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Franklin Elementary Handbook
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 Franklin Elementary School

Handbook

NOTICE OF NONDISCRIMINATION POLICY: Board Policy 102 states: The board will not discriminate in its educational activities on the basis of race, color, national origin, creed, socio-economic status, religion, sex, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, age or marital status. There is a grievance procedure for processing complaints of discrimination. If you have questions or a grievance, contact the BCSD Equity Coordinator Mrs. Jill Janes at BCSD, 500 7th Street, Boone, Iowa 50036; (515) 433-0750.

Dear Franklin Families,

Welcome to Franklin Elementary School!

We look forward to welcoming your new or returning student to our school! This year we continue our journey as a professional learning community and strive for high levels of learning for all students. As part of the Boone Community School District, Franklin Elementary takes pride in the fact that we are staffed with exceptional teachers and support personnel. We believe that every member of our staff is capable of facilitating excellent growth in our students throughout the school year. We believe our parents as well as our staff play a vital role in the educational process and we look forward to your involvement and cooperation in making this year successful.

Franklin students will learn responsibility for their own learning and behavior; cooperate with others; actively participate in the world around them; and recognize that growth comes from meeting challenges and working hard in all areas of life.

Franklin staff will be given time and opportunity for collaboration and professional growth; provide varied learning opportunities for all students, more time and support for those students who are struggling and enrichments for those who excel; and educate students for the real world in a safe, positive, caring learning environment.

We need Franklin parents to be partners in education; to positively support their children and our staff in the learning process; and to make lifelong learning and success a priority. Parents are encouraged to be actively involved in our school. Please feel free to visit our school anytime or join in one or more of our many volunteer projects and activities as a member of the elementary PTO (Parent-Teacher Organization).

This guide will outline policies, procedures and programs in the Boone Community School District and at Franklin Elementary School. It is intended to serve as a guide for you and your children while attending Franklin. Please read through it carefully.

Should you have any questions or concerns regarding our school, we ask that you contact your child’s teacher and/or the Franklin office. We’re looking forward to an exciting and successful school year working with you and your children!

Brad Winter

Principal, Franklin Elementary School

BCSD CORE VALUES                                BCSD PROMISES

* Collaboration                                                * Ensure learning

* Compassion                                                * Give students a fresh start daily

* Enthusiasm                                                * Partner with families

* Growth Mindset                                        * Develop positive character

* Integrity                                                        * Value the uniqueness of all

BCSD MISSION

Promote academic and extra-curricular excellence and the development of good character in our students.

BCSD VISION

Provide each student with challenging educational opportunities in a safe, supportive environment in order to ensure the development of productive, caring and engaged citizens who are successful lifelong learners.

Expect the best, achieve success! The Toreador way!

FRANKLIN ELEMENTARY:

A PROFESSIONAL LEARNING COMMUNITY

Franklin Elementary is committed to doing the work of a professional learning community or PLC. In a PLC, educators are committed to working collaboratively in ongoing processes of collective inquiry and action research in order to achieve better results for the students they serve. There are 3 Big Ideas which drive a PLC:

1.  A focus on learning

When focusing on learning, the following questions will guide our discussions and work:

● What do we expect our students to learn?

● How will we know when they have learned it?

● How will we respond when they don’t learn?

● How will we respond when they already know it?

2.  A collaborative culture

        PLCs operate under the assumption that the key to improved student learning is continuous, job-embedded learning for educators. Franklin staff will be given time for collaboration within the school day which will:

● Improve student engagement and achievement

● Develop solutions to problems

● Increase confidence/capacity and collective efficacy among staff

● Allow teachers to support one another’s strengths and accommodate weaknesses

● Give us the ability to test new ideas

● Provide more support for new teachers

● Expand our pool of ideas, materials and methods

3.  A focus on results

A PLC focuses on results in the following ways:

● Confronting our current reality (data)

● Develop common formative and summative assessments based on identified essential standards

● Share the results of common assessments with collaborative teams

● Problem solve ways to improve learning based on the results of the common assessments

● Establish SMART goals for all students and classrooms based on data

As a staff, we are excited to continue this journey along with our students and we are excited to talk about our journey as a PLC!  If you have any questions about our journey as a PLC, please contact the school.

“The fundamental purpose of schools is learning, not teaching.”

ARRIVAL/DISMISSAL

Classes begin at 8:05 a.m. and students are dismissed for the day at 3:05 p.m. Doors will be unlocked and students may enter the building at 7:40. Supervision is provided beginning at 7:40 so students are asked not to arrive at school before that time. Students arriving before 7:40 will not be supervised by school staff. Students who arrive at school between 7:40 and 7:55 will enter the building through the activities entrance and proceed to the commons (lunchroom). Students eating breakfast at school will get their breakfast and begin eating in the lunchroom at this time. Students who do not eat school breakfast will find a spot to sit at a table in the commons and wait for the 7:55 bell to ring at which time they may proceed to their homeroom. Students arriving at school after the 7:55 bell can enter through either the main entrance by the office or the activity entrance and proceed directly to their homeroom if they are not eating school breakfast or to the commons if they eat breakfast at school. Students eating school breakfast who arrive after 7:55 may be directed to get a disposable tray and take their breakfast to their classroom. Franklin staff will ensure that all students needing a school breakfast will get one.

