Ann Arbor, MI 48103
(734)994-1937
(734)994-1371 FAX
Kathy Scarnecchia, Principal
scarnecc@aaps.k12.mi.us
General Information, Daily Schedule, and Office Hours
Breakfast and Lunch Programs
Curriculum
School Policies and Procedures
Health
Important Safety Information
Emergency Information
School Climate
Parent Involvement & Home/School Communications
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Address: 825 Duncan, Ann Arbor, MI 48103
Phone: 734-994-1937
Fax: 734-994-1371
Ann Arbor Public Schools Website: www.aaps.k12.mi.us
Haisley Elementary School Website: haisley.a2schools.org
Haisley Web Master: JoAnn Taylor
PTO President: Mary Edwards
Daily Schedule
8:30-8:45 Breakfast
8:48 Tardy Bell rings; instructional period begins
11:51 Morning Kindergarten is dismissed
11:49 - 12:13 EDO, CI/AI, Keith and 2nd grade lunch
Bobyan and Rose recess
12:13 - 12:37 Bobyan, Rose, Third and Fifth in lunch Room
CI/AI, OHI, EDO, Keith, Second and Fourth at recess
12:39 Afternoon Kindergarten begins
3:42 School dismissed for all grades
Office Hours
The school office is open from 8:00 – 4:30, Monday through Friday. At other times messages may be left on the school answering machine. The office is closed during the summer months when school is not in session except for one week after children are dismissed for the summer and two weeks prior to the return of children in August. A copy of the school calendar is available from the school office and on the Ann Arbor Public Schools web site.
Before and After School Child Care
Before and after school child care is available at Haisley School. Spaces are limited and available only to those who have registered. For information, call 994-2313.
Telephones
Every classroom has a telephone that can be accessed through by calling 994-1938 and entering the classroom extention. Given the size of our building, phone lines are kept very busy throughout the day. During instructional times, messages may be left for staff on individual voice mail but staff may not have an opportunity to listen to the message until the end of the day. Emergency messages will be relayed to your child through the office. Families can help with this phone traffic by making sure that after-school plans are clear with your child before s/he leaves for school. Students are allowed to use the phone but we want them to begin to work on taking responsibility for having their lunch, homework and musical instrument (fifth graders) with them when they walk out of the door for school.
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BREAKFAST AND NOON HOUR PROGRAMS
Breakfast and Lunch
A cold breakfast is served every school day between 8:30 and 8:48 a.m. All students are eligible to participate. The cost is $1.00 for full pay students and 30¢ for students on the reduced lunch program. Students may bring their own lunch or purchase a hot lunch, including milk, provided by the Arbor Public Schools Food Services. Milk may be purchased separately. Lunch menus are sent home each month and are also published on the AAPS web site. Prices for hot lunch and milk are subject to change each year and are published each fall.
Students Going Home for Lunch
The school office should be notified in writing at the start of the school year of any students going home on a regular basis. Students going home on an irregular schedule need to bring a written note on the days they will be leaving the school grounds. Students may not accompany another student going home for lunch unless there is written permission from each child’s parent and acknowledgment by the school office.
Ann Arbor Public Schools requests that elementary students prepay for all meals. Students are not allowed to "charge" lunches. They may prepay by the week, month or year. Any money remaining in the student’s account at the end of the school year will be rolled over to the following school year. At the end of the school year, a report will be provided to the parents showing the balance of each child’s account. Eligible low-income families who apply may receive free or reduced price meals. Applications are available in the school office.
Questions or concerns about the noon-hour program (recess) should be directed to Ms. Rose Mosby, Haisley’s Lunch Coordinator. Questions or concerns about Food Services (accounts, etc.) should be referred to Ms. Augustine, Food Service Coordinator 997-1926
Lost and Found
Families are encouraged to put children’s names on all items children might lose at school (e.g. jackets, boots, gloves, lunch boxes, backpacks). The lost and found is located outside the school office. Please make sure your child checks the lost and found if s/he has lost an item. Every few months, unclaimed items are donated to a charitable organization.
Photographs
Every fall a photographer visits the school to take individual pictures of our students and staff. These photographs are available to families in different packages for a reasonable cost. All children’s pictures will appear in the school yearbook or “Memory Book” that comes out at the end of the school year. If your child is absent on “picture day,” or if you would like a retake, picture retake day is scheduled on November, 10th. Pictures will be delivered before the winter break in December.
Emergency Cards
It is extremely important that we have an updated emergency card for every child. Make sure you name another person (in addition to the parents) who can be contacted in case of an emergency. Please call the office if your telephone number is changed or if you have acquired a cell phone or pager that would make it easier to reach you in an emergency situation.
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CURRICULUM
The Ann Arbor Board of Education has approved a comprehensive curriculum, based upon Grade Level Content Expectations (GLCE) as defined by the Michigan Curriculum Framework, that move your child toward achieving the michigan elementary content standards. This curriculum teaches process skills and content in English, Mathematics, Science, Social Studies, Computer Literacy, the Arts and Physical Education. The overall goal of this curriculum, set by the Board of Education, is to work with families and the community to educate and empower every student to succeed in a changing environment as a responsible participant in a democratic society.
Balanced Literacy
The literacy framework in the Ann Arbor Public Schools provides best teaching practices in three essential literacy components: reading, writing, and phonics and word study. This approach to teaching reading, writing and other language skills immerses children in an environment that surrounds them with print--both their own writing and that of others. Children are taught to use specific strategies to independently solve problems in reading and writing. They are taught that reading and writing are about creating and conveying meaning. The Haisley staff is working in teams to reflect on our teaching practices in light of new knowledge about learning and teaching. We are working together to explore how we can maintain the good practices of the past without ignoring current evidence about how children learn. The measure of our success is increased student learning. This is an initiative in which all elementary schools in Ann Arbor are involved. We know that for many children how we teach is as important as what we teach.
EveryDay Math
EveryDay Math is an inquiry based elementary mathematics program aligned with the Michigan Curriculum Framework. Inquiry based means that the teacher poses a problem to students who explore avenues for solving the problem in small groups. While the students are exploring, the teacher acts as coach and facilitator to ensure the student’s investigations are on track. As a whole class, teacher and students discuss all of the ways students found the answers, including ways that didn’t work and why. Through this exploration and discussion, students develop a deep understanding of the mathematics they are studying. Important mathematic ideas and methods reoccur at a more advanced level in each grade in the elementary program.
Teaching Teams
In an effort to provide all students with the learning experiences they need to make continued progress, staff forms teaching teams that will systematically and consistently provide all students with the instruction and learning experiences they need. This means that some teachers work together at the same grade level, with a teacher at another grade level, and/or with one of our support staff. We are looking at ways for all of us to take ownership of all of our children and work together to meet individual needs. We are following the adage that “no one of us is as smart working alone as we are when we work together.”
Kindergarten - Extended Day Option (EDO)
EDO is a fee-based child care choice for families. The children in this program attend a half-day kindergarten session and a half-day child care session. The same teacher is with the children all day. Call the Haisley office for further information.
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Special Area Classes
In addition to the many activities in the classroom, students at Haisley School have focused opportunities to develop their skills in other areas:
Visual Arts
Each week students have an opportunity to work with the art teacher. They explore many materials,
concepts and techniques, learn about art and artists through the ages, respond to art personally and make connections between art and other areas of life.
Vocal Music
Kindergarten children meet with the music teacher once a week. Children in grades 1-5 meet with her twice a week. They explore such areas of music as pattern, melody, rhythm, listening, reading notation and words, and working as a harmonious group twice a week.
Instrumental Music
Students in fifth grade have the opportunity to learn how to play a musical instrument. They meet twice a week with district instrumental music teachers. By the end of the year, they present a concert to demonstrate their newly acquired personal and ensemble skills.
Media Center
All students visit the media center at a scheduled time once a week for instruction in media skills, reading, and to check out books. The media center is staffed by a Professional Media Specialist and is opened all day for use by students, staff and parents. The media center is equipped with six computers which students are encouraged to use to access information.
Technology Education
This year, first, second, third and fourth graders receive instruction in technology education in either one or two sessions per week. Computer skills are taught by a teacher trained in technology education. The focus of their instruction is to learn to use technology as a tool to help them in other curriculum areas. For instance, depending on the grade, they are learning such skills as how to use the features of a computer, how to do keyboarding to help with their expressive writing assignments, and how to create graphs and charts to enhance their understanding in math, science and social studies.
