Table of Contents
Mission Statement  ……………………………………………………………………......1
Code of Conduct ..…..………………………………………………………………….…1
    Purpose….….……………………………………………………………………...1
    Philosophy.………...……………………………………………………………....2
    Responsibilities of Administration .…………………………………………...…..2
    Responsibilities of Teachers. ………………………………………………….......3
    Responsibilities of Parents ……………………………………….…………….....3
    Responsibilities of Students    …………………………………….……………….4
    System of Consequences  ………………………………………….…………...…4
    Inappropriate Behaviors  ……………………………………………………….…4
    Possible Consequences …………………………………………………………....4
Lunch and Breakfast Programs  ………………………………………………….………..5
Food, Snacks, Gum  ………..……………………………………………………….……..6
Attendance  ...………………………………………………………………………….…..6
Absence, Tardiness, Dismissal  ……………………………………………………….…..6
Emergency Cards  ….………………………………………………………………….…..6
Accident Insurance    …………………………….…………………………………….....6
Communication Protocol  ….…………………….………………………………………..7
Busing      ……………………………………………………………………………………7
Bicycles  …………………………………………………………………………………..7
Faculty Room & Office  …...………………………………………………….…………..7
Lost & Found    ……………………………………………………………………………..7
Recess      ……..……………………………………………………………………………..8
Health    ……………………………………………………………………………………..8
Medication  ...……………………………………………………………………………...8
Lice    ……………………………………………………………………………………..8
Weapons & Contraband    ….……………………………………………………………..9
Student Assistance Team Policy & Procedures …………………………………………..9
Dress Code  ………...…………………………………………………………………….11
Hats  ………………..…………………………………………………………………….11
Electronic Devices  ...…………………………………………………………………….11
Harassment  ………..…………………………………………………………………….11
Accessing Student Records  ..……………………………………………………………12
Affirmative Action  ...……………………………………………………………………12
Admission of Resident Students  ………………………………………………………..12
Fund Raising    …………………………………………………………………………....13
Library    ……………….…………………………………………………………………...13
Computers…………...…………………………………………………………………...14
Sustained Silent Reading ......……………………………………………………………14
Homework…………..…………………………………………………………………...14
Athletics Philosophy...…………………………………………………………………...15
Athletics Policy……..……………………………………………………………………16
Sports Physicals……..…………………………………………………………………...17
Dance Guidelines………………………………………………………………………...17
Volunteer Program….……………………………………………………………………18
Volunteer Guidelines.……………………………………………………………………18
Chaperone Expectations ………………………………………………………………....19
Pest Control……………………………………………………………………………....19
Staff Listing……………………………………………………………………………....20





Penobscot Community School
2007-2008 Family & School Information Handbook


Mission Statement: Purpose: Our school is dedicated to preparing students for productive, fulfilling lives in a Democratic society. We believe that they will need the skills of literacy, numeracy, tolerance and adaptability to take their place in the future as artists, inventors, performers, writers, scholars and trades people. Furthermore, they will need strength of character as they face difficult personal and ethical challenges; a respect for themselves and others; curiosity and confidence; purposeful imagination; good habits of work and mind.  Our fondest hope is that their opportunities in elementary school prepare them well in all of the academic, social, emotional, physical and artistic areas while allowing for a sensibly paced transition from childhood to adulthood.

Practice:  We will endeavor to teach:

•     In a manner consistent with current knowledge about developmental growth and how individuals learn nurturing the whole child with humanity and compassion.

•    By providing tests of concrete experience as well as abstract reasoning; fundamental skills and advanced challenges that require excellence of individuals and collaborative teamwork.

•    Cooperation and support between school and home; clear expectations for quality of work and behavior.

•    Curriculum with a global perspective, dynamic scope; emphasis on depth and ‘learning how to learn;’ a sense of cultural, political and natural heritage to include all of the fine and performing arts.


Penobscot Community School
Code of Conduct

Purpose:
    
First and foremost, the Penobscot Community School Code of Conduct Policy is intended to provide a framework for learning and practicing positive, socially acceptable behaviors.  It is also intended to help students, parents, and staff identify and deal constructively with behaviors that are inconsistent with the philosophy and Code of Conduct of our school, that jeopardize the physical or emotional well-being of other students or staff, that disrupt the learning process, or that interfere with the staff’s efforts to maintain a positive school climate.




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Philosophy:
    
The board believes that it is the duty of schools and families to assist students to become self-disciplined, responsible citizens who feel connected to the school through positive relationships with adults and other children and who feel connected to the school through positive relationships with adults and other children and who feel positively about themselves.  While the policy provides for a system of consequences, the board believes that punishments alone will not be an effective means of changing behavior.  Students must be taught appropriate behaviors, have opportunities to practice them, be reinforced positively when conducting themselves appropriately, and be worked with in a constructive way when their behaviors miss the mark.
    
However, if it becomes clear, after repeated applications of the disciplinary measures outlined in this policy, a student is not learning appropriate behaviors, his/her continued attendance at the school will be contingent upon the student and his/her family successfully participating in alternative interventions as outlined below.  (See Climate Committee and System of Consequences) the right to participate in the school program is accompanied by the responsibility to conduct oneself consistently with the school’s Code of Conduct.