ATTENDANCE AT SCHOOL

It is extremely important for students to maintain consistent attendance at school. Regular school attendance is an essential ingredient in obtaining the maximum benefits from our educational program and in developing habits of self-discipline and responsibility. Students with good attendance records generally achieve higher grades, enjoy school more, and participate in more activities than students with poor attendance. We encourage family members to do all they can to ensure that their children attend school except for illness and extreme emergencies.

                                        

Procedure:

When a student is absent, families are encouraged to call the school before 8:05 a.m., which is when the tardy bell rings. Each elementary school has voicemail so families can call and report an absence during hours school is not in session. If no call is received, the school will attempt to contact the families. Due to state mandatory attendance regulations, if a student has been gone for five consecutive days, a doctor's excuse may be required. In case of certain communicable diseases, for the health and safety of all, students should bring an excuse from their doctor before they may be admitted to class.

                                        

Appropriate excused absences include: personal illness, serious personal or family matters, and appointments that could not be scheduled outside the regular school day. If attendance becomes a concern, the following procedure will be used.

Notification:                        

  1. An awareness letter will be mailed to the family when a student reaches 7 absences. The purpose of this letter is to make families aware of potential attendance concerns which may be developing due to the number of days the student has been absent and/or tardy.
  2. A second awareness letter will be mailed home after the student has reached 10 absences from school in either the fall or spring semester.
  3. If the student continues to be absent and goes beyond 10 absences in either semester, the principal will review these absences for unique circumstances and collaborative efforts that have already occurred between the school and families. If there has been no effective communication regarding attendance concern, the building principal may notify the Boone County Attorney’s office, and a mediation session may be scheduled.
  4. If mediation is not successful, the school is legally required to report this information to the county attorney who will proceed with steps toward prosecution for non-compliance of Iowa Code 199.1. If the code does not apply, then appropriate steps will be taken and alternatives may be implemented.

Other Attendance Guidelines:                        

  1. Students leaving school before 9:05 in the morning or before 2:05 in the afternoon will be marked absent for that half-day.
  2. Students arriving at school after 9:25 a.m. or 2:05 p.m. will be marked absent for that half-day.
  3. A student may not participate or practice in any activity or event (example: showcase program) unless he/she is in attendance on the date of the event. If an excused absence has been arranged in advance or an emergency develops, this policy may be waived with permission of the principal.                

Tardiness:

Learning at Franklin begins as soon as school starts for the day. If a student is late for school, it is recommended that he/she bring an excuse stating the reason for the tardiness. A student will be counted tardy if he/she arrives after 8:05.

        BICYCLES/SKATEBOARDS/SCOOTERS

Students riding bikes/skateboards/scooters to school are reminded that they are to follow all local traffic laws. It is STRONGLY encouraged they wear helmets and other protective gear. To ensure safety amid the traffic and also for students at school, students must walk their bikes/skateboards/scooters at all times on school grounds and in crosswalk areas. Bicycles are to be parked in the racks on the east side of the buildings. It is recommended that bikes are locked for security purposes.

BREAKFAST/ LUNCH

Breakfast Schedule:

All grades:

7:40 - 8:05

Lunch Schedule:

     4th Grade:

         11:05 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. - Lunch

         11:30 a.m. to 11:50 a.m. - Recess        

     3rd Grade:

         11:35 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. - Lunch

         12:00 p.m. to 12:20 p.m. - Recess

     2nd Grade:

         12:05 p.m. to 12:30 p.m. - Lunch

         12:30 p.m. to 12:50 p.m. - Recess

** Franklin lunch schedule varies slightly on early dismissal days. Please contact the Franklin office for times.

CELL PHONES /ELECTRONIC DEVICES

Cell phones are an important tool for both communication and safety, however, they can also interfere with the learning environment.  Cell phones must be turned off and stay in the student’s backpack during the day.  They are not to be used in the school or on the playground. If a student is using a cell phone in school or on school grounds during the school day, it will be confiscated and kept in the principal’s office until a parent can come to school and pick it up.

Students are encouraged to leave electronic devices at home. These items, if brought to school, need to remain in the students backpack or in the teacher’s desk throughout the school day.  If a student chooses to use any electronic device in the school or on school grounds during the school day, it will be confiscated and kept in the principal’s office until a parent can come to school and pick it up.

If a parent or guardian needs to relay a message to a student prior to dismissal, they should contact the office before 2:30 to ensure that the message can be delivered to the student.  

