Table of Contents

Welcome Letter
Office Staff/PTA
Daily Schedule
Holly Grove Statements
School Academics
School Messenger, Agendas, Tuesday Folders,
Homework Policy Report Cards, Conferences,
Progress Report Dates
Promotion, Intervention, and Retention
Locator Information, Change of Address and/or Telephone Number
Walking Students to Class
Student Attendance, Attendance Plan, Tardies, Checking Out Students
Discipline Plan
After School Transportation Arrangements
Bus Transportation
Carpool
Visitors
Lunch Bunch, Food Brought to School
Early Arrival/After School Program, Telephone Use
Medication Policy
Health Policies & Screenings
Cafeteria Policies and Procedures
Media Center
Lost & Found, Toys at School
School Parties, Vandalism/Property Damage
Replacement of Textbooks, School Insurance(Accident and Dental)
Dress Code
Inclement Weather/Make Up Days
Field Trips, Cell Phone and Electronic Devices

Welcome Letter

July 2008

Dear Parents and Students,

Welcome to Holly Grove Elementary School!  As we start this exciting school year, our focus includes the implementation of a writing program by Lucy Caulkins.  This writing program uses mini-lessons and conferences to help students become independent writers.  We will continue the provision of ways to strengthen, maintain, and monitor programs which support a healthy, safe and diverse student population.  Your help will be needed as we teach students to identify/select healthy food choices and participate in activities that support the development of healthy bodies.

We will hold each student to high academic and behavior standards.  Two measures are in place to help our students reach their fullest potential.  During Professional Learning Committee meetings, our staff members develop, implement, and monitor strategies to meet our goal of providing a quality instructional program that meets the individual needs of our students.  Our Positive Behavioral Support plan promotes a school environment that is nurturing, safe, and conducive to learning.  It also focuses on students making good choices and being responsible for their behavior.  With everyone working together as a TEAM, we can achieve our goals. 

One of the keys to a successful and safe environment where academic excellence prevails is consistent, clear and specific communication between and among parents and students.  Our handbook has been created to inform our school community of our expectations and services that are available to you.  If we can assist you in any way, please don’t hesitate to call.  You can reach us at 577-1700.  Thanks, in advance, for all you do and will do to contribute to the success of our total school program.

Sincerely, 

Wiladean R. Thomas

Office Staff:

Principal:                                                              Wiladean Thomas

Assistant Principal:                                              Michael Matthews 

Assistant Principal:                                              Carolyn Penny  

Secretary/Bookkeeper:                                      Sharon Loeffler

NC Wise Data Manager:                                      Terri Adams

Clerical Assistant:                                                Carrie Lee

Clerical Assistant/                                               Regina Jackson
Project Achieve Data Manager

PTA Executive Board Members:

President                                                           Laurie Janus

First Vice-President                                            Kristy Garr

Vice President of Services                                  Amy Bauer

Vice President of Programs/                               Tracy Edick
Fun & Fundraising                                              

Vice President of Volunteers/                             Janie Thomas
Membership                                                       

Vice President of Communications                     Dawn Carson

Secretary                                                           Candy Richards

Treasurer                                                           Irene Ester

Daily Schedule

 7:00am                Early Arrival Program Begins

8:45am                Admittance to Classrooms/Breakfast
                             Early Arrival Program Ends

9:15am                Start of the Instructional Day/Tardy Bell
All students arriving after this bell must report to the office to check in before going to class.

3:45pm                Dismissal/ End of the Instructional Day
                             After-School Program Begins

4:00pm                Students not picked-up at this time must go
                             to the office to wait for their ride. 

6:00pm                After-School Program Ends

Holly Grove Statements

Mission

At Holly Grove Each child Strives to become a problem solver and a life long learner.

Vision

Holly Grove Elementary School is a diverse environment that utilizes best practices to make learning meaningful and motivating for everyone.  Students, teachers, and parents work together to provide a safe and positive setting conducive to learning, where each student feels empowered to achieve his or her full potential.

Values

The Holly Grove Elementary School community will:

• utilize and link data, research, and assessments to make decisions that drive student instruction and staff development in order to focus on student learning.
  
  
• challenge everyone to think critically and to take responsibility for his or her own learning.
  
  
• create innovative lessons through the use of collaborative teams, technology, and differentiated activities to support and enrich student learning.
  
  
• foster a partnership of parents, teachers, and students in a safe and secure learning community by maintaining positive communication and creating opportunities for involvement.
  
  
• respect and celebrate the childhood, diversity, and successes of our students, families, and co-workers.
  
  
• use all resources to identify specific learning needs and barriers of academic progress and accommodate accordingly.

School Academics

School Messenger

School Messenger is a tool for pro-actively contacting large numbers of parents via the telephone.  The primary function of the system at Wake County Public Schools is to keep parents informed of their child’s attendance by delivering nightly messages to the homes of those students who are marked absent from school.

As an added benefit, the system can send general announcement information to parents and students, particular grade levels, and to different tracks.  School Messenger simplifies timely communication and creates a community of supportive parents, successful students, and empowered educators.  Creating personal messages for attendance notification, parent reminders, and safety announcements are made easier with the School Messenger. 

Agendas

Agendas are daily assignment notebooks that all 1st - 5th grade students have.  They are purchased through the school for $3.00.  The agenda is a very important tool for your child.  Homework information and study items are sent home daily in it.  Please make a routine of talking with your child about his/her day, involvement in classroom activities, and completed assignments.

Tuesday Folders

The Tuesday Folder is sent home every week and contains vital information from the school and the classroom teacher.  It can also contain samples of your child’s work, assignment sheets, and other important information regarding your child’s progress and needs.  In many cases, a signature is required for the folder.  Please review all the contents of the folder carefully and send it back on the next school day.

Homework Policy

We consider homework to be a worthwhile use of time outside of the regular school hours to practice, maintain, enrich, complete, or make-up classroom activities.  Homework is to help develop independent study habits and appreciation for learning.

