Elementary Handbook
SCHOOL COMMITTEE
School Committee members are unpaid, elected officials. As such, they are responsible for setting policies designed to achieve an effective and efficient program of education for the local public school system.
Meetings are generally held every other week at the School Administration offices (James R. Savage Educational Center). By state law, all meetings, except those in executive session, are open to the public. All are encouraged to attend. Committee members may be reached by calling the school administration office at 762-6804 or James R. Savage Educational Center voicemail at 781-440-5821.
SCHOOL ADMINISTRATION
The Superintendent and staff are responsible for implementing the policies of the School Committee and maintaining the quality of the curriculum. The James R. Savage Educational Center telephone is 781-762-6804.
NORWOOD PUBLIC SCHOOLS MISSION STATEMENT
The mission of the Norwood Public Schools is to seek academic excellence for all children in an environment which is safe, nurturing, and supportive, to inspire in them an enduring love for learning, and prepare them to contribute as citizens of a diverse community.
BELIEFS
- Every child can learn.
- Academics are the primary focus of education. In addition to academics, athletics and activities are essential for a complete education.
- Each child is unique and has special abilities and interests that must be recognized, encouraged, and developed.
- The home, school, and community are responsible for the education of all children
- Teachers must engage every student in learning.
- Students are responsible for their own learning and for their personal conduct.
- Parents are responsible for setting values and expectations that support the learning process.
- Lifelong learning is essential for productive and responsible participation in a diverse and changing world.
- Teachers have the right to teach and students have the right to learn in a safe and nurturing environment.
- A community thrives when individuals contribute to the well being of others.
- Integrity, respect, and cooperation are essential in building trusting relationships.
- Our community is strengthened and enriched through diversity.
ACCEPTABLE USE POLICY
The Norwood Public Schools provides access for students to the Technology/Computer network, including access to external networks, for educational purposes. The purpose of educational technology is to assist in preparing students for success in life and work by providing access to a wide range of information and the ability to communicate with others. Access to the network is a privilege not a right. In order to insure that the network is used for intended educational purposes and not used for inappropriate, commercial or illegal purposes, the Norwood Public Schools has adopted an Acceptable Use Policy. For the students to use the network at the elementary level, parents/guardians shall be required to acknowledge receipt and understanding of all administrative regulations and procedures governing use of the system and shall agree in writing to comply with such regulations and procedures. Non-compliance with applicable regulations and procedures may result in suspension or termination of user privileges and other disciplinary action consistent with the policies of the Norwood Public Schools. A User Agreement form for signature will be made available to parents/guardians along with the entire text of the Acceptable Use Policy.
AGE REQUIREMENTS FOR ADMISSION TO NORWOOD SCHOOLS
The age requirements for enrollment are:
Special Education Programs – Entrance age for special education students is three (3). (Refer to Chapter 766, section 310). Students enrolling in the Integrated Preschool program must be three (3) years of age on or before August 31st.
Kindergarten - Children admitted to Kindergarten must be five (5) years of age on or before August 31st of the school year in which they enter.
First Grade – Children admitted to first grade must be six years of age on or before August 31st of the school year in which they enter. An exception exists for those pupils transferring from out of town and they must present satisfactory evidence that they have been regularly enrolled elsewhere.
AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT
The Norwood Public Schools do not discriminate on the basis of disability in the operation of educational programs, extracurricular activities, public events, or in employment. Any questions, complaints, or requests for accommodations may be brought to the attention of the Principal and/or the ADA Coordinator.
Parents may contact the ADA Coordinator, Director of Buildings and Grounds, by writing to James R. Savage Educational Center, 275 Prospect Street, Norwood, MA 02062 or calling 781-762-6804 extension 5830.
Individuals who need print materials in alternative formats (large print, audiotape, etc.) or other auxiliary communications aids or services to participate in programs should identify their needs to school staff in person or in writing.
ATTENDANCE
Regular attendance in school is vital to your child’s progress. There is a powerful link between attendance and academic success in school. To give students the best opportunity possible to reach their potential both academically and socially, they must attend regularly. When students are tardy or absent, they miss out on valuable learning and social experiences that cannot be made up.
A significant number of absences will require the school to initiate procedures outlined by Massachusetts General Law, Chapter 76. The following attendance regulations apply to all Norwood students, unless otherwise specified.
Legally Excused
A student may be legally excused from school if s/he is not physically or emotionally able to attend school. The following are examples of excusable absences from school;
- Illness of student;
- Serious illness of a member of the immediate family, requiring student’s presence at home;
- Wedding or death in the immediate family.
A student’s absence from school will be recorded as excused if the absence is for good cause. If it is necessary for a student to be gone from school for one or more days, parents are required to notify the school in writing prior to the absence.
Unexcused Absences
A student’s absence will be recorded as unexcused if:
- The school has not received a written note signed by the parent or student’s physician.
- The absence is not due to illness, family emergency, or good cause.
According to Massachusetts’s law, excused absences of up to seven (7) full days or fourteen (14) half-days during each ninety-(90) day semester may be excused. Absences over a combination of seven (7) days during the first or second ninety-(90) day period will require medical documentation. The Superintendent or designee may decide whether to excuse a particular absence.
Absences in excess of the above requirement may result in parental notification and/or referral to the attendance officer for the Norwood Public Schools.
The attendance officer for the Norwood Police Department will be responsible for enforcing the compulsory attendance laws, which require regular attendance, provide for penalties if parents and/or guardians do not carry out their responsibilities, and establish procedures for referral of a truant student to juvenile authorities. These procedures may involve a home visit, referral to the Department of Mental Health, the Department of Children and Families or Juvenile Court. Please see your school insert for additional information.
BULLYING PROHIBITION & PREVENTION POLICY
Bullying is a form of harassment. The Norwood Public Schools recognizes that bullying and harassment have a negative effect on the educational process.
Reporting Requirements 370(g) - The law imposes mandatory reporting requirements on all members of the school staff, not just all teaching staff, to immediately report any instance of bullying or retaliation the staff member has either witnessed or become aware of, to the Principal or school designee. Staff shall immediately report any instance of bullying or retaliation the staff members has witnessed or become aware of to the Principal or to the school official identified in the plan as responsible for receiving such reports or both.
1. Definition of Bullying (from “Chapter 92 of the Acts of 2010 - AN ACT RELATIVE TO BULLYING IN SCHOOLS.”)
a. “Bullying”, the repeated use by one or more students of a written, verbal or electronic expression or a physical act or gesture or any combination thereof, directed at a victim that: (i) causes physical or emotional harm to the victim or damage to the victim’s property; (ii) places the victim in reasonable fear of harm to himself or of damage to his property; (iii) creates a hostile environment at school for the victim; (iv) infringes on the rights of the victim at school; or (v) materially and substantially disrupts the educational process or the orderly operation of a school. For the purposes of this section, bullying shall include cyber-bullying and retaliation.
b. “Cyber-bullying”, bullying through the use of technology or any electronic communication, which shall include, but shall not be limited to, any transfer of signs, signals, writing, images, sounds, data or intelligence of any nature transmitted in whole or in part by a wire, radio, electromagnetic, photo electronic or photo optical system, including, but not limited to, electronic mail, internet communications, instant messages or facsimile communications. Cyber-bullying shall also include (i) the creation of a web page or blog in which the creator assumes the identity of another person or (ii) the knowing impersonation of another person as the author of posted content or messages, if the creation or impersonation creates any of the conditions enumerated in clauses (i) to (v), inclusive, of the definition of bullying. Cyber-bullying shall also include the distribution by electronic means of a communication to more than one person or the posting of material on an electronic medium that may be accessed by one or more persons, if the distribution or posting creates any of the conditions enumerated in clauses (i) to (v), inclusive, of the definition of bullying.
c. “Retaliation,” any form of intimidation, reprisal, or harassment directed against a student who reports bullying, provides information during an investigation of bullying, or witness or has reliable information about bullying.
2. Bullying is Prohibited – Such conduct is disruptive of the educational process; therefore, let it be known that bullying is unacceptable behavior in the Norwood Public Schools and is prohibited.