Physical Education
Students participate in a physical education class with a physical education teacher once a week in kindergarten and twice a week thereafter. The program is a progressive one that stresses fundamental motor skills, body awareness, physical fitness and acquiring the knowledge necessary for people to make wise choices about their life-styles. Children are required to wear gym shoes and are asked to dress for activity on days they have physical education classes.
Assessment
Different types of tests provide different kinds of information about students, schools, or special programs. Once a year tests like the Michigan Educational Assessment Program (MEAP) provide broad brush strokes about the success of the district curriculum and instruction for individual students. Results come back at the end of the year, at which time teachers and administrators reflect on current practices and what might account for the district scores. The window for administering these tests this year is as follows:
Michigan Educational Assessment Program
English Language Arts - Oct. 14-30th 2008
(MEAP) -- statewide testing program Mathematics - 3-8
Science, Social - 5-8
MI-Access – alternative to MEAP Supported Independence 10/13/08 - 11/21/2008
for special education students if indicated Participation 2/16/08 - 3/31/09
by IEP Determined by IEP
Performance assessments, teacher created tests and student self-assessment provide the kind of ongoing information that informs teachers’ decisions about instruction on a daily basis. This kind of assessment allows us to focus on the short term results in order to reach our long-term goals. It is this information on report forms that teachers use to inform parents of their children’s progress three times each year.
Homework
Homework, as defined by the Ann Arbor Board of Education is: the expectation that students will use time outside the classroom in assigned activities to practice, reinforce, or apply newly-acquired skills and knowledge and to learn necessary skills of independent study.
Background Information:
• Homework can provide additional practice, increasing the amount of time students are actively engaged in learning and extending time on task.
• Homework can be useful to teachers for monitoring student progress and diagnosing student learning problems.
• Homework can be an effective way to increase student personal responsibility and f individual accountability.
• Homework can lead to increased communications between parents and the schools and encourage parent awareness of student learning.
• Homework can contribute to understanding by students and parents that the school holds high expectations for students.
Homework Requests when Absent
When your child is ill and you would like to pick up homework and/or schoolwork, please call the office and give at least 24 hours notice for requesting assignments. Please remember that there is no way to duplicate the instruction, discussion and hands-on experience of the classroom. Requests for homework should be made if your child is ill more than two days. Students may call their classmates to inquire about assignments and request that books and assignments be sent home through a classmate. When parents request homework during class or when teachers have planning time, they disrupt classroom instruction and teacher planning time. This is not fair to the other students in the class or the teacher. We appreciate your cooperation.
Field Trips
Field trips are an important part of the school program. They provide students with opportunities to see real-life applications of what they are learning. They may also provide parents with an opportunity to see firsthand what students are learning. Parents are often invited to accompany the class. In order for students to participate in these activities, they are required to return a properly signed Field Trip Permission Form to the classroom teacher. Phone permission is not an acceptable substitute.
Extracurricular Activities
Many enriching activities occur after school hours. These include, but are not limited to, the offerings of the school district’s Community Education and Recreation Department, our PTO, Science Olympiad and our many Scout groups.
Community Education and Recreation Department
Community Education and Recreation provides a variety of athletic, arts and language activities throughout the school year. Activities change about every nine weeks and are publicized through flyers sent home with your children. These activities involve nominal fees; however, scholarships are also available. Scouting activities are arranged through Community Education and Recreation. The phone number is 994-2300.
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Attendance
Regular and timely attendance in school is one of the most important contributors to school success. Students are required to be in school every day except for illness, religious observances or unusual family business. We strongly encourage parents to schedule doctor and dentist appointments after school whenever possible. It is also important that children arrive on time. Teachers have work prepared for students to do when they enter the classroom that often orients the students to other events in the day. A small proportion of what children learn in elementary school can be obtained simply by reading a book or doing worksheets. Deep lasting knowledge and understanding comes from “hands-on” experiences and the interactions children have with their teachers and fellow students. These cannot be “made up.”
Reporting Absences
In the interest of safety, we make every effort to know where Haisley children are at all times during school hours. Parents are asked to call the school attendance line as early as possible if their child will be absent. (994-1938).
Tardiness
A positive and prompt beginning sets the tone for a successful school day. It is expected that children be at school when the bell rings at 8:45 a.m. The tardy bell will ring at 8:48, all students should be in their rooms a this time. Attendance, lunch count, collection of homework, directions for the day's work, essential announcements, and the daily plan are all reviewed within the first 15 minutes of the day. A tardy student misses this information and often spends the day trying to "catch up."
Students who are tardy must go to the office to sign in before going to class. This is very important because students who fail to sign in may be marked absent for the day and parents may be called. This causes confusion for parents as well as school personnel.
Excusing Children During the School Day
It is important that each child attend school for the full day. The pre-dismissal procedures in each classroom allow a child to reflect on the day's learning and to prepare materials for home, i.e., gathering notices for parents to read, collecting completed papers to share with families and obtaining all materials needed for home assignments. An early dismissal may result in a lack of preparation for the following day's lessons. However, we do realize that emergency situations occur and you may find it necessary to have your child excused during school hours. The following procedure has been implemented for the safety and protection of your child:
Send a note to the classroom teacher indicating when your child will be leaving and returning and who will be picking him/her up. Children are only released to their parents unless the school office has been given other directions by the parent. In an effort to minimize the disruption of learning for others in the classroom, please come to the office to pick up your child. The office will call for your child. Sign your child out when you leave and come to the office to sign her/him in when you return.
Family Trips
We request that parents not ask teachers to provide special homework for students who go on family trips during the school year. Most classroom work is designed for teacher presentation and subsequent student/teacher and student/student interaction. These kinds of learning experiences cannot be packaged up and sent home. Helpful activities parents can provide for children of all ages include involving them in the planning and details of the trip, daily reading of fiction and nonfiction books and daily journaling.
CONFIDENTIALITY: Student Records
The confidentiality of student records is protected by the Family educational Rights to Privacy Act (FERPA) and other statutes, as well as Ann Arbor Public Schools policy. District staff may access a student’s records, including the Cumulative Folder (CA60), as well as records of attendance, academic performance, and discipline. This information may be released only to the parent or legal guardian indicated on the student’s Notice of Entry or other legal document which may be found in the CA60. Release of student information to anyone else - family members or friends, medical or mental health personnel, or others - is permissible only by written release of the information which is signed by the parent or legal guardian.
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Health Medical Requirements
Before entering school, a student must have the following immunizations: a
• minimum of 4 DPT (5th DPT is required if the 4th was given before the age of 4.)
• minimum of 3 Polio (4th POLIO is required if the 3rd was given before the age of 4.)
• required 2 Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR)
• Hepatitis B series
• Varicella (chicken pox) (1 dose on or after 1st birthday)
• Vision Check up
In addition, physical examinations are required for children entering the school system and before entrance to grades 6 (middle school) and 9 (high school). The school nurse checks health records of all children entering Haisley School. If financial circumstances prevent a child from getting immunizations, physical examinations, or necessary medical care, the school nurse can suggest resources for obtaining these services.
Medication - Ann Arbor School Policy
All medications administered during the school day must be in the original container. Medication must be brought to the school office and personnel must be provided with the following information:
• Written, signed instructions by the physician who prescribed the specific medication. Instructions will include method of administration, time of administration and dosage (instructions on the label prepared by the pharmacy are not adequate.)
• Over-the-counter medications also require written, signed instructions by a physician. All other conditions apply.
• Authorization for the principal or secretary to administer the medication signed by the parent.
• If your child has allergies to insect bites or certain foods, YOU MUST INFORM THE OFFICE so precautions and immediate attention can be given to your child.
Communicable Diseases
Please notify the school if your child is diagnosed with any communicable disease or condition (e.g., mumps, chicken pox. Measles, head lice, strep infections, conjunctivitis, ringworm, impetigo). This allows us to notify the parents of classmates so they can identify, in their own children, conditions needing treatment in the most timely and effective manner possible.