Homework will emphasize practice in basis skills previously taught, studying for a test, make-up work following an absence from school, remedial activities, and project/enrichment activities that extend classroom learning.  Reading a variety of books to enhance reading skills is encouraged.  Students are encouraged to read 20 to 30 minutes each night in addition to their regular assignments. Drills in the fundamental skills of a particular subject, creative writing, compositions, and summaries may also be assigned.  Homework usually will not be assigned on evenings in which school activities have been scheduled.                                                                                                                    
Time Parameters:
                        Grade                                   Daily Time
                        K-2                                       20 minutes
                        3-5                                       50 minutes

In the event a student has two teachers in grades 3-5, each teacher may give up to 25 minutes of homework each day.  If an excessive amount of time beyond these limits is being spent on homework each night, it should be a signal to check with the teacher to see if there is a problem.

Because homework is designed to help students with a wide range of subjects and to reinforce and to apply many different skills, homework assignments will be varied to fit the needs of the students.

Report Cards

The standards based report card was developed to align with new laws and policies, such as the NC Student Accountability Standards and the WCPSS Promotion Policy.

The purpose for the standards based card is to inform students and parents about a student’s performance on the grade level standards.  It measures progress against a uniform standard rather than subjective assessment.  Information related to growth and overall strengths and needs is captured in the Teacher Comment section.

The report card provides a consistent grading scale; work habits and conduct are separate, and teacher comments are specific.  It improves assessment practices, guides instruction based on the state standards, and provides more deliberate development of enrichment activities.
The student performance levels of 1 to 4 indicate whether students have met the expectations set by the State in the Standard Course of Study and indicate whether the student has the necessary skills and concepts to be successful in the next quarter or at the next grade level.  The performance level is determined with quarterly objectives and assessment data.
                                                                                                           
Level 4- Extends target grade level standards:  represents the student exceeding grade level expectations set by the state and whose curriculum may be enriched.
Level 3*- Demonstrates proficiency of targeted grade level standards with evidence of applications:  represents the student meeting the grade level expectations set by the state with evidence of application and concepts to be successful and confident in the next grade or quarter.
Level 3- Demonstrates proficiency of targeted grade level standards:  represents the student meeting the grade level expectations set by the state and indicates that a student has the necessary skills and concepts to be successful in the next grade or quarter.
Level 2- Inconsistent and needs support to meet targeted grade level standards:  indicates that the student has not yet met grade level expectations set by the state and that the student does not have the necessary skills and concepts to be successful in the next grade or quarter.  This report alerts parents that close communication is needed for further student support.
Level 1- Insufficient performance of targeted grade level standards with support:  indicates that the student has not yet met grade level expectations set by the state and that the student does not have the necessary skills or concepts to be successful in the next grade or quarter.

Grades will be provided twice a year for weekly special classes such as art, PE, and music, instead of quarterly.  This provides special teachers the time with students they need to assess each student’s work.

There is also space on the report card for teachers to list individual interventions such as a volunteer, a tutor, a mentoring program, or ALP instruction.

Reporting on Classroom Behavior

The standards based report card includes reports on the student’s conduct and work habits.  In reporting conduct, the teacher can indicate whether the student meets expectations in cooperating with others, respecting others, and observing rules and procedures.  In reporting work habits, the teacher can indicate whether the student uses time wisely, listens carefully, completes assignments, writes legibly, works independently or seeks help when needed, and completes work.

The rating scale rates a student with a 1 through 3, where students receive:
3- meets expectations,
2- inconsistently meets expectations, or
1- does not meet expectations.

Conferences

Teachers will schedule conferences with you after the first and third reporting periods.  Should you wish to conference with your child’s teacher at another time, please call the school and the teacher will return your call.  You and your child’s teacher will set up a mutually agreeable conference time.  It is very important that you keep the scheduled conference time and that you are prompt. Any changes or delays may affect other families.

Teachers are not permitted to conduct conferences during scheduled instructional time; therefore, parents must schedule conferences in advance.  If you can’t be reached by phone to arrange a conference, you may send a note with your child to school, and the teacher will reply to arrange a conference.

HOLLY GROVE ELEMENTARY
PROGRESS REPORT DATES
2007-2008

• Kindergarten students do not receive report cards during the first and third grading periods.  Parent conferences are held in lieu of report cards.

• First Grade Students do not receive report cards during the first grade period.  Parent conferences are held in lieu of report cards.

• Parents of Kindergarten students should receive either the Progress Update or an Interim Report at the end of the first and third nine weeks.  Interims are sent at the mid-point of the second and fourth nine weeks for students not meeting grade level expectations in Kindergarten.

• Parents of First Grade students should receive either the Progress Update or an Interim Report at the end of the first nine-weeks and mid-point of the third nine weeks.  All students not meeting grade level expectations will receive an interim during the mid-point of the second and fourth nine weeks.

• Parents of students in grades 2-5 should receive either the Progress Update or an Interim Report at the mid-point of the first and third nine-week grading period and students not meeting expectations should receive an Interim.  All students not meeting grade level expectations will receive an interim during the mid-point of the second and fourth quarters.

Promotion and Intervention

The Wake County Public School System has a clear vision for student success.  By 2008, 95% of students taking the end-of-grade test will perform at or above grade level in grades 3 through 12, and demonstrate high growth.  The Wake County promotion standards are based on the North Carolina Student Accountability Standards, which state that students must meet grade level standards in order to be promoted to the next grade.  These standards are for students at all grade levels.  Assistance from parents is needed daily to help students to be successful. 

Refer to the back of the student progress report for explanations of reading and writing levels.
Promotion is based upon many factors:

• Daily work
• Assessments in reading, writing, and math
• Attendance
• NC End-Of-Grade tests for grades 3-5; and
• Taking the EOG more than one time for some children.

The Wake County Public School System and Holly Grove Elementary are committed to helping students in all grades achieve at a Level III or IV so that they may be promoted to the next grade.  In order to help your child achieve these standards, an Accelerated Learning Program (ALP) has been developed to provide small group instruction to meet your child’s academic needs through a personal education plan (PEP).  Teachers and parents will develop this plan.   Please note that if your child qualifies for this program (based on test scores and assessments), failure to participate in ALP can result in retention.  We need students and parents to support us in our efforts to provide students with a quality education.