Essential Principals and Beliefs:

•    Behavior is purposeful and is chosen to meet the needs of an individual.
•    Schools must provide opportunities for students to develop decision-making skills that enable them to meet their own needs while also respecting the needs of others.
•    Standards for behaviors must be explicitly taught, frequently reviewed, and clearly communicated to students and their parents.
•    Disruptive behavior will not be allowed to interfere with the learning of others.
•    Positive reinforces are more powerful in shaping or changing behavior than punishments.
•    Disciplinary actions should be administered in a way that preserves positive relationships between adults and children.
•    Discipline should lead to a change in behavior and direct the child in making more effective choices in the future.
•    Consequences should be immediate whenever possible.
•    Consequences need to be non-violent, logical, and related to the student’s behavior.
•    Consequences should require the student to reflect on his/her behavior and practice desired alternative behaviors.
•    Disciplinary responses should be developmentally appropriate and consistently applied throughout the school.
•    A positive school climate will promote positive student behavior.

Responsibilities of Administration:

    The Principal Will:

•    Ensure that the discipline policy is communicated to all parents, students, and staff;
•    Ensure that the system of consequences outlined below is administered consistently, equitably, creatively, and with relevance to each situation;
•    Inform the Superintendent in a timely manner of serious behavioral concerns, incidents that require students to be removed from school, and those that may be brought to the school board for expulsion hearings;

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•    Ensure that accurate records are maintained in the office regarding serious infraction of this policy and that timely meetings are scheduled to discuss incidents.
•    Oversee school-wide efforts to maintain a positive, teaching approach to school discipline, review the instruction staff on classroom practices that support this overall goal, and arrange for ongoing professional development as needed;
•    Maintain close working relationships with outside agencies that deliver supportive services.

Responsibilities of Teachers:
    
    Teachers will:

•    Maintain positive relationships with students and parents and a positive climate for learning in the classroom.
•    Provide flexible teaching practices, reflective of the diversity of individual characteristics, learning styles, and ability levels present in the classroom.
•    Communicate clearly and frequently with students and parents about classroom expectations and problems as they occur.
•    Explicitly teach positive behaviors and attitudes (such as respect, kindness, inclusiveness, and appreciation of diversity) frequently review them with students, and positively reinforce students as they demonstrate them.
•    Teach students the necessity to report unsafe illegal, or harassing activities.
•    Participate in developing specific guidelines for appropriate behaviors in all school settings.
•    Listen carefully to and honor the knowledge that parents have about their children.
•    Work effectively with the administration and other members of the staff to ensure that the system of consequences is administered consistently and in the positive spirit of this policy.
•    Bring to the attention of the principal all serious behavioral incidents and issues.
•    Critically reflect on and seek professional development to improve skills as needed in positively managing student behaviors.

Responsibilities of Parents:

    Parents will:

•    Send their child prepared for their day.  (For example, rested, lunch, permission slips, etc.)
•    Ensure that their child or children attend school and that school is notified of any absences and/or physical or emotional health issues that might impact a child’s experience at school.
•    Review the school’s discipline policy and Code of Conduct with their child or children.
•    Stay informed about the school and support the learning of their child or children by trusting and respecting the professionalism of the staff.
•    Communicate with classroom teachers about problems as they occur.
•    Work constructively with the classroom teachers and the principal to discuss behavioral concerns and to seek improvements when they are necessary.


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Responsibilities of Students:

    Students will:

•    Become familiar with the school’s discipline policy and Code of Conduct and conduct themselves in accordance with all rules and guidelines.
•    Come to school ready to learn, allow others to learn, and allow teachers to teach.
•    Bring to the attention of their classroom teacher all serious behavioral incidents or concerns that occur on the bus, at school, or at school-sponsored events.
•    Work constructively with their teachers, the principal, and their peers to become positive, self-disciplined members of the school community.

System of Consequences:

    The system of consequences is intended to help children learn appropriate behaviors.  When consequences take the form of punishment, the punishment is intended to improve the behavior.  Staff members maintain respectful relationships throughout the discipline process.
    The classroom teacher monitors and redirects student behavior within the classroom.  The teacher(s) will use a system of consequences to change inappropriate behaviors.
Severe Clause
    Penobscot Community School will have a zero tolerance for fighting or vulgarity.  Both of these extreme behaviors will result in a day’s suspension.  Maine State Law does allow for up to a 10-day suspension.
Banquet Policy
    Any student, who is suspended from school twice in the same school year, shall not be allowed to attend any school sponsored banquet, such as the Honors and Athletic Banquets, for the rest of the school year.

Inappropriate Behaviors:

Serious Disrespect For Others:
Defiance of an adult (verbal or physical) refusing to complete assigned task, rudely talking back, harassment, teasing, interfering with the learning environment.
Physical Aggression Towards A Student Or Adult:
Threatening to hurt someone, hurting someone.
Violation Of Major School Safety Regulations:
Leaving school grounds without permission, endangering physical safety of self or others, creating a fire or other serious safety hazard.
Illegal Or Anti-Social Behavior:
Stealing, substance abuse, vandalism

Possible Consequences:

1.    Written apology to teacher or student
2.    Removal from class
3.    Remaining after school
4.    Community Service
5.    Write a list of alternative ways of expressing disagreement
6.    In-school, out-of-school suspension

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7.    Written report of reasons for fighting, hitting, or vulgar language
8.    Referral to Law Enforcement
9.    List of positive things about the person threatened or hurt
10.    Loss of privilege or movement in school
11.    Make posters or presentations to younger students
12.    Research fire safety
13.    Mandatory visit to fire station
14.    Restitution
15.    Research on reasons to avoid illegal drugs
16. Review drug/alcohol abuse materials
17.    Repair damage

(Adopted Penobscot School Committee, 08/12/02)

 
Since it is more effective to administer consequences as quickly as possible after an inappropriate behavior occurs, teachers should attempt to discuss the behavior with the student immediately.  If dealing with the behavior immediately is not possible, the teacher and student should meet to discuss the behavior and appropriate consequences at the next available recess, during the lunch break, or immediately after school.  If the teacher needs to have the student remain after school, the parent(s) will be notified so that transportation can be arranged.  Serious infractions of the Code of Conduct should be documented on the Discipline Report Form and filed in the office.