3. Bullying Shall be Prohibited – (i) on school grounds, property immediately adjacent to school grounds, or at a school sponsored or school-related activity, function or program whether on, or off, school grounds, at a school bus stop, on a school bus or other vehicle owned, leased or used by a school district or school, and or through the use of technology or an electronic device that is owned, leased or used by a school district or school; and (ii) at a location, activity, function or program that is not school-related, or through the use of technology or an electronic device that is not owned, leased or used by a school district or school, of the bullying creates a hostile environment at the school for the victim, infringes on the rights of the victim at school or materially and substantially disrupts the education process or the orderly operation of a school.
4. Steps to Resolve
a. Staff Intervention – Staff members who observe or become aware of an act of bullying will take immediate, appropriate steps to intervene, unless intervention would place the safety of the staff member or student(s) at risk. If there is reasonable basis to believe that the staff member has not been able to resolve the matter, or if the bullying persists, the staff member shall report the matter to the appropriate administrator for further investigation.
b. Students and Parents Shall Report Bullying – Students and parents who become aware of bullying should report it to the appropriate administrator for further investigation. Also, students or parents may report a bullying incident using any one of three reporting options on the district’s bullying website by going to http://www.norwood.k12.ma.us/page.php?pid=615. “Anonymous” reports are accepted; however, no disciplinary action shall be taken against a student on the basis of an anonymous report. Any student who retaliates against another for reporting bullying shall be subject to disciplinary consequences. Also, any student who knowingly makes a false accusation of bullying or retaliation shall be subject to disciplinary consequences.
c. Investigation – In cases of alleged or persistent bullying, cyber-bullying, or retaliation, an administrator will investigate the matter. The investigation may include, but is not limited to, conversations with students, parents, and school staff.
d. Intervention/Consequences/Prevention Strategies – If bullying is substantiated, the appropriate administrator will take reasonable steps to stop it and prevent its recurrence. These steps may include, but are not limited to, separating and supervising the students involved; contacting the parents/guardians of the alleged perpetrator and victim; providing counseling support for students and referral service options to appropriate family members as necessary; coordinating a supervision plan with the assistance of staff; student contracts and the development of a safety plan; meetings with the School Resource Officer. Students who have bullied or retaliated against others may also be subject to disciplinary action, including warnings, parental conference, detention, suspension, and/or expulsion. If the school administration determines that bullying or retaliation has occurred, the appropriate administrator will notify the local law enforcement agency if the administration believes that criminal charges may be pursued against a perpetrator.
Students who engage in any act of bullying while at school, at any school function, in connection to, or with any district-sponsored activity or event, or while en route to or from school, are subject to disciplinary action, up to and including suspension or expulsion. Law enforcement officials shall be notified of bullying incidents.
NOTE: Cyber-bullying will be covered under this handbook regulation.
CHILD ABUSE AND NEGLECT
Chapter 439 - an act requiring school committees to notify school personnel of reporting requirements regarding child abuse and neglect.
Chapter 71 of the General Laws is hereby amended by inserting the following section after Section 37K.
Section 37L. The school committee of each city, town or regional school district shall inform teachers, administrators, and other professional staff of reporting requirements for child abuse and neglect as specified in sections 51A to 51F, inclusive, of Chapter 119.
The text of Chapter 119, Section 51A, may be found in selected General Laws of School Committees and School Personnel. We are working with the Executive Office of Human Services to implement this new law.
C.O.R.I. REQUIREMENTS POLICY
It shall be the policy of the Norwood Public Schools to obtain all available Criminal Offender Record Information (C.O.R.I.) from the Criminal History Systems Board of prospective employee(s) or volunteer(s) of the School Department including any individual who regularly provides school-related transportation to children, who may have direct and unmonitored contact with children, prior to hiring the employee(s) or to accepting any person as a volunteer. State law requires that school districts obtain C.O.R.I data for employees of taxicab companies that have contracted with the schools to provide transportation to pupils.
The Superintendent, or in the absence of the Superintendent, the Deputy Superintendent shall periodically, but not less than every three years, obtain all available Criminal Offender Record Information from the Criminal History Systems Board on all employees, individuals who regularly provide school-related transportation to children, including taxicab company employees, and volunteers who may have direct and unmonitored contact with children, during their term of employment or volunteer service.
DRUG FREE WORKPLACE POLICY
The Norwood Public Schools have significant interest in ensuring the health and safety of its employees.
In furtherance of that interest, the Norwood School Committee will:
1. Inform all employees about (a) the dangers of drug abuse; (b) the availability of drug counseling and rehabilitation for employees; (c) the penalties that may be imposed upon employees for drug abuse violations; and (d) the policy for maintaining a drug free workplace.
2. Notify all employees that the illegal manufacture, distribution, dispensing, possession or use of a controlled substance is prohibited in the workplace and any violation thereto is subject to appropriate personnel action up to and including termination of employment.
3. Notify employees, as a condition of employment, that they must abide by the terms and provisions of this policy.
4. Inform employees, as a condition of employment, that they must notify the Superintendent of Schools in writing within five days of conviction for a drug violation occurring in the workplace.
5. Hereafter, conduct an annual drug awareness program for new employees as part of an on-going good faith effort to maintain a drug free workplace. Statutory reference: Drug Free Workplace Act of 1988, 34CFR - Part 85, sub-part F.
Executed by the Norwood School Committee on August 22, 1990.
EMERGENCY SCHOOL CLOSING PROCEDURES
When it is necessary to close school because of emergency/weather conditions, it will be announced over the radio/TV stations (see No School Information section for more information). Please expect school telephones to be unavailable between the time of the emergency and the designated dismissal time due to the need for outgoing calls.
Norwood Public Schools may shorten the normal school day due to emergency situations, such as loss of heat, electricity, loss of water pressure or inclement weather.
When the entire school is dismissed early by authority of the Superintendent, all attempts will be made to notify parents through Connect Ed, the media and other available sources of public information. Parents who work or are not at home should make arrangements for the care of their child when school is dismissed. It is imperative that your emergency phone contacts be kept up-to-date.
FAMILY EDUCATIONAL RIGHTS AND PRIVACY ACT (FERPA)
The names, addresses and other information regarding students are regulated by the Student Record Regulations and the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA).
During the year the school may release via the World Wide Web or for publication a student's name, address, class, participation in officially recognized activities and sports, degrees, honors, and awards, and post-high school plans without the consent of the eligible student or parents. Educational activities and performances are also regularly photographed and videotaped for school newsletters, local newspapers, and local access cable television stations. Under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) you have a right to inform the school within a reasonable time that you do not wish certain information to be released without prior consent. If you do not wish any or all of this information about your child to be released, please send written notification to the Principal.
PHOTOGRAPHING & VIDEOTAPING OF STUDENTS
During the school year, the Norwood Public Schools may authorize various organizations such as local news media and parent groups to photograph or videotape students engaged in an activity related to school programs. These pictures may be used on a bulletin board, in a newsletter, newspapers, on an educational access television station or some type of educational publication designed to illustrate or describe an activity sponsored or promoted by the Norwood Public Schools. If parents have a concern relative to their child appearing in any of these photographs or videotapes, they should notify the school in writing.
HAZING
An Act Prohibiting the Practice of Hazing - Chapter 536
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives in General Court assembled, and by the authority of the same, as follows:
Chapter 269 of the General Laws is hereby amended by adding the following sections:
Section 17. Whoever is a principal organizer or participant in the crime of hazing as defined herein shall be punished by a fine of not more than one thousand dollars or by imprisonment in a house of correction for not more than one hundred days, or by both such fine and imprisonment.
The term "hazing" as used in this section and in section eighteen shall mean any conduct or method of initiation into any student organization, whether on public or private property, which willfully or recklessly endangers the physical or mental health of any student or other person. Such conduct shall include whipping, beating, branding, forced calisthenics, exposure to the weather, forced consumption of any food, liquor, beverage, drug or other substance, or any other brutal treatment of forced physical activity which is likely to adversely affect the physical health or safety of any such student or other person, or which subjects such student or other person to extreme mental stress, including extended deprivation of sleep or rest or extended isolation.
Section 18. Whoever knows that another person is the victim of hazing as defined in section seventeen and is at the scene of such crime shall, to the extent that such person can do so without danger or peril to himself or others, report such crime to an appropriate law enforcement official as soon as reasonably practicable. Whoever fails to report such crime shall be punished by a fine of not more than five hundred dollars.