Locator Information

At the beginning of the year, your child’s teacher will send a “locator information” form to be completed and returned as soon as possible.  The information on the form is very important and will be filed in the school office.  Please complete the form as soon as possible, giving the name and phone numbers of relatives, neighbors, or friends who can be contacted, in case of an emergency, when you cannot be reached.  If these arrangements change during the year, please notify the office and the teacher.  We are also requiring signatures on the form from your identified emergency contacts.  Please let these individuals know that they will be required to show a picture ID.

Change of Address or Phone Number

Walking Students to Class

We, at Holly Grove Elementary, encourage independence.  After the first week of school, students should walk to their class.  We ask parents to refrain from walking to the classroom, which is disruptive to learning and creates dependence in the child.  When you walk your child to class; do not use this time for conferencing.  All conferences must be prearranged with the teacher.

Student Attendance, Absences

Attendance at school is important to a child’s achievement and success in school.  We encourage regular attendance of your child at school.

When your child is absent from school, please call the school at 577-1700 by 8:15 AM.  In addition, a written note from the parent is required within 2 days of the student’s return to school.  According to Wake County School

Board Policy, in order for the absence to be considered excused,   evidence must be provided provided that the absence is for one of the following reasons:

• Illness or injury
• Quarantine of the child by the State Board of Health
• Death of an immediate family member
• Medical or dental appointments
• Court proceeding (if the student is a party to the action or under subpoena as a witness)
• Religious observance
• Educational opportunity with prior approval by the principal (Parents should request approval at least 5 days in advance by completing Form 1710, which is available in the school office.)

All other absences will be considered unexcused.  Students who are frequently absent will be referred to the available school nurse and/or the school social worker o help out with problems that interfere with children’s attendance. 

Family trips will be considered unexcused absences.  Students will be given the opportunity to make up work missed due to the absences.  For more information, please review the Board of Education policy on attendance in the Wake County Public Schools Handbook.

Attendance Plan

Holly Grove Elementary School will have an attendance committee to monitor student attendance and will intervene with appropriate action when attendance and/or tardies become excessive. 
This committee will:

• Educate parents and staff of the attendance and tardy policies and procedures of WCPSS and Holly Grove Elementary School. 
• Inform parents of their child’s attendance at set intervals.
• Help to educate parents and students of the importance of regular school attendance in order to show the connection between regular attendance and school success.
• Include the following people:  NCWise data manager, School Counselor, School Social Worker and Administrator.
• Meet at the beginning of the school year and monthly to review attendance data.

Plan of Action:

3 Unexcused Absences:  Letter will be mailed home with an attendance profile attached.  Letter signed by Administrator.

6 Unexcused Absences:  Letter (form 1700) will be mailed home with attendance profile attached.  Letter signed by Teacher and Administrator.  

10 Excused and/or Unexcused Absences:  Letter will be mailed home with attendance profile attached.  Letter signed by Administrator.  Attendance committee will review information to determine if a referral is needed to appropriate staff member (School Nurse, School Counselor, School Social Worker, Administrator) for follow up with the family.

15 Unexcused Absences:  School Social Worker will make a referral to the Truancy Diversion and Intervention Program (TDIP) through the court system. 

Tardiness

Promptness to school is very important.  Students are admitted to homeroom class at 8:45 AM.  All students must report directly to homeroom upon arrival.  Students arriving after 9:15 AM are considered tardy and must report to the office with their parents to pick up a class admittance slip before going to the classroom.  Students are considered absent if they arrive to school after 12:30 PM or leave prior to this time. No staff will be on duty after 9:15 AM.

Our receptionist will contact parents by phone when a student has been tardy 5 days and again at 10 days. The NCWise data manager will give data to receptionist.  When tardies exceed 10 days, a letter will be mailed home to parent signed by Administrator.

Checking Students Out

The school day ends at 3:45 PM.  Students will not be called out of classrooms after 3:30 PM.  Parents will need to go through carpool or wait inside for dismissal announcements.  To limit classroom disruption, as well as to ensure the safety and security of the students, please wait to pick up your child after dismissal.  Also, try to schedule all non-emergency doctor and dentist appointments for after school hours.  If your child must leave school early, write a note to the teacher, stating what time your child will be picked up and who will be picking him/her up.  The person who is to pick up your child must be on the Student Locator Card (Form 1728B) that parents fill out at the beginning of the school year.  The person picking up your child for early dismissal must report to the office (not the classroom) to sign out the student.  If there is not a court order or separation agreement concerning custody of the child, either parent (or legal guardian) has the same right to see the child at school or have the child released to him/her at the end of the day.  If you have any questions, you may call the school office at 577-1700.                                                                                                 

Discipline Plan

An effective school climate is one that is nurturing, safe, and conducive to learning.  In establishing a discipline policy, it is important to focus on encouraging students to make good choices and in being responsible for their behavior. In making these decisions, students learn tAn effective school climate is one that is nurturing, safe, and conducive to learning.  In establishing a discipline policy, it is important to focus on encouraging students to make good choices and in being responsible for their behavior. In making these decisions, students learn that there are rewards and consequences for their actions.  Our job as educators and parents is to guide students to rewards for appropriate choices and to assist them in learning from their mistakes.  Within this framework, teachers certainly have the leeway to establish a variety of individualized behavior management plans that support the school’s philosophy.  It is hoped that this consistency provided by the school-wide plan will assist students in realizing their potential, thereby making the learning environment as productive as possible.
 
Holly Grove opened as a PBS school in 2006.  Positive Behavioral Support is the school wide discipline plan that we use to make our school a great place to learn.  PBS uses proactive measures and school wide expectations to enable students to achieve social and academic success in school.  Such supports and expectations are developed, implemented, and monitored by all staff members working in the school.  Implementing these expectations school wide can reduce frequency of students who engage in problem behavior.
What does a system of positive behavior supports and expectations look like?  Ideally, the system is in place at the classroom and school level. 
Both levels share some basic similarities.