Students may be suspended from school for extreme or dangerous situations.  The principal will notify parents.  The child will be released to the parents at times when it may be in the best interests of the student or others for him/her not remain in the school setting.  The principal will determine terms for return to school with notification to the parents at time of suspension.

The teachers and principal are always encouraged to explore all possible means for helping students learn appropriate behaviors through the use of individual student contracts, behavior plans, and enlisting parent support through early communications with the home.  While it is intended to give framework for chronic offenders so that all students can have a safe enjoyable learning environment, this policy is not intended to limit the teacher, parents, or school administration from handling discipline situations with flexibility and creativity.

Lunch and Breakfast Programs: We offer a breakfast program to students and staff. Milk, juice, fruit, toast, cereal, muffins and other breakfast foods will be served in the gym each morning as the children get off the bus.  All students in grades K - 8 are encouraged to participate in the breakfast program.  Students who start the day with a balanced meal perform better at school.
 
We also offer the salad bar with lunch on Thursday and Friday.  All students purchasing lunch will be given the chance to select items from the salad bar.

School Lunch Prices: Payment for breakfast, lunch and milk is due on Monday.   Please send this money in the office envelope with your child's/children's name(s) and choices checked off on the weekly menu form.  All breakfast and lunch accounts must be paid by Friday each week.

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Students qualifying for free or reduced lunch also qualify for free or reduced breakfast.
 
Student lunch: $2.00        Reduced lunch: 40¢
    Student breakfast: 50¢    Reduced breakfast: 30¢
    Lunch/recess milk: 30¢

SNACK MILK IS EXTRA EVEN IF YOU RECEIVE REDUCED OR FREE LUNCH

Food, Snacks:  Children burn a lot of calories in their daily activities! Please be sure to supply your child with a morning snack to keep them 'fueled' until lunchtime.

Gum: Penobscot students are not allowed to chew gum in the building.
    
Attendance: State law requires school attendance for 175 days per year with penalties for truancy.  We believe that consistent student attendance is essential for learning to take place and we encourage parents to minimize any disruptions to their child's school day.  Parents are required to provide a written excuse for any absences or tardiness upon the first day of return. Student attendance slips will be assigned in the office and collected by classroom teachers.

Absence, Tardiness and Dismissal:  Parents are expected to notify the school (326-9421) between 7:30 - 8:30 AM in the event their child will be absent from school for any reason. Phone calls will be placed home if we have not received notification of your child’s absence. Students who arrive at school after 7:50 AM are tardy and must stop in at the office first before going to class.  Parents are required to provide a written excuse when their child is tardy.

Parents who need to pick up students must come to the office first.  Children will then be dismissed to the office.  Parents are also required to sign in at the office when picking up or dropping off their child during the school day.  This is for our students' safety and to ensure that they are leaving school with an approved adult.  

Students will not be allowed to go to anyone's home without a note from their parent or guardian.  Students will not be allowed to call home for permission to go to another student's house or be dropped off at a home other than their own.  Parents may, however, call the school if their child needs to go to another stop and we will be happy to issue the proper bus note. If students do not have written permission, or parents have not called, then they will be dropped off by the bus at their own home.

Emergency Cards: The emergency cards are used to update our student files for the current school year.  It is essential that we have accurate information in case your child is sick or is injured at school.  Please include your correct mailing address and phone number on this card for our school records.

Accident Insurance:  Brochures have been sent home describing the school accident insurance available to parents.  If your child is not covered under a family health insurance plan, you may want to seriously consider purchasing this insurance policy, as Penobscot School does not provide accident insurance for students injured at school.  Please send your payment and address any questions directly to the insurance company.  The information is in the brochure.

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Communication Protocol: Direct communication channels are the most effective and the most productive in building a strong working relationship between parents and the school.  Communications to the school, whether in the form of questions, concerns, or problems should be directed in the following manner:

1. First speak directly to the classroom teacher, coach, or appropriate staff                     
     member.
    2. If there are still concerns or questions, they should next be addressed to the                 principal.
    3. If you feel the principal hasn't adequately addressed the issues the Superintendent           
        of Schools should then be contacted.
4. The Penobscot School Committee is the last link in this chain, after the                       
                 above steps have been utilized and exhausted.

Busing:

Please review the transportation policy and bus rules with your child.   These rules focus on the three major rules observed at this school: safety, respect and staying in bounds.  Failure to abide by these rules can result in a loss of bus privileges.  Our bus drivers have a very important and difficult job.  They appreciate your assistance in transporting your children to school as quickly and as safely as possible.

Students are required to have a written, dated and signed note from a parent before they are allowed to leave school with someone other than a parent or to get off the bus at another person's home other than their own.
If you have a question, please do not hesitate to contact your child's bus driver directly.

