Judson Elementary School

WATERTOWN BOARD OF EDUCATION

STRATEGIC PLAN

MISSION STATEMENT

 

The mission of the Watertown School District, with determination to be a world-class educational leader and centerpiece of a dynamic and growing community, is to meet the diverse needs of each student - academic, artistic, athletic, emotional, ethical, social, and technological - to develop members of our community who:

• embrace life-long learning;
• are caring and responsible citizens;
• have a sense of social justice.

This will be accomplished by:

• establishing high expectations for all students:
• partnering with parents and the community as a whole;
• providing differentiated instruction, guidance and resources necessary to achieve these high expectations set forth for our students, staff, and community.

GOALS OF EDUCATION

The schools of Watertown should strive to impart to each student a mature understanding of himself, his needs, and the needs of the people around him.  Education within the Watertown Public School System should enable the student to demonstrate that he can learn on his own and that he can translate his learning into worthwhile action.  To this end, the school system shall provide educational experiences matched to the student’s capability, personal development, and interest by providing flexibility with respect to content, support of the community because education not only serves the individual but also society.

The following educational goals have been established:

1. Each student will understand and practice democratic ideas and ideals by learning of his heritage, the functioning of democratic institutions, and the habits and attitudes of responsible citizenship.
2. Each student will acquire the greatest possible understanding of himself and an appreciation of his worthiness as a member of society.
3. Each student will learn to respect and get along with people of all ages and cultures that think, dress, and act differently.
4. Each student will acquire good health and an understanding of the conditions necessary for the maintenance of physical and emotional well being.
5. Each student will acquire mastery of the basic skills to the fullest possible extent.
6. Each student will be helped to understand and appreciate human achievement in the sciences, humanities, and the arts.
7. Each student will be given the opportunity and encouraged to be creative in various fields of endeavor.
8. Each student will understand the opportunities available and skills needed to prepare for a productive life.
9. Each student will develop a positive attitude toward the learning process.
10. Each student will learn to make decisions and solve problems.
11. Each student will be helped to prepare for a world of rapid change and unforeseeable demands in which continuing education throughout his life should be a normal expectation.

 

JUDSON MISSION STATEMENT

“The staff and students will provide a nurturing and safe environment which promotes social, emotional, and academic growth.”

The staff, students, parents, and community members work together so that each student is successful.  High expectations are set so that every child reaches his or her full potential and has the motivation to achieve life-long learning.

 

JUDSON BELIEFS

We believe that:

• A safe and healthy environment is necessary for success.
• Our environment reflects our demographics, our teachers’ beliefs and interest, and the needs of our students.
• Modeling appropriate behaviors promotes good character.
• Intrinsic motivation leads to good decision-making and a love of learning.
• Celebrating every student’s unique attributes creates self-worth.
• Exploring the art, music, and the culture of all ethnic groups embraces differences and creates respect for all.
• Academic risk-taking is encouraged and supported in a positive environment.
• Respect and dignity of ideas and thoughts are revered.

 

CURRICULUM

We believe that our curriculum:

• Encompasses current local, state, and national standards.
• Meets the needs of the Watertown population.
• Links the school’s beliefs and expectation for students with instruction and assessment.
• Reflects and interdisciplinary approach which results in a greater depth of understanding of key concepts and skills.
• Provides real-life relevancy.
• Develops higher-order thinking.
• Sets high expectations.

 

ACADEMIC INSTRUCTION

We believe that:

• Differentiated instruction meets the diverse needs of every student.
• Instruction develops the fundamental skills and knowledge necessary for further learning.
• Instruction fosters a desire and motivation for continued learning.
• Active learning leads to student engagement.
• Teacher and student self-evaluation and reflection improve instruction.
• Varied instructional strategies allow students to apply knowledge and skills in everyday situations.
• Flexible grouping supports learning and improves instruction.
• An inquiry based learning process, which emphasizes problem solving, results in higher-order thinking.
• Interdisciplinary instruction creates a deeper understanding of skills and concepts.
• The use of technology enhances students’ current and future learning.

 

ASSESSMENT

We believe that:

• Ongoing assessment drives instruction in order to meet the needs of the student.
• Student self-evaluation leads to continued growth.
• Using a variety of assessment strategies provides a complete picture of students.
• Assessment reflects student expectations in the curriculum.
• Collecting, analyzing, and sharing school-wide data improve the school.
• Collaborative analysis of student assessment improves student performance.

 

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

We believe that:

• Professional development is data-driven and reflects the needs of our students and staff.
• Professional development supports the development and implementation of the curriculum.
• Sustained and ongoing professional development improves practice.
• Collaborative analysis of student work and instructional practice requires time and results in improved learning.

 

JUDSON SCHOOL INFORMATION

2012-2013

School Address:   Fletcher W. Judson School

                              124 Hamilton Lane

                             Watertown, CT 06795

Office Hours           8:00 AM – 4:00 PM

 

Principal                        Ms. Lisa Rommel               945-4850

Head Secretary              Mrs. Dana Cipriano            945-4850

Secretary                       Mrs. Linda Marino              945-4850

School Nurse                  Mrs. Diane Andrew             945-4850

Cafeteria Mgr.                 Mrs. Roz Campbell            945-4850

Head Custodian               Mr. Don Cyr                      945-4850

Superintendent                Dr. Gail Gilmore                945-4801

Interim Curriculum            Ms. Barbara Peck              945-4802

Business Manager             Pasquale Buccitelli            945-4804  

Supv. of Special Ed.          Mrs. Donnah Rochester       945-2788

First Student Bus               Mrs. Alexis Ortiz                274-5212

Judson BOE Liaison            Mr. Richard Beland             274-1923

 

 

 

CHAIN OF COMMAND

If you should ever have a concern that involves your child, please be aware of the steps that you should follow:

• Speak to the teacher or other professional who works with your child first.
• If not resolved satisfactorily, call the principal.
• If not resolved, contact the Superintendent of Schools.
• If not resolved, contact the Board of Education liaison for your building.

It is very doubtful that you will need to proceed through all of these steps since all members of the school staff are eager to work with you and your child.  Please contact your child’s teacher whenever you have a concern or question.

 

JUDSON SCHOOL PTO

Judson School has a very active PTO. Meetings are held monthly and all parents, guardians, and teachers are encouraged to attend and share ideas. Notices are sent out periodically regarding meeting times and all events.  The PTO officers for 2012-2013 are as follows:

President                                           Cheryl White

Vice President                                     Rose Harris

Recording Secretary                             Carrie O'Connell

Treasurer                                           Lisa Cattaneo

Corresponding Secretary                       Jennifer Jalbert    

Members at Large                                Mindy Davidson

                                                         Christine Holmes

                                                         Jennifer LaBella

                                                         Deb Mazzamaro

                                                         Shelly Guerrera

                                                        Wendy Gallagher

PTO Liaison to Superintendent             Sharon Demers

                                                            Kim Verno

Meetings are held the 2^nd Tuesday each month in the Judson School Library.

                                               

JUDSON SCHOOL HOURS

GRADE 3

 Homeroom             8:55AM

Lunch/Recess        12:00PM – 1:00 PM

Dismissal                               3:15PM

GRADE 4

  Heroom             8:55AM

                                Lunch/Recess        11:30PM  - 12:30PM

Dismissal                               3:15PM

GRADE 5

                                Homeroom             8:55AM

                                Lunch/Recess        12:30PM  - 1:30PM

                                Dismissal               3:15PM

 

All Single Session Hours:               8:55 AM – 1:25 PM

(this includes closings for weather)

 

                90 Minute Delay Hours:        10:30AM - 3:15 PM

 

SCHOOL CANCELLATIONS, DELAYED OPENINGS, EARLY DISMISSALS

All announcements of school cancellations, delayed openings, and early dismissals will be broadcast on the following radio and television stations.