First, there must be a set of clearly described expectations for student behavior.  In the classroom, this includes a set of classroom expectations that set the parameters for student behavior in social and academic areas.   In the school, behavioral expectations and limits for student behavior include rules for each common area:  cafeteria, halls, carpool, bathrooms, playground, and dismissal. 

Second, the expectations must be taught to mastery.  This is accomplished by explaining the rules, giving and eliciting examples and non – examples of each, then engaging students in both guided and independent practice of each rule. 

Third, a system of cues and prompts during the time the students are learning the expectations can facilitate student success.

Finally, continuous monitoring of the fluency with which students demonstrate those appropriate and desired behaviors gives the staff needed feedback.

What happens when students begin to demonstrate inappropriate behavior again?  Review and re-teaching are a critical piece of an effective system of positive behavioral supports.  Taking time at periodic intervals based on data to bring students back to mastery on a specific behavioral expectation will enable the classroom and school to function as a safe and orderly learning environment.

Expectations for Holly Grove Elementary School

Expectations

Cafeteria

Rules

Restroom

Playground

Bus

Substitute
Teacher

Lobby/Hall
Stairwells

Carpool

Dismissal

Honesty        Counts

Pay for items you take

Keep your place in line

Wash hands

Clean up after yourself

Respect Privacy

Play fairly

Follow the rules of the game

Get off only at your stop

Follow regular procedures and routines

Sit in assigned seats

Go where you need to be

Walk on the right

Quiet halls

Give note to teacher about transportation changes

Stay in order

Give teacher notes about transportation changes

Good choices

Remember the things you need

Eat first then talk quietly to those nearby

Aim

Respect privacy

Quiet voices

Take turns

Share playground equipment

Use kind language

Sit Quietly

Keep book bag closed

Keep from saying how the teacher does things

Raise hand to assist substitute when needed

Quiet halls

One stair at a time

Hands to yourself

Use handrail

Remain quiet so everyone can hear

Sit criss cross

Hand to yourself

Single file line in the halls

Book bag closed and on

Be ready to go

Everyone shows respect

Touch your food only

Help clean, even if it’s not yours

Keep the serving line clean

Respect privacy

Clean up after yourself

Report spills

Invite others to play

Say I’m sorry if you make a mistake

Be good to the equipment

Leave sticks and rocks on the ground

Follow directions of the driver

Follow safety rules

Treat substitute like a guest in your home

Quiet halls

Hands to yourself

Keep the floors clean

Go where you need to be

Follow adult directions

Listen for your number

Remain quiet so everyone can hear

Stay in order

Follow adult directions

Remain quiet

Safety
 first

Stay seated

Raise your hand and wait for help

Walk

Report spills

Report spills

Wash hands with soap and water

Return to class promptly

If someone falls get help

Report broken equipment

Don’t distract the driver

Stay seated

Know evacuation plan

Keep hands, feet head away from windows

Follow established class and school rules

Be helpful

One stair at a time

Use hand rails

Follow arrows

Know evacuations procedures

Follow the sidewalk

Walk quickly to the loading area

Cross at the crosswalk

Walking feet

Buckle up

Classroom Interventions/Incidents of Misbehavior

Acts of misconduct that impede the orderly operation of the classroom and/or school should be handled by an individual staff member but may require the intervention of other school personnel:

• Classroom disturbances,
• Failure to carry out directions,
• Failure to complete assignments or to participate in class,
• Cafeteria misconduct,
• Disruptive behavior in the halls or bathroom (including running, yelling, etc.),
• Dishonesty,
• Playground behavior that does not endanger self or others,
• Inappropriate dress,
• Laughing at/sneering at others,
• Excessive talking,
• Wandering in/out of class,
• Interrupting learning or play activities, and
• Teasing/putting down others.

Options/proactive strategies:

• Withdrawal of privileges,
• Lunch at silent table,
• Conference with parents and/or student(s),
• Separation from others in class (for short periods of time), and
• Verbal reprimands.

Acts of continued misconduct or aggravated instances of minor disruptions and/or more serious misconduct not addressed above:

• Repeated occurrences of the above offences,
• Disrespect (back talk/arguing),
• Taunting others,
• Refusing to work,
• Occurrences of minor theft,
• Forgery,
• Abusive or profane language or gestures, and
• Throwing objects.

Options/Strategies:

• Withdrawal of privileges,
• Lunch at silent table,
• Conference at school with parents and/or student,
• Separation from others in class (for short periods of time),
• Verbal reprimand,
• Office referral, and
• Possible out-of-school suspension.

Acts of misconduct that involve behaviors directed against persons or property but which consequences do not seriously endanger the health and safety of others in the school will require administrator-initiated disciplinary action:

• Repeated occurrences of the above offences,
• Stealing,
• Vandalism,
• Setting off fire alarm,
• Threatening bodily harm,
• Biting,
• Inappropriate touching,
• Indecent exposure,
• Bullying,
• Spitting,
• Obscene gestures, and

Options/Strategies:

• Restitution in payment of damage to property, and
• Possible out-of-school suspension.

Acts of misconduct that directly endanger the health and safety of others and/or property require administrator-initiated disciplinary action:

• Assaulting a school employee,
• Possession of dangerous weapons,
• Possession of drugs,
• Bomb threats,
• Pushing, shoving, biting, fighting, and
• Any other behaviors that violate the WCPSS Code of Conduct.

Options/Strategies:

• Out-of-school suspension.

Please note that in the great majority of cases, only one or two options are chosen at a level.  These are all listed simply to give examples.

Fighting or Assault:

Zero Tolerance Policy:

The Wake County Public Schools has adopted a zero tolerance position when it pertains to communications of “threats of violence.”  Please remind your children that communicating threats is a serious offense and will result in serious consequences.

The Holly Grove Administration is involved with, and supportive of, the Holly Grove Behavior Plan.  Proactive involvement in the form of conferences will be held with the teacher, student, and/or parent.  These meetings may range from reinforcing behavior to problem-solving and clarifying expectations of appropriate school behavior.

When a student is the victim, his/her parents will be notified regarding the resolution of the problem in a manner consistent with the WCPSS’s rules and regulations regarding the privacy of student information.