    Glen Ashe - 326-4044                     (North)
    Lin “Pappy” Parker – 326-8501        (South)
    Denny Colson – 326-0684         (West)

Bicycles: Students will be allowed to ride bicycles to and from school as long as a parent has signed a written permission slip.  Bicycles are not to be used during school hours or on school property.  Students riding bicycles will be dismissed at 3:00 after the bus students.  Bicycles are to remain in the front bike rack until this dismissal.  Students riding bikes are reminded that they are to follow the same "rules of the road" as cars.  This means that bikes are not to pass a bus that is loading or discharging students, either on the road or in the schoolyard.  Be aware that it is Maine State Law that children 16 and under are required to wear a helmet.

Faculty Room/ Office:  Because of the confidential nature of many telephone calls and conversations taking place in the office, it cannot be a place for general socializing or a parent meeting place.  

Lost and Found:  Please have your child's clothing clearly marked with his/her name.  Lost items will be placed in a box near the main entrance.  Please check this box frequently for your child's belongings.  Unclaimed items will be donated to charity at the beginning of each month.




Recess:  Recess is a part of our elementary school program.  It allows children the opportunity to socialize and engage in physical activity.  All children will be expected to go out for recess.  
Factors such as outside temperature, wind chill, and the condition of the playground will be considered before a decision for outside recess is made.  We recommend that children be dressed appropriately for coping with the elements when they come to school.  In cold weather and wet spring/fall weather please send boots to school with your child.  For our younger students, an extra set of clothes is often advisable to keep in the classroom. Students may use classrooms during recess with the permission and supervision of a faculty member.

Please note: If a child is not well enough to go out for recess, then he/she should remain at home unless the school receives written communication from the child's physician recommending inside recess.

Health: Children should not come to school if they appear to be ill.  Please keep your child at home if he/she has a sore throat, severe cold, rash, or fever.  If your child is absent due to illness but is able to do some schoolwork, call the office and we will provide work to help your child keep up.

Please call our school nurse if you have any concerns or questions about your child's health.

Medication: The giving of aspirin or any other drug or medication by school personnel is not allowed except on order of a physician.  Students may not take oral medications, prescription or non-prescription, during school unless the following guidelines are followed.  We ask that all parents follow these guidelines for the protection and safety of their child and all children.

1.    Parental/medical permission should be obtained for each child when school personnel give medication.
2.    No more than one week's supply of medication at one time.
3.    All medication sent in a closed container, clearly marked with child's name.
4.   All medication will remain in the office.
5.  Children are not permitted to have any medication, including aspirin or aspirin substitutes, in their classroom or on their person.

Lice (Policy):  Policy Concerning Pediculosis (Head Lice)

1. The school nurse will set up routine preventive screenings.
a.    During the first or second week of school
b.    After December vacation
c.    After April vacation
d.    Random checks as determined by the principal or school nurse

2. Notification of routine head checks will be sent to parents via the school newsletter.

3. Once a case of lice is confirmed by the presence of lice or nits (eggs), parents will be notified immediately to come to the school and get students.  All siblings of confirmed cases will also be inspected.  Every effort will be made to remove affected students from the classroom until parents arrive.


4. The school will provide educational materials to the parents that outline step-by-step treatments for the infested child, the family, and the home.

5. Students with confirmed cases of head lice will be excluded from school, from riding the bus, and from school activities until the next school day after detection.  Students will be readmitted to school only after all nits have been removed.  Parents will be required to transport students to school until they have been checked by the school nurse or trained staff members and are determined to be nit free.
 
6. A NO NIT Policy calls for:
a.    The removal of all lice, eggs (nits) and egg cases following application of a lice-killing product.
b.    The exclusion of a child from school until such measures have been accomplished.
c.    Community education to insure that parents understand their responsibility under the NO NIT Policy. This includes parent responsibility to notify the school if their child has been infected with head lice.

7. A student's absence from school due to head lice is considered an illness.  Students with excessive absences may be provided with home tutoring.

8. Parents of children in a classroom with a confirmed case of lice or nits will be notified.  In the event of a widespread infestation, all parents will be notified via the school newsletter.

9. Upon the recommendation of the Maine Department of Public Health, the school committee has the authority to close the school.

Weapons and Contraband: No student may have in their possession the following during school hours or on the school premises:
•    Knives, firearms, fireworks, matches, lighters;
•    Drugs or drug paraphernalia of any kind;
•    Tools or items, which are inconsistent with the Penobscot School's educational activities and mission.  

In the interest of safety, the faculty and administration reserve the right to question students about their possessions and to request to see the contents of their backpacks or apparel if there is any question of these rules being violated.  The presence of weapons or contraband will be dealt with swiftly and severely, potentially with the assistance of law enforcement officers.

STUDENT ASSISTANCE TEAM (S.A.T.) POLICY AND PROCEDURES

Mission Statement

As a concerned group of school personnel, the S.A.T. is dedicated to helping children and parents find assistance for dealing with problems, which interfere with a successful school experience.  The team assists through individual assessment, case plan development, intervention and coordination of services.





Definition

The Student Assistance Team is a group of school professionals whose function is to identify, brainstorm, and intervene with “at risk” students.  The S.A.T. is in compliance with Section 504 of P.L. 93-112 (Rehabilitation Act of 1973).  It provides students with a prevention/intervention process that insures that they have a free appropriate public education, which is a requirement of Section 504.  The purpose of the S.A.T. is to redirect students exhibiting “at risk” behaviors before they experience school and social failure.

