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Rochester Elementary Schools
Parent and Student
Handbook
2007 - 2008

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The following policies and procedures are consistent throughout all Rochester Elementary Schools. An additional set of policies and procedures specific to each elementary school will also be distributed at each school.
If you have questions please contact your school's principal or the superintendent's office (332-3678). Revised 8/2007 by M.Wingate

Absence Policy
Protection of Our Children:
Rochester has implemented an absentee call back system to record the safe arrival of students at school each day. The success of this program relies heavily on parent cooperation. To help protect your children we would appreciate you contacting us at school if your child is sick, or has an appointment and will be late. If we do not hear from you and time allows, we will call your home as a means of double-checking. Please feel free to call anytime after 8:00 AM. See list of school numbers under "Contacts."

Emergency Slips
Your child's school will send home an emergency slip for you to complete very early in the school year. It is extremely important that this slip be returned to school with complete information.
Please notify the school if any of your information changes.
IN CASE OF EMERGENCY we need to be able to locate you as soon as possible.

Student Absences and Excuses
Regular and punctual patterns of attendance will be required of each student enrolled in the district.
It is recognized that absences from school may be necessary under certain conditions. However, every effort should be made by students, parents, teachers and administrators to keep absences and tardiness to a minimum.
Student attendance at school is basically the responsibility of the parents and student. In order for the parents to fulfill their responsibility the school must keep them informed of student absences.
An adequate and comprehensive system of attendance records will be maintained for each student. Each teacher is responsible for accurate reporting of daily attendance in his/her classroom. The building principal is responsible for submitting attendance information to the Superintendent’s Office.
The School Board recognizes three kinds of absence: excused absence, documented absences and truancy.

Excused absence is absence because of illness, death in the student’s immediate family, participation in school activities, or other approved reasons that have been verified with a written note from a physician or other qualified health professional who is treating the student, or from a school official. Excused absences will not lead to “administrative failure” of the student, although students are not excused from any academic requirements for grading, regardless of the reason for absence, except for reasonable

modifications as required in an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) pursuant to the Individuals With Disabilities Education Action and/or Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Action of 1973.

Documented absence is absence because of illness, participation in school activities, or other necessary absence with the approval of parents, and not having verification from a health professional or school official. Documented absences beyond the limits set in this policy contribute to grade reduction and/or administrative failure.

Any absence other than an excused absence or documented absence is considered truancy.
In addition, excessive excused absences from class will be dealt with by individual teachers and may result in lowering of the student’s grade or failure in the class if course requirements have not been met. Assignment of lower grades because of excessive absences and/or truancy shall occur on the basis of grading terms as outlined below:
When a student has been absent (without an accepted excuse as defined below) from a class more than five days per quarter, that student will receive an administrative F or Unsatisfactory in all subject areas, or the actual grade earned, if lower, for the quarter. In grades 1 and 2, the principal may unilaterally waive the administrative failure in one quarter for good cause.

Appeal Procedures
If a student is in danger of administrative failure, required verification cannot be obtained and the student’s parent/guardian believes that there is a compelling reason why a documented absence or absences should be reclassified as excused; he/she can appeal the absence classification as follows:
red dot Level 1 appeal to the principal
red dot Level 2 appeal to the Superintendent’s Office
red dot Level 3 appeal to the School Board Instruction Committee
red dot Level 4 appeal to the School Board

Excused Absences:
1. Illness or injury requiring a doctor’s visit or consultation. (Official documentation from a doctor is needed upon return to school.)
2. Legal matters, death of relative or friend, religious holidays, and college visitations must be verified by official documentation.
3. School sponsored field trips/athletic events must be verified by the staff member in charge.
4. Family vacations during school must be submitted two weeks in advance of the trip and students must be good academic standing. A student not in good academic standing will have it noted on the request and the parent must decide on the advisability of the trip. A student may not have more than five days excused for a family vacation.

Tardiness:
1. A student that misses more than one hour of school will be considered absent for one half of a day.
2. Three unauthorized tardies to school or class will result in one unexcused absence.

Dismissals:
1. The only grounds for dismissal are medical, funeral, legal and/or extenuating family circumstances.
2. Parents/guardians are strongly urged to schedule medical/therapeutic appointments outside of the school day.
3. If a student is dismissed for more that one hour of class time they are considered absent for one half of a day. The absence then must meet the criteria for an excused absence or it is considered an unexcused absence.
4. If the school nurse or building principal dismisses a student for illness, it is considered an excused absence.



Alcohol Use
Alcoholic beverages will not be permitted on school property at any time during school hours or at school-sponsored activities. Any student in possession or under the influence will be immediately suspended from school for a period of time not to exceed twenty school days. The Administration will refer all such cases to the School Board discipline Committee for possible further action to include additional suspension or expulsion. The New Hampshire State Stature states: "No person shall drink or have in his/her possession, any intoxicating beverage while in attendance as a spectator or otherwise, at any place where a school interscholastic contest is being conducted. Whoever violates the provisions of this section shall be guilty of a misdemeanor." (School Board Policy JFCH, 5/12/94)

Anti-Discrimination Policy
The Rochester School District does not discriminate on the basis of sex or race in the program it operates, and follows this practice to work for the elimination of barriers that prevent full access to equal education.