WWCO-1240 AM                  WVIT-TV       30

WTIC-1080 AM                      WTNH –TV   8

WZBG-97.3 FM                     WFSB-TV     3

WATR-1320 AM

 

Weather related school information can also be accessed at www.Watertownps.org.  You can be notified of school closings and other information by signing up for Alert Now Information.  Alert Now is a district-wide system that calls you at the phone numbers of your choice.   Please let your children know where they should go and with whom if they are not going home as usual.  If your child is to be picked up by someone other than yourself, please let the school office know.

.

                Early dismissal at Judson School is 1:25.

 

In most cases, when early dismissal occurs, after school activities are cancelled.  If an after school activity is cancelled, children will be sent home the way they normally go home from school each day. PARENTS SHOULD NOTIFY THE SCHOOL OF ALTERNATE DISMISSAL PLANS FOR THEIR CHILDREN.

 

CROSSING GUARD

The crossing guard is on duty at Hamilton Avenue from:

8:15 AM – 9:00 AM;           3:00 PM – 3:45 PM

Crossing guard is usually on school property from:

8:30 AM – 9:15 AM;           3:00 PM – 3:45 PM

.

SECURITY

Due to increased levels of security and safety concerns, all doors at Judson School will be locked from 9:00 a.m. to 3:15 p.m.  Please use the buzzer to enter the building and report to the office.

 

VISITORS / VOLUNTEERS

Before entering the building, all visitors must ring buzzer to be allowed to enter the building. All visitors and/or volunteers must sign in and receive a “visitor pass” to wear while in the building.  When the visit is completed, please return to the office and sign out.  All visitors must use only the front door to enter and exit the building

While it is appreciated that parents with younger children wish to volunteer, school policy does not permit parents to volunteer in classroom while watching a younger child.

 

EARLY ARRIVALS

CHILDREN SHOULD BE DROPPED OFF NO EARLIER THAN 8:40 AM.  PARENTS WHO DROP OFF CHILDREN EARLY SHOULD KNOW THERE IS NO SUPERVISION PROVIDED PRIOR TO 8:40 AM.

TARDINESS

Please make every effort to have your child arrive at school by 8:55 AM.  The child’s day will start in a much calmer fashion and will be more organized if he/she is not tardy.  If, however, your child is late, he/she must report to the office for a late slip.  Whenever a child is going to be late for school, please call the school office at 954-4850 after 8:00 AM to notify us, or leave a message on our machine.

 

DISMISSAL

School dismissal is at 3:15 PM.  Please make every effort to have your child dismissed with his/her class.  In the interest of safety and to alleviate traffic congestion, we will attempt to dismiss walkers and students with pick-up notes at 3:15 PM.

All walkers and students with pick-up notes will be dismissed out the cafeteria hallway doors.  All children need an exit ticket or a parent note to leave the building at 3:15. If you want a student to wait for a parent, you must send a note.  To be dismissed, the students being picked up must have a note to get out of the building.  If they are picked up every day, please send a permanent note to be kept on file in the office.  We will make every effort to dismiss these students at 3:15 PM.   Please meet you child at the orange cones in front of the cafeteria, as no child will be allowed to cross the parking lot unattended.  Children are not allowed to run to a waiting car under any circumstances. 

Parents who will be picking up students must wait for the students outside.  Children with a pickup note will be allowed to leave the building when the parent appears in the parent pickup circle.  If you arrive to pick up your child and he/she did not bring a note, please inform the teacher on duty and then come into the main office to sign the student out.

If you give permission for your child to walk home everyday, please send a note in at the beginning of the school year.  It will be kept on file in the main office.

Please avoid early dismissals by making doctor and other appointments after school hours.  This will allow your child to end the day in a more organized fashion and alleviate congestion during dismissal.

At no time is a student allowed to leave the school building or grounds without notifying the office.

If you should need to take your child out of school early, please write a note to that effect. The office will notify the teacher and call for your child when you arrive at the school.  WE CANNOT ACCEPT PHONE MESSAGES REGARDING SPECIAL PLANS OR PERSONAL MESSAGES FOR YOUR SON OR DAUGHTER.  Arrangements for Brownies, dentists, etc. should be taken care of in writing one day in advance.  Please be advised that we will not be responsible for conducting personal business over the phone.

All permission notes for children attending CCD, recreation programs, scouts, should be on file in the school office at the beginning of the year.  If an activity is to continue throughout the school year, one note on file is sufficient.  Please notify the office of any changes.  In the absence of a note to the contrary, children will be dismissed from school in their usual manner at dismissal time. 

 

STUDENT DROP-OFF AND PICK-UP / PARKING

For safety reasons, there is a one-way traffic flow into the student pickup/drop off area.  Please observe the entrance and exit signs!  These are in effect to prevent accidents. Please observe the drop-off point when driving your child to school.  At NO TIME ARE YOU TO PARK AT THE CURB OR IN THE FIRE LANE IN FRONT OF THE SCHOOL.  At the end of the day, walkers and pick-ups are dismissed at 3:15 PM to avoid bus dismissal.

PARENTS WHO DROP OFF CHILDREN EARLY SHOULD KNOW THERE IS NO SUPERVISION PROVIDED PRIOR TO 8:40 AM.

 

NOTIFICATION OF ABSENCES

Please call Judson School at 860-945-4850 and follow the voice prompts to report an absence.  If a call is not received, the school nurse or office will call the parents.  When a child returns to school following an absence, please write a brief note stating the date and the reason for the absence.  If a child is absent from school for the day, he/she will not be able to participate in after-school or evening activities.

State Board of Education, as of January 2, 2008, A student is considered to be “in attendance” if present at his/her assigned school, or an activity sponsored by the school (e.g., field trip), for at least half of the regular school day.  A student who is serving an out-of-school suspension or expulsion should always be considered absent.

 

MAKE-UP WORK REQUESTS

If your child is going to be absent for an extended length of time, arrangements for make-up work should be made with the teacher(s).  Teachers are to be given 24 hour notice to prepare work for students who are absent for extended illness.  Students are expected to complete the work missed within a reasonable time period.  Teachers are expected to assist the children in make-up work when necessary.  When feasible, homework requests for a single day absence, called in prior to noon, will be available in the office between 3:30 and 4:00 PM.

 

VACATION LETTERS

We believe the teacher-student interaction that the children will miss will be difficult to replace.  Therefore, it is important that the children follow through with their commitment to complete their school work when they return.  Recess and after school times may be available for make-up work.  The children can follow the progress of their class assignments on the Judson School website, judson.office@watertownps.org.

 

PUPIL INFORMATION FORMS

Pupil Information Forms should be filed each year and updated as needed during the year, by the parents, to assure that a designated adult can be reached at all times, and to identify the adults with authorization to take students from schools.  Students will be released only to those designated by parent/guardian on the information forms.

When a child’s parents are separated or divorced, the issue of custody often becomes a matter of concern for the school.  In order to protect the child and the rights of the custodial parent, it is important that the school be given a photocopy of the custodial agreement.  Without this document in our files, we must legally release a child to either parent.  In addition, school records will also be released to either parent without this documentation.

The information will be on file in the main office and at the office of the Superintendent of Schools.

The information will be taken outside of the school by the building principal or designees in the event of a building evacuation, excluding practice fire drills.

 

EMERGENCY PLAN

Maintaining the safety of our schools is of paramount importance to the Watertown Board of Education and its staff.  Whether caused by human actions, accidents, or natural disasters, crisis situations call for immediate planned action and long-term post crisis intervention.

There is a school Emergency Plan in place.   Appropriate training for staff and students has been and will continue to be conducted.  All types of evacuation and safety drills will be held in accordance with this policy.  The safety of our children is our first concern, and every measure is taken to ensure it.