CLASS PARTIES

Birthday parties for pupils and/or school personnel shall not be held at school during the school day. If students wish to bring treats for birthdays or scheduled parties, parents are asked to choose healthy snacks in order to promote student wellness. Treats should be prepackaged with the ingredient list so that staff may review it due to allergy concerns. Party invitations will not be distributed at school. No gifts, flowers, balloon bouquets, etc. will be delivered to classrooms.

                                        

Healthy Snack Ideas Include: *Raw vegetables with low-fat dressing or yogurt dip *Fresh fruit and 100% fruit juices *Frozen fruit juice pops *Dried fruits; such as raisins, banana chips, etc *Trail mix, granola bars, etc.*Jello and low-fat pudding cups*Air-popped popcorn*Low-fat muffins, angel food or sponge cake *Low-fat crackers; such as cheese nips, wheat thins *animal crackers, graham crackers *Baked chips; such as tortilla chips and salsa *Low-fat string cheese *Pretzels *Beef jerky

COMMUNICATION

THURSDAY FOLDERS:

Every Thursday, Franklin sends home  special clear envelopes labeled "Teacher/Family Connection" with each student in grades Kindergarten through fourth. Please ask your child to see the envelope and its contents and assist him/her in returning it to school on Friday, the following day. It is hoped that all communication will be brought home on Thursdays in this envelope. We hope you will find this communication helpful in learning about your child's education and weekly progress. Your cooperation in educating your child is appreciated.

DIGITAL BACKPACK:

The BCSD website and weekly digital newsletter The Toreador Times includes the digital backpack. This is a resource to families for special events, programs, community athletic programs, area music/theater, etc. A variety of informational material provided by area programs is available here.

SOCIAL MEDIA/ELECTRONIC COMMUNICATION:

There are several different ways to stay connected with what is happening at Franklin. Teachers use communication tools such as Class Dojo and SeeSaw to communicate with parents. Parents are encouraged to sign up for Infinite Campus messages through the parent portal. The following are also ways to stay connected with the happenings at Franklin:

Boone CSD App: Go to the App Store and search for “Boone CSD.” Select the app with the Toreador logo.

Franklin Facebook Page: Search for and like/follow “Franklin Elementary” on Facebook

CORPORAL PUNISHMENT

Code No. 503.5: Corporal punishment is defined as the intentional physical punishment of a student and is prohibited. It includes the use of unreasonable or unnecessary physical force or physical contact made with the intent to harm or cause pain. No employee is prohibited from using reasonable and necessary force, not designed or intended to cause pain, in order to accomplish any of the following: 

Reasonable physical force should be commensurate with the circumstances of the situation. The following factors should be considered in using reasonable physical force for the reasons stated in this policy:

                                        

Upon request, the student's parents are given an explanation of the reasons for physical force. It is the responsibility of the superintendent to develop administrative regulations regarding this policy.

DISCIPLINE

It is necessary for children to learn to develop self-discipline in order to further their learning.  We ask that you discuss with your children the importance of, and need for, good behavior and a positive attitude while at school.

For further information please see the Board of Education policies covering student behavior and the Franklin Discipline Manual included at the end of this handbook.

FIELD TRIPS

Parental permission slips to authorize students to attend both in and out of town field trips are a requirement of the Boone Community School District. Annual permission slips for field trip attendance will be available to parents at back to school conferences. Teachers will notify parents in advance of field trips via their classroom newsletter or through other communication. Any parents wishing to attend a field trip must be on the approved BCSD volunteer list. Applications are completed through the BCSD central office and approved by the Board of Education.

FIRE/NATURAL DISASTER/INTRUDER DRILLS

Schools are required to participate in periodic building-wide drills. These drills are compulsory and can be called at any time by the building principal, city fire chief or visiting inspectors. The drills are preparation for emergencies. Families should help explain the purpose of the drills to small children.

HEALTH SERVICES

Medication Administration:

The following policies have been established concerning the dispensing of prescribed and over the counter medications to be given by school personnel during school hours.

                                        

Prescribed Medication:

1. Medicine must be maintained in the original prescription container.        

2. Parental signature on a statement requesting and authorizing school personnel to administer the medicine in accordance with the prescription shall be on file at the school.

3. Prescription label must include:                                                        

Over The Counter Medication:                        

  1. Medicine must be maintained in the original container with the label.
  2. Student's name must be on the container.
  3. Parental signature on a medication permission form must be on file at school in order to request and authorize school personnel to administer medicine.        

                                        

Any change in medication, the dosage or time given, must be accompanied by a newly labeled container and a new medication form signed by the parent. Final determination as to whether or not any medication will be administered by school personnel rests with the school administration.

Students can only bring prescribed drugs into the school to be dispensed by the school nurse. Because CBD is a Schedule 1 Drug under Federal Law and because the position of the Iowa Board of Nursing is nurses may not administer natural remedies and supplements to school children, at the request of their parents or guardians, during the school day, when the nurse is unable to determine the appropriateness; safety; possible side effects, or toxic effects of the substance; the appropriate dose for a child of a specific age, weight, and body surface area; and treatment of overdose, BCSD Nurses cannot administer CBD. Therefore, students cannot possess CBD oil in school.