Anti-Harassment Policy
The policy of the Rochester School District is to maintain a learning environment for all of its students free from any form of discrimination or harassment. The district shall promote educational programs and disciplinary procedures for the purpose of identifying and eliminating discrimination and harassment in all district activities.
The Rochester School District will act to investigate all complaints either formal or informal, verbal or write, or racial harassment or violence and to discipline or take appropriate action against any pupil, teacher, administrator or other school personnel who is found to have violated this policy.
The Rochester School District will take appropriate action against any pupil, teacher, administrator or other school personnel who retaliates against any person who reports alleged racial harassment or violence to any person who testifies, assists in or participates in an investigation, or who testifies, assists or participates in a proceeding or hearing relating got such harassment or violence. Retaliation includes, but is not limited to, any form of intimidation, reprisal or harassment.
The Rochester School District recognizes that some forms of harassment are violations of civil and/or criminal law. Whenever violations of these laws are suspected, the appropriate public authorities will be contacted and a formal complaint filed.

Definitions
Racial harassment consists of physical or verbal conduct relating to an individual's race when the conduct has the purpose or effect of creating an intimidating, hostile or offensive environment, or adversely interferes with an individual's academic performance.
Physical violence includes fighting, destruction of property, hitting, biting, throwing objects. (In the judgment of the staff the behavior must be intended to harm another person or a deliberate attempt to deface property.)
Emotional or verbal violence includes swearing, name-calling or any other intended affront to either an individual or the school. (In the judgment of the staff person the behavior must be intentionally aimed at tearing down another human being or the school.)

Policy Dissemination
The School District shall conspicuously post this policy against harassment and violence in each school, in a place accessible to students, faculty, administrators, employees, parents and members of the public. This notice shall include the name, mailing address and the phone number of the person responsible for investigating allegations of harassment within the school.
A copy of the policy shall appear in the Student Handbook and shall be made available upon request of parents, students, and other interested parties.
The Administration will develop a method of discussing the policy with students and employees. Training on the requirements for non-discrimination and the appropriate responses to issues of racial harassment will be provided to all school personnel on an annual basis.

Investigation
Upon receipt of the report or complaint alleging harassment based on race, national origin or disability, the building administrator or designee shall immediately undertake or authorize an investigation. The investigation may consist of personal interviews with the complainant, the individual against whom the complaint is filed and others who have knowledge of the alleged circumstances about the incident.
In determining whether the alleged conduct constitutes a violation of this policy, the following shall be considered: the nature of the behavior, how often the conduct occurred, if the behavior is a continuing pattern, the relationship of the parties involved, race, national origin, sex and age of the victim. Whether the action constitutes violation of this policy requires a determination based on all the facts and surrounding circumstances.
The investigation shall be completed not later than ten days from the receipt of the report. A written incident report shall be submitted to the Superintendent upon completion of the investigation. The report shall be submitted on the District Incident Report Form.

Response Form
The Building Principal or designee shall develop a response plan and communicate the plan to the victim, the complainant, parents of students involved and the individual about whom the complaint is filed. The response plan shall be included as part of the incident report. The incident shall be reported to the police if there is a violation of the Safe School Act and the school resource officer may be part of the response plan.
The first time harassment or violent behavior occurs the policy will be reviewed and one of the following parent notification methods will be used. The teacher and principal together will choose the method.
1. Conflict resolution strategies will be used and taught whenever possible.
2. A written note from the teacher to the parent.
3. A phone call made by the teacher.
4. A phone call made by the principal.
5. A form letter from the principal's office, with a return the next day.
6. A phone call made by the student with the principal or designee in attendance.
If the behavior is repeated the same day or becomes a pattern, the following strategies may be used:
1. In-school suspension.
2. An out of school suspension.
3. A conference with the parents.
4. The response plan completed and submitted to the Superintendent's' Office.
5. Any combination of the above.
6. Referral to the Discipline Committee of the School Board.

Asbestos in School Buildings
A thorough investigation of Rochester school facilities in 1988 determined that asbestos-containing building materials were used in the construction and/or renovation of all buildings. In order to protect the health of our students, staff and visitors, a management plan has been developed for each school building to assure that asbestos is either removed from the building or maintained in a safe condition. The records of the original inspection and the management plan for each building are maintained in the Principal's Office and Superintendent's Office and are available for public inspection. All other documents related to asbestos are maintained by the Superintendent's Office and are also available for public inspection. For an appointment, please telephone 332-3678.


Assurances
In accordance with applicable federal and state laws and Rochester School Department Policies, Gonic School does not discriminate on the basis of race, gender, or disability and does not permit its staff or students to do so. If you believe that your child has been subjected to discrimination and you have not been able to resolve this through the building principal, or prefer not to do so, you may contact the following:
Gender-based discrimination Disability-based discrimination
Title IX Coordinator Section 504 Coordinator
Shelly Gingras Sharon Pray
Spaulding High School Rochester School Department
130 Wakefield Street 150 Wakefield Street, Suite #8
Rochester, NH 03867 Rochester, NH 03867

Bomb Scares
Bomb scare emergencies will be handled in accordance with the School Board policies. Current policy permits only those students who have written permission for dismissal signed by their parents or guardians and placed on file with the school administration to leave school for the remainder of the day.
WARNING: Students are reminded that false alarms for fire or bombs are a criminal offense and such crimes will be severely dealt with by the police and courts.

