Stoney Creek Elementary

1803 Stoney Creek School Road

Reidsville, NC 27320

Panther Pride

Parent/Student Handbook

2022-2023

Table of Contents

Caswell County Schools

 

Board of Education Members:

 

Caswell County’s Elementary Curriculum:

 

The Caswell County school system is committed to building strong academic, social, physical and emotional foundations.  The goal of the elementary curriculum is to provide students with this foundation through a well-rounded educational program, using high quality instructional materials and strategies.  Each grade level curriculum is aligned to the Common Core State Standards and the North Carolina Essential Standards. The curriculum reflects and encourages differentiated instructional practices, technology integration and application and active student engagement.

 

Stoney Creek Elementary School Mission Statement, Beliefs, and School Community Roles

Our Mission

 

Stoney Creek School’s mission is to be a safe and nurturing learning community that does

“What it takes” to create productive and responsible citizens.

 

Our Vision

Our vision for Stoney Creek Elementary is to provide a safe and structured environment in order to promote excellence and creativity. We will provide instructional leadership with a positive climate of high expectations that encourages responsible behaviors and citizenship so 

ALL students will meet or exceed the established standards.

School Information

 

 

 

Dear Families,

 

Welcome! My primary role as principal is to ensure that instruction and learning is taking place in each classroom and to ensure a safe and orderly environment throughout the school building. Stoney Creek Elementary School is committed to providing all students opportunities to succeed academically, socially, and through extra-curricular activities. A strong elementary education begins with a strong foundation in reading and math. 

 

The Stoney Creek  Elementary staff is dedicated to helping make this happen for each child. We have a collective responsibility to expose your child to a learning environment that prepares them for lifelong learning. In an effort to accomplish this, I will build relationships between parents, students, faculty, and staff. I am confident that we will be successful if we align our resources to support our students.

 

 I look forward to working with each of you to ensure the success of your child. With your support, we can ensure your child’s success at Stoney Creek Elementary. 

 

 Warmly,

 

 Terri Gullick, Principal

TITLE I - Parents Right-to-Know Letter

Dear Parent/Guardian,  

 

At Stoney Creek Elementary, we are very proud of our teachers and feel they are ready for the coming school year and are prepared to give your child a high-quality education.   Under the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA), all schools receiving Title I funds must inform parents of their right to ask schools about the professional qualifications of their child’s teachers and paraprofessionals. Our school receives Title I funding. You have the opportunity to learn more about your child’s teachers’ training and credentials. We are happy to provide this information to you. At any time, you may request in writing:

 

• Whether the teacher met state qualifications and certification requirements for the grade level and subject he/she is teaching, 

 

• Whether the teacher received an emergency or conditional certificate through which state qualifications were waived, and 

 

• What undergraduate or graduate degrees the teacher holds, including graduate certificates and additional degrees, and major(s) or area(s) of concentration. 

 

You may also ask whether your child receives help from a paraprofessional. If your child receives this assistance, we can provide you with information about the paraprofessional’s qualifications. 

 

Our staff is committed to helping your child develop the academic knowledge and critical thinking he/she needs to succeed in school and beyond. That commitment includes making sure that all of our teachers and paraprofessionals are highly skilled. 

 

If you have any questions about your child’s teacher or paraprofessional, please contact the main office at 336-694-6222. 

 

Sincerely,

Ms. Terri Gullick

 

TITLE I SCHOOL PARENTAL INVOLVEMENT POLICY

At Stoney Creek Elementary School our desire is for all students to become successful, lifelong learners. In order for the achievement levels of students to increase, we must involve the school staff as well as the parents and families in the educational process of each student.

 

We hope the Title I Parent Involvement Policy will clearly explain the plans Stoney Creek Elementary School has for informing parents of individual student progress along with school and Title I events. 

 

Goals 

 

In order to provide a strong partnership between home, family, school and the community, we will work together in the following ways: 

 

Annual Public Meeting – All required annual Title 1 meetings may be held virtually in lieu of face to face meetings as necessary to consider the health and safety of all stakeholders.

 

We will host an Annual Meeting in the fall of each school year to inform parents about Title I program requirements and their right to be involved. We will use our school sign, Snapshots sent home weekly, Alert Now, Remind messages and Facebook posts to attract parent interest and encourage participation. 