Sick Children at School
It is extremely important that students remain at home whenever they have a fever, extreme congestion, or other symptoms that prevent their participation in school activities. Students must be free of fever for 24 hours. This is an important element in preventing the spread of illness among children as well as in providing for your child’s comfort. The school building does not have adequate facilities for students to lie down and rest for extended periods of time. Please be sure your child’s emergency card is up to date with current contact numbers at all times.
Health Problems
The school needs to be informed of any chronic health problems a child may have (e.g., asthma, diabetes, severe allergy, seizure disorder). A note from the child’s doctor should state the physical problem and the limitations it may have on school activities such as gym, recess, etc. This will allow the school nurse and teachers to be aware of the situation and make proper plans for your child.
Illness and Accident Procedure
If a child has a fever or is nauseated, the parent (or emergency contact person listed on the emergency card) will be called to provide transportation home for the child.
When a child is injured at school, the supervising staff member makes a judgment as to the severity of the problem. Simple first aid may be given, such as cleansing a cut and covering it with a band-aid. The emergency card may be used to call a parent or neighbor if they are needed. In case of an emergency, when no parent or family can be reached, the doctor and/or emergency room listed on the emergency card will be called. In some instances, an ambulance will transport the child to the hospital. Medical attention is usually not given to the child at the hospital until a parent or guardian gives permission. School personnel always accompany a child on a trip to the hospital.
Dress
Parents are urged to provide clothing for their child that is adequate for the weather and is supportive to health and safety considerations. Please consider the following guidelines:
• All articles of clothing should be properly labeled with the owner’s name.
• Children must have shoes on their feet at all times. Leaving a pair of gym shoes left at school is acceptable. Please consider that clogs, flip-flops, or sandals may cause a safety hazard during recess or physical education.
• Students should dress appropriately for weather conditions and in clothes that are comfortable and appropriate for school. We make every effort to get children outside for recess. In snowy weather, children love to and are allowed to play in the snow. They need to wear boots and snowpants. Providing a back-up pair of pants and socks is recommend- ed during the snowy, muddy winter months. During hot weather students should not wear clothing that is more appropriate for the beach (e.g., crop tops, backless tops, bare midriffs, shorts or skirts that reveal underwear).
Recess and Physical Education
Children are expected to participate in recess and physical education. Exceptions will be made only by a doctor’s request. Gym shoes are required for Physical Education classes and recess. As a rule of thumb: if a child is well enough to be in school, s/he is well enough to participate in recess or Physical Education classes.
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Safety
The following procedures and guidelines have been established to provide a safe environment:
Visitors
Visits from parents are welcome and encouraged. To keep classroom interruptions to a minimum, please prearrange classroom visits with your child's teacher for a mutually convenient time and date. When visiting school, please do not go directly to your child's classroom. For safety reasons, all adults, including parent volunteers, need to sign in at the main office. All parents and volunteers must wear a visitor pass available in the school office.
Important Safety Information for Children
Children are confident when routines are followed. In today's fast-paced society, routines may vary on a daily basis. Please consider the following:
• Teach your child his/her home address and phone number.
• As appropriate, provide your child with your work phone number.
• Make sure your children know where they should go at the end of the school day. A child who does not know this information from the parent, prior to saying "Goodbye" in the morning, may worry about this throughout the day.
• Teach your child the family procedure in case an adult is not at home when he/she arrives from school.
• All students (bus and walkers) should be frequently reminded about safe pedestrian rules.
Getting To and From School
Crossing Guards and Safety Patrol: An adult crossing guard is employed by the City of Ann Arbor to help children who live south of Dexter Road. They should use the crosswalk at Dexter and Doty. She will be on duty during the following times:
• 8:10-8:45 AM
• 3:40-4:10 PM
Currently we have a student safety patrol on Duncan Street and School Drive. Whether we are have a Safety Patrol student posted or not, parents need to teach all students to safely cross streets with or without safety patrol coverage. Some posts may not be covered when adult safeties are ill or when weather is especially severe. Please report safety concerns promptly to the building principal.
Bicycles
Children in third, fourth and fifth grades may ride their bikes to school. Please review with your child the safest route to school. Riders should observe the same regulations as automobile operators. Due to the busy nature of our school grounds, children are required to walk their bikes on school grounds. Once a student arrives at school he/she should park his/her bike safely and lock it in the rack located at the back of the school. Current bicycle licenses are required for all students parking bikes at school. Licenses are available at City Hall. Helmets are strongly recommended for all students riding bikes to school. Please be aware that the school is not responsible for stolen or damaged bicycles.
NOTE: Rollerblades and skateboards should not be brought to school. Scooters, like bikes, may not be ridden on school grounds when coming to or leaving school.
Dropping Off and Picking up Children
The start and end of the school day are very congested times in the school parking lot. The area directly in front of the school, along the sidewalk near the playground and the sidewalk at the back of the parking lot must be left clear for busses. The Parent Pickup area is clearly marked by signs and a red sidewalk. It is located along the sidewalk before the front of the building. Cars are not permitted to go where busses are loading and unloading children. Parents may also park in the lot and walk children into or out of the building.
For the safety of all of our children we ask that parents dropping off and/or picking up students follow one of three procedures:
1. Drop your child off in the “Parent Pickup” area that is clearly marked by signs and a red sidewalk located along the sidewalk before you get to the front of the building.
2. Park your car in the lot and walk your child to and/or from the building.
3. Arrange your drop-off/pickup at a location away from the parking lot, e.g., on Duncan, South Circle or Walter.
Please take note of the No Left Turn sign going back onto Duncan. Cars are not allowed to turn left Monday through Friday, from 8:30 - 9:00 A.M. or 3:30 - 4:00 P.M. Police are sometimes in the neighborhood to enforce this.
Riding the School Bus
Children should arrive at the bus stop 10 minutes before pickup. They should board the bus at the same bus stop each day. Occasionally buses run late in pickup or delivery of children. Typically we are not informed of this at school. You may be able to get the most accurate information by calling the Transportation Department directly at 994-2330. Any change from regular drop-off must be requested in writing by the parent and then approved by the driver and principal.
Permission will be given for a friend to go home with a bus student when:
• The request is for a regularly scheduled stop.
• Space is available on the bus.
• Behavior is appropriate.
• Notes from both students’ parents are signed by the principal and presented to the bus driver upon entering the bus.
Riding the school bus is a privilege. Children retain the privilege by adhering strictly to the rules and guidelines. Parents can make a tremendous contribution to safe and pleasant bus rides by making their expectations known to their children and providing supervision for their children at the bus stop. 12
Safety (cont’)
Bus Safety
The following rules are posted on every school bus:
1. Observe same conduct as in the classroom.
2. Be courteous, use no profane language.
3. Do not eat or drink on the bus.
4. Keep the bus clean.
5. Cooperate with the driver.
6. Do not smoke.
7. Do not be destructive.
8. Stay in your seat.
9. Keep head, hands, and feet inside the bus.
10. Bus driver is authorized to assign seats.
Students may be denied bus privileges for failing to observe these rules and regulations.
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Bringing Items to School
The only time students should bring toys, games, etc., to school is when her/his teacher instructs them to do so (e.g., for show and tell). The student will assume responsibility for any item brought to school. Students are not to bring beepers, cellular telephones, radios, tape recorders, video games, skateboards, sports equipment, etc. Past experience with equipment getting lost and/or broken, either on the bus or at school, has led to this policy.
When the weather is inclement, the Ann Arbor Public Schools will notify local radio stations 1600 AM, 1050 AM, 91.7 FM, 1290 AM, 89.1 FM, 760 AM. Listen to one of these stations for school cancellations. Parents and students may also call the School Closing Hotline number, 994-8684. Cancellation of public school bus service will affect all public school buses all day. If school is canceled, all regularly scheduled after-school activities, including Community Education classes, will also be suspended. Scheduled and contracted athletic events may be held at the discretion of the Superintendent of Schools and the Athletic Director.
If school is in session and an early closing is necessary, the Haisley School emergency plan will be implemented. A fan-out phone call will be made to room parents, who will contact each parent. Please make sure your child knows where to go if both parents are working or away from home, should school close early.
No Snowballs
The Ann Arbor Public School policy regarding snowball throwing is simple: There is to be no snowball throwing at school, or going to and from school.