“At risk” issues include: self-destructive behaviors such as self-injury, injury to others, depression, and suicidal tendencies; physical, mental, emotional, and sexual abuse; absenteeism and truancy; student alcohol/drug use, abuse, and dependency; parental /school drug abuse; sexuality issues including pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases; and school failure.  The S.A.T. functions as a systematic process, which makes it possible for school personnel to determine which students are having problems and refer them for help.

The team may be composed of an administrator, classroom teacher, Chapter I teacher, and a special educator who have been trained in the S.A.T. Process.  Others may be invited to serve on a case-by-case basis.

Referrals

Referrals may come from a variety of sources: i.e. parents, teachers, administration, law enforcement, courts, social workers, counselors, health care providers or students themselves.  
School employed referents are protected from liability and recrimination from the board and/or its agents for any S.A.T. activities made in good faith.

Identification

When school personnel are concerned about a student exhibiting “at risk” behaviors (see definition), they may refer that student to the S.A.T. by completing a Student Assistance Identification Form and delivering it to the building S.A.T. Coordinator.  This is to be delivered in person or placed in an envelope marked “confidential” and placed in the coordinator’s mailbox. This information will be kept in a confidential file accessible to the S.A.T./or case manager only.  It does not go in permanent school records.

Outside or self-referrals can be made to any member of the S.A.T., who will document the information and complete the referral process.

S.A.T. Process

The S.A.T. Coordinator schedules the case for review on the agenda at the next S.A.T. meeting.

The S.A.T. reviews the data, identifies and prioritizes issues, brainstorms and recommends interventions and strategies, and implements a plan of action.  Outcomes of interventions are reviewed regularly at follow-up meetings.

Each student being followed by the S.A.T. will have a case manager.  Recommendations, interventions, and outcomes are recorded and kept in a confidential file accessible only to the S.A.T./or case manager.

The S.A.T. recognizes that a student’s problems do not exist in a vacuum.  Parents are seen as critical interveners in their child’s S.A.T. plan.  To this end efforts will be made to enlist active participation by parents in the S.A.T. process through the following means:

1.    Parents will be informed of the referral of their child to the S.A.T. at             the earliest appropriate time.

2.    A liaison for the parents will be appointed from the S.A.T.

3.    The liaison will inform the parents of the referral and clarify the purposed and function of the S.A.T.

4.    The liaison will invite the parents to take an active role in the S.A.T. process.

5.    Parents may give and receive feedback, express feelings, provide information, make decisions and/or block decisions of the S.A.T.

6.    Parents’/Student’s rights to privacy and confidentiality will be assured through compliance with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974.    

Dress Code: Students are encouraged to dress in clothes that are comfortable and do not distract or disturb the learning process. Students should dress appropriately . . . no bellies showing, no bare feet, no ripped clothes or clothing with objectionable language or pictures. The principal has the final judgment of what is appropriate to wear. Clothing that is prohibited from school includes any with tobacco, alcohol or drug logos, or inappropriate pictures or messages. Shorts are acceptable, but those that are too short or too tight are prohibited.

Hats:  Hats may be worn on approved special event days.

Electronic Devices:  Students are not allowed to have electronic devices such as CD Players, Game Boys, video games, cell phones, etc. An exception may be made upon the teacher’s discretion for class trips.

Harassment:  School Union 93 recognizes the right of each student to perform in an atmosphere, which is free of intimidation, ridicule, hostility and offensiveness. Harassment is abuse based upon race, color, sex, religion, age, national origin, or handicap.  Acts of this nature are not only a violation of this policy but also constitute illegal discrimination under State and Federal laws.

Examples of prohibited behavior:

1.    Unwelcome sexual advances, gestures, comments, or contact
2.    Threats, which imply physical abuse or are inappropriate to an educational setting.
3.    Offensive jokes.
4.    Ridicule, slurs, derogatory actions or remarks.

Students should also be advised of the importance of informing the harasser that his/her behavior is unwelcome, offensive, in poor taste, or highly inappropriate.  However, if a student feels uncomfortable with confronting the harasser, the student is encouraged to inform the local school official at the earliest opportunity.  The local official shall advise the person who has allegedly been harassed of the various options available to the person: Title IX civil action; formal request for discipline by Union 93 superintendent and/or school board; or by filing a complaint to the Directors of the United States Office of Civil Rights, Department of Education, Washington, D.C.

Accessing student records:
The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act outlines parents' rights to access student records. This act includes parents' or eligible students' right to inspect and review all educational relevant information within 45 days of a request; providing copies of student records; amending records; disclosure of records to non-school personnel. Parents are asked to contact the office if they need to access their child's educational files.

Affirmative Action (Policy): It is the policy of School Union #93 to provide equal employment, educational opportunities, and affirmative action to all regardless of race, sex, color, national
origin, marital status, age, handicap, or religion in accordance with all federal and state legislation relative to discrimination.

Inquiries can be made of the Affirmative Action/Title IX, Section 504 person designated by the Superintendent of School Union # 93.  (374-9927)

Inquiries can also be made to the Director, Office of Civil Rights, Department of Health, Education and Welfare, Washington, D.C.

Grievance procedures and forms are available which provide for prompt equitable resolution of complaints alleging violations of Affirmative Action guidelines.  Any of the local designees have grievance forms.

Admission of Resident Students (Policy):
This school system shall admit as students those of legal school age whose parents and guardians legally reside within the school unit boundaries.  Adequate proof of residence shall be required.  The board reserves the right to verify residency through appropriate means for any enrolled student or any family applying for enrollment.