 

Opportunities for Meetings 

 

All parents are encouraged to have at least one parent conference during the year. Flexible times are offered before, during and after school hours to facilitate a variety of work schedules.. Parents may also request a meeting(s) to formulate suggestions and to participate, as appropriate, in decisions related to the education of their children, and the school will respond to any such suggestions as soon as practicably possible.  In addition, the following opportunities may be scheduled:

• Open House - Open House will be held before school opens for the new year to provide parents and students with the opportunity to meet teachers and visit classrooms. 

• Title I Informational Session - During the first nine weeks of school, each grade level will host a night to present to parents the grade level curricula, Caswell County Promotion/Retention Standards and other academic information. 

• Report Card Conferences - Report card conferences will be held after the first and third report periods to share student progress and strategies for improvement, if needed, with parents.

• Parent Academy Sessions – To be held once a grading period.

 

Developing School-Parent Compacts that Indicate Shared Responsibilities for High Student Achievement and Academics

 

Parent/Student/Teacher Compacts will be developed and signed at the beginning of the school year where each stakeholder (parent, student, and teacher) indicates and accepts responsibility for the student’s learning and for making good educational choices. 

 

Using Title I Funds to Provide Materials and Training to Help Parents Work with Their Children to Improve Student Achievement 

 

• Title I Annual Meeting and Open House –  beginning of the school year 

• A “Schedule of Parent Involvement Opportunities” – throughout the year

• Book Fairs – twice annually and open at various hours to accommodate parents

• Providing other such reasonable support for parental involvement activities as requested by parents.

 

Sharing Information Regarding the Curriculum and Academic Assessments 

 

In order to build the schools’ and parents’ capacity for strong parental involvement and to ensure effective involvement of parents to support this partnership, we will provide assistance to parents in understanding topics such as the following:

• the State’s academic content standards; 

• the State’s student academic achievement standards;

• the State and local academic assessments; and

• how to monitor their child’s progress. 

 

GENERAL INFORMATION

 

ADMISSION TO SCHOOL

 

All students attending Stoney Creek Elementary School must maintain legal residence in the Stoney Creek Elementary School District or have been approved by the Caswell County School Board of Education for special circumstances. Legal residence is defined as the full-time residence of the child’s parent(s) or legal guardian(s). Inquiries or requests for change of district should be directed to the Superintendent of Caswell County Schools.

 

ASSEMBLY PROGRAMS 

 

Periodically, we will have special programs that will be attended by all students. During these programs, we have high expectations for our students in terms of performance and behavior. Failure to respond appropriately in the assembly can result in denying the student the privilege of participation.

 

Students will be recognized at the end of each nine-week period for academic growth, exceptional behavior, outstanding character, and Honor Roll. Students will enter the multipurpose room in a quiet, orderly manner. Students will behave as a respectful audience. Parents are invited to attend; however, students must sit with their classmates. 

 

CAFETERIA POLICY

 

All Caswell County elementary schools will be participating in the Community Eligibility Provision (CEP) this school year.  Regardless of their meal status, all students will be eligible for FREE breakfast and lunch during the school year. Supplemental items and adult prices remain the same.

 

A la Carte items will continue to be sold in the cafeteria at the same cost last school year.  

 

Adult Breakfast - A la carte           Adult Lunch- A la carte  

 

CAR CIRCLE AND PARKING 

 

Parents are asked to exercise caution when children are entering and leaving the building and when other vehicles are moving through the car circle. Please adhere to the established traffic flow pattern. NO PARKING IS ALLOWED AT ANY TIME IN THE FRONT OF THE SCHOOL.  The area in the front of the school must remain open at all times to allow for emergency vehicles, fire trucks, etc. access.  This area must also remain open to allow for access to handicap parking spots.   If you plan on entering the building at any time during school hours, you must park in a designated parking spot.  There are 5 parking spaces reserved for visitors only, however you may park in any open parking space in the parking lot. If parents wish to walk students to class, they should park in a designated parking spot and escort student into the school building. At 8:15 AM, all parents must report to the main office and follow the procedures for visitors. If special events are occurring at school, visitors may also park in the staff parking lot; however, visitors still have to use the front doors to enter the building. At this time, nonessential visitors and activities involving external groups or organizations are restricted to only those essential for school system operations or having an appointment.

 

PANTHER PACKETS

 

School-wide announcements and calendars will be sent home every Monday by way of the Panther Packet. Each student will have his or her own envelope. Parents should review the contents each Monday and send the folder back to school with your child on Tuesday. If a parent signature is required, please sign and complete the forms before sending them back to school.