After School Transportation Arrangements

1. Any changes in bus transportation (such as riding a bus other than the regularly assigned bus) will require a note signed by the parent (the child’s word is not acceptable) and presented to the office on the day the change is needed.  Permission will be granted, if there is space on the bus.  If a student is going home with another student or getting off at another student’s stop, a note will also be required from both students’ parents.  If a student does not have a note, he/she will be sent home his/her regular way.


2. Parents who plan to provide their own transportation for students to and/or from school should send a written statement to the teacher at the beginning of the school year.


3. If a child needs to go to a regularly scheduled day care facility, scouting program, etc. after school hours, the parent is required to send a written notification of this to the teacher.  The teacher needs to know by what means each student is to go home, and, if this is to be changed, a written note should be sent to the teacher.  If your child will not be riding his/her day care van, please notify the day care center.


4. If your child is to go home with a classmate after school, both the hosting and visiting students should bring notes from their parents indicating the planned visit and transportation plans.  Both students are to report to the school office on the morning of the planned visit with their notes.  This is required as a safety precaution.  Some buses are at capacity and visiting students may be denied riding home on the bus with a friend.


5. No student can be permitted to ride home, after school hours, with anyone other than his/her parent unless the child brings a note from his/her parent requesting this.


6. Parents may e-mail transportation changes; however, we must receive them prior to 12:00PM.  In the event the teacher does not check his/her email, we will not be responsible if the child’s transportation change is not received.

Bus Transportation

All students who are bus riders are to ride to and from school on the bus that the transportation department has assigned to them.  Students shall board and leave the bus only at the designated bus stops.  The principal or assistant principal must approve any changes in bus assignments.

Each student transported on a school vehicle must be considerate of the safety and well being of fellow passengers.  Misconduct on the bus can distract the driver’s attention from his/her primary responsibility, which is to transport all students to and from school in a safe, orderly manner.

Due to concerns of many citizens, the Wake County School Board has adopted specific rules and procedures to deal with bus transportation.  These rules and procedures are listed below.  Parents and students are asked to become familiar with these rules.   

Rules for Bus Safety

For the safety of all riders, students are required to do the following:

1. Show respect for the driver at all times.
2. Enter and leave the bus without pushing or crowding.
3. Be seated at all times while the bus is in motion.
4. Talk using a quiet tone of voice and without profane or abusive language.  Do not yell out of the windows.
5. Keep the bus clean and avoid littering.
6. Refrain from consuming food or beverages on the bus.
7. Remain in your seat without placing any part of your body out of the window, without climbing or jumping over seats, and without throwing objects.
8. Refrain from fighting on the bus.

Smoking, drinking, possessing alcoholic beverages, or bringing weapons on the bus shall result in a suspension from the bus and from school.  (Please refer to the WCPSS policy as it relates to these offenses.)

Smoking, drinking, possessing alcoholic beverages, or bringing weapons on the bus shall result in a suspension from the bus and from school.  (Please refer to the WCPSS policy as it relates to these offenses.)

The driver of the school bus will report promptly to the principal or assistant principal any misconduct on the bus or disregard/violation of the driver’s instructions by students.  The principal or assistant principal will follow the guidelines set by WCPSS as they relate to bus misconduct.

The principal or assistant principal may exclude a student from the bus for disciplinary reasons, and the parents will be responsible for providing the student’s transportation to and from school during the period of such exclusion.

A driver who determines that a student is unmanageable and that the misconduct of the student is placing the safety of the other passengers in jeopardy will complete a Bus Discipline Form.

*First Offense:
The assistant principal or principal will conference with the student regarding appropriate bus behavior and give him/her a warning not to repeat any inappropriate behaviors.

*Second Offense:
Another disciplinary conference will be held with the student.  The assistant principal or principal will call the parents regarding the incident and a report will be sent home with the student that will need to be returned with the parent’s signature. 

* If a student is involved in a fight or other dangerous activity or displays extreme disrespect towards the driver, he/she could be suspended from the bus on the 1st or 2nd offense.

Third Offense:
Another disciplinary conference will be held with the student, the parent will be called and notified of the situation and the number of days that the student will be suspended from the bus.  (It will be the parent’s responsibility to transport the student to and from school for the entire suspension period.  Absences from school during the suspension period will be considered unexcused.)  Any further infraction will be subject a student to an additional suspension from the bus.   

Another disciplinary conference will be held with the student; the parent will be called and notified of the situation and the number of days that the student will be suspended from the bus.  (It will be the parent’s responsibility to transport the student to and from school for the entire suspension period.  Absences from school during the suspension period will be considered unexcused.)  Any further infraction will be subject a student to an additional suspension from the bus.   

Riding the school bus is a privilege.  Improper conduct on the bus will result in that privilege being denied.  Inappropriate behavior that distracts the bus driver’s attention is NEVER permitted.

To be fair and consistent with all students, suspensions from the school bus are final.  No alternative or substitute consequence to suspension will be made regardless of the child’s transportation difficulties during the suspension.  The bus stop is a place where we have responsibility as well.  Any child that misbehaves at a bus stop is subject to the same disciplinary actions as outlined for bus riders.
                                                                                                           

1. Stress to your child the importance of behaving on the bus and let them know that you will not tolerate their misbehavior on the bus.
2. If your child is disciplined at school for misconduct on the bus, follow up with your child at home.
3.  Please always remember that we are here to help your child and need your help and cooperation.

By notifying parents of a child’s misconduct, it is hoped that the parents will work with us to correct bus problems so that a suspension will not be necessary.  Parental assistance will certainly help improve bus behavior.  Parental concerns about a student bus behavior should be referred to the Assistant Principal at 577-1700.  Concerns about bus drivers or bus routes should be referred to Leigh Highfill, Operations Manager for Holly Springs Transportation, at 577-1440.  (See WCPSS Policy Manual.)

School Bus Safety

Please review the rules for safety and conduct on the bus as explained in the WCPSS Student Handbook with your child.

Car Pool Procedures

Parents who bring their children to school and who pick up their children after school should unload/load through the carpool line only.  Please do not use the bus loop to drop off or pick up children.  Our policy does not support parents parking and coming into the office to pick up a child.  For safety reasons and security reasons, this procedure will be strictly enforced.  