Bullying
POLICY UNDER RSA 193-F
It is the policy of the Rochester School Department that its students have an educational setting that is safe, secure, peaceful and free from bullying. The Rochester School Department will not tolerate bullying as defined herein.

Bullying Defined
Bullying, for purposes of this policy, is defined as insults, taunts, or challenges, whether verbal or physical in nature that is likely to intimidate or provoke a violent or disorderly response. Bullying in violation of this policy may or may not rise to the level of unlawful harassment or discrimination under Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 [34 CFR §§ 106.1 et seq.], the Americans with Disabilities Act [28 CFR §§ 35.101 et seq.], Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 [34 CFR §§ 100.1 et seq.], Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 [34 CFR §§ 104.1 et seq.], or the district's sexual harassment policy. Further, reporting may be required under New Hampshire's Child Abuse Protection Act [RSA 169-C: 29 et seq.].
1. Any student who believes (s)he has been the victim of bullying shall report the alleged acts immediately to the building Principal. If a student is more comfortable reporting the alleged acts to a person other than the building Principal, the student should contact any school district employee or other person whom (s)he trusts.
2. Any parent or other individual who has witnessed or has reliable information that a student has been the victim of bullying should report the incident to the student’s Principal or the Principal’s designee.
3. Any school employee, or employee of a company under contract with the school or school district, who has witnessed or has reliable information that a student has been the victim of bullying shall report the incident to the student’s Principal or the Principal’s designee.
4. The principal or designee shall forward an incident report to the Superintendent.

Investigation and Discipline
1. The Principal or designee shall act on all alleged acts of bullying.
2. The Principal shall take such action deemed necessary and appropriate.
3. The Principal or designee shall follow the district's discipline policies and procedures when administering a response to alleged bullying.

Immunity
A school employee, or employee of a company under contract with a school or school district, who has reported violations of bullying to the Principal or designee shall be immune from any cause of action which may arise from the failure of the school district to remedy the reported incident.

Bus Rules
Bus conduct rules (School Board Policy JFCC-R, 4/8/93) will be distributed by bus drivers at the beginning of each school year.
The bus driver will have responsibility to maintain orderly behavior of students on school buses and will report misconduct to the students' principal.
See RSA 189:9-A. Parent of children whose pattern of behavior and misconduct on school buses endanger the health, safety and welfare of other riders will be notified that their children face the loss of school bus riding privileges in accordance with the student discipline code. (School Board Policy JFCC, 4/8/93)
Students are not allowed to ride on any bus but their own without prior permission of the assistant superintendent.

Bus Routes
Routes are published in Foster's Daily Democrat and The Times each August.

Calendar
The 2007-2008 School Calendar is attached available in the school office or online.

Change of Address/Telephone
Please notify the school immediately if your address or telephone number changes so that we may update our records.

Chorus, Band
Elementary students in grades 4 and 5 are able to join the school chorus, which practices once a week during the school day. Fourth and fifth graders may also take instrumental lessons during the day. Each school with grades 4 and 5 will have an instrument demonstration in September, followed by an Open House. At the Open House, students will be able to pick up instruments to rent for the school year. Information will be distributed to students at the instrumental demonstration about the date, location and time of the Open House.

Contacts

Schools
red dot Chamberlain Street School………………………………332-5258
red dot East Rochester School ………………………………… 332-2146
red dot Nancy Loud School…..............................................332-6486
red dot Gonic School………………………………………………332-6487
red dot McClelland School………………………………………..332-2180
red dot Maple Street School………………………………………332-6481
red dot Richard Creteau Regional Technology Center……..…..335-7351
red dot Rochester Middle School…………………………………332-4090
red dot School Street School……………………………………...332-6483
red dot Spaulding High School…………………………………….332-0757
red dot William Allen Elementary School…………………...…...332-2280

Others
red dot Extended School Programs / Volunteers Coordinator: 335-3648
red dot Rochester School Department……………………………332-3678
red dot Personnel Office (fingerprinting)…………….................332-3678

Websites and Emails
Rochester School Department: url: www.rochesterschools.com

Discipline, Forms of
A. Teacher/student: Teachers may and are encouraged to handle their own detention or other disciplinary measures for misconduct in their classes.
B. Social probation: The denial of a student to attend and/or participate in extra-curricular activities, school dances or any other form of after-school activity.
C. Detention: A student is assigned to a specific supervised room during and/or after school hours.
D. Suspension: A student is denied attendance at school or school functions for a designated number of days in accordance with the provisions of Policy JGD. Any student who is suspended from school has a right to appeal the decision to the Superintendent. The Superintendent will explain the appeal process at that time. A student is not permitted on school property at any time during the duration of an out-of-school suspension.
A school administrator or teacher may detain a student for disciplinary reasons during school hours.
Further, a school administrator or teacher may detain a student for disciplinary reason after school hours, provided the parent has been notified of the detention. In cases where transportation is required, 24-hour notice will be given so the parents may arrange transportation.
Any student attending school who neglects or refuses to conform to standards of orderly conduct shall be subject to suspension. Prior to suspension of a student the principal or acting principal shall:
• Notify the student of the alleged violation and the grounds for suspension.
• Give the student the opportunity to respond to the alleged violation.
• Provide evidence of the violation to the student.
Please contact the Building Principal, if you have questions or concerns related to suspension or detention policies.
E. Expulsion: Expulsion will be made only by School Board (see JDG). (School Board Policy JG-E, 4/8/93)

Doctor/Dentist Appointments
Parents should make every effort to make students' appointments after school time.