 

CHANGE OF ADDRESS/PHONE NUMBER

 

Please notify the main office of any change of address or phone number. The school will provide student information sheets at the request of the parent/guardian. Please help us to maintain accurate records so that you can be reached in the event of an emergency.

 

CHANGES IN STUDENT’S DAILY TRANSPORTATION

 

All changes in the way students normally go home from school must be received in writing—either by a signed parent note or by fax—and approved by the principal. Changes in transportation will not be accepted over the telephone. All faxed requests must be received by 2:00 PM. A written note or fax is not received and approved, the student will be transported home using normal transportation procedures. A phone call will only be approved by the principal in emergency situations. 

 

CONFERENCES WITH PRINCIPAL

 

Conferences with the principal should be arranged ahead of time when possible. This is to avoid conflicts with previously scheduled appointments for students and parents. 

 

CONFERENCES WITH TEACHERS

 

Teachers can generally schedule conferences with parents in the afternoon between 3:05 and 3:30 PM. As a courtesy to teachers, please arrange for a conference in advance and inform the office if the appointment cannot be kept. Parents are asked not to engage teachers in conferences during the instructional day unless arranged by the principal. 

CUSTODY ISSUES

 

If there is no court order or separation agreement concerning the custody of a child, either parent or legal guardian has the same right to see the child at school or have the child released to him/her at the end of the school day. The school must have legal documentation of this information. When we have been presented custody papers or restraining orders, we will exercise reasonable precaution in protecting the rights of a parent as assigned by the courts. 

 

DAILY PLANNERS AND HOMEWORK FOLDERS

 

The use of daily planners and homework folders help to develop organizational skills and responsibility, which are important in the overall academic success of our students. Being responsible, planning ahead, and using time wisely are learned behaviors. Planners and folders will be a part of the student’s daily routine. Appropriate use of planners and folders will be modeled. These planners and folders are the responsibility of the student and should be kept with them at all times.

 

DAILY SCHEDULE AND SCHOOL HOURS

 

Once a student enters the school building, he/she becomes the responsibility of the school. Parents are not allowed to walk students to classrooms.

 

Regular School Hours are as follows:

 

7:50 AM Students may enter the cafeteria for breakfast

8:10 AM Announcement; Parents will be asked to sign in as visitors or exit the building

8:15 AM Tardy Bell; Instruction begins

2:50 PM          Car Riders dismissed

2:55 PM Bus riders dismissed

 

[Please see the Policies regarding Tardiness and Leaving Early]

 

DAILY SNACKS

 

At the total discretion of the teacher, students are allowed to bring a snack to school.  This will continue to be our policy as long as students abide by specific teacher requests regarding types of snacks, times they may be eaten, and maintain good sanitary habits.  Nutritious snacks such as cheese and crackers or fruit are encouraged.  Students in the Pre-K program are supplied with snacks.  Soda and soft drinks are not allowed to be brought for snacks.

 

DELIVERIES OF FLOWERS AND BALLOONS

 

No deliveries of flowers, balloons, and similar gift items will be accepted at Oakwood for students. Students are not permitted to bring gifts that include balloons and/or flowers.  Flowers and/or balloons are not permitted on school buses at any time.

DISMISSAL PROCEDURES 

Student safety is our priority at all times, especially during afternoon dismissal. In order to ensure student safety during afternoon dismissal, we have made changes to our dismissal policy and procedures for car riders.  Students will no longer wait outside for car rider dismissal.

Car riders will dismiss beginning at 2:50 PM.  All car riders will be escorted to the cafeteria by a teacher or teacher assistant. Students will remain seated in the cafeteria until their name is called to leave.  FOR PARENTS AND GUARDIANS PICKING UP CHILDREN DURING DISMISSAL: Please wait in the car rider line.  Do not park or exit your vehicle to pick up a student. When you get to the front of the car rider line, a staff member will ask you to pull down in front of a colored cone we will have placed outside.  You will wait here and your child will be brought to you.  TO ENSURE STUDENT SAFETY, PLEASE DO NOT PASS OTHER CARS IN THE CAR RIDER LINE.  Please be patient as we safely load students into cars.  Bus riders will be dismissed at 2:55 PM. In grades Kindergarten through Second, teacher assistants will walk students to the buses. Third to fifth-grade teachers will escort students to the car rider area and then proceed to the bus lot. 

 

In the afternoons, parents will not be allowed to check students out after 2:30 without a verified medical appointment. Parents will not be allowed to check students out after 1:30 without a verified medical appointment.