HOMEWORK POLICY
Homework is designed to continue the learning process by challenging each child to study independently. It provides an extension of activities begun in the classroom by the students under the guidance and direction of their teachers.
The teacher will carefully plan homework assignments; explain and demonstrate to the students in class what each assignment involves, examine, correct, and return each assignment completed by a student; and inform parents promptly if homework assignments are not properly completed.
The parents/guardians of a child should help the student develop good home study habits by setting aside appropriate time periods; showing an interest in and willingness to assist their child with assignments; providing a suitable space for study; helping students to budget time between long-term and short-term assignments; and by encouraging their child to seek individual assistance from teachers when assignments are difficult.
MASSACHUSETTS EDUCATION REFORM ACT OF 1993
This act provides for the creation of a School Council at each elementary, secondary, and independent vocational schools in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. The purpose of this Council will be to advise the Principal on a variety of areas ranging from budget to curriculum. This organization differs markedly from the traditional PTA Board. The School Council is comprised of parents, teachers, a community member at large and the Principal.
Elections are held in the fall of the school year.
PARENTAL NOTIFICATION LAW
In accordance with Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 71, Section 32A, a parent has the right to exempt their child from any portion of the curriculum that primarily involves human sexual education or human sexuality issues. To receive such exemption, a parent must send a written request to the Principal requesting an exemption for their child. No student who is exempted from this portion of the curriculum will be penalized. If you would like an outline of any such curriculum, please contact the Principal.
PROMOTION POLICY
ELEMENTARY LEVEL
Learning rates of students vary and, accordingly, the amount of time required for them to master the curriculum for a particular grade level will also vary. The decision to promote or retain a student shall be made in accordance with the following:
A. The decision will be based upon what is best for the individual child.
B. Consideration will be given to the student's intellectual development, academic ability, levels of achievement, and physical/social maturity.
C. Individual needs will be determined and an educational program to meet those needs will be developed.
D. Student placement is a shared responsibility of the professional staff and principal working in cooperation with the student's parents.
AT ALL LEVELS OF THE SCHOOL SYSTEM
A. The requirements and circumstances for retention/promotion of students under Special Education shall be an Evaluation Team decision conducted in accordance with State Department of Education Regulations.
B. Any exceptions to the promotion policy shall be made only after careful consideration and approval of the principal, subject to the review of the Superintendent of Schools.
POLICY REGARDING DISCRIMINATION AND HARASSMENT
In providing equal educational opportunities to all our students on a non-discriminatory basis, it is the policy of the Norwood Public Schools to comply fully with Chapter 76, section 5 of Massachusetts General Laws, Title VI of the Civil Rights Acts of 1964, Title IX of Education Amendments of 1972, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, and with the Sexual Harassment Policy of the Norwood School Committee.
The policies of the Norwood Public Schools concerning Chapter 76, section 5, Title VI, Title IX, Section 504 , Title II, and sexual harassment prohibit
discrimination because of race, color, gender, sexual orientation, religion or national origin and handicaps, such as impaired vision or hearing, in the following areas: admissions to the school system; admissions to courses of study; guidance opportunities; curriculum offerings, extra-curricular activities; scholarship and monetary awards; employment; and use of facilities.
In addition, a grievance procedure has been established for students and employees. The grievance procedure begins with the principal of the building in which the alleged discrimination or harassment occurred. If a resolution is not reached at the building level within 20 school days after receiving the complaint, the matter will be referred to the Deputy Superintendent as soon as possible, including any corroborative information. The Assistant Superintendent will conduct an investigation of the matter and answer all inquiries in writing within 20 school days of receipt of the unresolved complaint. If appropriate, plans to correct any inequities will be included in the response. In the case of alleged sexual harassment, the first step will include a description of the harassment by the individual alleging harassment.
If unresolved or not satisfactorily resolved, the grievant may petition the Superintendent of Schools, in writing. The Superintendent or his designee will also conduct an investigation and attempt to resolve the problem, within 20 days of his receipt of the unresolved complaint. The Superintendent will respond in writing to the petitioner following the investigation. A separate file will be kept on all actions taken under the grievance procedure.
The School Committee will serve as the final local appeals board for any matters that the Superintendent or his designee is unable to resolve. Access to the School Committee is by written notification to the Chairperson describing the problem and requesting an opportunity to review the matter with the School Committee. Documentation shall be attached to the written request for review.
In the event of a complaint, the appropriate individuals and agencies are as follows:
Schools:
Norwood High School George Usevich, Principal 781-769-2333
Dr. Philip O. Coakley Matthew Ehrenworth, Principal 781-762-7880
Middle School
Balch School TBA, Principal 781-762-0694
Callahan School Robert Griffin, Principal 781-762-0693
Cleveland School Scott Williams, Principal 781-762-6522
Oldham School Wesley Manaday, Principal 781-769-2417
Prescott School Brianne Killion, Principal 781-762-6497
Willett School Virginia Ceruti, Principal 781-762-6805
District:
Mr. James Hayden, Superintendent of Schools
James R. Savage Educational Center
275 Prospect Street
Norwood, MA 02062
781-762-6804 ext. 5819
Dr. Alec Wyeth, Title VI and Title IX and Section 504 Coordinator
Assistant Superintendent of Schools
James R. Savage Educational Center
275 Prospect Street
Norwood, MA 02062
781-762-6804 ext. 5816
Mrs. Carole Poirier, Title I Coordinator
Assistant to the Supt. of Schools Elementary Curriculum/Grants
James R. Savage Educational Center
275 Prospect Street
Norwood, MA 02062
781-762-6804 ext. 5815
Mr. Paul Ricciardi, ADA Coordinator
Director of Buildings/Grounds
James R. Savage Educational Center
275 Prospect Street
Norwood, MA 02062
781-762-6804 ext. 5830
Mrs. Kristina Fitzgerald, McKinney-Vinto (Homeless) Coordinator
Administrative Assistant to the Superintendent of Schools
James R. Savage Educational Center
275 Prospect Street
Norwood, MA 02062
781-762-6804 ext. 5819
In addition to the above procedures, any student or employee may report a grievance directly to the listed agencies:
Mass. Commission Against Discrimination
One Ashburton Place
Boston, MA 02108
Telephone 617-727-3990
Office for Civil Rights
J.W. McCormack Post Office & Court House
Boston, MA 02109
Telephone: 617-223-9662
Questions regarding these policies or requests for a full text of the School Committee regulations should be directed to the Office of the Superintendent of Schools.
SPECIAL EDUCATION
Massachusetts Special Education regulations ensure that eligible students receive special education services designed to develop the student’s individual educational potential in the least restrictive environment in accordance with applicable state and federal regulations.
In order to meet a child’s learning needs within the least restrictive setting each school offers the services of a Student Support Team. A group of teachers and specialists work cooperatively in identifying and implementing classroom accommodations and modifications to support all learners within the regular education program.
When interventions implemented at the recommendation of the Student Support Team are not successful in meeting a child’s needs and the Team believes a disability is affecting the child’s progress, the Team will recommend a special education evaluation. Evaluations are completed in the suspected area of disability by a team of trained specialist. This may include a teacher, counselor, nurse, psychologist, learning disabilities teacher and any other specialists necessary.
Working with the parents the Special Education TEAM determine whether or not the student presents with a disability, identifies the type of disability and formulate an Individual Educational Program (IEP) for the child.
SECTION 504
Section 504 accommodations are provided to all students found to have physical or mental impairments that substantially limit one or more major life activities (including learning). The school has the responsibility to identify, evaluate and, if the child is determined to be eligible under section 504, to afford access to appropriate educational services. Students determined to be disabled under Section 504 require a response from the regular (general) education staff within the general curriculum. A team of individuals knowledgeable about the student (including parents/guardians) reviews the nature of the student’s disability to determine whether and how the disability affects the student’s education, and to determine what accommodations and/or services are required. A variety of accommodations and services are offered in accordance with 504 Accommodation Plans; which are periodically documented and reviewed. The Assistant Superintendent of Schools is the 504 Coordinator for the district.
RESPONSE-TO-INTERVENTION (RTI)
Response-To-Intervention is a process which includes the provision of systematic, research-based instruction and interventions to struggling learners. It assumes that the instruction/interventions are matched to student needs and that the monitoring of progress is continuous. Furthermore, RTI is designed as an early intervention to prevent long-term academic failure. As such, RTI can replace and/or augment the I.Q. discrepancy model in the identification of learning disabilities.