 

EMERGENCY DRILLS

During the year, drills are scheduled to prepare the students for emergency situations which require evacuation from the building.  Fire drills are held on a monthly basis to prepare students for that event.

Full evacuation drills are conducted where the children must exit and be totally clear of the building.  In addition, “lock down” drills are conducted to prepare for a situation where children should not leave the building or their classrooms and be kept away from windows.

The staff of Judson School has the safety of your children as its utmost responsibility.  We hope that these practice drills will ensure their safety in the event of any emergency.

 

OPEN HOUSE / PROGRESS REPORTS / REPORT CARDS / PARENT CONFERENCES

The Judson School Open House is scheduled for September 20th.  Students and parents are encouraged to attend this informal gathering.                                 

Progress reports will be sent home mid-marking period term one.  Term 2, 3, and 4 progress reports will be sent home mid-marking period as warranted

Teachers and/or parents may schedule individual conferences as needed.  Our teachers are very willing to work with parents, personally, over the phone, or by e-mail.  However, in preparation for the school day, teachers are unable to meet in the morning without prior notice.  If you wish to see a teacher, please call him/her to arrange a convenient time.

Non custodial parents/guardians who wish a copy of progress reports and report cards should send in a written request to the main office at the beginning of the school year.

 

STUDENT AGENDAS

In an effort to help children learn organizational skills, the PTO and Judson School are graciously supplying each child in grades 3-5 with an agenda at the beginning of the school year.  Classroom teachers will guide students in recording both short term and long-term assignments in the designated areas, and parents are asked to look at their children’s books daily as well.  It is our hope that by working together parents and teachers can support students in being responsible about their schoolwork.  If this agenda is lost, students will be expected to pay for a replacement which will be supplied through the office. The charge for the replacement agenda will be $5.00.

 

HOMEWORK POLICY

Homework is given to all students to preview, reinforce and/or practice what has been learned in school.  This is in accordance with Board of Education policy.  An award for “Perfect Homework” is presented at a special lunch at the end of each term.

At Judson School all children are encouraged to complete homework in a timely manner so that the next day’s lessons will be more meaningful.  It is very important for all students to use their agendas correctly to help them remember to complete their assignments and to bring them to class.  Also, it is the intent of the homework policy to teach students to be more organized and responsible in completing their homework assignments.  Students will be reminded to bring home supplies needed for testing and written work.  We hope this will eliminate the need to return to school after hours to retrieve needed materials.  Assignments are also written on the whiteboards. 

Parents will be notified by their child’s teacher if three assignments have been late or missed in any subject area.  If children are chronically late with their assignments, teachers will notify the parents in writing. If this continues to be a concern an afterschool detention may be issued.

It is the expectation of the Judson teachers and staff that all children will complete their homework.  We feel that students who do not demonstrate appropriate responsibility with regard to their school and homework may not be allowed to join his/her class for some activities. Time may be spent in school finishing work. 

 

 

 

 

WEB SITE

Judson School maintains a very active website.  Please visit www.judsonelementary.org often for information about Judson School activities, policies, and classroom events.  While homework is posted and updated on the teacher pages, it is not a substitute for the written agenda.

 

FIELD TRIPS

Field trips are an integral part of our educational program.  When a field trip is planned, your child will bring home a form describing the trip and its cost.  The form will also contain a permission slip.  Please sign and return it to the teacher.  Children who do not return a signed permission slip prior to the field trip will not be allowed to participate in that trip. If a child is unable to attend an activity (due to sudden illness, discipline, etc.) reimbursement may not be possible.

In some cases a child may be denied the right to attend field trips due to disciplinary or work issues.  Parents will be notified if a child is not to participate in the field trip.  An alternative, appropriate lesson will be planned for the student in school on the day of the field trip.

 

LUNCH PROGRAM

A hot lunch program is offered at Judson School.  Students may buy hot lunch or bring their own.  Monthly lunch menus will be sent home in advance and are posted in classrooms and in the office. You may also access the menu on our district website.  The cost of the hot lunch program is $2.75 per day.  If you wish to purchase a weekly ticket, the cost is $13.75 and may be purchased on MONDAYS only.  Please make checks payable to the Watertown Student Lunch Program. 

Students who bring in their own lunch may purchase half pints of milk sold at $.55 each.  Ice cream and snacks are sold daily and the cost varies.  Students are not allowed to bring drinks in glass bottles.

In the event that a student forgets or loses lunch money, he/she may charge up to three sandwich lunches (grinder, PBJ, or cheese sandwich) complete with side offerings; he/she may not charge the hot lunch choice of the day.  We ask that this charge be paid within two weeks.  Students may not buy snack while money is still owed.

Efforts will be made to collect the outstanding balance on the student’s account.  In the event reimbursement is not received from a parent or guardian, a cheese sandwich and milk will continue to be provided until the outstanding balance is paid in full.

Forms for the Federal Lunch Program are distributed to all students at the beginning of the school year and upon enrollment.  They are also available at any time during the school year in the main office.  The forms are reviewed and those eligible for free or reduced lunch are notified in writing.

 

CELEBRATIONS

With the numerous children with serious allergies we are moving toward an allergy sensitive “food free” environment. Pencils, stickers or other items are encouraged for a birthday celebration in lieu of food.* Please send in a note the day before your child’s birthday to remind the teacher.  On the day of your child’s birthday a time will be set aside to sing and recognize the special day.  Your child may bring in a favorite book or select one from the school library.  Your child may read a favorite portion to the class or the child may ask the teacher to read in his/her place.  The program “Books for Birthdays” is also another wonderful option.

Holidays are often a time to celebrate a cultural event. Please contact your teacher before bringing in any food items as food items are strongly discouraged.  If you chose to contribute to the celebration a commemorative sticker or flag is suggested!  Food items that are sent in for a holiday will not be distributed. Halloween treats will be set aside for the evening PTO Halloween Party. PTO sponsored events are not subject to the school food policies.

*JUDSON SCHOOL IS MOVING TOWARDS BECOMING AN ALLERGY SENSITIVE “FOOD FREE” ENVIRONMENT.  Any food must be accompanied by a “List of ingredients.”   This means the actual label from each food product used in a recipe.  An informal list is not acceptable.  Also, Judson School is a latex-free zone (no balloons). 

 

FORGOTTEN MATERIALS

In order to provide optimal quality instruction, classroom interruptions must be kept to a minimum. A phone is available in the main office for student use in the morning before announcements.  If a child forgets a lunch, and the parent brings it to the office, the child will be notified.  If no lunch is dropped off, a child will be allowed to charge a lunch in the cafeteria. If a child forgets a musical instrument or sneakers for physical education and the parent has dropped it at the office, the special teacher can send the child to the office before the instructional time to pick up the item.  Children who forget homework will have to bring it in the following day.  Classroom teachers have established guidelines for such situations to avoid interruptions of class instruction.

 

CLOTHING / LOST AND FOUND

All clothing and other personal belongings, including backpacks, notebooks, and lunch boxes, should be labeled with a child’s full name and grade.  If items are lost, they will be placed in the lost and found box.  Students and parents should check frequently for missing items.  Periodically, if articles are not claimed, they will be donated to a charity. 

 

SCHOOL PHOTOGRAPHS

Parents are given the opportunity to purchase photographs of their child and their classmates.  This is a traditional school fund-raiser and allows families to obtain quality pictures at a reasonable price.  Photographs will be taken on September 11^th, 2012.

Each year all students are photographed for student identification for the district data base.

YEARBOOK

Children will have an opportunity to purchase a yearbook at the close of the school year.  Details will be announced to students at that time and notices will be sent home.