 

EARLY CHECKOUTS

 

Parents are urged to leave their children in school all day. Doctor or other appointments should be scheduled outside school hours or on school holidays whenever possible. Parents must sign students out in the school office and must not go to the classroom.

 

Regular Procedures for Student Checkout:

• Parents must park in a designated parking spot in the parking lot.  No parking is allowed in front of the school.

• Parents and/or legal guardians must report to the designated entrance and follow the directions of staff members.

• Parents and/or legal guardians must have a photo ID available in order to check a student out of school.

• Any person, other than the parent or legal guardian, who wishes to check out a student, must have written parental approval. The person’s name must be listed on the child’s student data sheet. Telephone calls will not be accepted as a method of checkout. 

• Students may not be picked up directly from the classroom

• School officials will not allow students to be checked out after 2:30 without a verified medical appointment.

 

EMERGENCY CLOSINGS AND DELAYED OPENINGS

 

At times changing weather conditions make it necessary to close schools or alter the normal daily schedule. On days of inclement weather (i.e. snow ice) tune in to local radio or television stations and listen for announcements concerning the schedule for all Caswell County schools. The decision to close school or alter the normal time schedule is made by the Superintendent in consultation with Caswell County Transportation Department, highway officials, and the weather bureau. 

 

On such days, one of the plans described below will be followed. 

 

Schools Closed: The decision to close schools is reached by 5:00 AM and transmitted to area radio and TV stations no later than 5:30 AM. You can expect to hear repeated reports during the early morning hours, beginning at 5:30 AM. When schools are closed, all extracurricular activities, field trips, After School Programs, and non-school activities will be canceled as well. 

 

Delayed Openings: Schools may open on a delayed schedule depending on current weather conditions. If this decision is reached, it will be announced on local radio and TV stations beginning at 5:30 AM. Should the announcement say that Caswell County Schools will open one hour late or two hours late (depending on the severity of the weather conditions), we simply move the morning schedule forward one or two hours so that bus riders arrive at their bus stops one or two hours later than usual. On a one-hour delay, breakfast will be served. On a two-hour delay, breakfast will not be served. 

 

Early Closings: Should worsening weather conditions during the day necessitate an early dismissal, the decision is usually reached by late morning, and school is closed immediately or one or two hours early (again depending on the severity of weather conditions). When schools close early, the announcement will be made on local radio and TV stations. Again, we ask that you not call the school. If our lines are tied up, we may not be able to receive the call to dismiss. 

 

Day Care will not operate on days when schools are closed due to inclement weather. Parents should leave any special instructions for handling children on days of early closing with the teachers and neighbors at the beginning of the year and not attempt to telephone instructions at the time of emergency. Forms are sent out at the beginning of the year. Please ensure that these are completed and returned.

EMERGENCY DRILLS

Keeping all students and staff safe is our top priority.  Fire, earthquake, tornado, evacuation, crisis drill information and procedures are reviewed with each class at the beginning of the school year.  Drills are conducted as required by law and when deemed necessary by the administration.  During drills, it is vital that all students conduct themselves in a serious manner.

ENHANCEMENTS COURSES AND PROGRAMS 

All students at Stoney Creek Elementary will participate in Art, Music, Media, Physical Education, and Guidance programs. 

 

Art/Music: Caswell County Schools provides a semester each for art and music. All students will have regularly scheduled art or music on a weekly basis. 

 

Library/Media Program: During visits to the media center, the students are read to and listen to quality literature, participate in readers’ theater and storytelling, listen and create music, check out books, view video footage and participate in STEM and digital literacy activities. They have book talk experiences, learn about authors and illustrators, and share a sampling of various genres. 

Students may check out books from the media center at regularly scheduled times and during open check out with permission of the classroom teacher. Students who have overdue materials will not be allowed to check out books. 

 

Physical Education: Physical Education at Stoney Creek Elementary is aligned with the North Carolina Standard Course of Study and the National Standards for Physical Education. The following guidelines are implemented as part of the PE program:

1. To fulfill the NC state requirement of 30 minutes of physical activity a day and to maintain student participation, a written statement from the doctor must be presented in order for a student to be excused from active participation in physical education class. 

2. Students are outdoors as often as possible to ensure proper skill execution and maximum student participation. Therefore, the “40-90” rule (40 degrees or below and 90 degrees or above) is used. Be sure to send a jacket or coat on cold days.