RTI is considered a general education service, but can also be implemented in special education settings.
KEY FEATURES – The following is a listing of the key features of an RTI process:
RTI is primarily a general education initiative designed to address the needs of struggling learners early in their educational experience.
RTI is based on a problem-solving model that uses data to inform decision-making.
RTI interventions are systematically applied and derived from research-based practices.
RTI is highly dependent of progress monitoring and data collection.
RTI intervention plans are designed, implemented, and monitored by a multi-disciplinary team of professionals.
RTI can replace the I.Q. discrepancy model for determining the presence of a learning disability.
THE 3 TIER MODEL
Tier I – the provision of general screening and group interventions that usually represent the core instructional program. If this instruction is adequately differentiated, 80-90% of the students will respond and achieve established benchmarks. Assessments occur three to four times per year.
Tier II – if students do not make adequate progress in Tier I, more intensive services and targeted interventions, usually in small group settings, are provided in addition to the instruction in the general curriculum. Progress is monitored more closely, at least bi-weekly, and the research-based interventions could last approximately six to ten weeks.
Tier III – for students who do not adequately respond to the targeted interventions in Tier II, eligibility for special education services under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA 2004) would be considered. Additional testing may be warranted and students would receive individualized, intensive interventions targeted to the skill deficits.
WEAPONS
Section 37. Section 37L of said Chapter 71 of the General Laws, as appearing in the 1990 Official Edition, is hereby amended by adding the following paragraphs:
In addition, any school department personnel shall report in writing to their immediate supervisor an incident involving a student's possession or use of a dangerous weapon on school premises at any time.
Supervisors who receive such a weapon report shall file it with the superintendent of said school, who shall file copies of said weapon report with the local chief of police, the Department of Social Services, the office of student services or its equivalent in any school district, and the local school committee. Said superintendent, police chief, and representative from the Department of Social Services, together with a representative from the office of student services or its equivalent, shall arrange an assessment of the student involved in said weapon report. Said student shall be referred to a counseling program; provided, however, that said counseling shall be in accordance with acceptable standards as set forth by the board of education. Upon completion of a counseling session, a follow-up assessment shall be made of said student by those involved in the initial assessment.
A student transferring into a local system must provide the new school system with a complete school record of the entering student. Said records shall include, but not be limited to, any incidents involving suspension or violation of criminal acts or any incident reports in which such student was charged with any suspended act.
ELEMENTARY DISCIPLINE CODE
The purpose of the elementary discipline code is to provide clear and consistent guidelines for a safe learning environment. In order to achieve this purpose, we expect students to respect themselves and others as well as work and play safely.
Students are responsible for their actions and need to be held accountable for their decisions. They need to know adults care enough for them to ensure that they adhere to school rules. School personnel have a responsibility to correct students if they are acting inappropriately at any time during the school day.
It is the teacher’s responsibility to maintain good discipline in the classroom, school building and on the playground. Misbehavior will result in corrective action by teachers or referral to the building principal. Referrals to administration for disciplinary action could result in, but are not limited to, the following: parental contact, verbal warning, loss of recess, after-school detention, complete restitution, in-school/out-of-school suspension, requirement of a mental health evaluation or legal action when appropriate.
It is the intent of the Norwood Public Schools to create and maintain a safe and secure environment in every school building. In addition to the behavioral standards as stated in the student handbook, the Principal has the discretion to determine whether an action is a threat to the maintenance of a safe and secure environment. Further, the Principal has the discretion to determine what appropriate disciplinary actions are warranted.
Students who are found to have committed the following offenses will be suspended:
A. SMOKING, DRINKING OF ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES, POSSESSION OF, OR THE USE OF, CONTROLLED SUBSTANCES either to or from school or on school grounds;
B. Assault on a staff member's person or property;
C. Repeated harassment of teachers or students;
D. Repeated hazing of student(s);
E. Arson or other extreme incident of vandalism;
F. Possession of a knife of any kind;
G. Use, or threatened use, of any object as a weapon;
H. Threats to cause serious harm or violence to another person;
I. Advocating violence through written, verbal or other communications;
J. Possession, or use, of a dangerous weapon (guns, explosives, etc.) as defined by School Rules and Regulations and Chapter 269 of the General Laws;
K. Repeated and/or intentional failure to comply with, or defy, the directives of any school personnel acting legitimately in their official capacity;
L. Intentionally causing and/or attempting to cause damage to school property.
M. Intentionally causing, or attempting to cause, physical injury to another person except in self-defense; and
N. Ringing of the fire alarm under false pretenses as defined by state law.
O. Bullying as defined in “Chapter 92 of the Acts of 2010 – AN ACT RELATIVE TO BULLYING IN SCHOOLS.”
General Laws, Chapter 71, 37H has been amended to eliminate the requirement that the Principal notify the School Committee when he/she decides to suspend rather than expel. This amendment became effective on July 13, 1994. Specific rules regarding serious offenses are listed below. All violations must be reported to the Administrator to determine further action. Violations of the following rules may subject students to suspension:
A. Students are not permitted to fight another student. Habitual offenders can be suspended from school.
B. Students will use acceptable language. Profanity and obscene gestures will not be tolerated.
C. Students may not leave the school premises during school hours without permission from the Principal or his/her designee.
D. The state law requires mandatory school attendance. All unauthorized absences will be reported to administration and to the parent/guardian.
E. Gambling is not permitted on school grounds.
F. During a fire/emergency drill or emergency evacuation, students will follow instructions regarding the proper procedure for a quick, safe and orderly evacuation.
G. Students will not forge school documents or parental notes. Violators of this rule will be subject to suspension.
H. Students who are rude, disrespectful or disobedient will be sent to the office. Continual rudeness, disruption of classes and poor behavior are cause for suspension.
I. Electronic devices/games, radios, beepers and laser pointers are not permitted on school grounds without specific permission of the principal.
J. If the parents determine that a student requires a cell phone for emergency/safety purposes, the cell phone must be turned off and kept in backpacks during the school day.
K. Stealing or attempting to steal is not permitted on school grounds and will be subject to penalties identified in the student handbook.
The school will not be responsible for lost or stolen personal property.
It should be noted that the scope of this discipline code includes all school-related activities, including transportation to and from school and school sponsored after school activities. Students have the right to appeal disciplinary decisions to the Superintendent of Schools.
CAFETERIA BEHAVIOR
A. The proper eating habits which one would expect of children at home are also required in the cafeteria.
B. While in the cafeteria, students are expected to show respect and to be courteous to the cafeteria personnel.
C. Students are expected to wait in line in an orderly manner -- no pushing, fooling, or loud talking.
D. Students are to remain seated at their table until dismissed.
E. Students should use the barrels, which are provided for disposal of litter.
F. Courteous behavior and respect for the rights of others are to be observed by all students.
G. Conversation should be at an "indoor voice".
H. All playground equipment should be left in an assigned cafeteria area.
SCHOOL BUS BEHAVIOR
The school day begins when a student leaves home and ends when he/she returns. Students are under the jurisdiction of the school administration during this entire period.
Riding a school bus is a convenience for students who reside beyond the local and state designated distances from their school. It is a privilege that should be prized by all. The primary concern for all who use the school bus should be safety.
Proper behavior insures safety. Rowdiness, shouting, etc. are distracting to the driver and could result in injury to students. It is essential that students cooperate with the bus driver for the safety of all concerned.
A. It is expected that students will:
· Stand back from the roadway while awaiting arrival of the bus. They must refrain from throwing things or acting in a disorderly manner at the bus stop.
· Be picked up and discharged only at regularly scheduled stops.
· Enter the bus in an orderly fashion, go directly to a seat, and remain seated until the destination is reached.
· Keep arms, hands, and legs inside the bus.
· Keep all articles such as books, athletic equipment, musical instruments, etc. out of the aisle.
· There will be no smoking on any school bus.
· There will be no eating or drinking on the school bus.
· There will be no disorderly conduct including shouting or throwing things on the bus.
· There will be no littering or defacing of the buses.
· THE EMERGENCY DOOR IS TO BE USED FOR EMERGENCY ONLY.
· Pupils will not needlessly touch any safety equipment on the bus.