"Residence" shall be considered the place where important family activity takes place - the place where the family eats, sleeps, relaxes, and plays.  It is a place, which can be called "home".  While it is possible for an individual to maintain property and pay taxes in more than one location or community, for the purposes of student eligibility for school attendance, "residence" shall mean where the parent maintains a home.

Consistent with Maine Department of Education Information Letter No. 026, issued December 22, 1992, powers of attorney will not be recognized as sufficient to establish guardianship for purposes of student eligibility for attendance in this school unit.  To meet the legal standard of "guardian" for school purposes, the student's guardian must provide the Superintendent with a copy of a court order or probated will appointing that person guardian of the student.

Resident students entering school for the first time shall be admitted upon presentation, to the principal, of a birth certificate, record of required inoculations, and pertinent health records.  Photocopies will be made and retained in the student's file.

New resident students who are transferring into the school shall be admitted on the basis of age, health, and academic records received from the previous school.  However, original documentation may be required if deemed necessary to appropriately determine a student's eligibility for enrollment and assignment.  Adopted by Penobscot School Committee: 8/9/93

Fund Raising (Policy):  The following policy was adopted by the Penobscot School Committee on April 8, 1996.  

A. Fund Raising by Community Members

1. The School Committee is legally vested with the responsibility of determining how funds are to be spent for school purposes. The School Committee shall likewise be responsible for determining how all monies received through gifts made to the school through school sanctioned outside fundraisers.

2.  Fund raising is the solicitation of monies from the community or from individuals, either in the form of a direct contribution or as payment for goods or services. Any funds raised must be used to support school activities but shall not be used to pay salaries or compensation in any form.

3.  All fund-raising for school purposes by outside organizations or persons not employed by the school shall be reviewed and approved in advance by the School Committee. All monies raised in this manner will be handled through the principal’s school funds.

B. Fund Raising by Staff Members
1.  The principal shall approve all fund-raising that is undertaken by teachers and other personnel employed by the school. The principal shall periodically inform the School Committee of fund-raising undertaken by teachers and staff.
2.  All monies raised through an approved fund-raiser are to be turned over to the school principal who shall promptly deposit them into the school’s checking account. The principal shall be responsible for keeping a separate accounting of all funds raised and expended. These records will be audited on an annual basis, as are all other district records.

C. Solicited Outside Monies
1. All grants written by staff must be approved by the board or the superintendent prior to submission. Monies will be handled through the central office.

D. All School Held Monies
1.  The board will receive an audited report and the principal will review accounts with the board at the beginning of the school year.

Library: Penobscot Children's Library serves the students and staff with a comprehensive library program.  Students in grades K - 6 receive instruction in library skills. We encourage students, preschoolers, homeschoolers, parents and community members to use the library.  It is open each day from 8:00 - 2:30.

Due to the increasing difficulty of returning library books at the end of the year, final (third trimester) report cards will be held by the office until all overdue books and magazines have been returned and/or library fines for lost or damaged books have been paid.

Computers: Computers are important learning tools in our school, and all students are expected to use these tools in appropriate ways by taking care of the equipment and respecting the work of other students and adults.  Damaging a computer, software, disk or another person's files will be cause for strong disciplinary action that may result in restricted use or the loss of computer privileges.  A Union #93 Computer and Internet Users Policy was developed during the 1996 - 1997 school year and amended in 2002.

Sustained Silent Reading: This is an important part of our school day when students at all grade levels are given the opportunity to read self-selected materials. Staff members also read, providing adult role models to reinforce and foster a desire to read. There is a strong link between reading proficiency in school and the amount of time children spend on recreational reading. Research has shown that as little as 10 minutes a day of pleasure reading can make a difference in classroom performance.

Homework Policy

Philosophy

Students in K-8 will be given homework as a means of assisting in the learning process, improving time management and self discipline skills.  Homework will be viewed by the school as a major communication link between home and school.  As children progress from grade to grade, homework will be given in increasing amounts as a tool to broaden knowledge and to increase their use of study skills.  

Expectations

In order for this policy to be successful, teachers need to be aware of and follow the general guidelines and specific grade level recommendations.  That information should be communicated to all instructional staff at the start of each school year.  It should also be communicated to parents early in each school year that in order to make the assigning of homework a successful experience, they should provide an environment at home that is conducive to learning, that they should take an interest in their child’s assignments and generally encourage study skill development.  A good rule of thumb as to the quantity of homework assigned is not more than 10 minutes of homework per grade, i.e. 10 minutes for first grade, 20 minutes for second grade, etc.  At the start of each school year teachers will draft a letter that explains the homework expectations.  That letter will be read with students, and then sent home so students can read it together with their parents.  

Grade Level Recommendations

Grades K-2

Homework for K-2 students will consist of reinforcing communication and math skills previously taught at school, collecting items to bring for class sharing, and developing or extending strengths and interests.  Communication skills and practice activities will be purposeful and promote positive parent-child interactions.  Activities will include regular reading
in self-selected books as a means to develop a love of reading and include parents in the learning process.  Math homework will consist of occasional homework (homelink) activities in kindergarten and daily homelinks in grades one and two as per the Everyday Math curriculum.   The time spent on homework should not exceed the 15 to 20 minute range.  