3. Appropriate shoes must be worn in PE class. Sneakers (closed toe) are preferred. Sandals, flip-flops, and high heels are inappropriate. If a student wears inappropriate shoes on more than two (2) occasions, points will be deducted from his or her PE grade.

 

Guidance and Counseling Program: The Guidance and Counseling program at Stoney Creek addresses the academic, personal, career, and social developmental needs of all students. The counselor plays an active role in helping students learn problem-solving and coping skills. The program includes:

• Working with students individually and/or in small groups

• Teaching whole group Character Education classroom lessons

• Consulting with parents, teachers, administrator, and staff

• Contacting and consulting community agencies as needed

EXTRA-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES 

Students will not be allowed to participate in activities such as Field Day and other school-related events if they owe fees. Fees may be assessed for lost/damaged materials, field trip expenses, school pictures, etc.

 

LOST AND FOUND

 

Parents are urged to tag all articles of clothing and personal belongings so lost items can be quickly identified and returned to the owner.  All lost items are placed in the Lost and Found in the cafeteria.  After a reasonable time period, unclaimed items are donated to charity.  Children should report lost or found items to the office.  Parents are welcome to come to the office to check for lost items.

 

PARENT/GUARDIAN PHOTO AND VIDEO RELEASE

 

If the Parent/Guardian desires that the Caswell County School System NOT use, publish, etc. a video or photograph that includes an image of his/her child, the " CCS Publication/Video/Photo Release Opt Out Form" must be completed and submitted to the student’s teacher. The form may be found in the appendix and in the Code of Conduct.  A separate form must be completed for each child attending the School System.

PLEASE TAKE NOTICE: Unless this Form is completed and submitted by a child’s parent or guardian, then the Caswell County School System shall be expressly authorized and entitled, without limitation, to use and publish the image of a child attending the Caswell County Schools for internal and external promotional and informational purposes, and for school related activities of every kind in websites, newsletters, flyers, instructional videos, and other school related materials of every kind. 

 

SCHOOL PARTIES

 

One party is permitted during the school year. This party will be organized by the teacher and held between the hours of 1:45 and 2:30 PM. Other celebrations must receive approval from the principal. Birthday parties are not permitted at school. If a parent wishes to bring cupcakes or snacks on a student’s birthday, it will be given out at the student’s scheduled snack and or lunch time. 

 

STUDENT ALLERGIES

 

Parents are requested to keep the school informed regarding specific medical conditions of their children including allergies. Faculty and staff members need information about all known allergies including food and insect allergies. This is particularly important during lunch, recess, and on field trips. 

 

STUDENT INSURANCE

 

At the beginning of each school year, student insurance information will be made available to each parent. The purchase of student insurance is optional. If purchased, the insurance provides coverage for accidents that may occur to your child at school or in direct transit to and from school. Claim forms are available in the main office and must be signed by a school official prior to submitting a claim. Parents should keep a copy of the purchased policy information at home. 

TELEPHONE CALLS

 

Students will only be allowed to use the school telephone in case of an emergency during the school day. In the case of an illness, office personnel will make calls home. Forgetting homework, lunch money, or making transportation arrangements is not an emergency. Student will not be called to the office to receive a phone call; however, a parent may leave a message for a student in the case of an emergency. 

 

TEXTBOOKS/Technology Devices and other resources

 

Textbooks, technology devices, and other instructional resources are purchased by the State and issued to the students according to the level of instruction. The child and his/her parents are responsible for the proper use and care of textbooks. Books must be returned at the end of the school year or upon transfer. If a book is lost or damaged, a fee will be charged. A second book cannot be issued to the student until the first book is found or paid for by the student. 

 

VISITORS-Visitors -Parents are welcomed and encouraged to visit the school and classrooms. In the interest of providing a safe, secure, and orderly environment, all persons entering Stoney Creek Elementary School must report to the school’s main office upon arrival. This person must obtain permission from the principal or principal’s designee, sign the visitor’s log, and receive a visitor’s pass to proceed to other areas in the school. This is also for the protection of instructional time. If a parent wants to have a conference with a teacher, please make an appointment. All school personnel have been instructed to notify the office if they see visitors in the building without proper identification. All visitors are required to come by the office prior to visiting any area of the school. Parents who would like to visit their child’s classroom should make an appointment with the principal. The principal or designee will accompany the visitor to the classroom and remain for the duration of the visit.  Remember, the teacher has a responsibility to all students during class time but is generally available for conferences after school. 