Pupils who fail to understand their responsibilities when riding the school buses may forfeit the privilege of riding the bus either TEMPORARILY OR PERMANENTLY. Families will NOT be reimbursed for fees lost when their child is removed from the bus for disciplinary reasons.
B. Students will be subject to the following procedure of written reports and subsequent actions:
· A written report of misbehavior by the bus driver will be submitted directly to the building principal. This report will be followed by an investigation of the complaint by the principal and/or his/her designee.
· When the principal deems it appropriate, parents/guardians shall receive a written “first” notification of the problem with the warning that the second notification will lead to the child losing the privilege of riding the bus for one week.
· The third written notice will require that a conference be held with the parents and at that time, after consultation with the Office of the Superintendent of Schools, the student may be excluded from riding the school bus for the reminder of the school year.
No pupil is to be removed from a bus during the course of a trip. Drivers’ written reports will be submitted to the building principal. Information regarding the investigation will be submitted to the central office designee.
When substantially more than a few students are causing trouble, the driver should pull over or stop, ask for order and indicate the trip will return to the school if order is not restored. If necessary, the driver will return to the school for action by the administrator.
Riders are responsible for bus property, and any mistreatment of it will result in the individual’s reimbursing the transportation provider for such damages.
SPECIAL EDUCATION DISCIPLINE CODE
All students are expected to meet the requirements for behavior as set forth in this handbook. Federal regulations, IDEA, requires that additional provisions be made for students who have been found by an evaluation team to have special needs
and whose program is described in an Individualized Educational Program (I.E.P.) and 504 plans. The following additional requirements apply to the discipline of special needs students:
1. The Principal (or designee) will notify the Special Education Office of the suspendable offense of a special needs student and a record will be kept of such notices.
2. When it is known that the suspension(s) of a special needs student will accumulate to ten days in a school year, a review of the I.E.P. as provided in Section 333 of the Special Education Regulations will be held to determine the appropriateness of the student's placement or program. The team will make a finding as to the relationship between the student's misconduct and his/her handicapping condition and either:
a. Design a modified program for the student, or
b. Write an amendment to provide for the delivery of special education services during the suspension and any needed modification of the I.E.P. relative to discipline code expectations.
If the administration feels that a student's continued presence in school presents a substantial likelihood of injury to the student or to others and if the student's parents do not agree to a continued suspension or to a placement in a more restrictive alternative educational setting, the administration would seek, in the Federal District Court or the State Superior Court, an order authorizing the student's removal.
In general, if your child has violated the schools' disciplinary standards, the school may change your child's placement from the current educational setting to an interim alternative education setting, another setting, or suspension for a period not to exceed 10 cumulative school days during any school year.
The school district may place your child in an interim alternative education setting for up to 45 days if your child possesses uses, sells or solicits illegal drugs or carries a weapon to school or school function. The school district also may place your child in an appropriate interim setting for up to 45 days upon order of a hearing officer who determines the current placement is substantially likely to result in injury to your child or others.
If the school district wants to change the placement for more than 10 days, you have the right to participate in the IEP Team that determines whether the behavior was or was not related to your child's disability (a "manifestation determination").
If the Team determines that the behavior was related to your child's disability, then your child may not be removed from the current educational placement (except in the case of weapons or drugs) until the IEP Team develops a new IEP and decides upon a new placement. If the Team determines the behavior was not related to your child's disability, then the school may suspend or otherwise discipline your child according to the school's code of student conduct, except that the school district must continue to provide your child with a Free Appropriate Public Education during the period of suspension or expulsion.
If you disagree with either the Team’s decision on the "manifestation determination" or with the decision relating to placement of your child in an interim alternative education setting or any other disciplinary placement, you have the right to request an expedited due process hearing the Federal District court or the State Superior court.
If your child has been placed in an interim alternative education setting as a result of a disciplinary action, the child may remain in the interim setting for a period not to exceed 45 days. Thereafter, your child will return to the previously agreed-upon educational placement or you and the school agree to another placement.
ACCIDENT REPORTS
Accident reports must be filed by the school nurse on any accident involving a student that takes place during, on the way to or from school, or at any school sponsored activity. One copy is kept in the school, one given to the administration, and one forwarded to the Supervisor of Nurses.
DENTAL CLINIC
Dental screening is held in all elementary schools each year. Students in Grades 1-5 are checked by the school dentist and either referred to the School Dental Clinic or their private dentist. Follow-up with these students is necessary to insure proper dental health. Establishing appointments and scheduling transportation is part of this screening program.
If parents/legal guardians do not wish their child to see the school dentist, they may request in writing that their child not participate in the program.
FIRST AID AND EMERGENCIES
Each year parents are asked to update the two emergency cards on file at school for their child. It is very important that this information remain current. Should parents be needed, proper names, addresses, and telephone numbers are essential. It is especially important for parents who work outside the home to provide their telephone number at work. In the event of an accident or other emergency, first aid will be administered by the school nurse until parents and physicians can be reached. In the event of a serious emergency, ambulance transportation to the hospital will be called.
For parents whose religious beliefs prevent them from using such medical assistance, a signed statement explaining this must be provided to the school.
HEALTH PROGRAM
The school nurse is responsible for the health programs at the school. All students (K-5) are screened for vision problems annually. All students (K-3) are tested annually for hearing problems. Parents or guardians whose children do not pass the vision and hearing will be notified by the nurse.
In addition, now all students in Grades 1 and 4 shall have a Body Mass Index (BMI) and corresponding percentile calculated. A report of each student’s BMI and percentile along with pertinent information shall be mailed or otherwise directly communicated in writing to the parent or guardian of the student. Parents/legal guardians who do not want their child to participate in the BMI Program should notify, in writing, the school nurse.
At Norwood Public Schools, we are committed to protecting students’ privacy, and medical information will remain confidential unless we receive signed consent.
If you need to contact the school nurses directly, the numbers are as follows:
Balch 440-5933 Callahan 440-5943
Cleveland 440-5953 Oldham 440-5963
Prescott 440-5973 Middle School 440-5926
High School 440-5908 Willett 440-5982
WELLNESS POLICY
The Norwood Public School district is committed to providing school environments that promote and protect children’s health, well-being and the ability to learn by supporting and teaching healthy eating and physical activity.
The School District will engage students, parents, teachers, food service professionals, health professionals and other interested community members in developing, implementing, monitoring and reviewing district-wide nutrition programs and physical activities. They will strive to have qualified professionals deliver such programs.
The School District shall strive to provide nutrition education and physical education to foster lifelong habits of healthy eating and physical activity for all students in every grade level.
HEALTH RECORDS
A physical record of every child is kept by the nurse. It includes immunizations, results of vision, hearing, dental and postural screenings.
Height, weight, physical examination records and any medical problems or histories are also included.
IMMUNIZATION LAWS
Chapter 76, Section 15 of the General Laws of Massachusetts now requires successful immunization against Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis, Poliomyelitis, Measles, Mumps, Rubella and Hepatitis B, HIB and Varicella by vaccine or a doctor's certificate of disease.
The following are the immunizations required for all children in our schools Grades K through 5 prior to entrance:
MINIMAL IMMUNIZATION REQUIREMENT
KINDERGARTEN GRADE 1-5
DTP/DT/TD2 5 doses DTP 4 doses DTP or DtaP
Or 3 doses TD
POLIO(3) 4 or more 3 or more
MMR 2 doses 2 doses
HEPATITIS B 3 doses 3 doses
VARICELLA 1 dose or a l dose or a physician
physician certified history
certified history (Gr. 1 -4)
INSURANCE
Insurance plans, which cover the children on the way to and from school and during school activities, or for a full 24-hour period, are available through a volunteer school policy. These plans are offered in September. Notification will be sent home at that time.
LEAD SCREENING
On March 1, 1990 the Department of Public Health promulgated regulations (105 CMR 460.000) that require pre-school children be periodically screened for lead poisoning. In addition, children must present documented evidence of screening prior to entrance into kindergarten.
MEDICATION ADMINISTRATION
PRESCRIPTION & NON-PRESCRIPTION
The Norwood Public Schools require that the following forms must be on file before any medication is administered at school:
A. Signed consent by the parent or guardian to give the medication. Please complete the consent form, available at the school, and return to the school nurse.