Dress Code
The responsibility for the appearance of the students rests with the parents and the students themselves.
They have the right to determine such student's dress, providing that such attire is not destructive to school property, complies with the health code of the State of New Hampshire, is appropriate and does not interfere with the educational process.
Students should not wear clothing or hairstyles that can be hazardous to them in their school activities such as shop, lab work, physical education and art. Articles of clothing that cause excessive maintenance problems; for example, cleats of boots, shoes that scratch floors and trousers with metal rivets that scratch furniture, are unacceptable.
School attire must adhere to the generally accepted standards of the community. Obscene and inappropriate dress will not be acceptable. When a question as to the appropriateness of the attire exists, the principal will make the decision.

Emergency Information (form)
Attached the printed copy of this handbook is an emergency form for you to complete. It is extremely important that this form be returned to school with complete and current information. In the event of an emergency this form will help us contact you. Throughout the year, please notify the school office if your information changes.

Food Services Meal Program
Current meal prices are listed below. Menus are sent home monthly.
Overview
The Rochester Schools Meal Program offers breakfast, lunch, milk, and snacks to approximately 5500 students and faculty each day.
At the elementary school level students may chose from five different lunch choices each day. These choices are hot meal, salad, deli sandwich, fun lunch, or peanut butter & jelly. Breakfast choices range from hot breakfast sandwiches, cereals, breakfast pastries, pancakes, and more. Snacks are also available for purchase during breakfast or lunch for .50 cents.
All meals are offered with a variety of fruits and vegetables as well as several choices of milk.
Meals are put together and offered to meet federal nutrition guidelines.
Student Accounts
Every student in the Rochester school system has been set up with a food service account. Accounts are pulled up from our computerized system using student names or student identification numbers. Each account contains current account balance, purchase and payment histories, individual pricing structure, and can notify cashiers of any dietary and/or allergy concerns. All account information is private and every effort is made to secure account and student privacy.
Payment Options
Both cash and checks are accepted for payment of school meals. Checks must include student name, school name, and student identification number. Checks are to be made payable to Rochester Schools Meal Program. Please be aware that checks returned from the bank will be charged a return fee and cause students’ accounts to be placed on “cash only” status until all shortages and fees are paid.
Elementary school parents are encouraged to use pre-printed payment envelopes. These are provided by the school meal program and are sent home with students each week. Please consider making advanced payments on account for multiple weeks or months. By paying in advance you can save time and money, not to mention the benefit of knowing your child’s meals are planned ahead of time.
Parents may also place money on students’ accounts by sending checks only to:
Rochester Meal Program
130 Wakefield Street
Rochester, NH 03867

Menus
Elementary and middle school menus are written and distributed on a monthly basis. There are separate menus for both breakfast and lunch.
All menus are made available using the following resources:

• Sent home with students.
• Included in school newsletters.
• Posted on the web at http://www.rochesterschools.com/Webmaster/updates/menu.html
• Printed in local newspapers.
• Available at cashier stands.
It is a great idea to review the menus with your children so you can help them plan their meals and learn about the variety of nutritious and fun meals offered by your schools food service.
General Information
• Withdrawal of cash funds from account is not allowed.
• Any funds left on account at the end of a school year will be transferred with the student to the next grade and/or school.
• Funds placed on account are for food purchases only.
• Elementary school menus contain special messages from Pyramid Pete and his friends each month.
• During the school year we run free raffles and have special give-away days.
• We will be starting our own web page at www.rochesterschools.com. Look for special flyers and pictures from our various events and activities during the year.
• For food service employment opportunities or to become a food service substitute please call 332-0757 Ext. 246.
• Teachers and faculty may also set up food service accounts.
• Free / Reduced Meal Program applications are available at all school offices.
• A teacher’s lunch menu is offered at all elementary schools.
• We offer in-house catering services.

For additional information or questions please contact:
Don Link – Director of Food Service Telephone – (603) 332-0757 Ext. 246
Rochester, NH 03867
E-mail – link.d@rochesterschools.com

MEAL PRICES for 2007 – 2008 SCHOOL YEAR
Hot Lunch: $1.75 (reduced $.40)
Milk: $.45 (1/2 day Kindergarten: $.10 & Preschool)
Breakfast: $1.10 (reduced $.30)
Snacks: $.50
Adult Lunch: $3.00

Head Lice
Having head lice is a medical condition that requires attention. Head lice are easily treated and are generally not associated with any serious condition. Uncleanliness is not a factor in transmitting lice.
The school nurses check students on a regular basis and more frequently in those classes where there has been a suspected problem. If you suspect your child may have head lice, consult your physician or pharmacist for treatment. The school nurse also has information available upon request on how to examine for lice, and treatment.
A Message from the Rochester School Nurses: “In order to keep head lice under control, parents must be checking their children’s hair weekly, year round. We will check the children’s hair during the first month of school and thereafter in those classes where there has been a suspected problem. Head lice can only be controlled with the help of all the parents. If you find head lice, please notify your child’s school nurse and those people who have had close contact with them (i.e., relatives, friends, childcare workers, neighbors, etc.).
Children playing in close contact or a simple exchange of hats, clothing, brushes, combs, pillows and other personal articles can transmit head lice from one child to another. If you child has come home with head lice, don’t panic. You will need to treat this condition but head lice will not create a medical emergency.
Lice can be effectively treated. Medication to treat head lice can be obtained without a prescription. Treatments can be found at most any store. If the over the counter treatment you have used seems ineffective, you should call your doctor for further advice.
With continual attention year round from you at home and us at school, the problem should be kept under control. If you have any questions or would like more information about this communicable condition, please call your child’s school nurse.”