 

W.I.S.T. (Watertown's Interventions Strategies Team)

Each Watertown Public School has a team of school personnel who meet on a regular basis to discuss, review, and develop action plans for students with demonstrated needs.  The team is comprised of the building administrator, the nurse, a regular and special education teacher, the school's psychologist and other trained personnel.  The goal of W.I.S.T. is to provide early identification, assistance, and strategies for students who may have issues that are interfering with school performance.

 

ELIGIBILITY FOR SPECIAL EDUCATION SERVICES

Identification of a student who is eligible for special education services begins with a written referral or request.  That written request may come directly from the parent/guardian or directly from the school’s Intervention Strategy Team.  Either route requires that a request be in writing.  Sixty calendar days from receipt of written request a meeting of staff and parents must be called.  At that meeting the evaluations done by school staff, are reviewed and a decision is arrived at regarding eligibility for services. Then a program will be designed, ready to be implemented on the sixtieth day if the child is declared eligible.  Parents are encouraged to pick up a copy of their rights at the main office.  The Special Education Parent Teacher Association has made a variety of books available to parents and caregivers through the Watertown Library.

We appreciate their generosity and hope all families will take advantage of the availability of these resources by checking out our local library.

SCHOOL NURSE

The school nurse is available five days a week from 8:30 – 3:30 and operates under the standard orders of the town's medical officer.  The number for the school nurse is 945-4850.  She provides first aid for anyone injured on school grounds.  She should not be expected to treat injuries that have occurred outside school activities.  If the school related injury requires additional medical attention, the child's parent will be contacted.  If the parent cannot be located and medical assistance is imperative, 911 is called for an ambulance.

If the child becomes ill during the school day, the parent will be contacted. It is the parents' responsibility to arrange for transportation home.

All injuries and surgery should be reported to the school nurse.  After an injury or surgery, a child will be able to resume physical education classes only after a written release from his/her doctor has been received by the school.  A parent's note will not be sufficient.

Screenings:

Vision and hearing screenings are done yearly on each child.   If the results of any of these screenings warrant further examination, the parents will be contacted and a referral will be made by the school nurse.  A scoliosis screening is conducted in school on all children in Grades 5, 7, 8, and 9.  Sixth grade scoliosis screening is to be done at the time of the sixth grade physical.  Height and weight are measured on a yearly basis.

Physical exams:

Children entering third grade are encouraged to have a physical exam.  Blue physical forms are available in school offices.

Medication Administration: A PHYSICIAN'S WRITTEN ORDER and a WRITTEN AUTHORIZATION from the parent are necessary for the school personnel to administer medication during school hours. The necessary forms for administration of medicine are available by request in the school health office. All medication brought to school must be in a container with a prescription label.  NO MEDICATION SHOULD BE SENT IN WITH A CHILD.  Only the school nurse, principal, or child's teacher may administer medication in school and only with a properly filled-out authorization form.  ONLY MEDICATIONS THAT NEED TO BE GIVEN DURING SCHOOL TIME WILL BE GIVEN.  All over the counter medicines require a doctor's authorization.  The uses of cough drops, hard candies or medical lollipops are not permitted due to the possibility of choking.

Please notify the school if your child has contracted a contagious disease.  A record of incidence of contagious disease must be kept for the State Board of Health

QUARANTINE PERIODS (MINIMUM CONTROL)

Aids                        Per policy

Chicken pox         One week after appearance of first blister and when rash has begun to scab over. *Reminder to avoid aspirin products. Notify parents of children who are immuno-suppressed of an exposure so that appropriate action may be taken.

                Conjunctivitis        24 hours of medication before return to school.  No swimming.

                Coxsackie              All suspected cases to M.D. for diagnosis.  Must have note from physician upon return to school.

                Diarrhea or              24 hours after symptoms are resolved.

                Vomiting                                                

Fever                      24 hours after return of normal temperature.

German Measles   One week after rash appears.

Hepatitis                With written permission of M.D.

Impetigo                48 hours of treatment before return to school.  May be left uncovered.  No swimming.

                 Lice                        Pediculocide per recommendation of school medical advisor.  24 hours at home to remove nits.  Parent must accompany child to school with empty container and remain while child is checked by the school nurse.

Measles                  Five days after appearance of rash.

Mumps                    May return to school 48 hours after swelling of glands has subsided, or 9 days after symptoms began, whichever comes first.

                 Pertussis               With written permission of M.D. and no less than 3 days after antibiotic is started.

 Pinworms              Home until treated.

 Ringworm             May return 24 hours after treatment has begun.  May remain uncovered if under treatment.

                 Scabies                  Must contact M.D. for treatment and remain home 24 hours under medication.

                 Scarlet Fever         May return to school 48 hours after antibiotic treatment started.

Shingles                 No quarantine if affected area covered by clothing.  In unable to cover (face, neck, possibly arms/legs) person excluded until lesions crusted over.  Anyone in direct contact with an immuno-compromised person should also be excluded (regardless of site) until lesions have crusted over.

Strep Throat           May return to school 48 hours after start of antibiotic.

 

GENERAL INFORMATION REGARDING PEDICULOSIS (HEAD Lice)

Each school year a number of cases of head lice occur in our community.  This bulletin is intended to inform and alert parents of school children and offer our assistance should an infestation occur.

Infestation of the hair with head lice is a common condition, frequently found among school age children.  There is no way of preventing a child from acquiring the condition.  The goal should be to detect it quickly and clear it up as soon as possible.  We are offering some useful hints as to how to look for, identify and treat pediculosis (head lice).

Your help at home is essential.  Frequent and regular checks of the hair and scalp are most important.  Please look for head lice which are insects about (--) long and grayish with dark margins.  Lice do not have wings and, therefore, can’t fly.   They do not jump, but do move very quickly; this makes them difficult to find in a child’s hair.

Since crawling forms are so difficult to see, the diagnosis of head lice infestation is frequently made on the basis of finding nits.  A nit is a louse egg.  Nits are teardrop in shape, about this size (-) and vary in color from yellowish brown to white to gray.  Head lice attach each nit to a hair shaft with a waterproof, cement-like substance.  Thus, nits cannot be washed out or brushed out of the hair like dandruff or other debris that sometimes look like nits to the naked eye.  Dandruff will fall off-nits will not.  Clusters of nits may be found in any section of the hair, but in mild cases a careful examination of the entire scalp may be necessary to detect the nits.  Watch for redness and itching in the scalp area.  A bright light directed at the scalp can be helpful in identifying the nits.  All other family members, as well as close contacts, should be checked since head lice can sometimes pass through close contact with an infested individual.

If you are suspicious, call the school nurse and/or discuss the condition with your family physician who can order medicated shampoo and advise you as to the frequency of its use.  Ordinary shampoo will not work.  Non-prescription medicated shampoos are also sold over the counter at your local pharmacy.  Other articles of clothing will also need appropriate treatment.

Our school health regulations specify that children with head lice are to be excluded until treated with a pediculocide.  Parents of those identified with infestation in school will be contacted directly by the school nurse.  However, if you identify and treat your child at home, please notify the school nurse so that appropriate steps may be taken to prevent any further spread in school, as well as re-infestation of your child.  Following treatment, the child will be checked by the school nurse before re-entry.  The parent must accompany their child to school and will be required to show proof of appropriate treatment.

Parents, you play an important role in keeping this situation in check.  Your efforts are two-fold, care of your child and notification of others.  Treatment is directed at the infested individual, as well as his personal articles.  You should notify your child’s daycare provider, as well as parents of your child’s closest friends, since other children may be infested.

 

HEALTH INSURANCE

Forms for the HUSKY Plan are in our main office.  This plan will give you free to low-cost health insurance for children and teenagers.  You may also contact the Connecticut Husky Plan by calling 1-877-CT-HUSKY (1-877-284-8759).