Health Screenings:

Vision, and hearing screenings along with height and weight measurements are conducted for select grade levels in second through fourth grade. If a student does not pass the initial vision or hearing screening, they are re-screened at a later date. When the results of both the initial screening and second screening do not meet prescribed standards, families will be contacted by the school nurse.        

                                

Vision Exam:

Annual vision exams are highly recommended for school-age students.

HOMEWORK

In general, homework assignments are largely dependent upon the needs of the student. Homework may take the form of make-up work, completion of assignments or enrichment for discussion within the classroom. Parents can assist their children in the completion of any homework. Students are encouraged to read nightly to help build their independent reading skills.

ILLNESSES/EMERGENCIES

To ensure safety and support communication, parents are requested to notify the school of any child’s absence by calling the school on the day of absence before 7:55 a.m. If a serious illness or injury occurs at school, the parent will be notified immediately, and if necessary, the Emergency Medical Service will be called. Parents are required to place emergency contact information on file with the school. Please notify the office of any changes; it is very important that this information be kept updated. Facilities for emergency care in school are very limited. Arrangements for taking your child home should be made promptly.

LIBRARY MEDIA CENTER

The Franklin School Library provides informational resources and a broad choice of materials for recreational reading.  New books for the library collection are selected from a number of review journals, teacher requests, and first hand review by the school librarian.Students are taught how to access information using reference books and current technology.

LOST & FOUND

Misplaced articles found in and around the school building will be placed in the lost and found. Lost and found items are not the responsibility of the school, but are the responsibility of the individual students. The school will not be held responsible for personal items misplaced by students. At the end of each quarter, semester, or winter/spring breaks, a donation of unclaimed items will be made to the local Boone Goodwill. One week prior to setting aside items to be donated to Goodwill, students will be reminded to check the lost and found for lost items. Prior to donating to Goodwill, the items will be held for one additional week to ensure any lost items may be claimed.

MULTICULTURAL, NONSEXIST APPROACH

The Boone Community School District is committed to a policy of nondiscrimination on the basis of race, national origin, creed, religion, age, sex, marital status and handicap in its educational programs, activities, and employment policies.

                                        

It is the policy of this district that the curriculum content and instructional materials utilized reflect the cultural and racial diversity present in the United States and the variety of careers, roles and lifestyles open to women as well as men in our society. A goal for the total curriculum and for teaching strategies is to reduce stereotyping and to eliminate bias on the basis of race, national origin, creed, religion, age, sex, marital status, and handicap. The curriculum should foster respect and appreciation for the cultural diversity found in our country and an awareness of the rights, duties, and responsibilities of each individual as a member of a multicultural, nonsexist society.

OFFICE HOURS

The office at Franklin Elementary is normally open Monday - Friday from 7:30 a.m. until 4:00 p.m.

PARENT GROUP

The BCSD Elementary Parent-Teacher Organization or PTO consists of any parents, grandparents, or guardians of students attending the Boone elementary schools.  The PTO  meets monthly throughout the school year to keep parents informed of school activities and to work on projects for the betterment of the school, students, and staff.  Goals are determined and projects for the year are set in the spring or early fall. The PTO would appreciate any volunteers who are willing to attend meetings and assist with projects.

PARENT REQUEST FOR SPECIFIC CLASSROOM TEACHER

Careful attention needs to be given to the process of determining class sections. This district has attempted in the past to provide reasonable class sizes. However, other considerations are given to this process. The number one priority is to create class sections, which will best fit the needs of the individual students involved. Therefore, consideration is given to the classroom makeup. For example, classes may be balanced in terms of the number of students, boys/girls, personality, students with special needs, and ability (reading or academic). Occasionally the separation of students has a part in the process. Relatives, close friends, and personality clashes are factors considered when separating students from one another. The intent is to create a classroom setting that is beneficial to the students and does not inhibit teaching staff from doing the best possible job. The public must be aware that the placement of students is a task that is not taken lightly. There is considerable time and effort put into the process. With this in mind, the Board of Education does not encourage parents to request specific teachers. If parents feel their child has special needs that could affect the membership of a class, they should contact their principal before May 31. It is recommended that parents offer both a valid reason for the request, and the request include 2-3 teachers that the parent would be supportive of. Tentative class lists, including the name of the teacher, shall be posted at the beginning of online registration. The principal shall have the authority to make the final decision regarding the membership of any given class.

PARKING

There is limited parking in the school lots on the south and northeast sides of the building. If these areas are full, parents will need to park on the side-streets around Franklin. Please do not park in the parent drop off/pick up zone for any reason. This area is for student drop off and pick up only. Parents are asked to drive slowly in the drop off/pick up zone and follow the guidance of school staff. For the safety of our students, Crawford Street is closed to through traffic during school hours from 19th Street to 20th Street. Only busses and residents will be allowed to enter this area while school is in session.