Dogs
To provide for the safety of our children, the police will always be called to remove any dogs roaming the playground. If you live near the school grounds, please see that your dog is securely chained or fenced. When walking your dog on school property, please clean up after your dog. You can imagine the mess when 5, 6 and 7 year old students step in it. We also do not encourage bringing your dog to school at the start and end of the school day. Please be aware that some children are extremely fearful of dogs and have serious allergies.
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Fair Treatment Policy
No student shall be excluded nor prohibited from participating in any educational program or activity available in any school on the basis of race, sex, color, national origin, creed, religion, socioeconomic status, or other inappropriate criteria as prescribed by law; neither shall any student by compelled to participate in such program or activity because of the above criteria. Any such discriminatory practice or inhumane conduct shall constitute just cause for grievance and/or remedy. Encouragement or discouragement of students to participate in programs or activities shall be based solely on sound educational reasons. The district Human Resource (994-2240) handles all issues related to the implementation of the policy.
The Ann Arbor Public Schools are committed to providing each student with a quality educational program. This includes the opportunity to develop their learning potential and the self-discipline necessary to live effectively in society. Our expectations at Haisley School are that students:
1. Be Safe
2. Be Respectful
3. Be Responsible
Goals
The goal of our discipline plan is to teach students to make responsible choices. Students learn from the outcomes of their decisions. They learn:
1. I cause my own outcomes.
2. I have more than one option in any situation.
3. I have the power to choose the best option.
Staff Practices
To promote this learning, Haisley staff implements the following practices:
1. Establish clear rules and procedures for the class.
2. Hold regular class meetings.
3. Teach and use principles of cooperative learning in the classroom.
4. Teach and use the Conflict Resolution curriculum in grades K-5.
5. Establish and use peer Conflict Managers on the playground during lunch recess.
6. Promote a focus on and understanding of basic Lifelong Guidelines and Lifeskills.
7. Remember and practice using M.A.G.I.C.: "Make a Good Intelligent Choice."
Conflict Resolution
When students are involved in a conflict that they are unable to resolve using the conflict management steps themselves, teachers, lunch supervisors, peer conflict managers and/or the principal help them work through the Conflict Resolution Process. This includes the following steps:
1. Stop. Cool off.
2. Talk about perceptions and feelings and listen to each other.
3. Find out what both students need.
4. Brainstorm solutions.
5. Choose the idea both students like best.
6. Make a plan. Go for it.
Bully Proofing
This program was adopted in the 2002-03 school year. The goal of this program is to ensure that the school environment is safe for children both physically and psychologically. The philosophy is based on empowering students and promoting positive behavior. In typical schools, while any child can bully or experience bullying, true victims and bullies make up approximately 15% of the population. We are working to shift the balance of power to the caring majority, those 85% of student who are neither bullies nor victims. Bully Proofing school rules are posted around the school. They are: 1) We will not bully other students; 2) We will help others who are being bullied by speaking out and by getting adult help; and 3) We will use extra effort to include all students in activities at our school.
Consequences
When students do not make responsible choices, any of the following steps may be taken, depending upon the success with using the Conflict Resolution Process, the severity of the problem and the occurrence of similar problems in the past:
• Verbal redirection by a teacher
• Teacher contact with parent by phone for mutual problem-solving
• Withholding of a privilege (e.g., recess, lunch aide, safety patrol)
• Formal discipline form written and sent home for parent signature
• Request for a parent conference to develop a plan for addressing the problem
• A community service assigned to the student
• Plan created by student and teacher for future behavior (may include parent, support staff and/or principal)
• Suspension of privileges when applicable, such as, transportation by bus or lunch recess
• An in-school suspension given to the student (time spent in the principal’s office or con- ference room completing work in isolation)
• An out-of-school suspension given to the student (the student is not allowed to come to school for a specified period of time)
The Board of Education has developed a Rights and Responsibilities Handbook for students, staff and parents.
Gifts
Ann Arbor Public School employees may not accept gifts of more than token value from individual students or parents or from groups of students on school property. A letter or note of appreciation to the teacher or about the teacher addressed to the administrator is a wonderful boost for any staff member.
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There are many ways that parents can play an important role in their child’s education. Some of these involve activities done within the home, and some involve parents coming to school.
At Home
Every parent is his or her child’s first and most important teacher. Parents can extend this teaching relationship throughout their child’s school career by:
• talking with their child each day about the child’s activities;
• supervising the child’s homework’;
• reading to the child;
• listening to the child read;
• being knowledgeable about school and classroom activities by carefully reading all school communications sent home; and
• calling the school whenever you have questions or concerns.
At School
Parents can play an important role in their child’s school life by participating in the following activities at school:
• Attend Fall Curriculum Night – This occurs early in the fall and is the time when the classroom teacher explains what children will be learning over the course of the year and the way in which the classroom is organized. Parents’ understanding of this material can be very important in helping their child make a good adjustment.
• Participate in Parent/Teacher Conferences – Also held in the fall of each year, this is an opportunity for parents to talk privately with teachers and discuss their child’s development. The teacher’s effectiveness with children can be greatly enhanced by this personal communication with parents.
• Make classroom visits – We welcome and encourage parents to visit their child’s classroom. Arrangements should be made in advance of the visit to be sure that parents will have the opportunity to observe while class is in session (not attending specials or on a fieldtrip). We ask parents to check in first at the office whenever they visit the building. This helps us maintain security within our building and facilitates getting messages to visiting parents when necessary. 15
• Take an active role in the Parent/Teacher Organization (PTO) – The purpose of the PTO is to strengthen the relationship between students, families, and their school. Haisley’s PTO is involved in a wide variety of activities. These include social activities which help families become acquainted with each other and the school; educational activities that enhance or enrich the curriculum; activities that provide special equipment and supplies for the school; teacher appreciation events, and much more. All parents are members of the Haisley PTO and are encouraged to take an active role. Please see the PTO calendar for the scheduled PTO meetings.
• Serve on the School Improvement Team – The School Improvement Team consists of elected parents, teachers and the building principal. Its purpose is to create a team at the school site that uses all its combined resources and special knowledge to make the school the very best it can be. It helps in the planning and management of the school by working together to examine data, determine the school’s strengths and needs, and plan improvements in response to those needs. SIT meets monthly.
• Volunteer in the Classroom, Lunchroom, Media Center or School Office.
Home-School Communication
There are many ways in which parents may learn about school activities and the individual progress of their children.
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The Haisley Happenings
A school newsletter, The Haisley Happenings, published by the PTO, is sent home with students once a month . It includes information about all upcoming school events and relays all important information related to school activities and procedures. Special single-page flyers are also sent to publicize special school-wide events and fund-raising projects. PTO Meetings are another excellent source of information about school-wide issues and activities.
Kindergarten Roundup
Kindergarten Roundup is held in the late spring for the parents of incoming kindergarten students. During this parents-only visit, parents see the kindergarten site, meet the current teachers and get a broad overview of what they can expect kindergarten to be like at Haisley. Appointments are set up for the future students to come in for a one-on-one meeting with one of the kindergarten teachers, an informal screening of their general skills and a tour of the school. Most school years, Haisley School has a Full Day Kindergarten program for children who would benefit from additional opportunities to learn and get ready for first grade. Children are selected through a screening process.
Curriculum Night
Curriculum Night, held early in the fall each year, provides the most comprehensive information about what students will be studying over the course of the year as well as a clear description of the ways in which each classroom is organized and the expectations the teacher holds for the students. We strongly encourage all parents to attend this meeting.
Many teachers follow up on this initial communication with classroom newsletters, weekly folders, or the use of other systematic communication tools. Parents are encouraged to be aware of the schedule of these communications, to look for them in their children’s backpacks, to promptly read them, and to contact the school whenever any questions arise.
Information about Individual Students
The best way to learn about individual student progress is through face to face meetings with a child’s teacher. We strongly encourage all parents to participate in at least one parent/teacher conference during the fall of each year. These personal meetings allow for the exchange of information between parent and teacher that enriches both parties‘ understanding of the student and supports the best kind of goal setting for each student. Parents are always welcome to request additional conferences at any time throughout the school year. Other forms of communication typically used by parents and teachers include written notes, ` and phone calls. All teachers let parents know the best ways to contact them during the fall Curriculum Night. Written Reports to Parents are sent home three times each year. If duplicate mailings are required, parents should inform their child’s teacher.