 

                 INSURANCE

Each family is offered an accident insurance policy at a small cost per child.  An application form will be sent home with each child during the month of September.  If you want your child insured, please follow the directions on the envelope form and have your child return it to the school.  If your child is injured, please contact the school office so that an accident report can be filed.

 

        JUDSON SCHOOL EXPECTATIONS

At Fletcher W. Judson Elementary School we believe that clear positive behavioral expectations are necessary to keep our students and staff members safe and help our students stay focused on their academics.  It is our hope that with your support our school will continue to provide a safe and nurturing environment for our students where they are encouraged to learn and grow to their fullest potential.

 

Our school staff and students believe in:

 

The Three “Rs”

Ready, Respectful and Responsible

 

BE READY:   Students will be on time and prepared to learn.

 

BE RESPECTFUL:   Students will demonstrate respect for themselves, their peers, others’ belongings and the Judson School Staff.

 

BE RESPONSIBLE:  Students shall demonstrate responsibility toward their work, their behavior, their belongings, and their school.

 

ARRIVAL AT SCHOOL

Students are expected to:

• Arrive at school no earlier than 8:40 AM.
• Go directly to the playground.
• Remain on blacktop area during AM gathering.
• AM gathering is not recess time.
• Refrain from using balls, ropes, etc., on the playground or on the field during AM gathering.
• In the interest of safety, the playscapes are not to be used from 8:40-8:55 AM.  They may be used by individual classes during lunch/recess time.
• Students must keep their materials (backpacks, etc.) with them and refrain from running.
• Students may bring instruments (if applicable) to the library hallway.
• Enter through the front door during inclement weather.  The 3^rd graders proceed to their hallway; 4^th & 5^th graders will report to the gym.

OUTSIDE

Students are expected to:

• Follow adult directions
• Treat classmates and adults with respect and kindness.
• Show respect by using appropriate language.
• Keep hands, feet, and objects to themselves.
• Respect the rights of others.
• Immediately report all problems to the teacher on duty.
• Refrain from throwing objects of any kind on school grounds (stones, sticks, ice, snowballs, sand, pencils, erasers, etc.)
• Refrain from climbing on fences, backstops, or soccer goals.
• Refrain from entering wooded area.
• Refrain from chewing gum or eating on school grounds.
• Refrain from littering.
• No scooters, roller blades, or skateboards are allowed on school grounds.
•  If a child wishes to ride a bike to school, a “Bike Permission Form,” is available in the school office, must be filled out by the parent.  Judson School bares no responsibility for lost or stolen bicycles.

 

INSIDE BUILDING

Students are expected to:

• Follow adult directions.
• Walk quietly and orderly to assigned locations when changing classes.
• Keep hands, feet, and objects to themselves.
• Respect the rights of others.
• Refrain from wearing hats or caps in the building except while entering or leaving.
• Refrain from littering.
• Walk without touching walls, objects on walls, or other school equipment.
• Walk directly to their destination.
• Refrain from eating or drinking while in hall and /or bus lines.
• Refrain from using or bringing laser lights to school.
• Refrain from eating any hard candy, cough drops, or chewing gum.
• Refrain from using mechanical pencils or personal staplers.

 

 

 

CAFETERIA CONDUCT

Students are expected to:

• Follow adult directions.
• Remain orderly when entering and leaving the cafeteria
• Take seats in assigned locations and remain seated until they are given permission to leave.
• Raise hands if they need help.
• Talk quietly using a conversational tone.
• Use good table manners at all times.
• No exchanging or loaning money.
• No sharing food.  Because of potential allergic responses some children have to certain foods, we ask that children only eat their own lunch or snack.
• Sign out of the cafeteria if leaving for any reason, including the use of the lavatory facilities.
• Clean up area after eating by throwing away leftover food, papers, etc.

 

RECESS / GAMES

Students are expected to:

• Show good sportsmanship.
• Behave in a safe manner without rough play.  No contact sports are allowed
• Play only approved organized games (soccer, whiffle ball, basketball, hopscotch, 4-square).  No football, red rover, or other contact-type sports are allowed.
• No playing card games.
• No personal toys in school, including electronic devices.
• Remain in the designated areas and only enter the building when given permission by the teacher on duty.
• Cease activities and games and line up quietly when instructed to do so.

 

LAVATORY

Students are expected to:

• Sign out in their classrooms before using the lavatories.
• Use the lavatory facilities in the appropriate manner.
• Return to class in a timely fashion.

 

CLASSROOM / SCHOOL

Students are expected to:

• Follow individual classroom teacher’s rules.
• Treat classmates and adults with respect and kindness.
• Listen carefully and follow directions.
• Be engaged in the work of the class. 
• Respect school and personal property.
• Keep hands and feet to themselves.
• Work quietly.
• Be polite and friendly.                                                  
• Be prepared for all classes with appropriate supplies.
• Have all textbooks covered.
• Have sneakers to participate in physical education classes.  This participation is included as part of the student’s grade.
• No sneakers with wheels attached are to be worn at school.

DON’T FORGET – “CHARACTER COUNTS”

 

CONSEQUENCES FOR FAILURE TO FOLLOW SCHOOL EXPECTATIONS

If inappropriate behavior is observed, the classroom teacher may implement appropriate consequences after any infraction which may include partial loss of recess, after-school detention, developing a plan, loss of privileges, etc.  A behavior plan, parent contact and/or support from other school personnel may be necessary.

DETENTIONS

Detentions are assigned by the principal for failure to follow school expectations.  Anywhere from one to five detentions can be assigned to a student depending on the severity of the offense.  A record of these detentions is kept in the main office and any student who accrues an excessive amount of detentions may be assigned an In-School Suspension or experience the loss of privileges such as attendance at a special school event or field trip.  Detentions are served in the main office from 3:15 until 4:00PM.  A detention form is issued to the student on the day of the infraction and is to be returned the next day with parent/guardian signature.  Students will be given a writing assignment to complete during detention and at parent’s direction may either walk home or be picked up when detention is over.

 

Detentions may be assigned for any one of the following reasons:

• Disrespect shown toward fellow student;
• Disrespect shown toward teachers or staff members;
• Disrespect shown toward a substitute teacher;
• Disrespect shown toward school or personal property (agendas, lockers, bathrooms, textbooks, etc.);
• Violation of homework policy;
• Cheating, forgery, or deliberate misrepresentation (students will also receive an “F” on the academic work);
• Or any other offense as determined by the administration.

 

SUSPENSIONS

Serious acts that endanger others or show blatant disregard for school rules will result in a suspension.  During an In-School Suspension the student will be removed from his classroom for the length of the suspension to a secluded area of the main office.  All class work and assignments will be sent to student to be completed prior to the end of the day.  An Out of School Suspension is the highest level of discipline administered by the principal and is not dealt with lightly.  Based on the severity of the violation, a student may be Suspended Out- of- School from one to ten days with possibility of a review for expulsion with the Superintendent of Schools.

 

Suspension may be assigned for any of the following reasons:

• Bullying;
• Fighting, hitting, punching, pushing or other inappropriate contact with another student;
• Hitting, punching, pushing or other inappropriate contact with a member of the staff;
• Threatening or posing a threat of danger to the physical well being of the students or staff;
• Leaving school grounds without permission;
• Stealing or attempting to steal school and/or personal property or money from another student or staff member;
• Extortion;
• Smoking or chewing tobacco and/or possession of a lighter within the school building or on school grounds (as per board policy);
• Verbal or written obscene or profane language or gestures towards students or staff members;
• Willful damage or destruction of school property;
• Any other serious offence as determined by the administration.

A Principal may consider recommendation of expulsion of a student in a case where he/she has cause to believe the student has engaged in conduct on school grounds or at a school-sponsored activity which endangers persons or property, is seriously disruptive of the educational process or is in violation of a publicized Board policy, or conduct off school grounds which is seriously disruptive of the educational process and violation of a publicized Board policy.