PLAYGROUND EQUIPMENT/TOYS/TRADING CARDS

The Boone Schools provide students with appropriate equipment to be used at recess. Students are encouraged to leave toys, collector cards such as Pokemon and playground equipment at home. If a student decides to bring something from home, the school is not responsible for the item if it were to be lost or stolen. If a student brings something from home and it becomes an issue, they may be asked to take the item(s) home and not bring them back to school.

REGULATIONS CONCERNING SCHOOL CLOTHING

ADVERTISING RESTRICTIONS

Section 256.11 (Educational Standards) requires Iowa school districts to teach about the effects of alcohol, tobacco, drugs and poisons on the human body as part of the educational program. The district's Drug and Alcohol Educational and Intervention Program discourages the use of alcohol, tobacco and drugs. When students wear clothing or carry any personal belongings, which advertise any product or service not permitted to minors by law, it has a negative impact on the educational objectives of the district. Therefore, students shall not wear, while attending school or attending and/or participating in school activities, any article of clothing or carry any personal belongings which contain words, insignias, logos, caricatures, or other symbols which advertise any product or service not permitted to minors by law. Such material includes, but is not limited to buttons, badges, shirts, notebooks, book bags and gym bags. This policy specifically prohibits any advertisement of alcohol, beer, drugs, or tobacco products.

RELEASE OF STUDENTS

Parents are asked to notify the school if their child is to go somewhere other than home or is supposed to be picked up by someone other than the parent/guardian after school. If a change in the regular routine happens, parents are required to contact the school. Unless we are informed otherwise, students will be sent to their normal after school location.

REPORTING

Conferences are held near the end of the first and second reporting periods. Report cards are issued at the close of each of the three reporting periods.

REQUIRED IMMUNIZATIONS

IPV:                  Polio - Minimum of four (4) doses and at least one dose after age four (4).

DTaP:                  Diphtheria/Tetanus/Pertussis - Minimum of five (5) doses and at least one dose after age four (4).

M.M.R.:          Measles/Mumps/Rubella - Minimum of two (2) doses after twelve (12) months of age and at least thirty (30) days apart.

Hep B:                   Hepatitis B - Three (3) doses required.

Chickenpox:          Varivax – 2 doses required, one after 12 months of age and booster after age 4.        

                                        

EXEMPTIONS TO THE IMMUNIZATION LAW:

Medical Exemption - If a child has a medical condition, which prevents the child from being immunized, a Certificate of Medical Exemption must be signed by a doctor and submitted to the school.

                                

Religious Exemption - If you wish your child to be exempt from the immunization law due to religious beliefs, an Iowa Department of Public Health Certificate of Exemption must be furnished. This Certificate of Exemption must specify the religion and be notarized.  The certificate must be signed by the parent and submitted to the school.

                                        

According to Iowa law, students who do not present an appropriate certificate to the school are not entitled to enrollment.

PROVISIONAL ENROLLMENT:

If your child has begun immunization but has not yet received all the required immunizations, he or she may be able to attend school on a provisional or conditional basis. To qualify for provisional enrollment a child must have received at least one dose of each of the required immunizations. An Iowa Department of Public Health Provisional Certificate of Enrollment must be signed by the parent and must be on file at the school. The Provisional Certificate will expire at the end of the semester or in 60 days. The child must be completely immunized during this time or he or she will not be permitted to attend school until the immunizations have been received. When all required immunizations are complete, an updated Certificate of Immunization must be submitted to the school. Students transferring from another school are granted provisional enrollment and 60 days are allowed for their immunization records to be transferred from their previous school.

SCHOOL CANCELLATION/EARLY DISMISSAL/LATE START

All school closings, delayed starts and early dismissals due to inclement weather will be announced through text message, email and social media sites such as Facebook and the Boone CSD app. School closure announcements will also be broadcast on the local radio station KWBG (1590 AM) and local ABC, NBC, CBS and FOX television affiliates whenever possible.

SECTION 504

Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 prohibits discrimination against persons with a disability in any program receiving federal financial assistance. In order to fulfill obligations under Section 504, the Boone Community School District has the responsibility to avoid discrimination in policies and practices regarding its personnel and students. No discrimination against any person with a disability should knowingly be permitted in any of the program and practices of the school system.

                                

The Boone Community School District has responsibilities under Section 504, which include the obligations to identify, evaluate, and, if the student is determined to be eligible under Section 504, to afford access to appropriate educational services.

                                        

If a parent or guardian disagrees with the determination made by the professional staff of the school district, he/she has a right to a hearing with an impartial hearing officer.