B. Signed medication order. The written medication order form should be taken to your child's licensed prescriber (your child's physician, nurse practitioner, etc.) for completion and returned to the school nurse. This order must be renewed as needed, and at the beginning of each academic year.
Parents/guardians should deliver to the school nurse any medications. They must be properly labeled and contained in a pharmacy or manufacturer-labeled appropriate container. Please ask your pharmacy to provide separate bottles for school and home. No more than a thirty-day supply of the medication should be delivered to school. This policy also applies to non-prescription medications. When your child needs medication to be administered during the school day, please act quickly so we may begin as soon as possible.
PEDICULOSIS (LICE)
Parents should be encouraged to report cases of head lice to the school nurse so that she may check the child’s class for additional cases. Any child found to be infested with head lice will be sent home immediately. Parents will be notified as soon as possible. The school nurse will provide parents with information as to the treatment of head lice.
If possible, the school nurse will also check other members of the class or grade level and send home a “Parent Letter”.
The school nurse will also inspect family members within the school and report to nurses in respective schools where family members attend. In addition, children with head lice will not be readmitted to their classroom until the school nurse has inspected their head and determined that they are free from head lice. They do not have to necessarily be nit free. The school nurse will determine readmission to class.
PHYSICAL EXAMINATION REQUIREMENTS
Every child entering Kindergarten or Grade 1 and Grades 4, 7, or 10 is required by State law to have a physical examination. New students are required to have a physical, either 6 months prior to entry or within the first year of entry.
POSTURAL SCREENING
In April 1980, Chapter 71, Section 57, of the Massachusetts General Laws, pertaining to the physical examination of school children was amended. Postural screening, also known as screening for Scoliosis and Kyphosis, is now required for all children in public schools Grades 5-9.
Postural defects are a significant health problem in otherwise healthy adolescents. Because these defects often develop slowly and without pain to the child, screening to detect them at an early stage is an important preventative public health strategy.
TB TESTING/RISK ASSESSMENT
As recommended by the Mass. Department of Public Health, if a student has a Primary Care Physician, it is up to the PCP to determine if a TB test, or risk assessment is necessary.
If a student does not have a Primary Care Physician, the school nurse under the guidelines of the School Physician may do a risk assessment and refer the student to the Norwood Board of Health if necessary.
ART
Art is a learning experience that is an integral part of a child’s world. A solid visual arts program is therefore an essential part of the total educational development and growth of children. The elementary art curriculum provides a background for understanding vocabulary, materials, techniques, and art appreciation. Interdisciplinary, multicultural and technology integration strategies are encouraged and achieved. These curriculum objectives are presented with sequential instruction during a weekly lesson with an art teacher. The kindergarten children meet for a thirty-minute class and grades 1-5 meet for a forty-five minute class. The Norwood Elementary Visual Arts Curriculum is aligned to the Massachusetts State Visual Arts Frameworks
EXTENDED DAY PROGRAM
SYLVIA DELANEY
TELEPHONE (781) 551-3480
The Norwood Extended Day Program is day care for children of working parents. The after-school program, sponsored by the Norwood Public Schools, is held at the James R. Savage Educational Center from 3:00 – 6:00 p.m. and serves all elementary school children in kindergarten through fifth grade - on school days only.
Program content consists of recreational/educational activities and has a staff ratio of 1:10 including certified teachers and aides.
Buses for after school students will be provided from each school to the program center.
A six-week Summer Program is offered for 5 and 6 year olds and for children entering 2nd through 5th grades.
HEALTH/PHYSICAL EDUCATION
Health/Physical Education is an integral aspect in the physical and educational development of every child. Health, fitness and fun are words that epitomize this program.
Classes are designed to provide knowledge and develop skills that will promote healthy active lifestyles. All K-5 students receive both health and physical education classes taught by a health and physical education teacher.
The Health/Physical Education Curriculum is compatible with the established guidelines of the Massachusetts Curriculum Frameworks.
LIBRARY
Each elementary school has a school librarian. Classes are scheduled for students to come for classroom library visits, which include instruction and circulation. Parents are informed by the teacher when their child's library period is scheduled
so they may assist children in getting books back on time.
The school librarian is assisted by parent volunteers. Contact your P.T.A. representative or the school office if you are interested in becoming a library volunteer.
The replacement of library books and materials that have been lost or damaged is the responsibility of the parent/guardian.
MUSIC
Music is an essential part of our culture and community. It is also important to the development of the individual child. Therefore, classes, which teach children to sing, play, listen, perform and create, are integral to the music program.
The elementary school music program provides general and instrumental instruction. There are several assemblies throughout the year, which provide opportunities for the students to perform.
In third grade students are given the opportunity to begin violin lessons as well as to have recorder lessons in the classroom. Instruction on all band and orchestra instruments is offered in the fourth grade and continued in the fifth. Early in the school year information is sent home concerning lesson times and acquisition of instruments. Parents are reminded of the importance of regularly scheduled practice sessions at home.
PERFORMANCE ATTENDANCE POLICY - Students are required to attend all evening music programs presented by the students at the school.
Parents/guardians will be sent notices in advance via their children of the date(s) and time(s) of the performance(s) and required attendance of the children.
In the event of an emergency, illness, etc., a child would be excused from performing, providing that a written excuse signed by the parent/guardian is submitted to the principal.
The faculty and music personnel appreciate your cooperation in these school-related activities.
PSYCHOLOGIST
The psychologist is a member of the team involved in the evaluation of those children who have been referred for testing because of learning or behavioral problems. Through informal observation and formal psychological testing, the psychologist can assess the level and style of the child's learning abilities in order to design the most effective educational program for that child.
In addition, the psychologist will often function as a consultant to the classroom teachers and administrators regarding issues concerning the emotional and social development of children within a school setting.
LITERACY SPECIALIST
The specialist’s role is multifaceted in that it encompasses a wide range of services and responsibilities. She/he is primarily responsible for directing and coordinating the reading program in grades 1 through 5. Small group instruction is also provided to address students’ specific needs.
The literacy specialist provides ongoing support to the professional staff in the area of literacy development. Solid understanding of the Massachusetts language arts frameworks is critical. The literacy specialist designs and models many critical reading and writing lessons for classroom teachers to enhance their understanding of standards based instruction.
Assessment is an integral part of the language arts program and it is the responsibility of the literacy specialists to train staff members in the implementation of running records, an informal procedure to track students’ reading progress. The literacy specialist also serves as diagnostician and is trained to administer and interpret a wide range of diagnostic assessments. Knowledge an expertise in assessment is critical as the literacy specialist is called upon to present test findings and instructional recommendations to the Student Support and Special Education teams.
SCHOOL ADJUSTMENT COUNSELOR
The School Adjustment Counselor services those children who have emotional problems or who present behavior problems in school. They usually are referred by classroom teachers who are in a position to recognize symptoms of emotional upset, unusual behavior or poor social adjustment. The role of the counselor is to help the child change these negative attitudes and anti-social behavior so that he/she may function happily and successfully in school, at home, and in the community. It is realized that, if these children are treated during their earliest school years, severe behavior disorders and serious under achievement are usually avoided.
SPEECH AND LANGUAGE SPECIALIST
Effective speech for every child is the major goal of the speech program in the Norwood Public Schools. In the regular classroom, time is devoted to developing oral language skills and speech expression. The classroom teacher receives assistance from the speech and language specialist who acts as a consultant and resource person.
For children who have problems acquiring skills in speech correction beyond the scope and resources of the classroom, a special program is organized in which the specialist works with children in small groups and concentrates attention on individual speech problems. The specialist receives these referrals through the pre-school screening, parent(s) and teachers.
SCIENCE CENTER
The purpose of the Science Center is to provide students with an inquiry-based hands-on approach to the learning of science. Science Center staff is charged with curriculum and materials development along with teacher training for the elementary teachers in all five schools. Each of the teachers has a Science Center led lesson in Earth, Physical or Life Science once every two weeks. Curricula, materials and assessment materials are left with the teacher for use in between Science Center lessons. All lessons are part of a spiral scope and sequence that has been tightly aligned with the Learning Standards of the Massachusetts Science and Technology/Engineering Curriculum Framework.