 

Suspension will be assigned for reasons and the Principal must recommend expulsion proceeding in all cases against any student whom the administration reasonably believes:

1. Was in possession on school grounds or at a school-sponsored activity of a deadly weapon, dangerous instrument, martial arts weapon, or firearm as defined in 18 US 921 as amended from time to time: or
2. Off school grounds, possessed a firearm as defined in 18 US 921, in violation of Conn. Gen. Stat. Section 29-35, or possessed and used a firearm as defined in 18 US 921, deadly weapon, a dangerous instrument or a martial arts weapon in commission or a crime; or
3. Was engaged on or off school grounds in offering for sale or distribution a controlled substance (as defined in Conn. Gen. Stat. Section 21a-240(9), whose manufacturing, distribution, sale prescription, dispensing, transporting, or possessing with intent to sell or dispense, offing or administering is subject to criminal penalties under Conn. Gen. Stat. Section 21a-27 and 21a-778.

Upon receipt of an expulsion recommendation, the Superintendent may conduct an inquiry concerning the expulsion recommendation.  If the Superintendent or his/her designee determines that a student should or must be expelled, he or she shall forward his/her recommendation to the Board of Education so that the Board of Education can consider and act upon this recommendation.

Except in emergency situations, the Board of Education shall, prior to expelling the student, conduct a hearing.

 

THE FOLLOWING ARE POLICIES ADOPTED BY THE WATERTOWN BOARD OF EDUCATION:

ATTENDANCE POLICY

Recognizing that absenteeism reflects negatively upon the quality of education received by students, the Board of Education has adopted the following policy:

1.             Any student who is absent from school or a course for more than fifteen (15) days in any one school year will lose credit for the course or repeat the grade unless valid evidence is presented to the school administration explaining the absence.  In the case of one-half year courses, the total number of absences permitted would be eight (8).

2.             If a student has ten (10) unauthorized absences, a conference or telephone contact will be held with the parent to discuss the situation and to take corrective action. The conference and/or telephone conversation will be followed by a letter to the parent from the school administration.  If a student taking a one-half year course has five (5) unauthorized absences, the procedures will be the same as specified in this section for students taking full year courses.

3.             The parent may request a meeting with the school administration at any time to discuss attendance problems.  In the event a student is absent fifteen (15) days for unauthorized reasons, the administration will notify the parent by phone, and will follow up in writing, that the maximum number of days has been reached.  This notification is to be in writing and will include the information outlined in #1 above.

4.             It is the responsibility of the parents to call the school each morning to indicate the absence of their child and the reason for it.  It is important upon returning to school that the student must bring a written note for excused absences.  Otherwise, the student's absence will be considered as an unauthorized absence.

5.             Authorized absences shall include medical reason, bereavement, family obligations, legal reasons and other legitimate reasons as approved by the administration.

6.             The Watertown School District will accept a statement signed by a parent/guardian which indicates a specific medical problem which precluded a student from attending school as an approvable absence. 

7.             Item six (6) was approved by the Board of Education in an effort to support its existing policy and procedures and to indicate its belief in parent responsibility regarding student attendance.

 

DRESS CODE POLICY *

The responsibility for the appropriate appearance of students rests with the parents and the students themselves.  They have the right to determine such student’s dress providing that such attire is not destructive to school property, does not endanger the safety of students, complies with the health code of the State of Connecticut, and does not distract from the educational process.  This right may be restricted by the school administration in order to provide the best educational environment for the student.

Regulations:

The following restrictions have been made by the administration after much discussion with teachers, parents, and students.  The administration reserves the right to restrict any other attire that is considered detrimental or distractive to the educational process.

K-12

No halters, tube tops. tank tops or bare midriffs.

No footwear that can endanger the safety of the student can be worn. 

No shorts which are torn, ragged, or have holes, no short shorts (defined as gym length or less), no Spandex shorts worn as outer garment, and no skirts shorter than mid-thigh.

No inappropriate jewelry that can be dangerous or highly distractive.

No clothing with suggestive or inappropriate writing.

No unlaced sneakers or shoes.

No hats in school.

K-5

It is very important that students wear shoes that are safe for the playground.  Sandals, flip-flops, clogs, open-toed and backless shoes/sneakers, and heelies are too dangerous and should not be worn to school.  (In addition crocs are not to be worn as they are not safe for the school on the playground.)

It must be understood that the Board and/or Administration reserves the right to periodically review these regulations; and if, at their sole discretion, they determine that there is significant abuse of the guidelines, they will impose appropriate changes.

 

 

 

SCHOOL BUS RULES & REGULATIONS

                To keep all students safe, the following school bus rules must be followed by students at all times:

1. 1.     Follow the driver’s instructions.
2. Do not eat, drink, or smoke on the bus.
3. Keep all harmful materials (drugs, tobacco, alcohol, weapons, etc) off the bus.
4. Keep all parts of your body and all objects to yourself and inside the bus.
5. Keep the noise level down and remain seated facing forward.
6. Keep the aisle clear and do not litter, write on, or damage the bus.

 

PENALTIES OF VIOLATIONS TO BUS POLICY

In the event that a student misbehaves on a bus or endangers the safety of others, the bus driver will submit a conduct report to the principal.  The following may occur:

1^st Offense

A warning is given to the student and a written notice is sent to the parents.

2^nd Offense

A phone call and notice to parents that the child has lost bus privileges for 3 days. Specific dates will be listed on notice.

3^rd Offense

A phone call and notice to parents that the child has lost bus privileges for 5 days.  Specific dates will be listed on the notice.  Should the student be referred again, a meeting will be held with the principal, parents, child, bus company representative, and an official from the Board of Education to discuss future action.  A suspension of up to 10 days could result.  If you have any concerns, you are entitled to a hearing before the suspension.

4^th Offense

Any additional difficulties will result in a phone call, and a written notice stating the time and date a conference has been scheduled.  At this conference the principal, parent, child, bus company representative, and an official from the Board of Education will be present.  A suspension of up to 10 days or possible expulsion from the bus will be considered.

The administration reserves the right to take immediate measures necessary to preserve the health and safety of the other students riding the bus.  

Disciplinary problems on the school buses will be procedurally treated with progressive discipline. However, destruction of property, profane or abusive language directed towards the bus driver, fighting, and other similar activities are recognized as sufficient reasons for denial of school bus transportation at the first offense.

There also may be school-based consequences for misbehavior on a school bus.

 

CHANGE IN BUS TRANSPORTATION    

Bus policy states children may not ride any bus other than the one assigned to them.  If your child is going to daycare or taking a bus to another designation other than the bus stop he/she is assigned on a daily basis, a “Change in Normal Bus Transportation Form” must be completed and the change approved by the Board of Education in advance. In emergency situations, the bus company will make a decision on a case by case basis. A note or phone call will be sufficient to allow your child to take another bus.  Any changes in transportation requires a written note for the office, this includes children dismissed with the walkers.

 

 

PHILOSOPHY FOR PROMOTION AND RETENTION

The curriculum in the Watertown Public Schools is constructed as closely as possible to permit students to proceed from year to year in classes designated to meet their needs and abilities.

 

FRAMEWORK FOR PROMOTION AND RETENTION

On the elementary and middle school level (K-8) students are assigned to a particular instructional level.  The criteria for determining this level are the following:

a)     past performance at a level

b)     achievement testing

c)     teacher recommendation

d)     parents' perceptions and attitudes

In the elementary and middle school, a student’s promotion or retention is determined by the teacher(s), other professional staff, principal, and parents.