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Breakfast and Lunch Programs
Curriculum
School Policies and Procedures
Health
Important Safety Information
Emergency Information
School Climate
Parent Involvement & Home/School Communications
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Haisley Elementary Student/Parent Handbook
Address: 825 Duncan, Ann Arbor, MI 48103
Phone: 734-994-1937
Fax: 734-994-1371
Ann Arbor Public Schools Website: www.aaps.k12.mi.us
Haisley Elementary School Website: haisley.a2schools.org
Haisley Web Master: JoAnn Taylor
PTO President: Mary Edwards
Daily Schedule
8:30-8:45 Breakfast
8:48 Tardy Bell rings; instructional period begins
11:51 Morning Kindergarten is dismissed
11:49 - 12:13 EDO, CI/AI, Keith and 2nd grade lunch
Bobyan and Rose recess
12:13 - 12:37 Bobyan, Rose, Third and Fifth in lunch Room
CI/AI, OHI, EDO, Keith, Second and Fourth at recess
12:39 Afternoon Kindergarten begins
3:42 School dismissed for all grades
Office Hours
The school office is open from 8:00 – 4:30, Monday through Friday. At other times messages may be left on the school answering machine. The office is closed during the summer months when school is not in session except for one week after children are dismissed for the summer and two weeks prior to the return of children in August. A copy of the school calendar is available from the school office and on the Ann Arbor Public Schools web site.
Before and After School Child Care
Before and after school child care is available at Haisley School. Spaces are limited and available only to those who have registered. For information, call 994-2313.
Telephones
Every classroom has a telephone that can be accessed through by calling 994-1938 and entering the classroom extention. Given the size of our building, phone lines are kept very busy throughout the day. During instructional times, messages may be left for staff on individual voice mail but staff may not have an opportunity to listen to the message until the end of the day. Emergency messages will be relayed to your child through the office. Families can help with this phone traffic by making sure that after-school plans are clear with your child before s/he leaves for school. Students are allowed to use the phone but we want them to begin to work on taking responsibility for having their lunch, homework and musical instrument (fifth graders) with them when they walk out of the door for school.
BREAKFAST AND NOON HOUR PROGRAMS
Breakfast and Lunch
A cold breakfast is served every school day between 8:30 and 8:48 a.m. All students are eligible to participate. The cost is $1.00 for full pay students and 30¢ for students on the reduced lunch program. Students may bring their own lunch or purchase a hot lunch, including milk, provided by the Arbor Public Schools Food Services. Milk may be purchased separately. Lunch menus are sent home each month and are also published on the AAPS web site. Prices for hot lunch and milk are subject to change each year and are published each fall.
Students Going Home for Lunch
The school office should be notified in writing at the start of the school year of any students going home on a regular basis. Students going home on an irregular schedule need to bring a written note on the days they will be leaving the school grounds. Students may not accompany another student going home for lunch unless there is written permission from each child’s parent and acknowledgment by the school office.
Ann Arbor Public Schools requests that elementary students prepay for all meals. Students are not allowed to "charge" lunches. They may prepay by the week, month or year. Any money remaining in the student’s account at the end of the school year will be rolled over to the following school year. At the end of the school year, a report will be provided to the parents showing the balance of each child’s account. Eligible low-income families who apply may receive free or reduced price meals. Applications are available in the school office.
Questions or concerns about the noon-hour program (recess) should be directed to Ms. Rose Mosby, Haisley’s Lunch Coordinator. Questions or concerns about Food Services (accounts, etc.) should be referred to Ms. Augustine, Food Service Coordinator 997-1926
Lost and Found
Families are encouraged to put children’s names on all items children might lose at school (e.g. jackets, boots, gloves, lunch boxes, backpacks). The lost and found is located outside the school office. Please make sure your child checks the lost and found if s/he has lost an item. Every few months, unclaimed items are donated to a charitable organization.
Photographs
Every fall a photographer visits the school to take individual pictures of our students and staff. These photographs are available to families in different packages for a reasonable cost. All children’s pictures will appear in the school yearbook or “Memory Book” that comes out at the end of the school year. If your child is absent on “picture day,” or if you would like a retake, picture retake day is scheduled on November, 10th. Pictures will be delivered before the winter break in December.
Emergency Cards
It is extremely important that we have an updated emergency card for every child. Make sure you name another person (in addition to the parents) who can be contacted in case of an emergency. Please call the office if your telephone number is changed or if you have acquired a cell phone or pager that would make it easier to reach you in an emergency situation.
CURRICULUM
The Ann Arbor Board of Education has approved a comprehensive curriculum, based upon Grade Level Content Expectations (GLCE) as defined by the Michigan Curriculum Framework, that move your child toward achieving the michigan elementary content standards. This curriculum teaches process skills and content in English, Mathematics, Science, Social Studies, Computer Literacy, the Arts and Physical Education. The overall goal of this curriculum, set by the Board of Education, is to work with families and the community to educate and empower every student to succeed in a changing environment as a responsible participant in a democratic society.
Balanced Literacy
The literacy framework in the Ann Arbor Public Schools provides best teaching practices in three essential literacy components: reading, writing, and phonics and word study. This approach to teaching reading, writing and other language skills immerses children in an environment that surrounds them with print--both their own writing and that of others. Children are taught to use specific strategies to independently solve problems in reading and writing. They are taught that reading and writing are about creating and conveying meaning. The Haisley staff is working in teams to reflect on our teaching practices in light of new knowledge about learning and teaching. We are working together to explore how we can maintain the good practices of the past without ignoring current evidence about how children learn. The measure of our success is increased student learning. This is an initiative in which all elementary schools in Ann Arbor are involved. We know that for many children how we teach is as important as what we teach.
EveryDay Math
EveryDay Math is an inquiry based elementary mathematics program aligned with the Michigan Curriculum Framework. Inquiry based means that the teacher poses a problem to students who explore avenues for solving the problem in small groups. While the students are exploring, the teacher acts as coach and facilitator to ensure the student’s investigations are on track. As a whole class, teacher and students discuss all of the ways students found the answers, including ways that didn’t work and why. Through this exploration and discussion, students develop a deep understanding of the mathematics they are studying. Important mathematic ideas and methods reoccur at a more advanced level in each grade in the elementary program.
Teaching Teams
In an effort to provide all students with the learning experiences they need to make continued progress, staff forms teaching teams that will systematically and consistently provide all students with the instruction and learning experiences they need. This means that some teachers work together at the same grade level, with a teacher at another grade level, and/or with one of our support staff. We are looking at ways for all of us to take ownership of all of our children and work together to meet individual needs. We are following the adage that “no one of us is as smart working alone as we are when we work together.”
Kindergarten - Extended Day Option (EDO)
EDO is a fee-based child care choice for families. The children in this program attend a half-day kindergarten session and a half-day child care session. The same teacher is with the children all day. Call the Haisley office for further information.
Special Area Classes
In addition to the many activities in the classroom, students at Haisley School have focused opportunities to develop their skills in other areas:
Visual Arts
Each week students have an opportunity to work with the art teacher. They explore many materials,
concepts and techniques, learn about art and artists through the ages, respond to art personally and make connections between art and other areas of life.
Vocal Music
Kindergarten children meet with the music teacher once a week. Children in grades 1-5 meet with her twice a week. They explore such areas of music as pattern, melody, rhythm, listening, reading notation and words, and working as a harmonious group twice a week.
Instrumental Music
Students in fifth grade have the opportunity to learn how to play a musical instrument. They meet twice a week with district instrumental music teachers. By the end of the year, they present a concert to demonstrate their newly acquired personal and ensemble skills.
Media Center
All students visit the media center at a scheduled time once a week for instruction in media skills, reading, and to check out books. The media center is staffed by a Professional Media Specialist and is opened all day for use by students, staff and parents. The media center is equipped with six computers which students are encouraged to use to access information.
Technology Education
This year, first, second, third and fourth graders receive instruction in technology education in either one or two sessions per week. Computer skills are taught by a teacher trained in technology education. The focus of their instruction is to learn to use technology as a tool to help them in other curriculum areas. For instance, depending on the grade, they are learning such skills as how to use the features of a computer, how to do keyboarding to help with their expressive writing assignments, and how to create graphs and charts to enhance their understanding in math, science and social studies.