WITHDRAWING A STUDENT

 

Parents planning to withdraw their child from school should notify the teacher and the main office as soon as possible. Given proper notice, we can prepare the necessary paperwork, report cards, and withdraw forms for your child to carry to his/her new school. Official school records will be sent directly to the new school upon request. 

 

WRITTEN MESSAGES AND NOTES

 

Parents should send written messages and/or notes to the school or to your child’s teacher to communicate the following:

1. Your child is to ride a different bus

2. Your child should not participate in physical education (list reason and duration)

3. Request for a conference with teacher or principal

4. Someone other than yourself is to pick your child up from school

5. Your child has been absent from school (The reason for the absence must be stated)

POLICIES (A – Z)

 

ATTENDANCE POLICY

 

 Students are expected to be in school daily. There is no substitute for the interaction between students and teachers in a classroom environment. Students who attend school regularly achieve higher grades, enjoy school more, and carry with them a responsible trait to the world of work. 

 

Acceptable excuses for absences are…

1. Illness of the student (if over two days, may require a note from the doctor);

2. Required court appearance (documentation required);

3. Death in the student’s immediate family;

4. Medical appointments;

5. Educational experiences pre-approved by the principal; and 

6. Field trips and school authorized activities

 

When a student is absent from school, please follow these procedures:

1. The parent or legal guardian should call the school before 10:00 AM to report the absence. Expect a call from the school if we do not hear from you.

2. When the student returns to school, a written excuse from the parent or legal guardian is required within THREE DAYS of the absence. Written excuses will not be accepted after 3 days.

3. Make-up work should be completed within three days of the excused absence

4. Requests for make-up work should be made by contacting the teacher. 

 

Read the following carefully:

1. The principal must notify the parent, guardian, or custodian of his/her child’s excessive absences after the child has accumulated three unlawful absences in a school year.  A letter will be sent home as notification.

2. After not more than six unlawful absences, the principal must notify the parent, guardian, or custodian by mail that he or she may be in violation of the Compulsory Attendance Law.  A conference will be scheduled by the guidance counselor to meet with the parent/guardian concerning the unlawful absences.

3. After ten (10) accumulated unexcused absences in a school year, the principal shall review any report or investigation prepared under G.G. 115C-381 and shall confer with the student and the student’s parent, guardian, or custodian, if possible, to determine whether the parent, guardian, or custodian has received notification pursuant to this section and made a good faith effort to comply with the law.  The Assistant Superintendent and the School Social Worker will be notified in writing by the principal of a student’s excessive absences. 

 

Students who miss more the twenty (20) days during a school year will be subject to 

retention. 

Compulsory Attendance Law

 

The Compulsory Attendance Law (G.S. 115C-378) requires the principal to determine, after ten (10) accumulated unexcused absences in a school year, if the parent or legal guardian has made a good faith effort to comply with the law regarding attendance. If he determines that a good faith effort has not been made, then the principal notifies the district attorney’s office and the director of social services. 

 

Tardiness 

 

Students arriving after 8:15 AM are considered tardy. Students arriving late must be accompanied by a parent and report directly to the office before reporting to class. A parent/guardian must check in tardy students using the Check In computer.  Parents are not allowed to walk students to class. Instruction begins promptly at 8:30 AM each day.  Students who are tardy are missing valuable instructional time that cannot be replaced.

 

Please refer to the following table for the consequences associated with excessive, unexcused tardiness and excessive, unexcused early checkouts. Any combination of tardies and early checkouts will be counted towards the consequences. 

 

 

This policy will be enforced per semester which means in January, when the second semester begins, unexcused tardies and/or early checkouts will start over.  

 

A tardy and/or early checkout will be deemed as excused or unexcused in the same manner that absences are deemed lawful or unlawful (Refer to top of Attendance section)

BUS TRANSPORTATION

 

Riding the bus is a privilege given by the state of North Carolina, which may be withdrawn for misbehavior.  Bus assignments can be made only by the principal’s office.  Our bus drivers have been instructed to carry only regular riders.  If a student needs to ride a different bus, the parent must send a note to school.  Changes in transportation will not be accepted over the telephone!!  A note must be sent or faxed (336-694-5840) to school by 2:00 p.m.  If there is a special circumstance, a change may be approved by the principal/designee. 

 

Bus Rules:  The following regulations will help everyone understand what is expected of students to ensure their safety while on the bus and while waiting for the bus.

• Students should always obey the instructions of the driver.  The driver is in complete charge of the bus while it is on its route.