Health Services
The major focus of the School Health Services, in conjunction with the home, school, and community is to help students achieve and maintain the highest possible standard of health, which will enable them to function in school, to practice sound health habits and to live healthier lives. The Health Services will seek to improve and protect the health of the child by identification and assistance in removal or modification of health related barriers to the learning process. The aim is to prevent illness and the early detection and correction of health problems. Periodically children will be screened for visual and hearing problems, growth status, scoliosis, and high blood pressure. Health Records, (including immunizations as required by state law) are maintained on each child. We encourage parents to contact their child's school nurse through their school if they have questions or concerns.

Honeywell Alert System
Honeywell Instant Alert for Schools, put in place last year, is a reliable, fast, accurate, efficient and flexible Web application for alerting parents in an emergency situation or for daily communication needs. It is a highly effective automated notification system and helps to provide vital information, using the following media: e-mail, phones, text messaging devices. All students enrolled in Rochester schools are automatically signed up. For changes to the way you receive notice or if you have questions about the program, please contact your school’s office personnel.

Honor Roll
Third, fourth and fifth grade students are eligible for a place on the honor roll based on their grades, effort and conduct each quarter. The Rochester School Department's criteria are:
HIGH HONORS: All A's and no U's or N's in effort and conduct.
HONORS: All A's and B's and no U's or N's in effort and conduct.

Hours
Elementary schools start at 8:30 AM and end at 3:00 PM. Bus students are dropped off from 7:55 - 8:30 AM. Walkers and students being dropped off should not be on school grounds before 8:10 AM.

Illness or Injury
If a student is ill or there has been an injury, the school will make every attempt to reach a parent/guardian, or a contact person listed on the student's emergency form (again, please notify the school immediately if information changes). If necessary, the school will call 911 for assistance.

Internet Use: Computer & Communications Policy Statement
The Rochester School Board recognizes the value of computer and other electronic resources to improve student learning and enhance the administration and operation of its schools. To this end, the Board encourages the responsible use of computers, computer networks, including the Internet, and other electronic resources, in support of the mission and goals of the Rochester School Department and its schools.
Because the Internet is an unregulated, worldwide vehicle for communication, information available to staff and students is impossible to control fully. Therefore, the Board adopts this policy governing the voluntary use of electronic resources and the Internet in order to provide guidance to individuals and groups obtaining access to these resources on School Department-owned equipment or through School Department affiliated organizations.

School Department Rights and Responsibilities
It is the policy of the Rochester School Board to maintain an environment that promotes ethical and responsible conduct in all computer and communications equipment activities by staff and students.

It shall be a violation of this policy for any employee, student, or other individual to engage in any activity that does not conform to the established purpose and general rules and policies of computer/communications equipment use. Within this general policy, the School Department recognizes its legal and moral obligation to
protect the well being of students in its charge. To this end, the School Department retains the following rights and recognizes the following obligations:

1. To monitor the use of computer network and the communications network activities. This may include real-time monitoring of Internet access and/or maintaining a log of Internet activity, or attempted activity, for later review.
2. To provide internal and external controls as appropriate and feasible. Such controls shall include the right to determine who will have access to School Department owned equipment and, specifically, to exclude those who do not abide by the School Department's acceptable use policy, or other policies governing the use of school facilities, equipment, and materials.
3. To restrict on-line destinations, including in-coming signals, through software or other means.
4. To remove a user's access, a device, or connection to the network that is not approved and secure.
5. To provide guidelines and make reasonable efforts to train staff and students in acceptable use and policies governing on-line, wide-area, and local use of computers and communication equipment.
6. Prior to allowing user access, a signed statement of compliance will be executed, certifying that the user understands and agrees to comply with Rochester School District policy (form attached).

Staff Responsibilities
1. Staff members who supervise students, control electronic equipment, or otherwise have occasion to observe student use of said equipment shall make reasonable efforts to monitor the use of this equipment to assure that it conforms to the mission and goals of the Rochester School District.
2. Staff should make reasonable efforts to become familiar with the Internet and its use so that effective monitoring, instruction, and assistance may be achieved.

User Responsibilities
Use of the computer and communication equipment provided by the School Department is a privilege that
offers a wealth of information to improve research and productivity. Where it is available, these resources
are provided to staff, students, and other patrons at no cost. In order to maintain the privilege, users agree
to learn and comply with all of the provisions of this policy.

Acceptable Use
1. All use of the computer and communications equipment must be in support of educational and research objectives consistent with the mission and objectives of the School Department.
2. Proper codes of conduct in electronic communication must be used. All users are representing the Rochester School District and must use polite and respectful language in any dealings through this equipment.