Physical Education
Students participate in a physical education class with a physical education teacher once a week in kindergarten and twice a week thereafter. The program is a progressive one that stresses fundamental motor skills, body awareness, physical fitness and acquiring the knowledge necessary for people to make wise choices about their life-styles. Children are required to wear gym shoes and are asked to dress for activity on days they have physical education classes.
Assessment
Different types of tests provide different kinds of information about students, schools, or special programs. Once a year tests like the Michigan Educational Assessment Program (MEAP) provide broad brush strokes about the success of the district curriculum and instruction for individual students. Results come back at the end of the year, at which time teachers and administrators reflect on current practices and what might account for the district scores. The window for administering these tests this year is as follows:
Michigan Educational Assessment Program
English Language Arts - Oct. 14-30th 2008
(MEAP) -- statewide testing program Mathematics - 3-8
Science, Social - 5-8
MI-Access – alternative to MEAP Supported Independence 10/13/08 - 11/21/2008
for special education students if indicated Participation 2/16/08 - 3/31/09
by IEP Determined by IEP
Performance assessments, teacher created tests and student self-assessment provide the kind of ongoing information that informs teachers’ decisions about instruction on a daily basis. This kind of assessment allows us to focus on the short term results in order to reach our long-term goals. It is this information on report forms that teachers use to inform parents of their children’s progress three times each year.
Homework
Homework, as defined by the Ann Arbor Board of Education is: the expectation that students will use time outside the classroom in assigned activities to practice, reinforce, or apply newly-acquired skills and knowledge and to learn necessary skills of independent study.
Background Information:
• Homework can provide additional practice, increasing the amount of time students are actively engaged in learning and extending time on task.
• Homework can be useful to teachers for monitoring student progress and diagnosing student learning problems.
• Homework can be an effective way to increase student personal responsibility and f individual accountability.
• Homework can lead to increased communications between parents and the schools and encourage parent awareness of student learning.
• Homework can contribute to understanding by students and parents that the school holds high expectations for students.
Homework Requests when Absent
When your child is ill and you would like to pick up homework and/or schoolwork, please call the office and give at least 24 hours notice for requesting assignments. Please remember that there is no way to duplicate the instruction, discussion and hands-on experience of the classroom. Requests for homework should be made if your child is ill more than two days. Students may call their classmates to inquire about assignments and request that books and assignments be sent home through a classmate. When parents request homework during class or when teachers have planning time, they disrupt classroom instruction and teacher planning time. This is not fair to the other students in the class or the teacher. We appreciate your cooperation.
Field Trips
Field trips are an important part of the school program. They provide students with opportunities to see real-life applications of what they are learning. They may also provide parents with an opportunity to see firsthand what students are learning. Parents are often invited to accompany the class. In order for students to participate in these activities, they are required to return a properly signed Field Trip Permission Form to the classroom teacher. Phone permission is not an acceptable substitute.
Extracurricular Activities
Many enriching activities occur after school hours. These include, but are not limited to, the offerings of the school district’s Community Education and Recreation Department, our PTO, Science Olympiad and our many Scout groups.
Community Education and Recreation Department
Community Education and Recreation provides a variety of athletic, arts and language activities throughout the school year. Activities change about every nine weeks and are publicized through flyers sent home with your children. These activities involve nominal fees; however, scholarships are also available. Scouting activities are arranged through Community Education and Recreation. The phone number is 994-2300.
Attendance
Regular and timely attendance in school is one of the most important contributors to school success. Students are required to be in school every day except for illness, religious observances or unusual family business. We strongly encourage parents to schedule doctor and dentist appointments after school whenever possible. It is also important that children arrive on time. Teachers have work prepared for students to do when they enter the classroom that often orients the students to other events in the day. A small proportion of what children learn in elementary school can be obtained simply by reading a book or doing worksheets. Deep lasting knowledge and understanding comes from “hands-on” experiences and the interactions children have with their teachers and fellow students. These cannot be “made up.”
Reporting Absences
In the interest of safety, we make every effort to know where Haisley children are at all times during school hours. Parents are asked to call the school attendance line as early as possible if their child will be absent. (994-1938).
Tardiness
A positive and prompt beginning sets the tone for a successful school day. It is expected that children be at school when the bell rings at 8:45 a.m. The tardy bell will ring at 8:48, all students should be in their rooms a this time. Attendance, lunch count, collection of homework, directions for the day's work, essential announcements, and the daily plan are all reviewed within the first 15 minutes of the day. A tardy student misses this information and often spends the day trying to "catch up."
Students who are tardy must go to the office to sign in before going to class. This is very important because students who fail to sign in may be marked absent for the day and parents may be called. This causes confusion for parents as well as school personnel.
Excusing Children During the School Day
It is important that each child attend school for the full day. The pre-dismissal procedures in each classroom allow a child to reflect on the day's learning and to prepare materials for home, i.e., gathering notices for parents to read, collecting completed papers to share with families and obtaining all materials needed for home assignments. An early dismissal may result in a lack of preparation for the following day's lessons. However, we do realize that emergency situations occur and you may find it necessary to have your child excused during school hours. The following procedure has been implemented for the safety and protection of your child:
Send a note to the classroom teacher indicating when your child will be leaving and returning and who will be picking him/her up. Children are only released to their parents unless the school office has been given other directions by the parent. In an effort to minimize the disruption of learning for others in the classroom, please come to the office to pick up your child. The office will call for your child. Sign your child out when you leave and come to the office to sign her/him in when you return.
Family Trips
We request that parents not ask teachers to provide special homework for students who go on family trips during the school year. Most classroom work is designed for teacher presentation and subsequent student/teacher and student/student interaction. These kinds of learning experiences cannot be packaged up and sent home. Helpful activities parents can provide for children of all ages include involving them in the planning and details of the trip, daily reading of fiction and nonfiction books and daily journaling.
CONFIDENTIALITY: Student Records
The confidentiality of student records is protected by the Family educational Rights to Privacy Act (FERPA) and other statutes, as well as Ann Arbor Public Schools policy. District staff may access a student’s records, including the Cumulative Folder (CA60), as well as records of attendance, academic performance, and discipline. This information may be released only to the parent or legal guardian indicated on the student’s Notice of Entry or other legal document which may be found in the CA60. Release of student information to anyone else - family members or friends, medical or mental health personnel, or others - is permissible only by written release of the information which is signed by the parent or legal guardian.
Health Medical Requirements
Before entering school, a student must have the following immunizations: a
• minimum of 4 DPT (5th DPT is required if the 4th was given before the age of 4.)
• minimum of 3 Polio (4th POLIO is required if the 3rd was given before the age of 4.)
• required 2 Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR)
• Hepatitis B series
• Varicella (chicken pox) (1 dose on or after 1st birthday)
• Vision Check up
In addition, physical examinations are required for children entering the school system and before entrance to grades 6 (middle school) and 9 (high school). The school nurse checks health records of all children entering Haisley School. If financial circumstances prevent a child from getting immunizations, physical examinations, or necessary medical care, the school nurse can suggest resources for obtaining these services.
Medication - Ann Arbor School Policy
All medications administered during the school day must be in the original container. Medication must be brought to the school office and personnel must be provided with the following information:
• Written, signed instructions by the physician who prescribed the specific medication. Instructions will include method of administration, time of administration and dosage (instructions on the label prepared by the pharmacy are not adequate.)
• Over-the-counter medications also require written, signed instructions by a physician. All other conditions apply.
• Authorization for the principal or secretary to administer the medication signed by the parent.
• If your child has allergies to insect bites or certain foods, YOU MUST INFORM THE OFFICE so precautions and immediate attention can be given to your child.
Communicable Diseases
Please notify the school if your child is diagnosed with any communicable disease or condition (e.g., mumps, chicken pox. Measles, head lice, strep infections, conjunctivitis, ringworm, impetigo). This allows us to notify the parents of classmates so they can identify, in their own children, conditions needing treatment in the most timely and effective manner possible.
Sick Children at School
It is extremely important that students remain at home whenever they have a fever, extreme congestion, or other symptoms that prevent their participation in school activities. Students must be free of fever for 24 hours. This is an important element in preventing the spread of illness among children as well as in providing for your child’s comfort. The school building does not have adequate facilities for students to lie down and rest for extended periods of time. Please be sure your child’s emergency card is up to date with current contact numbers at all times.