                                        

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) also specifies rights related to educational records. This Act gives the parent or guardian the right to: 1) inspect and review his/her child's educational records; 2) make copies of these records; 3) receive a list of the individuals having access to those records; 4) ask for an explanation of any item in the records; 5) ask for an amendment to any report on the grounds that it is inaccurate, misleading, or violates the child's rights; and 6) a hearing on the issue if the school refuses to make the amendment.

                                        

If there are questions, please feel free to contact the Superintendent’s office to talk with the Section 504 Coordinator for the Boone Community School District, at 433-0750.

SMOKING - DRINKING – DRUGS

Code No. 502.7: In order to maintain a safe environment, Board of Education Policy Code No. 502.7 states, The board prohibits the distribution, dispensing, manufacture, possession, use, or being under the influence of beer, wine, alcohol, tobacco, other controlled substances, or "look alike" substances that appear to be tobacco, beer, wine, alcohol or controlled substances by students while on school district property or on property within the jurisdiction of the school district; while on school owned and/or operated school or chartered vehicles; while attending or engaged in school activities; and while away from school grounds if the misconduct will directly affect the good order, efficient management and welfare of the school district.

                                        

The board believes such illegal, unauthorized or contraband materials generally cause material and substantial disruption to the school environment or present a threat to the health and safety of students, employees, or visitors.  Violation of this policy by students will result in disciplinary action including suspension or expulsion. Use, purchase or being in possession of cigarettes, tobacco or tobacco products for those under the age of eighteen, may be reported to the local law enforcement authorities. Possession, use or being under the influence of beer, wine, alcohol and/or of a controlled substance may also be reported to the local law enforcement authorities. Students who violate the terms of this policy may be required to satisfactorily complete a substance abuse assistance or rehabilitation program approved by the school board. If such student fails to satisfactorily complete such a program, the student may be subject to discipline including suspension or expulsion. The board believes the substance abuse prevention program will include: Age-appropriate, developmentally-based drug and alcohol curriculum for students in grades kindergarten through twelve, which address the legal, social, and health consequences of tobacco, drug and alcohol use and which provide information about effective techniques for resisting peer pressure to use tobacco, drugs or alcohol; A statement to students that the use of illicit drugs and the unlawful possession and use of alcohol is wrong and harmful; Standards of conduct for students that clearly prohibit, at a minimum, the unlawful possession, use, being under the influence of or distribution of illicit drugs and alcohol by students on school premises or as part of any of its activities;

                                        

A clear statement that disciplinary sanctions, up to and including suspension or expulsion and referral for prosecution, will be imposed on students who violate the policy and a description of those sanctions; A statement that students may be required to successfully complete an appropriate rehabilitation program; Information about drug and alcohol counseling and rehabilitation and re-entry programs available to students; A requirement that parents and students be given a copy of the standards of conduct and the statement of disciplinary sanctions required; and Notification to parents and students that compliance with the standards of conduct is mandatory. It is the responsibility of the superintendent, in conjunction with the principal, to develop administrative regulations regarding this policy.

TEXTBOOK RENTAL FEES

Textbook rental fees will be as follows: Full: $60.00 Reduced: $30.00 Free $0.00

Students whose families meet the income guidelines for free and reduced price lunch, the Family Investment Program (FIP), Supplemental Security Income (SSI), transportation assistance under open enrollment, or who are in foster care are eligible to have their student fees waived or partially waived. Students whose families are experiencing a temporary financial difficulty may be eligible for a temporary waiver of student fees. Parent/guardian(s) or students who believe they may qualify for temporary financial hardship should contact the principal or building secretary before school starts for a waiver form.  This waiver does not carry over from year to year and must be completed annually.

TRANSFERRING OF STUDENTS

It is important that parents notify the school of any change in address, telephone number, work numbers, or emergency numbers. Parents transferring their student(s) should notify the school at least one day before the child leaves school. This enables the school to have the records completed for the transfer.

TRANSPORTATION GUIDELINES

                                        

BUS SYSTEM        :

Transportation by school bus is provided for children at the school’s expense for those who live more than two miles from the High School located at 500 Seventh Street or students who go to the Middle School located at 1640 1st St. School bus transportation is solely for those children who are eligible to ride. Parents of children, or the children themselves, who live within the two-mile limit, should provide their own transportation to and from school unless riding a school approved shuttle.

AT THE BUS STOP                        

                                        

BOARDING AND LEAVING THE BUS                                

RIDING THE BUS

                                                        

BUS DISCIPLINARY ACTION

1st Offense: Phone call to family, a letter home to family and a conference with the driver, student, and copy of letter to principal

2nd Offense: 3 days of suspension from the bus, a phone call to family, a letter home, a conference with transportation director, and copy of letter to principal                        

3rd Offense: Student is suspended from the bus for a minimum of 10 active school days up to the maximum of the remainder of the semester and copy of letter to principal

                        

Please discuss this with your child, and help us ensure that every child has a safe and pleasant ride to and from school. If a student's offense is determined by the transportation director to be severe, suspension of bus privileges could be immediate.