Grades 3-4

Students at this level will be given homework on a more regular basis including regular reading assignments and journal writing.  Everyday Math homelinks, which reinforce what has been taught in class, will be sent home daily.  Longer-term assignments, with frequent check-ins, may be introduced.  The total time spent on homework should not exceed the 30-minute range.
Grades 5-8

Students will have more independence and more of the responsibility for completing homework.  There will be regular study halls during the school week for the completion of homework.  Homework will include review and study for tests.  Students may also be given assignments that are required to be done over a period of time and include a timeline of periodic checkpoints.  Students can expect some math homework each day from the Everyday Math program in grades five and six and the Connected Math program in grades seven and eight that reinforces what was taught in class.  Work done outside of school should not exceed the 10-minute per grade guideline, often very much less if study hall time is used efficiently.  


General guidelines for teachers, parents, and students

1.    Homework will be a reinforcement of what has been taught in school.  There should be no expectation for work to be completed at home that does not have clear directions of the task and the materials required to complete that task.

2.    The rule of thumb for the completion of homework after an absence is two days will be allowed for every day of absence unless there were extenuating circumstances.  

3.    The grading policy, including what percentage homework will be given in grade computation, will be communicated to students and parents at the beginning of each school year.  

4.    Teacher feedback on homework assignments will be prompt.

5.    Homework will never be given as a punishment.  


Sports Philosophy:  It is the purpose of the school sports programming to broaden the range of physical, social, and emotional opportunities for the students of the school.  The privilege to compete in sports is available to those who have already demonstrated the ability to maintain an adequate educational level and the responsibility necessary to balance sporting events with the regular curriculum requirements.  It is also the purpose of school sports to provide support in the development of these skills in those who need it through healthy competition.



If students maintain adequate performance in academic areas, school sports programming is open to them regardless of their level of skill.   It is the purpose of elementary athletics to expose students to various sports and to develop the fundamentals necessary for participation.  All students willing to try will be able to participate. School sports seek to help students develop social and emotional characteristics, such as high self-esteem, positive leadership characteristics, and a sense of fair play and good sportsmanship.

It is important to recognize the role of school athletics to the community.  School sports are a source of entertainment, but are entertainment with the purpose of educating our students at the center.  Therefore, sports spectators should role model the skills we expect of our students.  Good sportsmanship and the development of a student’s self esteem are primary and these are the values we should cheer.

Sports Policies: Policy Concerning Co-Curricular Participation

1. Students are required to maintain a “C” average in each subject before being allowed to participate in sports activities.  Students who are receiving grades below “C” will no longer be allowed to participate in sports activities.

2. A student having only one “D” grade is removed from the team or activity.  If the student is able to bring the average in that subject up to a “C”, he/she will be able to rejoin the team or activity as long as his/her average remains a “C” or better.

3. Teachers will notify the athletic director, when progress notices go out, as to the status of their participants.

4. A student’s playground or classroom behavior may remove him/her from sports activities, as may inappropriate behavior while representing the school at games.

5. Academic or behavior detentions will take precedence over any sports participation. Students serving after-school detentions will be prohibited from participating in practices or games on that day.

6. Transportation is provided in most cases by the school to and from away events. Parents must pick up their child/children after all sporting events at their home school.  Any student not returning to the home school to be picked up must be signed out with the student’s coach by the parent or the parent’s designee.  Without written permission from his/her parent, a child will be returned to the home school.

7. Participants must make prior arrangements to be picked up by a parent after all sporting events, including practices, performances, and games.  Parents may designate, in writing, a responsible adult to transport their child/children.  Students will only be released to parents or to the parent approved designee.

8. Students must attend and participate in a sufficient number of practices in order to safely participate.  Student will not be penalized for missing a practice or a game with an excusable absence approved by the athletic director or principal.



Sports physicals: No student is allowed to participate in the sports program without a physical from either their family physician or the school-sponsored physicals. There is no fee for the school sponsored physical. Sports physicals are offered through Castine Community Health Services at the Penobscot School for students in grade 5-8 who plan to participate in the sports program this coming school year.  They are held at the beginning of the year.  If a student does not plan on playing a fall sport, but wants to play a spring sport, the physical must be done with the others in September-October.

Dance Guidelines (Middle Level students).

1. Time and supervision: All dances will be supervised with a minimum of three chaperones including a member of the school staff (the ‘in charge’ chaperone.)  The principal must approve all chaperones.  Dances will be held from 7:00pm to 10:00pm for grades 6-8 only.

2. Arrival & Departure: Once students enter the school, they must stay in the building unless; a parent picks them up.  They may not leave and reenter and they may not leave without a parent.

3. Attendance: The schools that are participating must send a list of grade 6 through 8 students, with their home telephone numbers, who are planning to attend to the host school.  Any student not on the list will not be admitted.

4. All school rules are in effect. In particular, student’s possessing drugs, alcohol or tobacco in any form will be immediately sent home and the principal notified. They may be banned from subsequent Union #93 dances for the remainder of the year.  Students who arrive ‘under the influence’ will incur the same consequence.

5. Music: The hosting students will be responsible for selecting and providing music appropriate for the occasion and the community. Lyrics that are violent, hateful, rude, abusive, obscene will not be tolerated.

6. Behavior: Civility and tolerance are expected. Rudeness, violence or inappropriate teasing will not be tolerated and students causing a problem, in the judgment of the chaperones, will be sent home.  Other general rules:

•    Observe the local rules regarding food and drink.
•    Stay within the boundaries of appropriate places.
•    No foul language.
•    No public displays of affection.
•    No behavior deemed inappropriate by chaperones.
•    Any school may add other rules to the list, as deemed necessary.

7.  Dress.  Students should dress appropriately . . . no bellies showing, no bare feet, no ripped clothes or clothing with objectionable language or pictures. Chaperones have the final judgment of what is appropriate.