The following is a list of rules and procedures regarding car pool.  Your cooperation is needed to ensure a safe and efficient car pool system.

1. Use one lane only (right lane). This is for the safety of students and families using the crosswalk.  No parking in the carpool lane is allowed.


2. To ensure that only authorized adults are picking up students, parents should remain in their vehicles and follow all procedures Students must walk at all times during carpool arrival/dismissal. 


3. All vehicles in the carpool lane must display a school-issued identification card with the name(s) of the children being picked-up.  Anyone wishing to pick up a child without an ID card will be required to park and to report to the office to verify authorization to pick up the child.


4. ID cards may be obtained at the Carpool Registration table at Meet and Greet. During the first week of school, cards may be obtained from the office.


5. No child will be released to persons not on the locator card.


6. If there is a change in the person picking up the child, notification must be made in writing, and the person picking up the student must display the ID card.


7. To ensure optimum traffic flow and student safety, students and vehicles picking them up will be assigned pick-up points along the curb.  Vehicles should proceed to their assigned pick-up point as soon as traffic allows.  Students will not be loaded at any point other than the one assigned to them. 


8. Students must stay in their designated pick-up point until a member of the Safety Patrol or a staff member opens the door for them.


9. If a student is not ready to load on time, vehicles will pull down the curb as far as possible and wait there so that others can load quickly.


10. Students should not be dropped off before 8:45AM, and must be picked up by 4PM.  Any student not picked up on time must be signed out in the office.  Repeated tardiness will result in After-School care charges.


11. Our staff will monitor children getting out of cars in the mornings, but will not open car doors.


12. Staff on duty in the afternoons will open car doors for students to get in their cars to go home.

Visitors to Holly Grove

All visitors must come in the front doors of the school and check in at the office, state the reason for the visit, and receive a visitor’s badge.   The badge is printed out when you check-in on the computer in the front lobby.

Visiting or volunteering in classrooms must be prearranged with the teacher prior to your visit.  This is not a time for conferencing.  Observing in classrooms will not be permitted.  Observing in classrooms is a disruption to the instructional day.  If you have questions or concerns about a class/classroom talk with the teacher first and then if necessary speak with an administrator. 

Lunch Bunch

LUNCH BUNCH is an active program and parent participation is wonderful!  We want parents to come and read to our students during lunchtimes.  However, we require that parents only take 4 students (including your child and any small children) to participate in the Lunch Bunch.  Please sign up to come and be part of our amazing lunch bunch program!!!    You must be registered as a volunteer and be approved at a level 3 or 4.

Parents are to use the picnic tables outside of the cafeteria or sit in the hallway near the cafeteria.  Do not go pass the office area for Lunch bunch or sit out front on the benches.  Make sure that you clean up once you are finish with lunch.

Food Brought to the School

Food-related illness caused by improperly prepared food brought in from the community is a public concern.  In an effort to reduce the risk of a food-related illness with our students, we request that parents refrain from bringing in certain home-prepared foods and/or foods from non-commercial sources.  High-risk foods are foods of animal origin (eggs, meat, milk, etc.).  Additionally, the number one cause of food borne illness is improper temperature control.  So foods that need refrigeration or hot holding (meat and cooked vegetable salads, milk, meat, etc.) carry the most risk.  Under no circumstances should the following food items be brought in from homes:

• Ground beef products (hamburgers, casseroles, or ground beef containing dishes)
• Venison in any form
• Unpasteurized milk or juices or products made from unpasteurized milk (such as butter, cheese or ice cream)

The following drier foods carry a lower risk.  The following foods are accepted with relatively small risk for classroom activities:

• Fruits
• Vegetables
• Fruit pies (avoid cream and custard pies and pastries-their risk is much higher)
• Breads not containing pieces of fruits or vegetables
• Canned, bottled and boxed drinks (not containing artificial sweeteners)

Any fresh fruits or vegetables brought in should be from commercial sources and washed thoroughly before being eaten.  Again we want to keep students safe and need your support in following the food guidelines.  (Information and guidelines provided by the North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources.)

Early Arrival Program

Students enrolled in the Early Arrival/Before-School Program may arrive at school as early as 7:00 AM.  For details on this program, please refer to the letter and agreement form that will be available at Meet and Greet at the beginning of the school year, or you may request one from the office at any time.  Students who are not enrolled in the Early Arrival Program are not to arrive before 8:45 AM, because teachers are not available for supervision before this time.  Cost of the program is $61.25 a month, with a $10.00 registration fee.  Contact the school office if you wish to apply for the Early Arrival/Before-School Program.

After-School Program

The After-School Program is available as a service to parents needing childcare after school hours.  The program combines a supervised snack time, arts & crafts, and games from 3:45 PM to 6: 00 PM.  The cost of the program is $123.75 per month, with a $15.00 registration fee.  You may obtain enrollment information at Meet and Greet, or you may request the information from the school office if you wish to apply for the After-School Program.

Telephone Use

Telephones are available in the office for students’ use for emergencies only.  Students will be called from class only in emergency situations; otherwise, messages will be given to your child’s teacher.

Medication Policy

School officials may administer medications to students only if one of the two following guidelines is met:

1. The Parent Request and Physician Order for Medication (Form 1702) is completed and in the possession of school officials.  The physician must sign this form.  The medication must have a current prescription label, including the child’s name, medication name, doctor’s name, and the directions clearly marked on the container.  For long-term medications, the request must be updated at the beginning of each school year and any time there is a change in the time given or the dosage prescribed.  The medication prescribed and the container must match Form 1702.
2. Children who may need to take short-term medications (2 weeks or less) can use either Form 1702 or may send in a written note from the parent requesting school personnel to administer the short-term medication (i.e., antibiotics, ointments, lotions, or syrups).  The medication must be in the container dispensed by the pharmacy (request two bottles or containers from the pharmacy, one for home and one for school, for your convenience), and it must have the current prescription label on it with the child’s name, medication, doctor’s name, and the directions clearly marked on the label.>

For non-prescription medication (i.e., cough syrup, cough drops, Benadryl, Tylenol, etc.) the same rules apply as they do for prescription medications.  There must be a prescription label on the bottle, and, depending on the length of time, a Form 1702 or a note from the parent sent to the school.  (If your child’s doctor wants your child to take a non-prescription drug at school, you need to request that the doctor call the pharmacist who can print a label with directions for administration of the medication.  The label must be on the bottle of nonprescription medicine that the child has at school.)