Consideration is based upon:

a)     chronological age

b)     intellectual ability-based on tests and teacher observation

c)     academic achievement and results of achievement tests

d)     physical, social and emotional development

e)     teacher evaluation of student progress

f)      attendance record

g)     remedial resources available

h)     parents' perceptions and attitudes

Generally, it is not deemed educationally sound to retain a student more than once in the elementary schools (K-6) and once in the middle school (7-8), even though the student may not have mastered the skills of a grade.  The student may be transferred to the next grade with the recognition that more varied programs and additional help will benefit the student.  A parent conference will be held whenever a student is to be transferred rather than promoted.  If a student has to be retained at the elementary level, preferably that retention would be in the primary grades.

CARE OF BOOKS AND SUPPLIES

Pupils shall be held responsible for proper care of books and supplies.  Books must be kept clean and not marked with pencil or ink, or otherwise defaced or destroyed; the pupil or their parent/guardian shall be held financially responsible.  (Sec.9-19)

 

TRUANCY POLICY

Connecticut law requires that the Watertown Public Schools provide you with this written notice of your obligations under Connecticut General Statute 10-184.  This law provides that each parent or other person having control of a child seven years of age and older and under sixteen years of age is obligated to cause the child to attend school regularly during the hours and terms school is in session, unless such parent or other person shows that the child is elsewhere receiving equivalent instruction.  Connecticut General Statute S10-185 provides that each day's failure to comply with these requirements is a separate offense, punishable by a $25.00 fine.

Regular student attendance is essential to the educational process. So that we may seek to inform you if your child is absent without explanation, the law also requires that we obtain from you a telephone number or other means of contacting you during the school day.  Please be sure to return the Emergency Information Card and keep it updated throughout the school year.

An Excused Absence is when a child does not attend school due to illness or injury, death in the immediate family, religious obligation, an emergency or other legal or exceptional circumstance as approved by the child's building Principal and attested to by the child's parent or legal guardian.

An Unexcused Absence is any and all other absences, with or without written explanation by the parent or legal guardian.

 

SEXUAL HARASSMENT POLICY

Sexual harassment will not be tolerated among students of the school district.  It is the policy of the Board of Education that any form of sexual harassment is forbidden whether by students, supervisory or non-supervisory personnel, individuals under contract, or volunteers subject to the control of the Board.  Students are expected to adhere to a standard of conduct that is respectful and courteous to employees, to fellow students and to the public.

1.             Submission to, or rejection of, the conduct by the individual is used as the basis of academic decision affecting the individual.

2.             The conduct has the purpose or effect of having a negative impact upon the individual's academic performance, or of creating an intimidating, hostile, or offensive educational environment.

3.             Submission to, or rejection of, the conduct by the individual is used as the basis for any decision affecting the individual regarding services, honors, programs, or activities available at or through the educational institution.

4.             Suggestive or obscene letters, notes, invitations, derogatory comments, slurs, jokes, epithets, assault, touching, impeding or blocking movement, leering, gestures, display of sexually suggestive objects, pictures, or cartoons.

5.             Continuing to express sexual interest after being informed that the interest is unwelcome.

6.             Coercive sexual behavior used to control, influence, or affect the education opportunities, grades, and/or learning environment of students, including promises or threats regarding grades, course admission, performance evaluations, or recommendations; enhancement or limitation of students benefits or services (e.g. scholarships, financial aid, work study job).

7.             Inappropriate attention of a sexual nature from peer(s), i.e., student to student, employee to employee.

PROCEDURE FOR STUDENTS TO FOLLOW:    

It is the expressed policy of the Board of Education to encourage victims of sexual harassment to report such claims.  Students are encouraged to promptly report complaints of sexual harassment to the Vice Principal or Principal of the school.  Complaints will be investigated promptly and corrective action will be taken when allegations are verified.  Confidentiality will be maintained by all persons involved in the investigation and no reprisals or retaliation will be allowed to occur as a result of the good faith reporting of charges of sexual harassment.  A copy of the Sexual Harassment Policy, Grievance Procedure, and Grievance Form can be obtained from your Principal or from the Title IX Coordinators, Dr. James Collin, Assistant Superintendent (945-4802) or from Mrs. Marylu Lerz (945-4830).

 

                   ANTI HAZING POLICY

The Board of Education has adopted the following anti-hazing policy: The district strictly prohibits students from engaging individually or collectively in any form of hazing or related initiation activity on school property, in conjunction with any school activity or involving any person associated with the school. Any student who participates in hazing or related initiation activity, or conspires to engage in hazing, will face immediate disciplinary action up to and including suspension, expulsion, exclusion and loss of participation in extracurricular activities. In addition, students who participate in hazing may be referred to appropriate law enforcement authorities and may face subsequent prosecution.   (Sec.9-206)

 

 

BULLYING POLICY

In accordance with state law, it is the policy of the Board of Education that any form of bullying behavior, whether in the classroom, on school property, on a school bus, or at school-sponsored events, is expressly forbidden.

 

“Bullying” shall mean any overt acts by a student or group of students directed against another student with the intent to ridicule, harass, humiliate, or intimidate the other student while on school grounds, on a school bus, or at a school-sponsored activity, which are acts committed more than once against any student during the school year.  Such overt acts, which occur off-campus (and not at a school sponsored activity), may also constitute bullying if it is determined that they have a direct and negative impact on a student’s academic performance or safety in school.

 

The Superintendent or his/her designee shall be responsible for developing and implementing administrative regulations in furtherance of this policy.  As provided by statute, such regulations shall:

(1)    enable students to anonymously report acts of bullying to teachers and school administrators and require that students be notified annually of the process by which they may make such anonymous reports,

 

(2)    Enable the parents or guardians of students to file written reports of suspected bullying,

 

(3)    Require teachers and other school staff who witness acts of bullying or receive student reports of bullying to notify school administrators in writing,

 

(4)    Require school administrators to investigate many written reports and to review any anonymous reports (provided that no disciplinary action shall be taken solely on the basis of an anonymous report),

 

(5)    Include a prevention and intervention strategy, as defined by this policy, for school staff to deal with bullying,

 

(6)    Provide for the inclusion of language in student codes of conduct concerning bullying,

 

(7)    Require school administrators of each school to notify both the parents or guardians of students who commit any verified acts of bullying and the parents or guardians of students against whom such acts were directed, and to invite them to attend at least one meeting,

 

(8)    Require each school within the district to maintain a list of the number of verified acts of bullying in such school and make such list available for public inspection, and within available appropriations, reports such number annually to the Department of Education, in such a manner as prescribed by the Commissioner of Education,

 

(9)    Direct the development of case-by-case interventions for addressing repeated incidents of bullying against a single individual or recurrently perpetrated bullying incidents by the same, individual that may include both counseling and discipline, and

 

(10)  Identify the appropriate school personnel responsible for taking a bullying report and investigating the complaint.  Such personnel may include, but shall not be limited to, pupil services personnel.  (Sec. 9-200)

 

Forms to report acts of bullying can be found in the main office.

 

 

 

 

 

 

COMPLAINT PROCESS

 

1. 1.     Formal/written complaints

Students and/or their parents or guardians may file written reports of conduct that they consider to be bullying.

1. 2.     Informal/verbal complaints by students

Students may also make informal/verbal complaints of conduct that they consider to be bullying by verbally reporting to a teacher, administrator, or other professional employee.

1. 3.     Anonymous complaints

Students who make complaints of bullying to a teacher, administrator, or other professional employee may request that their name be maintained in confidence by the staff member who receives the complaint.

 

Staff responsibilities and intervention strategies

Teachers and other school staff who witness acts of bullying, as defined above, shall promptly notify the building principal and/or his/her designee in writing of the events observed, and shall promptly file a written incident report concerning the events witnessed.  Teachers and other school staff who receive student reports of suspected bullying shall promptly notify the building principal and/or his/her designee of such report(s).