8. Set up & clean Up: The host students will take care of all preparations and after-dance clean up.

9. A good time should be had by all . . . students, parents and chaperones! That is the intention of these guidelines.

Volunteer Program: Education is a community responsibility involving professional educators, parents, and others.  Each community possesses a wide range of talents and interests that can contribute significantly to the educational program.  Volunteers can provide support for teachers resulting in additional personalized attention for students while developing a valuable linkage between the school and community.  The volunteers will serve at the request of the school staff and work under the direction of school personnel as important members of the education team.
Parents and community members interested in sharing a special talent, interest, or career, or in assisting with classroom work, tutoring, reading, writing, book making, cafeteria supervision, Penobscot Children's library, special events, bulletin boards, materials organization and development....... are encouraged to contact the office (326-9421).

Volunteer Guidelines:  Introduction

Our school is a community organization and as such depends on all members of the community to raise children who will be healthy, wise and successful citizens. The professional educators at school welcome the daily support of community members in the interest of learning and a positive school climate.  We are grateful to those who have the time and interest to volunteer at school, helping out in a variety of ways within the school building and the school day.  These guidelines are dedicated to clarifying the roles of volunteers for efficient participation in classes and activities.

General Guidelines for Volunteers
•    Parents and community members working at school do so under the supervision of a particular faculty member, for a particular period of time or activity.  They may take part in creating activities, at the invitation of a teacher. However, the ultimate decision about curricular activities lies in the hands of the professional teaching staff.  The principal will make final decisions about the timing and appropriateness of volunteers in the school.

•    Volunteers are not responsible for ultimate decisions about student discipline, academic achievement or evaluation, communication with parents about students, decision-making about school regulations -- teachers are. Volunteers may be effective, however, as an extra ‘set of eyes and ears’ for the professional staff, as in chaperoning or helping to manage a large group and perform valuable support tasks.

•    Confidentiality: Due to regulations and professional expectations, volunteers will not be expected to handle confidential information or situations.  In a small community and
   family-oriented school, we require volunteers to respect the boundaries of confidentiality
   and discretion with the professional staff, other parents and students.

•    Students are expected to respond to volunteers with the same respect shown teachers and staff members.

•    Volunteers with questions or concerns about their role should speak first with the supervising teacher or the principal.

•    Dependability, reliability, promptness, preparedness are crucial to an effective volunteer program.

We thank you for seeking an opportunity to work at the school and look forward to a great relationship.

Chaperone Expectations: We welcome adult chaperones to assist with field trips and other school-sponsored activities held outside school.   Admission fees to field trip events for chaperones who have communicated with the faculty member in charge of the trip will be paid by the school.   Expectations, rights and responsibilities of children of chaperones are the same as for other students.  Chaperones first responsibility is for the students on the trip.  Therefore, they should not bring along additional children unless it has been approved by the teacher in charge.  Chaperone adherence will provide a safer and more enjoyable trip for all students.

Pest Control:  Because pesticides pose risks, PCS uses an alternative approach to merely applying pesticides. Control of insects, rodents and weeds at our school focuses on making the school buildings and grounds an unfavorable place for pests to live and breed. Through maintenance and cleaning, we will reduce or eliminate available food and water sources and hiding places for the pests. We will also routinely monitor the school area to detect pest problems and prevent the pests from becoming established. Some techniques we will use include pest monitoring, sanitation, pest exclusion, proper food storage, pest removal and as a last resort—pesticides. This holistic approach is often called Integrated Pest Management (IPM).

Pesticide Use:  Sometimes pesticide use may be necessary to control a pest problem. When that happens, the school will use the lowest risk products available. If higher risk pesticides must be used, notices will be posted at application sites and parents, guardians and staff will be notified through the school newsletter.

Your Right to Know: Notification will be given at least five days before planned pesticide applications during the regular school year. In addition, for pesticides applied anytime during the year, notices will also be posted in the school and on school grounds two working days before and until 48 hours after the application.

The school also keeps records of prior pesticide applications and information about the pesticides used. You may review these records, a coy of the School’s Integrated Pest Management Policy and the Pesticides in Schools regulation (CMR 01-027 Chapter 27) by contacting our IPM coordinator, Richard Leighton at Penobscot Community School. If you have any questions, please contact Richard Leighton. For further information about pests, pesticides and your right to know call the Board of Pesticides Control at 207-287-2731 or visit the Maine School IPM web site at www.thinkfirstspraylast.org/schoolipm.







Penobscot Community School
Faculty & Staff List


Allen Cole                Principal
Christine Kilpeck            Secretary
Glen Ashe                Bus Driver
Skip Bean                Assistant Custodian
Deborah Belyea            Art
Elizabeth Burgess            Title I
Deborah Candage            School Nurse
Lisa Cloukey            Head Cook
Denny Colson            Bus Driver
Helen Graikoski            Librarian
Christine Tanguay            Grades 1 & 2
Kelly Hasselbrack            Grs. 5,6,7&8, Language Arts & Social Studies
Tarsha Hastings            Grades 3 & 4
Laura Johns                Grade 5,6,7&8, Math& Science,   Computers K-8
Joshua Jones            Guidance
Richard Leighton            Head Custodian
Lindley “Pappy” Parker        Bus Driver
Jody Reynolds            Kindergarten
Dale Sweeney            Physical Education & Health
Sylvia Tapley            Education Technician
Jen Whittaker            Music Teacher












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