TECHNOLOGY
At the Elementary Schools, technology is incorporated into all areas of the curriculum. Networked software as well as the Internet are used to support lessons taught in the classroom. Each elementary classroom has networked computers and a printer and each school has a projector that can be connected to a computer for large screen projection. The program brings to the schools other pieces of technology such as portable laptops, AlphaSmarts, Smartboards, handhelds and digital cameras. There are workshops for teachers’ professional development (both online and off line), in class instruction for students and after school computer clubs for fifth grade students.
Check out your school’s web page!
TITLE I
Title I is a federally funded support program that offers services to elementary students in Norwood. These support services are provided to students within the regular classroom; primarily in the area of reading/language arts. The Title I specialists, assigned to the eligible schools, work collaboratively with the classroom teachers to assist those children who have demonstrated a need for further strengthening and reinforcement in reading skills.
Eligibility for Title I funding is based on the percentage of free and reduced lunch population in each elementary school. Individual students’ participation is determined using selection criteria forms.
ENGLISH LANGLUAGE LEARNERS (ELL)
Norwood Public Schools offers comprehensive, direct, and high-quality instruction about the English language, including speaking, listening comprehension, reading, and writing as required to support an ELL’s development of academic English. This instruction includes learning outcomes in speaking, listening comprehension, reading, and writing. ESL instruction is a required part of an academic program for LEP students. ESL instruction is based on an ESL curriculum and appropriate ESL textbooks and other materials.
Norwood Public Schools is aligning the ELL curriculum to Massachusetts English Language Proficiency Benchmarks and Outcomes (ELPBO). The ELPBO was designed to be a framework for the development of an English as a Second Language (ESL) curriculum.
In addition, Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 71A requires that most limited English proficient (LEP) students be educated in a sheltered English Immersion (SEI) program.
An SEI program consists of two components:
· Sheltered content instruction and
· English as a second language (ESL) instruction
Classroom teachers have been and continue to be trained in Sheltered English Immersion.
Norwood Public Schools program consists of in-class instruction (SEI) and English Language instruction through a pull-out model.
Federal and state laws require that limited English proficient (LEP) students be assessed annually to measure their proficiency in reading, writing, listening, and speaking, English, as well as the progress they are making in learning English. In
keeping with these laws, LEP students must participate in the Massachusetts English Proficiency Assessment (MEPA), which consists of two assessments:
Massachusetts English Proficiency Assessment-R/W (MEPA-R/W) assesses LEP students’ proficiency in reading and writing at grade spans K-2, 3-4, 5-6, 7-8, and 9-12.
Massachusetts English Proficiency Assessment-Oral (MELA-0) assesses LEP students’ proficiency in listening (comprehension) and speaking (production) at grades K-12.
WILLETT EARLY CHILDHOOD CENTER
All kindergarten students in Norwood attend full day kindergarten classes at the Willett Early Childhood Center.
In addition, the Norwood Public Schools Integrated Preschool Program is located at the Willett Center. This program provides comprehensive early childhood services in compliance with Massachusetts Special Education regulations and the Federal Law, Public Law 94-142. The staff of the Early Childhood Center screen, evaluate, and service young children with special needs between the ages of three and five. The goal of this town-wide program is early intervention in the lives of young children so that their educational experiences will be as successful as possible.
Special instructional classes during the morning and afternoon are held at the Willett Center, along with speech therapy, occupational therapy, and physical therapy. The staff also spends much time with home consultation in order to assist parents in meeting the needs of their child.
BRINGING MONEY TO SCHOOL
Children should be discouraged from bringing money to school except for specific purposes such as milk, lunch, a la carte items, or school store. It is always helpful when children have the exact amount. In the case of very young children, you may want to put the money in an envelope labeled with the child's name, room number, amount enclosed and purpose for which the money is intended. Students are not allowed to borrow money.
DISMISSAL
Children are asked to go directly home from school at dismissal time. If parents wish to make any changes in their child's daily schedule at school such as early dismissal for a doctor's appointment or getting picked up at school by someone other than a parent, a note must be sent to the child's teacher signed by a parent informing him/her about that change.
DRESS CODE
Although there is no formal dress code, pupils are expected to:
1. Wear clothing appropriate to the season and the schoolwork environment.
2. Clothing which attracts special attention or is disruptive to the class is inappropriate.
3. All clothing should be neat, clean, and comfortable.
The administration reserves the right to determine if certain attire is inappropriate in a school setting. This includes the wearing of hats in school as well as clothing that interrupts or prevents an orderly program.
A student may be sent home if the administration deems attire to be inappropriate.
FIELD TRIPS
When a class takes a field trip, parents are required to sign a field trip permission slip in order for their child to go on the trip. Children may be asked to bring a small fee to help defray costs of the trip. Regular school budget funds and P.T.A. funds are used to pay for the balance of the trip.
A child may lose his/her privilege to attend a field trip due to inappropriate school behavior. Students not able to participate in a field trip shall be at school and involved in worthwhile curriculum-based activities.
Excellent student behavior is expected from all children participating on a field trip. The behavior of students on field trips must always reflect the highest standards of the Norwood Public Schools. All school regulations are applicable on field trips.
Students who routinely take medication during school hours may be given this medication during field trips. Written permission from the parent/guardian is required prior to the field trip. These medications will be administered by an adult. Parents who have questions or concerns regarding field trip medication should speak directly to the school nurse. This directive has been approved and certified by the Massachusetts Department of Public Health.
EMERGENCY DRILLS
Regular emergency drills for building evacuation as well as lock down are scheduled for students and staff. Students are instructed in proper fire safety, discipline and procedures in an emergency, and location of regular and
alternative exits. Everyone is expected to take these drills seriously as there is always the possibility of an emergency. The following drills are held:
1. Fire Drills
Four fire drills with Fire Department personnel in attendance are scheduled during the school year. Everyone is required to exit the building in an orderly fashion following proper procedures.
2. Lock-Down
At least one Lock-down drill is held periodically. Emergency drills require every person to follow building lock-down procedures in the event of an intruder or other situation, which threatens the safety of the staff and students.
LOST AND FOUND
The school maintains a lost and found box in the cafeteria. If an article is left on the bus, you must contact the bus company dispatcher at 508-785-2234. Please mark outer clothing (especially rubbers, boots, and sneakers) with children's names. Lunch boxes also need identification as does book bags, pencil boxes, etc.
MESSAGES/TELEPHONE
The main office of the school is the center of activity and often a very busy place. Therefore, parents will find day-to-day information can be exchanged best by sending a note with their child. When you find it necessary to telephone your child at the school, the message will be relayed to him/her.
This should be done only in an emergency situation. If possible, all instructions should be given to your child before s/he leaves home in the morning. Children are only allowed to use the telephone in an emergency situation.
Teachers may be reached l5 min. before school opens or after school is dismissed at 2:55 p.m. A message may be taken at any time for a teacher. Unless there is an emergency, the teacher will not be called to the phone during the school day.
MILK AND LUNCH MONEY
Milk is served in the mid-morning to all children who desire it. Milk money for the next week is due each Thursday. Children can bring their own snack to have with milk.
Lunch is provided for students who wish to buy their lunch. It can be ordered on a daily basis. Please watch the school update and local paper for the lunch menu.
NO SCHOOL INFORMATION
The main reason for calling off any session of school will be a regard for pupil safety. The Norwood Public
Schools have three options for school closings in case of storm emergencies:
1. Closing school all day
The Superintendent will initiate the Connect Ed Technology. This is a system where the Superintendent will start a town wide phone calling system to all households in the school system to announce the closing of school.
2. Delaying the opening of school by one or two hours
The length of the delay will be broadcast during the no school announcements. If the delayed opening option is in effect, elementary school children are to report to school one or two hours later. Bus students will be picked up by the buses at the regular stops one or two hours later also. In cases of delayed openings, parents are advised to use their own discretion in keeping their child home from school or school events during inclement weather.
3. Early dismissal
Dismissal of students during the school day is very rare. This option would be chosen only if severe weather conditions occur once the students have arrived at school or for other emergencies such as loss of heat, water, etc. (see Emergency School Closings Procedures for more information).
In the event that the Superintendent chooses one of these options, in addition to a Connect Ed call, the information will be broadcast over the following radio or TV stations:
WBZ-1030 AM Channel 4
WCVB Channel 5
WRKO-680 AM Channel 7
LOCAL ACCESS Channel 8 or 23
FOX TV Channel 10 or 13
NORWOOD EDUCATIONAL CABLE Channel 12, 22, 34
You may call 781-762-6804. The main announcement will be changed if there is a delay or school cancellation.