• Students are only allowed to ride the bus they are assigned, without a note sent to school and approved.  Bus assignments are decided upon by the principal/transportation department.

• Students should wait off of the traveled portion of the highway until the bus comes to a complete stop.

• Students should be at the bus stop at least 5 to 10 minutes before the scheduled arrival of the school bus.  Buses are scheduled so drivers have been instructed to not wait.

• Students having to cross the road need to cross in front of the bus under the direction of the driver.  Talk with your child about looking both ways before crossing the road.

• Students should remain in the seat facing the front at all times.  They should never move out of a seat while the bus is in motion.  

• Students should never throw objects on the bus or out of the windows.  They should keep arms, hands, and other parts of the body inside the bus at all times.

• Students are not permitted to eat or drink on buses.  

• Students should talk in a normal conversational voice to the person in the seat with them.  

• Students are not permitted to carry baseballs, bats, or toys on the bus.  

• Any behavior that distracts the driver is strictly prohibited.

• Students suspended from a bus at Stoney Creek Elementary cannot ride another bus, even if that bus comes directly by the student’s home.  Students suspended from a bus are required to attend school and transportation must be provided by the parents.

• Only school officials are authorized to get on or ride a school bus.  Parents are not allowed to get on a school bus for any reason. This is considered trespassing.

• Video cameras are placed on each bus for safety and security reasons.  Only the principal is allowed to view the videos.

Bus Discipline Policy – also see SECTION 24 in the Caswell County Schools Code of Student Conduct

 

Severity Clause – If a violation is deemed severe by the principal, harsher consequences may result.  After the third offense for the same misbehavior, the principal will handle the situation on an individual basis.  If a bus driver must return a student to school for any reason, a parent/guardian or an emergency contact listed on the student’s emergency form will be contacted to pick up the student. If a student is brought back to school on the bus, the student will be sent to After School Care and parents will be billed accordingly if necessary.

CELL PHONES – See SECTION 25(b) of the Caswell County Schools Code of Student Conduct

 

Cell phones must be turned off and out of sight at school or on the bus based on Board policy. V

1^st offense – Confiscation of electronic device and return to parent/guardian with administrative conference or to the student at the end of the school year

2^nd offense – Up to 5 days suspension. Confiscation of device to be returned only to parent/guardian with administrative conference or to the student at the end of the school year.

3^rd offense – Up to 10 days suspension. Confiscation of device to be returned only to parent/guardian with administrative conference or to the student at the end of the school year.

 

DISCIPLINE

 

According to Board policy, there must exist a climate of discipline conducive to serious study and respect for oneself, other people, and property in order that a school can satisfactorily meet the needs of students. Each principal shall have the authority and be charged with the responsibility to take whatever reasonable and legal action is necessary to establish and maintain appropriate behavior in accordance with Board policy.

 

It is our belief that all students have the right to a learning environment that is safe, drug free, and conducive to learning. To that end, we have established a set of rules and expectations for student conduct and behavior. The primary objectives are…

1. To provide standards and guidelines for student behavior

2. To assist each student in becoming a responsible, productive, and self-disciplined citizen; and 

3. To maintain a safe and orderly environment in the classroom and all other areas of the school. 

 

The rules and expectations apply to any student who is on school property, who is in attendance at school or at any school-sponsored activity. Principal discretion will be used in all disciplinary matters. 

Please refer to the Caswell County Schools Code of Student Conduct for all student discipline policies and procedures, Sections 1 through 25.

 

Office Discipline Referral

When a student is sent to the office for a discipline related issue, the teacher completes a Discipline Referral form. This form includes the setting, time and a description of the infraction. The administrator meets with the student and determines the consequences for the infraction. This referral is signed by the administrator and the student. A white copy of the referral is sent home with the student on the same day as the infraction. The referral needs to be signed by a parent and returned to school the following day. A yellow carbon copy of the referral is kept on file in the principal’s office. Please see the appendix for a copy of the discipline referral.

 

PBIS

Stoney Creek is a PBIS school.  PBIS stands for Positive Behavioral Interventions and Support. PBIS is a process for creating safer and more effective schools. It is a systems approach to enhancing the capacity of schools to educate all children by developing research-based, school-wide, and classroom behavior support systems. The process focuses on improving a school’s ability to teach and support positive behavior for all students.  PBIS includes school-wide procedures and processes intended for all students and all staff in all settings.  It is an approach to creating a safe and productive learning environment where teachers can teach and all students can learn.