***Severe acts may result in further or more severe disciplinary action.

                                        

The Boone Community School District Board of Education has authorized the use of video cameras on school district buses. The video cameras will be used to monitor student behavior, maintain order on the school buses, and promote and maintain a safe environment. Students and parents are hereby notified that the content of the videotapes may be used in a student disciplinary proceeding. The content of the videotapes is confidential student records and will be retained with other student records. Videotapes will only be retained if necessary for use in a student disciplinary proceeding or other matter as determined necessary by the administration. Parents may request to view videotapes of their child if the videotapes are used in a disciplinary proceeding involving their child.

FRANKLIN BUS EXPECTATIONS:

  1. When buses arrive at school in the morning, students will go to the commons if they arrive before 7:55. Students arriving after 7:55 will go to the commons if they eat school breakfast or directly to their homeroom if they do not eat breakfast at school.
  2. After school, students remain in their homeroom until their bus number is announced. When their bus number is called, all bus riders exit through the main entrance by the office and proceed to their assigned bus.
  3. Students are expected to follow all directions given by bus supervisors.

If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to Mike Kennedy at the Bus Barn at 433-0889 or mkennedy@boone.k12.ia.us.

USE OF PLAYGROUNDS OUTSIDE SCHOOL HOURS AND DURING VACATION

We encourage families to use the playground outside of school hours  beginning at 3:15 p.m. and anytime on non-school days. The playground is also available during the summer when school activities (summer school, Kids Club, etc) are not in session. While the BCSD makes the playground available, it is used at your own risk with no liability placed upon the BCSD. Any accidents, injuries, or damage to personal property will be the responsibility of the individual and not the BCSD. The BCSD reserves the right to restrict the use of the school playground if there is a threat to the health or safety of the students or a violation of Board of Education Policy 903.4.

VISITORS

The classroom is a workplace for enrolled students. Parents are always welcome, but we request that visitors be pre-approved and check in through the office. We avoid inviting visitors into the classroom as this can be a disruption to learning. The videotaping or photography of students in the classroom when school is in session will be allowed only if prior approval is obtained from the building principal and parents of participants in the classroom. ALL visitors must check in at the principal’s office. BCSD schools use the Raptor system to check all visitors into the building. All visitors are asked to bring a photo ID when planning to enter the building.

WEAPONS

Code No. 502.6: The board believes weapons, other dangerous objects and look-a-likes in school district facilities cause material and substantial disruption to the school environment or present a threat to the health and safety of students, employees and visitors on the school district premises or property within the jurisdiction of the school district. School district facilities are not an appropriate place for weapons, dangerous objects and look-a-likes. Weapons and other dangerous objects and look-a-likes will be taken from students and others who bring them onto the school district property or onto property within the jurisdiction of the school district or from students who are within the control of the school district. Additionally, the specifics of Code No. 502.6 will be followed.

103 - ANNUAL NOTIFICATION STATEMENT

Corporal Punishment, Restraint, and Physical Confinement and Detention. State Law forbids school employees from using corporal punishment against any student. Certain actions by school employees are not considered corporal punishment. Additionally, school employees may use “reasonable and necessary force, not designed or intended to cause pain” to do certain things, such as prevent harm to persons or property.

                                        

State law also places limits on schools employees’ abilities to restrain or confine and detain any student. The law limits why, how, where, and for how long a school employee may restrain or confine and detain a child. If a child is restrained or confined and detained, the school must maintain documentation and must provide certain types of notice to the child’s parent.

                                        

If you have any questions about this state law, please contact your school. The complete text of the law and additional information is available on the Iowa Department of Education’s website: www.iowa.gov/educate.

Franklin Elementary

School

Behavior Expectations & Discipline Guide

BEHAVIOR EXPECTATIONS AT FRANKLIN ELEMENTARY:

A TOTAL SCHOOL PROGRAM

Behavior Mission:

Franklin Elementary will maintain a safe and orderly environment where all students learn to be safe, respectful, responsible and caring.

Franklin Elementary School Expectations:

AT Franklin Elementary, we have adopted the PBIS discipline program. PBIS stands for Positive Behavior Intervention and Support. To be successful as a PBIS school, students and staff at Franklin learn and follow four school expectations:

  1. Be Safe
  2. Be Respectful
  3. Be Responsible
  4. Be Caring

At Franklin, We Believe:

* All children can and should behave appropriately.

* Teaching and monitoring clearly defined school rules and classroom expectations will enable students to make safe, respectful, responsible, caring choices.

* Behavior is maintained by its consequences (positive or negative).

* Appropriate behavior deserves recognition.

* There will be written behavior plans and/or contracts for children who consistently demonstrate inappropriate behavior.

* When a student chooses to misbehave and interfere with the learning or safety of others, staff will calmly, consistently and respectfully address the misbehavior.