Unacceptable Use
Prohibited activities include, but are not limited to, the following:
1. Users will not obtain, or provide to others, illicit copies of copyrighted software or documents. Only software provided by or approved by the Rochester School District may be installed on a School District computer.
2. Users will not download or install software, or upgrades to approved software already installed, unless directed to do so by the Superintendent or his designee(s). Users will not download or install any unauthorized software, including freeware and shareware, on School District computers.
3. Users will not use the computer network to attempt to gain unauthorized access to any computer or communications system.
4. Users will not use the computer or communications equipment to give out any personal information about another person.
5. Any use of the computer or communications system for commercial, advertising, profit, or political purposes is prohibited.
6. Users shall not intentionally seek information on, obtain copies of, or modify files, other data, or passwords belonging to other users, or misrepresent other users on the network.
7. No use of the network shall serve to disrupt the use of the network by others. Hardware and/or software shall not be destroyed, modified, or abused in any way.
8. Malicious or mischievous use of the network to develop programs that harass other users or infiltrate a computer or computing system and/or damage the software components of a computer or computing system is prohibited.
9. Hate mail, chain letters, harassment, profanity, obscenity, racist and other antisocial behaviors are prohibited on the network.
10. Use of the network to access or process pornographic material, inappropriate text files (as determined by the system administrator or building administrator), or a file dangerous to the integrity of the network is prohibited.
11. Use of the network for any unlawful purpose is prohibited.
12. Playing games is prohibited unless specifically authorized by a teacher for instructional purposes.
13. Establishing network or Internet connections to live communications, including voice and/or video (relay chat) is prohibited unless specifically authorized by a teacher and a system administrator.

Disclaimer
1. The School Department cannot be held accountable for the information that is retrieved via the network.
2. Pursuant to the Electronic Communications Privacy Act of 1986 (18 USC 2510 et seq.), notice is hereby given that there are no facilities provided by this system for sending or receiving private or confidential electronic communications. System administrators have access to all mail and will monitor messages. Messages relating to or in support of illegal activities will be reported to the appropriate authorities.
3. The School Department will not be responsible for any damages you may suffer, including loss of data resulting from delays, non-deliveries, or service interruptions caused by our own negligence or your errors or omissions. Use of any information obtained is at your own risk.

4. The School Department makes no warranties (expressed or implied) with respect to:
red dot The content of any advice or information received by a user, or any costs or charges incurred as a result of seeing or accepting any information;
red dot Any cost, liability or damages caused by the way the user chooses to use his or her access to the network.
5. The School Department reserves the right to change its policies and rules at any time.
Please sign the computer use agreement attached to the end of this handbook and return it to school as soon as possible. Thank you.

Kindergarten
Rochester School District now provides whole day (8:30 AM – 2:15 PM) and half-day kindergarten (8:30 – 11 AM or 12:30 – 3 PM) in each of its eight elementary schools. Students who are age 5 by September 30 may be enrolled. To register, call 332-3678. If you require day care services from 2:15 – 3:00 PM, please contact Rochester Child Care at 332-9333.

Medication
When other arrangements can be made, medication should not be taken during school hours. Most prescription medications can be regulated around school hours. When medication has to be taken during school hours, it must be prescribed medication. Aspirin, over the counter cough syrups, cough drops, etc., can be taken before and after school.
If a prescribed medication must be taken during school hours, the school nurse must have the following three items:
1. A prescription written by the doctor stating what the medication is, the dosage, and that it is necessary the child take it in school. The prescription should also state the length of time the child needs to take the medication.
2. A properly labeled bottle (from drug store) containing no more than one weeks dosage (5 days).

3. A note from the parent or guardian giving permission for the school nurse, or her designated choice, to observe the child taking his or her medication.
Questions regarding school health policies should be directed to the school nurse through the individual school office.

No School Days
The announcement of no school or delayed opening for all schools will be sent to all registered students through our Honeywell Alert System, and given over local radio stations such as WTSN (AM) 1270, WOKQ (FM) 97.5, and Channel 9 (WMUR- TV).
Please check this following link on the School Department Website: http://www.wmur.com/closings/index.html for school closure or delay information. You may also call the Superintendent's Office at 332-3678, select option 5 to hear school status for the day.

Publicity
Schools enjoy showing off our students and their work and are given opportunities during the school year to publicize their successes by having photographs published in the local newspaper(s). If you do not wish to have your child's picture or name in the newspaper, you must notify us in writing. This information will be kept confidential in the office and will be released only to your child's teacher.

Release of Directory Information
WHAT IS FERPA?
FERPA stands for Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (sometimes called the Buckley Amendment).
FERPA allows the district to provide directory information without specific parental permission.
Directory Information is: name, address, phone, dates of attendance, degrees received, major program, height and weight of athletes.
If you wish to have directory information remain confidential, please submit a letter to the Building Principal on an annual basis. Please describe any directory information that you would like to remain confidential.
The district's policies on access to student information are in compliance with the federal regulations entitled "Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act" (FERPA).

What is general directory information?
Certain information is made available to most other individuals only with parental written permission. Activities such as awards, scholarships, college/technical school information and various school publications such as yearbooks and athletic programs, however, require the use of some general information about students. Such information is called general directory information. Examples of general directory information are:
• Name
• Address
• Date and place of birth
• Major field of study
• Participation in activities and sports sponsored by the school
• Dates of attendance at a school within the school district
• Degrees and awards received
• Previous school most recently attended by the pupil

Parents who do not wish such information disclosed by the school or district should submit their request in writing to the school principal by October 1st of each school year.