Health Problems
The school needs to be informed of any chronic health problems a child may have (e.g., asthma, diabetes, severe allergy, seizure disorder). A note from the child’s doctor should state the physical problem and the limitations it may have on school activities such as gym, recess, etc. This will allow the school nurse and teachers to be aware of the situation and make proper plans for your child.
Illness and Accident Procedure
If a child has a fever or is nauseated, the parent (or emergency contact person listed on the emergency card) will be called to provide transportation home for the child.
When a child is injured at school, the supervising staff member makes a judgment as to the severity of the problem. Simple first aid may be given, such as cleansing a cut and covering it with a band-aid. The emergency card may be used to call a parent or neighbor if they are needed. In case of an emergency, when no parent or family can be reached, the doctor and/or emergency room listed on the emergency card will be called. In some instances, an ambulance will transport the child to the hospital. Medical attention is usually not given to the child at the hospital until a parent or guardian gives permission. School personnel always accompany a child on a trip to the hospital.
Dress
Parents are urged to provide clothing for their child that is adequate for the weather and is supportive to health and safety considerations. Please consider the following guidelines:
• All articles of clothing should be properly labeled with the owner’s name.
• Children must have shoes on their feet at all times. Leaving a pair of gym shoes left at school is acceptable. Please consider that clogs, flip-flops, or sandals may cause a safety hazard during recess or physical education.
• Students should dress appropriately for weather conditions and in clothes that are comfortable and appropriate for school. We make every effort to get children outside for recess. In snowy weather, children love to and are allowed to play in the snow. They need to wear boots and snowpants. Providing a back-up pair of pants and socks is recommend- ed during the snowy, muddy winter months. During hot weather students should not wear clothing that is more appropriate for the beach (e.g., crop tops, backless tops, bare midriffs, shorts or skirts that reveal underwear).
Recess and Physical Education
Children are expected to participate in recess and physical education. Exceptions will be made only by a doctor’s request. Gym shoes are required for Physical Education classes and recess. As a rule of thumb: if a child is well enough to be in school, s/he is well enough to participate in recess or Physical Education classes.
Safety
The following procedures and guidelines have been established to provide a safe environment:
Visitors
Visits from parents are welcome and encouraged. To keep classroom interruptions to a minimum, please prearrange classroom visits with your child's teacher for a mutually convenient time and date. When visiting school, please do not go directly to your child's classroom. For safety reasons, all adults, including parent volunteers, need to sign in at the main office. All parents and volunteers must wear a visitor pass available in the school office.
Important Safety Information for Children
Children are confident when routines are followed. In today's fast-paced society, routines may vary on a daily basis. Please consider the following:
• Teach your child his/her home address and phone number.
• As appropriate, provide your child with your work phone number.
• Make sure your children know where they should go at the end of the school day. A child who does not know this information from the parent, prior to saying "Goodbye" in the morning, may worry about this throughout the day.
• Teach your child the family procedure in case an adult is not at home when he/she arrives from school.
• All students (bus and walkers) should be frequently reminded about safe pedestrian rules.
Getting To and From School
Crossing Guards and Safety Patrol: An adult crossing guard is employed by the City of Ann Arbor to help children who live south of Dexter Road. They should use the crosswalk at Dexter and Doty. She will be on duty during the following times:
• 8:10-8:45 AM
• 3:40-4:10 PM
Currently we have a student safety patrol on Duncan Street and School Drive. Whether we are have a Safety Patrol student posted or not, parents need to teach all students to safely cross streets with or without safety patrol coverage. Some posts may not be covered when adult safeties are ill or when weather is especially severe. Please report safety concerns promptly to the building principal.
Bicycles
Children in third, fourth and fifth grades may ride their bikes to school. Please review with your child the safest route to school. Riders should observe the same regulations as automobile operators. Due to the busy nature of our school grounds, children are required to walk their bikes on school grounds. Once a student arrives at school he/she should park his/her bike safely and lock it in the rack located at the back of the school. Current bicycle licenses are required for all students parking bikes at school. Licenses are available at City Hall. Helmets are strongly recommended for all students riding bikes to school. Please be aware that the school is not responsible for stolen or damaged bicycles.
NOTE: Rollerblades and skateboards should not be brought to school. Scooters, like bikes, may not be ridden on school grounds when coming to or leaving school.
Dropping Off and Picking up Children
The start and end of the school day are very congested times in the school parking lot. The area directly in front of the school, along the sidewalk near the playground and the sidewalk at the back of the parking lot must be left clear for busses. The Parent Pickup area is clearly marked by signs and a red sidewalk. It is located along the sidewalk before the front of the building. Cars are not permitted to go where busses are loading and unloading children. Parents may also park in the lot and walk children into or out of the building.
For the safety of all of our children we ask that parents dropping off and/or picking up students follow one of three procedures:
1. Drop your child off in the “Parent Pickup” area that is clearly marked by signs and a red sidewalk located along the sidewalk before you get to the front of the building.
2. Park your car in the lot and walk your child to and/or from the building.
3. Arrange your drop-off/pickup at a location away from the parking lot, e.g., on Duncan, South Circle or Walter.
Please take note of the No Left Turn sign going back onto Duncan. Cars are not allowed to turn left Monday through Friday, from 8:30 - 9:00 A.M. or 3:30 - 4:00 P.M. Police are sometimes in the neighborhood to enforce this.
Riding the School Bus
Children should arrive at the bus stop 10 minutes before pickup. They should board the bus at the same bus stop each day. Occasionally buses run late in pickup or delivery of children. Typically we are not informed of this at school. You may be able to get the most accurate information by calling the Transportation Department directly at 994-2330. Any change from regular drop-off must be requested in writing by the parent and then approved by the driver and principal.
Permission will be given for a friend to go home with a bus student when:
• The request is for a regularly scheduled stop.
• Space is available on the bus.
• Behavior is appropriate.
• Notes from both students’ parents are signed by the principal and presented to the bus driver upon entering the bus.
Riding the school bus is a privilege. Children retain the privilege by adhering strictly to the rules and guidelines. Parents can make a tremendous contribution to safe and pleasant bus rides by making their expectations known to their children and providing supervision for their children at the bus stop. 12
Safety (cont’)
Bus Safety
The following rules are posted on every school bus:
1. Observe same conduct as in the classroom.
2. Be courteous, use no profane language.
3. Do not eat or drink on the bus.
4. Keep the bus clean.
5. Cooperate with the driver.
6. Do not smoke.
7. Do not be destructive.
8. Stay in your seat.
9. Keep head, hands, and feet inside the bus.
10. Bus driver is authorized to assign seats.
Students may be denied bus privileges for failing to observe these rules and regulations.
Bringing Items to School
The only time students should bring toys, games, etc., to school is when her/his teacher instructs them to do so (e.g., for show and tell). The student will assume responsibility for any item brought to school. Students are not to bring beepers, cellular telephones, radios, tape recorders, video games, skateboards, sports equipment, etc. Past experience with equipment getting lost and/or broken, either on the bus or at school, has led to this policy.
When the weather is inclement, the Ann Arbor Public Schools will notify local radio stations 1600 AM, 1050 AM, 91.7 FM, 1290 AM, 89.1 FM, 760 AM. Listen to one of these stations for school cancellations. Parents and students may also call the School Closing Hotline number, 994-8684. Cancellation of public school bus service will affect all public school buses all day. If school is canceled, all regularly scheduled after-school activities, including Community Education classes, will also be suspended. Scheduled and contracted athletic events may be held at the discretion of the Superintendent of Schools and the Athletic Director.
If school is in session and an early closing is necessary, the Haisley School emergency plan will be implemented. A fan-out phone call will be made to room parents, who will contact each parent. Please make sure your child knows where to go if both parents are working or away from home, should school close early.
No Snowballs
The Ann Arbor Public School policy regarding snowball throwing is simple: There is to be no snowball throwing at school, or going to and from school.
Dogs
To provide for the safety of our children, the police will always be called to remove any dogs roaming the playground. If you live near the school grounds, please see that your dog is securely chained or fenced. When walking your dog on school property, please clean up after your dog. You can imagine the mess when 5, 6 and 7 year old students step in it. We also do not encourage bringing your dog to school at the start and end of the school day. Please be aware that some children are extremely fearful of dogs and have serious allergies.