GUIDELINES AND EXPECTATIONS FOR TEACHING STUDENT RESPONSIBILITY AND DISCIPLINE

In order to help students successfully follow our 4 school rules, staff at Franklin are expected to do the following:

  1. Define and model expected behaviors
  2. Teach the expected behaviors
  3. Provide reminders to students about expected behaviors when necessary
  4. Celebrate when students behave as expected
  5. Respectfully correct students when they do not behave as expected

Staff will focus on teaching, monitoring, and encouraging responsible behavior. This will be accomplished by helping students see how their behavior relates to our school expectations emphasizing safety, respect, responsibility and caring. Staff are expected to keep parents informed on a regular basis as to how their child is performing behaviorally as well as academically.

** Please see the behavior expectation charts beginning on page 24 of this handbook which outline expectations for all common areas of the school

WAYS TO ENCOURAGE RESPONSIBLE & APPROPRIATE BEHAVIOR

FRANKLIN MINOR BEHAVIORS

Minors include behaviors that do not meet our school expectations of being safe, respectful, responsible and caring. They need to be addressed and likely require reteaching and practice to ensure mastery. Minor behaviors include, but are not limited to, the following:

* Minor disrespect

* Blurting out, purposely loud voice, disruptive behavior

* Failing to follow classroom or school rules/directions (excluding major behaviors)

* Incomplete schoolwork

* Inappropriate language/comments

* Put downs/teasing/unkind words or comments

* Minor physical aggression

* Hands/feet/objects on others

* Unsafe play/inappropriate use of equipment

Minor behavior infractions will be addressed through any combination of the following means:

* Verbal behavior correction/processing with staff member

* Teaching/re-teaching of correct behavior

* Practicing correct behavior

* Apology (verbal or written)

* Parent contact by classroom teacher

* Loss of privileges

** Multiple or consistent minor behavior infractions may result in an office referral/major behavior referral.

FRANKLIN MAJOR BEHAVIORS

Majors are behaviors which cannot and will not be tolerated at Franklin Elementary School. The principal or designee will contact the parent/guardian if such an incident occurs. Supervising school staff will complete a major behavior form and submit it to the office if one of the following infractions occur:

Weapons: Possession or use of any item including firearms, knives or other dangerous objects or an object used or threatened to be used in a dangerous manner or one that could cause injury.

Fighting: Physical confrontation which results in bodily harm, intentional or otherwise

Physically Dangerous Behavior: Harming another person or self with or without intent or consent

Tobacco, Alcohol, Drugs: Use or possession of or displaying actions of such

Harassment or Intimidation: Communicating in words or through body language to students or staff

Bullying: When an individual or a group of people with more power, repeatedly and intentionally cause hurt or harm to another person or group of people who feel helpless to respond

Insubordination: Severe defiance of authority or disrespect

Theft: Taking objects that belong to the school or another person without their consent

Illegal Acts: Includes but not limited to acts of vandalism, threats or stealing

OFFICE REFERRAL/MAJOR BEHAVIOR VIOLATION PROCESS

The goal of an office referral is to help students develop the skills to demonstrate appropriate behavior in the school environment and to document significant inappropriate behavior. The following process will be followed when a student is referred for a major behavior infraction.

  1. A staff member will complete a major behavior form.
  2. The principal or designee will review the incident with the student and determine the consequence appropriate for the behavior infraction.
  3. Parents will be contacted by the principal or designee to inform them of the infraction.
  4. Major behavior infractions will be documented in the Infinite Campus system for future reference.

When a major behavior infraction occurs, consequences will include any combination of the following:

* Conference with the student

* Loss of privileges (ex: recess, lunch w/ friends)

* Detention

* Parent meeting

* In-school suspension

* Out of school suspension**

* Restitution

* Referral for counseling services

* Other

** When a student receives a suspension (out of school), parents will be required to meet with the principal or designee before the student is allowed to return to school.

IN-SCHOOL SUSPENSION EXPECTATIONS

When placed on in-school suspension, students will abide by the following in-school suspension rules:

  1. Engage in constructive activity at all times, earning points to leave the in-school suspension program.
  2. The classroom teacher will send daily school work to the office in a timely manner.
  3. The student will complete assigned work until the classroom assignments are delivered to the office.
  4. Students are required to demonstrate appropriate behavior while in the in-school suspension area of the office. Students earn their way out of the intervention room by following the rules and expectations. The student’s behavior will be scored a recorded on a behavior recording sheet. Students earn points for desired behaviors such as working quietly, staying on task, neatness, cooperating, positive attitude, effort and following rules.
  5. Students will remain on in-school suspension until they earn 80% or better to exit the in-school suspension area of the office. Students may need to remain on in-school suspension longer than originally assigned, based on behavior.
  6. Students will remain on in-school suspension during lunch, recess and specials when placed on in-school suspension.
  7. Students or parents may request additional assistance from the principal or designee to modify future behavior including problem solving with other students, staff, parents, counseling or other assistance.