What information can parents see regarding their children?
Parents have the right to see any documents or materials directly related to their children that are kept within the school or in the School District offices.
Who may obtain such information?
• All parents and legal guardians. In the case of divorce, custodial and non-custodial parents have access to the child's record, unless a legally binding document declares differently.
• Children over the age of 18, emancipated minors, or those attending post-secondary institutions.
• School officials with a legitimate educational interest.
• School officials in a district to which the child intends to transfer.
• Individuals within the juvenile justice system or having court orders that allow them to see such records
Can the school legally refuse to show parents any records?
Personal notes kept by a teacher, principal, psychologist, or other school employee for the sole use of that person are not considered part of the child's record. Such personal notes are not retained in the cumulative record.
How do parents look at such information?
Ask! Schools will make an appointment for parents to review their child's educational records.
Parents have a right to an explanation of any forms, test scores or educational language that they don't understand. If the principal or the appropriate school staff member is not available to answer questions, the parents should schedule a meeting in advance at a more appropriate time.

Report Cards/Interim Reports/Grading Guidelines
Report Cards are sent home at the end of each quarter in an effort to inform parents of their child's progress. Mandatory parent/teacher conferences are held at the end of the first quarter, in November. Teachers usually provide several times for conferences for your convenience; you will be notified by your child's teacher about a week before the conference so that you may sign up for a time. Teachers will
contact parents earlier if there is a concern, and parents are encouraged to speak with their child's
teacher if they have any questions. Establishing an open line of communication with the focus on the student's welfare is an important component in the educational process.
About halfway through each quarter, teachers will send home an Interim Report to parents. This simple form, designed by each teacher, gives parents the latest information about how their child is doing, and will indicate what may be done to improve grades before the next report card is issued. If you do not receive an Interim Report on the date indicated, please call the office.

The district schedule (subject to change) for Report Cards and Interim Reports (may be revised at individual elementary schools) is as follows:
First quarter Interim Reports October 5
Marks close November 2
Report card conferences November 8
Second quarter Interim Reports December 14
Marks close January 18
Report cards sent home January 25
Third quarter Interim Reports February 22
Marks close April 4th
Report cards sent home April 11th
Fourth quarter Interim Reports May 2
Marks close June 9th (approximately)
Report cards sent home Last Day of School

Grading Guidelines (School Board Policy IKA-R)

The pupil should be consistent in the following items:
A - OUTSTANDING
1. Assignments correct in relation to form, to neatness and with few errors.
2. Follows directions.
3. Recognizes subject matter and can use new skills.
4. All work completed on time.
5. Shows initiative and interest and is dependable.
6. Contributes to class discussion voluntarily and intelligently.
7. Receptive to suggestions and criticism, thereby showing improvement.
8. High quality of performance.
9. Uses free time wisely.
10. Corrects work independently.
B - ABOVE AVERAGE
1. Assignments generally correct and with few errors.
2. Follows directions most of the time.
3. Recognizes subject matter and can use new skills.
4. Completes work on time.
5. Shows initiative and interest and is dependable.
6. Contributes to class discussion.
7. Receptive to suggestions and criticism and can improve work.
8. Uses free time wisely.
9. Corrects work independently.
C - AVERAGE
1. Recognizes subject matter and can use new skills fairly well.
2. Applies himself/herself during class time.
3. Attempts to complete assignments on time.
4. Contributes to class discussion.
5. Needs help in correcting assignments.
6. Is dependable with some supervision.
7. Needs more directions in the use of free time.
D - BELOW AVERAGE
1. Needs to improve form and appearance of papers.
2. Has difficulty finishing work on time.
3. Has difficulty recognizing and using skills.
4. Lacks interest in work.
5. Does not volunteer in class discussion.
6. Repeats errors. Does not profit from corrections and criticisms.
7. Is inattentive and wastes time.
F - UNSATISFACTORY
1. Does not complete work.
2. Form and appearance of paper poor.
3. Rarely participates unless urged.
4. Does not profit from corrections.
5. Does not undertake new work.
6. Has difficulty understanding new work.
7. Is inattentive.

Criteria for Grading

Letter Grades Effort Grades
A - Outstanding 1 - Excellent Effort
B - Above Average 2 - Good Effort
C - Average 3 - Average Effort
D - Below Average 4 - Poor Effort
U - Unsatisfactory 5 - Extremely Poor Effort

Numerical Grades
A+ = 98 - 100 B+ = 91 - 92 C+ = 83 - 84 D+ = 75 - 76 F = <70
A = 95 - 97 B = 88 - 90 C = 80 - 82 D = 72 - 74 P = 70 - 100
A- = 93 - 94 B- = 85 - 87 C- = 77 - 79 D- = 70 - 71


Retentions
Discussion regarding possible retention of a student will begin by mid-year and may be initiated by the teacher, the parent or the principal. The recommendation for retention will come from school personnel, and parents, but the final decision to retain will be made by the principal, based upon the belief that this action will benefit the student.