Please note:  No medication will be administered without a prescription label!  All medications must be brought to the school by the parent.  If this is not possible, arrangements must be made with the principal or the bus driver to transport the medication.

**If your student has medication that has to be given by injection, please call the school nurse to develop a plan for the student.

Health Policies & Screenings

Health Room

The Health Room is located near the receptionist/office area.  This area is for students who are ill or injured and are waiting to be picked up.

Students will be sent home if they have the following symptoms:

• Temperature of 100.6 or higher (A child should remain at home for 24 hours after the temperature has returned to normal.);
• Nausea, vomiting;
• Severe headache;
• Diarrhea;
• Red, watery eyes with yellowish discharge;
• Undiagnosed rash; and/or
• Head lice.  (Students will need to be checked upon returning to school to control outbreaks in the school.)

Health Screenings

Pre-School:  A kindergarten-screening program will be provided at the base elementary school in the fall.  The screening will include a check of hearing, vision, gross and fine motor skills, language/speech development, and hand-eye coordination.

Dental:  A Dental Health staff member of the Wake County Health Department will screen each kindergarten and 1st grade student in the classroom.  A form is sent home informing parents of the observed dental conditions.

Vision:  Students in kindergarten, 1st, 2nd, 3rd, and 5th grades will be screened for visual acuity once a year.  This information is kept in the student’s cumulative record.  Other students may be screened at the request of the teacher or parent.

Hearing:  Students in kindergarten through 3rd grades have their hearing checked once a year. 

**Remember that school screenings do not take the place of regular check-ups by your child’s physician.

Cafeteria Policies & Procedures

We want to make our cafeteria an enjoyable and inviting place for students and staff to eat nutritious meals.  Many special events will be planned throughout the year to get everyone excited about our nutrition program.  Parents are always welcome to come and eat lunch with their children.

Summary of meal prices:

                        Breakfast                                             Lunch
                        Full Price         $ .80                           Full Price         $1.75
                        Reduced Price  $ .30                         Reduced Price  $ .40
                        Extra Milk $ .50
                        * Adult meals and snacks are priced a la carte.

Free and Reduced Lunch: Applications for Free/Reduced Lunch will be sent home to all students on the first day of school.  All students who were eligible last year will remain eligible for the first ten days only.  New applications must be submitted to Child Nutrition each year.   Additional applications are available from the school office.  Until Child Nutrition notifies you of your acceptance/denial, your child will need to have lunch money if he/she did not qualify for the free/reduced lunch program last school year.  All children receive a lunch number and will be required to give their numbers to the cashier.  Questions regarding Free/Reduced Lunch should be addressed to the Assistant Principal or to the school office.

Cafeteria Procedures:

• Students are neither to break in lines nor to save places for others.  Students are to be quiet and orderly while in the lunch line.
• After getting their food, students will proceed directly to the designated table area of the teacher in charge.
• While eating, students may talk quietly but may not leave the table for any reason without permission from the teacher in charge.
• Upon finishing lunch, trays are to be returned to the disposal area, emptied, and stacked neatly for recycling.
• Students may not take opened food items from the cafeteria.  They may buy a snack, but it must remain unopened.  Children may only buy one snack with lunch per day.
• At the direction of staff, students will line up along the wall for dismissal and will wait quietly in line until the teacher comes to get them.
• In going to and from the cafeteria, students are to remain quiet in the hall so that classes in session will not be interrupted.  

Parents are encouraged to come and eat with their child.  We will designate an area for parents to eat with their child.  You are encouraged to eat in our cafeteria or bring a bagged lunch.  NC General Statute 115C-264.3 and WCPSS Policy 5125.3 regulate the nutritional value of the foods served to students during the instructional day; therefore, bringing fast food items from outside vendors and other sources will not be permitted.     

Media Center

The media center is an essential part of the school's instructional program, helping students learn to become proficient readers and independent users of information.   The media center will be open for students every school day from 8:45 until 3:45.  Students may, with teacher permission, come to the media center any time during the school day to use its resources and students are encouraged to use the media center as much as possible.  Teachers, in collaboration with the Media Specialist, may assign students independent projects for research in the media center, may bring their entire class or send small groups for instruction or research.
 
We are happy to be in such a beautiful new facility with access to a high-quality collection of over 16,000 volumes as well as online and video resources.  The Media Specialists encourage students to come by often to check out books for personal enjoyment or research. Parents are also encouraged to bring their students in during track-out to use the media center for research or to check out, renew, or return books.  A parent must accompany students during track-out trips to the media center.

We want all our students to become life-long readers and book lovers.  We hope that parents will enjoy reading with their children the books they bring home and that you will encourage them to love reading. Please check out our online resources, too, at:   http://hollygrovees.wcpss.net/mediamain.html

Lost & Found

• Students are to turn in to the school office any items found on the school grounds that do not belong them.

• Students may check the Lost & Found during their homeroom period.

• Students are not to be sent to the Lost & Found for lost textbooks or lost library books.  Lost textbooks are returned to the student’s teacher, and lost library books are returned to the Media Center.

• Write names on all personal items: jackets, sweaters, backpacks, lunch boxes etc.)  All unclaimed lost and found items will be taken to Goodwill the day before winter break and the day after the school year end.