P.T.A./P.T.O.
The purpose of the P.T.A. (Parent Teacher Association) and P.T.O (Parent Teacher Organization) is to promote communication and understanding between parents and teachers, and to enrich the children's school experiences. This association is open to all parents and teachers of Norwood Public School students. Monthly open board meetings are held in the evening and all parents are always welcomed and encouraged to attend.
Parents are encouraged to contact the P.T.A./P.T.O. Board members or the school office, if they would like to be more involved in the P.T.A./P.T.O.
There are many ways that parents can be involved with their child’s school. For example, they can participate as an assistant in the library, in the school store, as a room mother, on the school newsletter, and as an active member of the P.T.A/P.T.O. A sign up sheet is sent home in the spring, which explains various positions available in the P.T.A/P.T.O and its volunteer programs.
PTA/PTO EMERGENCY LISTS
During the school year, the Norwood Public Schools may authorize the PTA/PTO’s to use the information in student directories including home telephone numbers. This information will be utilized by PTA/PTO’s for emergency contact use only. If a parent does not want this information given to PTA/PTO’s, they should notify the principal in writing by September 15.
PLAYGROUND
Pupils are expected to behave in such a manner that their actions do not pose a threat to the safety or well-being of themselves or others; specifically:
A. There are to be no body contact sports other than tag-type games. Unnecessary roughness is forbidden along with teasing, harassment, or bullying.
B. No objects other than proper play equipment are to be used on the playground.
C. Playing should take place in areas designated and designed for the activity.
D. Proper use of the permanent playground equipment is expected.
E. It is expected that each pupil will assume a share of the responsibility for maintaining neat, attractive school grounds and buildings; hence no littering, defacing, or destruction will be tolerated.
F. Under no circumstances should a pupil leave the school grounds during the school day unless authorized by the administrator in charge.
KINDERGARTEN SCREENING
Kindergarten screening is a state-mandated process to identify children with special needs. Parents are given an appointment for screening at the time of registration. Children are screened individually in the spring, prior to the start of the new school year. Students registering for kindergarten during the summer months are screened in September. Parents are notified if any further testing is recommended after the kindergarten screening.
PRE-SCHOOL SCREENING
In accordance with Massachusetts Special Education regulations, pre-school children are screened in order to identify those children who should be referred for a more comprehensive evaluation.
This screening consists of a developmental history, a medical history, a vision and hearing test, a test of language development, and a test of perceptual and motor functioning. Contact the Willett Early Childhood Center Office for additional information.
REPORT CARDS
Report cards are sent home with students in grades 1-5 three times a year according to the following schedule:
Term Marks Close Report Cards Distributed
I December 2nd December 9th
II March 9th March 16th
III One week prior to the The last day of school
end of school
Kindergarten students receive two progress reports. The first progress report is sent home the last week in January. The second kindergarten progress report is sent home the last day of school.
RESPONSIBILITY OF A NON-CUSTODIAL PARENT TO RECEIVE STUDENTS RECORDS
To obtain students records, the Non-Custodial Parent must:
1. Provide the school with a written request for records
2. Have an order from the Probate Court that states that the non-custodial parent has not been denied custody.
3. Provide information showing that the non-custodial parent has unsupervised visitation.
4. Provide the school with an affidavit that certifies that no restraining orders are in effect as of the last custodial order.
Once the above information is provided, the school will notify the custodial parent by registered mail and first class U.S. mail of the request. The custodial parent has 21 days to protest the request. Once the request has been approved, the school will delete the address and phone number from the child’s school record and forward the record to the non-custodial parent. These records cannot be used to register a student in a new school.
Each year after the initial request, the eligible non-custodial parent must submit a letter to the school indicating that the parent continues to be:
1. entitled to unsupervised visitation with the child, and
2. eligible to receive the student record information.
SAFETY TIPS
Parents can help protect their children from being abducted and exploited. Talk with your children about the following safety rules.
1. Beware of enticements from strangers - candy, gifts, or money.
2. Do not get close to a car if a stranger asks for directions; it is easy to get pulled into the car.
3. Choose familiar routes when walking to school and always walk with a friend. Don't come to school too early, before 8:25 a.m.
4. Run away, scream and make lots of noise, if followed by a stranger.
5. Tell parents/guardians immediately if anyone or any incident has made the students feel uncomfortable.
SCHOOL DAY
A. All students are to observe the safety rules by walking on the sidewalks and crossing only at supervised intersections. No fooling, playing, or throwing of snowballs or other objects is permitted while students are walking to and from school.
B. Children are requested to report any unusual incident immediately to their parents, teacher, or traffic supervisor.
C. All children are expected to go directly home from school unless the school is notified otherwise by parent or legal guardian by phone or note. (Example: going to a friend's house after school.)
D. A note must be brought in for the early dismissal of a pupil. Only parents, legal guardians or authorized persons may come into the office to pick up said pupil. All children must be signed out in the Tardy/Dismissal book at the front desk.
E. Students should not arrive at school before formal supervision begins. On occasion, teachers will ask pupils to report to school early for individual help, etc., in which case the teacher will assume responsibility for the supervision.
F. During inclement weather, children may enter the building and report to their designated areas.
G. Children arriving at school tardy (after 8:50 a.m.) must report to the school office and sign in the Tardy/Dismissal Book before going to the classroom.
H. After an absence of one or more days, a student is required to bring a note from home explaining the reason for his/her absence.
I. The proper use of the bathroom facilities is reviewed by each classroom teacher. The writing on walls, careless use of paper towels, and misuse of lavatory facilities will be considered serious matters.
J. Students are provisioned with hard and soft covered textbooks at the beginning of each school year. Students are responsible for maintaining the condition of each book and for returning all textbooks at the end of the year in a condition deemed acceptable to the teacher and principal. The parent/guardian is responsible for paying for the replacement of any books that are damaged or lost.
The replacement of library books and materials that have been lost or damaged is the responsibility of the parent/guardian.
SCHOOL PARTIES
School parties are planned through the teacher. Please check with the classroom teacher for policy on parties.
SCHOOL PICTURES
Individual photographs are taken of each student each year and may be purchased, if desired, at a nominal cost.
STUDENT'S RECORDS
A student's cumulative record is available for parents/guardians to examine. If a parent wishes to do so, he or she may request an appointment through the principal's office. Copies of student’s records will be made available, however, a fee for photocopies may be charged.
These records are designed to be a useful collection of data about your child and include health information, standardized test scores, conference reports, and any other information helpful in assisting the student throughout school. Student records are stored within each building in a secure location.
According to Massachusetts Student Record Regulations, when a student transfers to a new school, the principal may send the "complete school record" without prior parental consent. If your child transfers to a new school, either in or out of Norwood, his/her complete school record will be forwarded to the new school, including but not limited to, discipline records, transcript, health record, and any Special Education records.
TESTING
Elementary students are administered a variety of formal and informal assessments during their school experiences from Kindergarten through Grade 5.
The following information outlines the schedule of formal testing that will be conducted in all elementary schools.
STATE TESTING PROGRAM:
Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System (MCAS): SPRING 2012
Reading/ELA Grade 3-8
March 20 – April 2, 2012
Math, Science & Technology Grades 3-8
May 7-22, 2012
MELA-O Grades K–12
October 3-31, 2011
February 13 – March 16, 2012
MEPA Grades K–12
October 24-31, 2011
March 5-16, 2012 Paper and pencil administration
February 27 - March 16, 2012 Online administration
NORWOOD’S STANDARDIZED TESTING PROGRAM:
Children’s Progress---Grades K-3
Fall, winter, spring
PTS/3---Grades 4-5
Fall, spring
VISITORS/VOLUNTEERS TO SCHOOL
Should you desire to visit the school during school hours, you are most welcome to do so. Parents should call prior to the visit and make an appointment with
the teacher for a mutually convenient time. Before you begin your visit, stop in at the main office and sign in the Visitors/Volunteers Log with your name and where you are visiting. Visitor passes will be issued and must be worn while in the school building and on school grounds.
WEBSITE
The Norwood Public Schools’ web page is www.norwood.K12.ma.us. The web site provides a wealth of information about Norwood Public Schools in general with links to each individual school.
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