Safe School Zone
Each citizen of the district, students, and members of the Police Department are urged by the Board to cooperate in reporting any act of theft, destruction or violence as defined in RSA 193-D:1, Paragraph I, that is committed on school premises or on a school bus, hereinafter referred to as a "safe school zone," and the name(s) of the person or persons believed to be responsible.
Each employee of the district shall report, in writing, to the principal of the school or his/her other immediate supervisor, every act of theft, destruction or violence know to him or her, and if know, the names of those responsible. The principal receiving such a report shall immediately file it with the
Rochester Police Department. The report shall include (1) the name and home address of any person suspected of committing an act of theft, destruction or violence in a safe school zone, and (2) identification of the act that was allegedly committed.
The written report may be waived if there is a law enforcement response at the time of the incident, which results in a written police report.
The Superintendent is authorized to sign a criminal complaint and to press charges against perpetrators of vandalism against school property or other acts of theft, destruction or violence, when s/he has legal standing to do so, and is further authorized to delegate, as s/he sees fit, authority to sign such complaints and press charges. (School Board Policy ECAC, 2/9/95)

Search and Seizure
According to School Board Policy; Interrogations and Searches (JFG); students are entitled to the guarantees of the Fourth Amendment, and they are subject to reasonable searches and seizures. School
officials are empowered to conduct reasonable searches of a particular student and school property when there is reasonable cause to believe that the student may be possession of drugs, weapons, alcohol, or other materials in violation of school policy or state law. School property shall remain under the control of school officials and shall be subject to search.

Smoking
The use of tobacco products is prohibited on all properties of the Rochester School Department, in accordance with New Hampshire State law. (School Board Policy GBK, 10/9/97)
Students are not to use, store or have in their possession any tobacco products in school buildings, on school property or at any school function. Violation will result in a three-day in-school suspension. (School Board Policy JFCG, 5/12/94)

Special Education Services
Special education services are provided as required by Public Law 101-476 called the Individual with Disabilities Education Act or IDEA. The intent of this law is to assure that all children with disabilities receive a free and appropriate public education. Each school conducts evaluations for students suspected of having an educational disability and, if found eligible, an Individual Education Plan (IEP) is developed for the child. Services and placement are determined through the Special Education/Placement Team meeting. The services consist of an academic component and possibly related services such as speech therapy, consultation to staff, occupational therapy, and interpretative services or others as determined by the certified staff or qualified examiners. Parents who have questions about the child’s educational progress should first discuss the issue with the classroom teacher. Whenever a known disability is present and there are serious questions about its effect on educational performance a referral may be considered.

Standardized Tests
Standardized tests are administered to students annually. These are part of our total assessment package, which includes: teacher observation, student evaluation and teacher made tests.

• Students in grade 3-5 will participate in the NH State Assessment program (NECAP) in the fall.
• NWEA testing (including reading, math, language arts and science) is administered to students in grades 1 - 5 in the fall and spring, with optional testing in the winter.
• The DIBELS assessment is administered to all kindergarten and first grade students three times a year (September, January and May). Additional grade levels are tested in several elementary schools.
• All standardized test scores become a part of the child’s permanent record.

Textbooks
Students are given textbooks at the beginning of the year. They are expected to return these books in good condition at the end of the year. Each textbook costs between $20.00 and $35.00. If a student loses a book, s/he will be expected to reimburse the school for the cost of replacing the book. Reports cards will not be issued in June until reimbursement or replacement occurs.

Volunteers
The New Hampshire State Legislature enacted a law that took affect on August 2, 1997. It states that all employees who come in contact with students must be fingerprinted and have a complete criminal records check. The law also encourages, but does not mandate, that volunteers who work with students should also be fingerprinted. We support the philosophy of the law, knowing that in this day and age, we must take all precautions necessary to protect our children. All volunteers who work with children on a regular basis regular (more than 3 times a year), must be fingerprinted at the superintendent’s office. If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact the office.
Guidelines for Parent Volunteers:
red dot Volunteers will complete volunteer registration form.
red dot Interviews may be required, and references may be requested.
red dot Unsupervised tasks require volunteers to have a full background check completed before the first day of assignment.
red dot Volunteers will make an appointment with the personnel department at the Superintendent’s Office to be fingerprinted.
red dot The school department will pay for the expense of the background check.

Rochester School Department
2007 – 2008
Computer Use Agreement


Parent Agreement (To be signed by parents of all student users under the age of eighteen)

As parent or guardian of this student, I have read the Computer & Communications Policy Statement (listed under Internet Use) contained in this Handbook. I understand that this access is designed for educational purposes. Rochester School Department has taken reasonable steps to control access to the Internet, but cannot guarantee that all controversial information will be inaccessible to student users. I agree that I will not hold the Rochester School Department responsible for materials acquired on the network. Further, I accept full responsibility for supervision if and when my child's use is not in a school setting. I hereby give my permission for my child to use network resources, including the Internet, which are available through the Rochester School Department.


Parent Name (please print) ______________________________________________ Student Name_______________________________________

Parent Signature________________________________________________ School/Grade/Class_______________________


Date_________________________2007__________


Rochester School District
Parent & Student Elementary Handbook 2007 – 2008

I have read the handbooks and reviewed the information with my child.

Parent Name (please print)______________________________________________ Student Name_______________________________________


Parent Signature ________________________________________________ School/Grade/Class_______________________


Student Signature ________________________________________________ Date_______________________________________


If you have any comments or suggestions for improvement to these handbooks, we would appreciate your input.