Toys at School

We realize how much children love to bring their prize possessions to share with their friends; however, we cannot accept the responsibility for their safety.  Toys can also distract students from learning while at school.  Please do not allow children to bring toys to school unless they are for show and tell.  Items brought for show and tell must be put away after they are presented.  If students repeatedly bring toys and other non-school items to school, toys/items will be confiscated and placed in the “June Box” to be given to students the last week of school, or a parent may come to school to pick up the toys/items.  Students may not bring toys in their backpacks to take to an after school program, unless they have a special game day.  We will not be responsible for lost, broken, or stolen toys.  All toys/games must be kept in their book bag until the special event or they will be taken away.  Items may be picked up by a parent or placed in the “June Box”

School Parties

Parties are not to be held during school hours for students.  If your child wants to share a snack on his/her birthday, the snack may be purchased and sent to school for either lunch or a snack.  All snacks must meet NC State Board Policy for nutritional guidelines.  If you have questions regarding snacks, ask your child’s teacher. On occasion, an activity may involve food items as a part of an instructional objective.  Having flowers and balloons delivered to the school is disruptive to the learning environment, so please plan for those items to be delivered at home.  We value our instructional time; therefore, teachers will not be hosting parties in their classrooms. You can purchase a celebration book from the library in honor of your child’s special day.  A plaque will be placed in front of the book honoring the birth of your child.

Vandalism/Property Damage

Students who destroy or vandalize school property will be required to pay for the losses and damages.  Damage often results from horseplay in the corridors or rooms, and students are liable for either accidental or malicious damage.

Replacement of Textbooks

The teacher will issue students only one textbook.  If a student’s textbook is lost, stolen, misplaced, or damaged, the student may purchase another one from the State Textbook Warehouse, 3095 Reedy Creek Road, Raleigh, NC 27607.  The State Textbook Warehouse telephone number is 715-5373.  (Call to determine whether the book is available and the cost of the book before driving out to the facility.)

All books that are lost, stolen, misplaced, or damaged must be paid for or replaced by the end of the school year.

School Insurance (Accidental and Dental)

School insurance is available to all students.  Information will be sent home with each child during the first few weeks of school.  Purchase of the insurance is optional.

Dress Code Policy

Wake County Public School System has a dress code policy which states that students are expected to adhere to standards of dress and appearance that are compatible with an effective learning environment.  (Reasonable accommodations will be made on an individual basis for students’ religious or medical conditions that require a departure from normal dress standards.)

If a student’s dress or appearance is such that it constitutes a threat to the health or safety of others, distracts attention of other students or staff from their work, or otherwise violates dress code, the principal or designee may require the student to change his/her dress or appearance.  A second or repeated violation of the policy may result in disciplinary action.

Tops
Logos and/or pictures should be appropriate.  Shirts are to cover the entire top torso and to reach the waistline but should not extend beyond the knee.  No spaghetti straps, halter-tops, or see through tops are permitted.  Loose fitting tank tops will not be permitted unless another shirt is worn underneath.  Tops should cover all undergarments.  Any symbols, styles, or attire frequently associated with intimidation, violence, or violent groups are prohibited.

Pants
Baggy or loose fitting pants with belt loops are to be worn with belts.  No pants are to be worn below the waist.  All undergarments are to be covered.

Shoes
Athletic shoes are to be worn for Physical Education.  Your child will need to bring athletic shoes if he/she wears any other type of shoes.  Your child will not be allowed to participate in PE without the proper shoes.  Please be advised that this could affect his/her participation grade.  Cleats are never permitted to be worn at school.  These guidelines will be enforced for the safety of our students.  If your child wears inappropriate shoes, your child’s ability to participate in outside activities will be limited (kickball, etc.).  Heelies may be worn, but the wheels must be in at all times.

Jewelry
Do not send students to school with expensive jewelry.  The school will not be held responsible for items that are lost or damaged.  Earrings and other jewelry should be small enough that they do not pose a safety hazard.  Any adornment such as chains or spikes that reasonably could be perceived as, or used as, a weapon will not be permitted.

Hats/Sunglasses
Hats or other head coverings may not be worn during the school day except for special days or for medical reasons approved by the administration.  Sunglasses are not to be worn in the building.

Go over these guidelines and discuss them with your child.  Remember that neatness, modesty, and safety are our primary concerns.  If you have any questions regarding the dress code or an article of clothing, please call the office at 577-1700.

Inclement Weather/Delayed Openings

Please check the Wake County School System 2006-2007 Parent/Student Handbook for the current policy on inclement weather procedures. Remember to always check the radio, television, or the main school number (577-1700) to find out about school openings during inclement weather.  You may also find this information on the Wake County Public School System’s web site at www.wcpss.net.   On this web site, you may also sign up to be included on an “e-mail notification list”, so that you may be notified, immediately, of any changes to the school day.  Our make-up days are determined by Wake County school officials and are held on Saturdays.   You may call the main number for information on school closings or delays; a voice mail message will let you know the current situation on the status of closings and delays.  Please do not drop off your child early on a delayed school opening.  Staff members are not required to report to work until 30 minutes prior to the delayed opening time.  No one is here to supervise students, and the decision to delay school because of weather conditions also includes the safety and well being of staff members.

Make-Up Days

Make-up days for year-round schools due to inclement weather are held on Saturdays.  Students checked out prior to 11:35 a.m. will be counted absent.  No dismissals through the office after 11:15 a.m.   We need to prepare for dismissal.

Field Trips

Current educational philosophy recognizes the desirability of using the total community environment as a learning laboratory.  To this end, teachers may schedule field trips for their classes.  These trips, always arranged for their educational value, enable students to see people at work and serve to broaden the students’ total educational experience.  The cost of the field trip will include the cost of transportation and any other fees associated with the trip.  Every effort will be made to assure both the suitability of any trip away from school and the reasonableness of any cost involved in the trip.  For this reason, all field trips must have the approval of the principal.  Before a student can go on a field trip, a Wake County permission sheet signed by the parent must be on file in the office.  Verbal permissions and handwritten notes are not accepted.  All volunteers on field trips must have a level 3 or 4 clearance to be a chaperone.  A field trip is defined as any planned activity that necessitates the student leaving the school grounds during the instructional day.  Field Trips are an extension of learning.  However, if students do not have permission to go on a trip, those students will be placed in another classroom for their instruction.

Cell Phones and Electronic Devices

Cell Phones should not be turned on during the school day.  Any child that violates this policy will have their phone taken and kept in the office until it is picked up by a parent.  No other electronic devices are permitted on campus.