0420 - School Plans/Site  Councils) (cf. 1230 - School-Connected Organizations) (cf. 1240 - Volunteer Assistance) (cf. 1250 - Visitors/Outsiders)  Parents/guardians shall be notified of their rights to be informed about and to participate in their children's education  and of the opportunities available to them to do so. (cf. 5020 - Parent Rights and Responsibilities) 

The district's local control and accountability plan shall include goals and strategies for parent/guardian involvement,  including district efforts to seek parent/guardian input in district and school site decision making and to promote  parent/guardian participation in programs for English learners, foster youth, students eligible for free and reduced price  meals, and students with disabilities. (Education Code 42238.02, 52060) (cf. 0460 - Local Control and Accountability  Plan) The Superintendent or designee shall regularly evaluate and report to the Board on the effectiveness of the  district's parent/guardian and family engagement efforts, including, but not limited to, input from parents/guardians,  family members, and school staff on the adequacy of involvement opportunities and on barriers that may inhibit  participation. (cf. 0500 - Accountability)

Targeted Assistance Title I Schools 

The Superintendent or designee shall involve parents/guardians and family members in establishing district expectations  and objectives for meaningful parent/guardian and family engagement in schools supported by Title I funding,  developing strategies that describe how the district will carry out each activity listed in 20 USC 6318, as contained in the  accompanying administrative regulation, and implementing and evaluating such programs, activities, and procedures. As  appropriate, the Superintendent or designee shall conduct outreach to all parents/guardians and family members.  (Education Code 11503; 20 USC 6318) Instruction BP 6020(b) 

When the district's Title I, Part A allocation exceeds the amount specified in 20 USC 6318, the Board shall reserve at least  one percent of the funding to implement parent/guardian and family engagement activities. The Superintendent or  designee shall involve parents/guardians and family members of participating students in decisions regarding how the  district's Title I funds will be allotted for parent/guardian and family engagement activities and shall ensure that priority  is given to schools in high poverty areas in accordance with law. (20 USC 6318, 6631) (cf. 3100 - Budget) Expenditures of  such funds shall be consistent with the activities specified in this policy and shall include at least one of the following:  (20 USC 6318) 

1. Support for schools and nonprofit organizations in providing professional development for district and school staff  regarding parent/guardian and family engagement strategies, which may be provided jointly to teachers, principals,  other school leaders, specialized instructional support personnel, paraprofessionals, early childhood educators, and  parents/guardians and family members 

2. Support for programs that reach parents/guardians and family members at home, in the community, and at school 

3. Dissemination of information on best practices focused on parent/guardian and family engagement, especially best  practices for increasing the engagement of economically disadvantaged parents/guardians and family members 

4. Collaboration with community-based or other organizations or employers with a record of success in improving and  increasing parent and family engagement 

5. Any other activities and strategies that the district determines are appropriate and consistent with this policy The  Superintendent or designee shall ensure that each school receiving Title I funds develops a school-level parent/guardian  and family engagement policy in accordance with 20 USC 6318. 

Non-Targeted Assistance Title 1 Schools 

The Superintendent or designee shall develop and implement strategies applicable to each school that does not receive  federal Title I funds to encourage the involvement and support of parents/guardians in the education of their children,  including, but not limited to, strategies describing how the district and schools will address the purposes and goals  described in Education Code 11502. (Education Code 11504) 

PARENTS’ RIGHT TO REQUEST TEACHER QUALIFICATIONS 

(TARGETED ASSISTANCE TITLE I SCHOOLS) 

If your child is attending a school receiving Title 1 federal funds, Federal Law requires that parents be notified of their  right to know the professional qualifications of their child’s teacher including the following: 

1. Information regarding if your child’s teacher has met State qualification and licensing criteria for the  grade levels and subject areas in which the teacher provides instruction. 

2. Information regarding if your child’s teacher is teaching under emergency or other provisional status  through which State qualification or licensing criteria have been waived. 

3. Information regarding if your child’s teacher is teaching in the field of discipline of the certification of  the teacher. 

4. Information regarding if your child is provided services by paraprofessionals and, if so, their  qualifications. 

5. The type of state credential or license that the teacher holds. Some teachers will have a credential in a particular subject are, such as English or mathematics, and other will have a  multiple subject credential, which allows them to teach a variety of subjects, such as in elementary  schools. 

6. The education level and subject area of the teacher’s college degree(s). All teachers have a bachelor’s degree,  and many teachers have graduate degrees beyond the bachelor’s, such as a masters or doctoral degree. In  addition to the qualifications of the teacher, if a paraprofessional (teacher’s aide) provides your child services,  you may also request information about his or her qualifications. Many paraprofessionals have two years of  college and others have passed a test that verifies their qualifications. 

If you would like to request this information, please contact Walnut Valley Unified School District, Human Resources  Office at (909)595-1261

© 2024 CJ Morris Elementary School

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