Fair Treatment Policy
No student shall be excluded nor prohibited from participating in any educational program or activity available in any school on the basis of race, sex, color, national origin, creed, religion, socioeconomic status, or other inappropriate criteria as prescribed by law; neither shall any student by compelled to participate in such program or activity because of the above criteria. Any such discriminatory practice or inhumane conduct shall constitute just cause for grievance and/or remedy. Encouragement or discouragement of students to participate in programs or activities shall be based solely on sound educational reasons. The district Human Resource (994-2240) handles all issues related to the implementation of the policy.
The Ann Arbor Public Schools are committed to providing each student with a quality educational program. This includes the opportunity to develop their learning potential and the self-discipline necessary to live effectively in society. Our expectations at Haisley School are that students:
1. Be Safe
2. Be Respectful
3. Be Responsible
Goals
The goal of our discipline plan is to teach students to make responsible choices. Students learn from the outcomes of their decisions. They learn:
1. I cause my own outcomes.
2. I have more than one option in any situation.
3. I have the power to choose the best option.
Staff Practices
To promote this learning, Haisley staff implements the following practices:
1. Establish clear rules and procedures for the class.
2. Hold regular class meetings.
3. Teach and use principles of cooperative learning in the classroom.
4. Teach and use the Conflict Resolution curriculum in grades K-5.
5. Establish and use peer Conflict Managers on the playground during lunch recess.
6. Promote a focus on and understanding of basic Lifelong Guidelines and Lifeskills.
7. Remember and practice using M.A.G.I.C.: "Make a Good Intelligent Choice."
Conflict Resolution
When students are involved in a conflict that they are unable to resolve using the conflict management steps themselves, teachers, lunch supervisors, peer conflict managers and/or the principal help them work through the Conflict Resolution Process. This includes the following steps:
1. Stop. Cool off.
2. Talk about perceptions and feelings and listen to each other.
3. Find out what both students need.
4. Brainstorm solutions.
5. Choose the idea both students like best.
6. Make a plan. Go for it.
Bully Proofing
This program was adopted in the 2002-03 school year. The goal of this program is to ensure that the school environment is safe for children both physically and psychologically. The philosophy is based on empowering students and promoting positive behavior. In typical schools, while any child can bully or experience bullying, true victims and bullies make up approximately 15% of the population. We are working to shift the balance of power to the caring majority, those 85% of student who are neither bullies nor victims. Bully Proofing school rules are posted around the school. They are: 1) We will not bully other students; 2) We will help others who are being bullied by speaking out and by getting adult help; and 3) We will use extra effort to include all students in activities at our school.
Consequences
When students do not make responsible choices, any of the following steps may be taken, depending upon the success with using the Conflict Resolution Process, the severity of the problem and the occurrence of similar problems in the past:
• Verbal redirection by a teacher
• Teacher contact with parent by phone for mutual problem-solving
• Withholding of a privilege (e.g., recess, lunch aide, safety patrol)
• Formal discipline form written and sent home for parent signature
• Request for a parent conference to develop a plan for addressing the problem
• A community service assigned to the student
• Plan created by student and teacher for future behavior (may include parent, support staff and/or principal)
• Suspension of privileges when applicable, such as, transportation by bus or lunch recess
• An in-school suspension given to the student (time spent in the principal’s office or con- ference room completing work in isolation)
• An out-of-school suspension given to the student (the student is not allowed to come to school for a specified period of time)
The Board of Education has developed a Rights and Responsibilities Handbook for students, staff and parents.
Gifts
Ann Arbor Public School employees may not accept gifts of more than token value from individual students or parents or from groups of students on school property. A letter or note of appreciation to the teacher or about the teacher addressed to the administrator is a wonderful boost for any staff member.
There are many ways that parents can play an important role in their child’s education. Some of these involve activities done within the home, and some involve parents coming to school.
At Home
Every parent is his or her child’s first and most important teacher. Parents can extend this teaching relationship throughout their child’s school career by:
• talking with their child each day about the child’s activities;
• supervising the child’s homework’;
• reading to the child;
• listening to the child read;
• being knowledgeable about school and classroom activities by carefully reading all school communications sent home; and
• calling the school whenever you have questions or concerns.
At School
Parents can play an important role in their child’s school life by participating in the following activities at school:
• Attend Fall Curriculum Night – This occurs early in the fall and is the time when the classroom teacher explains what children will be learning over the course of the year and the way in which the classroom is organized. Parents’ understanding of this material can be very important in helping their child make a good adjustment.
• Participate in Parent/Teacher Conferences – Also held in the fall of each year, this is an opportunity for parents to talk privately with teachers and discuss their child’s development. The teacher’s effectiveness with children can be greatly enhanced by this personal communication with parents.
• Make classroom visits – We welcome and encourage parents to visit their child’s classroom. Arrangements should be made in advance of the visit to be sure that parents will have the opportunity to observe while class is in session (not attending specials or on a fieldtrip). We ask parents to check in first at the office whenever they visit the building. This helps us maintain security within our building and facilitates getting messages to visiting parents when necessary. 15
• Take an active role in the Parent/Teacher Organization (PTO) – The purpose of the PTO is to strengthen the relationship between students, families, and their school. Haisley’s PTO is involved in a wide variety of activities. These include social activities which help families become acquainted with each other and the school; educational activities that enhance or enrich the curriculum; activities that provide special equipment and supplies for the school; teacher appreciation events, and much more. All parents are members of the Haisley PTO and are encouraged to take an active role. Please see the PTO calendar for the scheduled PTO meetings.
• Serve on the School Improvement Team – The School Improvement Team consists of elected parents, teachers and the building principal. Its purpose is to create a team at the school site that uses all its combined resources and special knowledge to make the school the very best it can be. It helps in the planning and management of the school by working together to examine data, determine the school’s strengths and needs, and plan improvements in response to those needs. SIT meets monthly.
• Volunteer in the Classroom, Lunchroom, Media Center or School Office.
Home-School Communication
There are many ways in which parents may learn about school activities and the individual progress of their children.
The Haisley Happenings
A school newsletter, The Haisley Happenings, published by the PTO, is sent home with students once a month . It includes information about all upcoming school events and relays all important information related to school activities and procedures. Special single-page flyers are also sent to publicize special school-wide events and fund-raising projects. PTO Meetings are another excellent source of information about school-wide issues and activities.
Kindergarten Roundup
Kindergarten Roundup is held in the late spring for the parents of incoming kindergarten students. During this parents-only visit, parents see the kindergarten site, meet the current teachers and get a broad overview of what they can expect kindergarten to be like at Haisley. Appointments are set up for the future students to come in for a one-on-one meeting with one of the kindergarten teachers, an informal screening of their general skills and a tour of the school. Most school years, Haisley School has a Full Day Kindergarten program for children who would benefit from additional opportunities to learn and get ready for first grade. Children are selected through a screening process.
Curriculum Night
Curriculum Night, held early in the fall each year, provides the most comprehensive information about what students will be studying over the course of the year as well as a clear description of the ways in which each classroom is organized and the expectations the teacher holds for the students. We strongly encourage all parents to attend this meeting.
Many teachers follow up on this initial communication with classroom newsletters, weekly folders, or the use of other systematic communication tools. Parents are encouraged to be aware of the schedule of these communications, to look for them in their children’s backpacks, to promptly read them, and to contact the school whenever any questions arise.
Information about Individual Students
The best way to learn about individual student progress is through face to face meetings with a child’s teacher. We strongly encourage all parents to participate in at least one parent/teacher conference during the fall of each year. These personal meetings allow for the exchange of information between parent and teacher that enriches both parties‘ understanding of the student and supports the best kind of goal setting for each student. Parents are always welcome to request additional conferences at any time throughout the school year. Other forms of communication typically used by parents and teachers include written notes, ` and phone calls. All teachers let parents know the best ways to contact them during the fall Curriculum Night. Written Reports to Parents are sent home three times each year. If duplicate mailings are required, parents should inform their child’s teacher.
WELCOME TO HAISLEY : 54 YEARS OF QUALITY TEACHING AND SERVICE!