Students who engage in bullying behavior shall be subject to school discipline up to and including expulsion in accordance with the Board’s policies on student discipline, suspension and expulsion.

Students and/or parents should report any bullying issues to the classroom teacher or other professional staff who work with their child.  Parents and students may also contact the building administrator directly.

The complete Bullying Policy is available in the main office of Judson School.

 

Approved by BOE May 11, 2009

Effective Date: August 31, 2009

 

DANGEROUS WEAPONS IN THE SCHOOLS POLICY

It is the policy of the Board of Education to ensure the safety of its students and personnel by forbidding the possession or use of any dangerous weapon or any implement that can be deemed a dangerous weapon on school property, on a school vehicle or at a school-related function.

Any student who is in possession of, or threatens with, or uses any dangerous weapon or any implement that can be deemed to be a dangerous weapon will have the weapon/potential weapon confiscated by the building administrator and held as evidence.

The building administrator will promptly conduct an informal hearing, affording the student his/her rights as protected by law.

 

NON-USE OF ALCOHOL AND OTHER DRUGS POLICY

PREFACE:  This policy including its rules, regulations, and guidelines is a coordinated effort by the Watertown School District to openly and effectively respond to the potential and current use and abuse of tobacco, drugs, alcohol and mood altering substances by students and employees.

STATEMENT OF POLICY:  STUDENTS

No person may use, possess, sell or distribute alcohol or other substances, nor use or possess paraphernalia for the purpose of illicit/inappropriate drug use on school grounds or at school-sponsored events.  The terms "alcohol, drugs and other substances" shall be construed throughout this policy to refer to the use of all substances including, but not limited to:  alcohol, all forms of tobacco, inhalable substances (including gases, solvents, butane, propane, adhesives), marijuana, cocaine/crack, LSD, PCP, amphetamines, heroin, methadone, scheduled narcotics, steroids, herbal stimulants, herbal euphoriants, look-a-likes and any substance commonly referred to as "designer drugs".

The inappropriate and/or illegal use of prescription and over-the-counter drugs shall also be prohibited.   Prescription medication for personal use shall be allowed only under the supervision of school medical personnel, with written orders from a physician.  State and local ordinances apply to students and employees alike.

Through the use of approved curricula, classroom activities, community support and resources, a strong and consistent administrative and faculty effort, and rehabilitative and disciplinary procedures, the Watertown School District will work to educate, prevent, and intervene in the use and abuse of all tobacco, drug, alcohol, and mood altering substances by the entire student population. (Section 10-19a)

Recognizing that drug use and abuse may be indicative of serious, underlying problems, every effort will be made to offer a student help and assistance, including early identification, referral to the parents for treatment and aftercare support by appropriate school staff.

A student, who on school grounds or off school grounds during a school session, or anywhere at a school-sponsored activity is under the influence of alcohol, drugs or mood altering substances or possesses, uses, dispenses, sells or aids in the procurement of alcohol, narcotics, restricted drugs, mood altering substances, or any substance purported to be a restricted substance shall be subjected to discipline pursuant to the provisions and procedures listed in guidelines.

Smoking is prohibited in all school buildings and on all school grounds at all times.  Violation of this policy will result in discipline pursuant to the provision and procedures listed.

 

USE OF INTERNET POLICY

The Watertown Board of Education permits the use of electronic information resources in the schools, under staff supervision, to permit students to reach out to human resources, to share information, learn concepts, and support research.  The use of on-line services must be in support of education and consistent with the education objectives of the Watertown School District.

It is the responsibility of the students, parents, and staff to abide by the Board's Electronic Information Resources procedures to ensure that the resources provided by the District are not abused and potential inappropriate materials are not accessed.  Failure to abide by the Board's policy and agreement signed by parents and students will lead to loss of privileges to use the Internet and disciplinary action including assessment of cost caused by willful misuse.

(An Internet contract will be sent home by the school; student and parent both sign that the use of the Internet will be appropriate.)

 

ELECTRONIC INFORMATION RESOURCE ACCESS POLICY

Violations of the Policy

It is the opinion of the Internet policy committee that it would be appropriate for the student’s population to be divided into two segments for disciplinary purposes, K-6 and 7-12.

It is understood that no student should be on a computer that can provide Internet service without staff supervision.  Close supervision is recommended, and the staff member should be able to see the computer screen.  It is planned that filtering software will be evaluated and installed on Internet capable computers.

At this time, any reference to "system administrator" should be interpreted as the building principal.

 

 

 

 

 

In addition to school rules which address a student's suspension, etc., the following will be enforced:

K-6

1st offense -                           Loss of Internet privileges for two weeks.  Notification of the offense is sent to parents.

2nd offense -                         Loss of privileges for 10 weeks (equivalent to one marking period). Notification of the offense is sent to parents.

3rd offense -                          Loss of privileges for 10 school months from the date of the offense (equivalent to one school year).  Notification of the offense is sent to parents.7-12

1st offense -                           Loss of privileges for 10 weeks (equivalent to one marking period). Notification of the offense is sent to parents.

2nd offense -                         Loss of privileges for 10 school months from the date of the offense (equivalent to one school year).  Notification of the offense is sent to parents.

While it is always the prerogative of the building administrator to set disciplinary action, it is important that there is a consistent disciplinary policy throughout the district. 

 

RADIOS, BEEPERS, OR CELLULAR PHONES IN SCHOOLS POLICY

Use of Beepers (Paging Devices)/Cellular Phones

Students shall not possess or use a remotely activated paging device while on school property, or while attending a school-sponsored activity on or off school property.  The school principal may grant written permission for such possession and use of a paging device by a student if the student or his parent or guardian establishes to the satisfaction of the principal that a reasonable basis exists for the possession and use of the device.

A “paging device” is defined as a telecommunications device that emits an audible signal, vibrates, displays message, or otherwise summons or delivers a communication to the possessor.

A staff member who discovers a student in possession of a paging device, without the written permission of the principal, shall report the violation to an administrator who shall confiscate the device and take action in accordance with the school disciplinary procedures.

Elementary school students (Pre K–6) may not possess or use cellular telephones on school property or at school-sponsored events on or off school property.

ASBESTOS MANAGEMENT PLAN

Anyone wishing to know more about the Asbestos Management Program or the asbestos-containing materials found in the Watertown schools may ask to read the Asbestos Management Plan which is on file in the office of the Business Manager.

PESTICIDE POLICY

At the beginning of the school year, the Board of Education will provide the staff of each school and the parents or guardians of each child enrolled in each school a written statement of the Board policy on pesticide application on school property and a description of any pesticide application on school property.  This will also include a description of any pesticide applications make on school property during previous school year.

Please return the registration letter if you wish advance notification of all pesticide applications at Judson School.

 

 

 

NONDISCRIMINATION POLICY                                                                         The Board of Education is committed to comply with nondiscrimination practices to the end that no person in its employ or under its jurisdiction shall, on grounds of age, race, color, national origin, sex, religion, handicap, sexual affinity, marital status, present or past history of mental disorder or physical disability, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be otherwise subjected to discrimination in employment or in any program or activity.                                                                                                                                                       The Board designates the Assistant Superintendent of Schools or his/her designee, Watertown School Department, 10 DeForest Street, Watertown, Connecticut (Telephone, 945-4802) as compliance officer (hereinafter, "Equity/Title IX Officer).                                                                                                                     All outside agencies and organizations given assistance by the Board shall be required to abide by this policy.                                                                                                                                      Any person who believes themselves to have been discriminated against in violation of this policy may file a grievance in accordance with the Equity/Title IX Grievance Procedures.                                                                                                                           SOLICITING                                                                                                                    There will be no soliciting of any form on school grounds.