We have adopted a unified set of classroom rules.  Similar to Caswell County Schools Code of Student Conduct, these rules define our expectations for behavior in our school. You will see these rules posted throughout the school and your child will be learning them during the first days of school. Our unified classroom expectations and rules, found in every classroom and non-classroom setting in the school, are as follows:

 

Expectation #1: Be Safe.

Expectation #2: Be Respectful.

Expectation #3: Be Engaged.

Expectation #4: Be Responsible.

Expectation #5: Be a Leader.

 

These rules and expectations are to be followed throughout the school to include the classrooms, hallways, bathrooms, cafeteria, playground, bus and car rider area.

Please see the PBIS Matrix located in the appendix.  These are posted throughout the school and in every classroom.

 

General Student Rules and Expectations

1. Be respectful and courteous to all adults and students

2. Students are not allowed to put their hands, feet, or other objects on another student for any reason.

3. Fighting will not be tolerated. It endangers all students and adults. This includes play fighting.

4. Bullying in any form will not be tolerated

5. Profanity is not permitted at school or on the bus

6. Candy and gum are prohibited

7. No student will buy items or sell items to other students

8. The hallway is a quiet zone. 

9. Students are not allowed to bring cell phones, iPods (and similar devices), portable gaming devices, collectible cards, or other items to school that will distract/disrupt the learning environment. The school is not responsible for any of these items if they are stolen or damaged. 

10. Defacing or damaging school property is prohibited. School property is defined as textbooks, library books, walls, desks, walkways, bathroom fixtures, or any object belonging to the school. 

11. Horseplay (pushing, running, spraying water, etc.) is prohibited at school, on the bus, and in the restrooms. Enter and leave the restroom is an orderly fashion. No more than three (3) students are permitted in the restroom at a time. 

12. On the playground, students are not to enter any wooded areas or areas determined as “off limits” by the teachers. Also, do not throw rocks, sticks, mulch, glass, or any objects that may harm another student.

13. A student shall not possess, use, transmit, or be under the influence of alcohol, a controlled substance or a counterfeit (look-alike) drug on school property. School property is defined as the school building and grounds, off school grounds at a school sponsored activity, in route to and from school, and the bus stop.

 

Definitions of Consequences

 

DISCRIMINATION AND BULLYING

 

See the Caswell County Schools Code of Student Conduct Section 15

DRESS CODE – waiting on clarification on masks

• Clothing must be age appropriate, not disruptive to the teaching-learning process, and cannot be provocative, revealing, indecent, vulgar, or obscene.  The principal or principal’s designee will determine this.

• Hats, sweatbands, bandannas, or sunglasses will not be worn inside the schools building.

• There shall be no jewelry affixed to a student’s nose, tongue, lips, or cheeks.

• Abnormal hair color will not be allowed (i.e., sprayed or dyed blue, green, orange, etc.).

• Clothing must be worn appropriately (nothing inside-out, backwards, unfastened bib overalls, belts must be buckled and worn at the waist line, etc.).

• Clothing will not be allowed which promotes alcoholic beverages, tobacco, the use of controlled substances, depicts or promotes violence, or is of a disruptive nature.

• Clothing will not be allowed that is intentionally shredded or torn.

• Tight clothing such as knit or spandex bicycle/biker pants or overly tight pants are not allowed.  The principal or his designee will determine this.

• Clothing is not to be sheer or mesh and cannot have excessive holes.

• Proper footwear is required.  Shoes that have laces must be laced, tied and fit.

• Undergarments are not to be visible.

• The hem of skirts/shorts and dresses must be no higher than 3 inches above the top of the kneecap.  

• No sagging pants are allowed.  Pants are to be worn at waist.

• Shirts and blouses may not be tank top or have spaghetti straps, one strap or no straps.  Shirts and blouses must cover the waist, no exposed midriff.  Discretion will be used for very young students.

• Those clothing articles, accessories that are identified as being related to a group or gang who provokes others to act violently or be intimidated by fear of violence or are potentially dangerous shall not be worn on the campus or at any school activity.

Field Day

We encourage parents who are approved volunteers to attend and assist with Field Day Activities.  Students who attend other schools in the district are not allowed to attend or participate in Field Day Activities at Stoney Creek.

 

FIELD TRIPS

The trip must be an extension of classroom activities and related to the curricula, or to a special event that would be an educational experience for students. These trips are for the student and for the enrichment of the curriculum. Parents will be invited to attend as chaperones; however, there may be times when parental involvement will not be permissible. Other siblings or children are not allowed to attend with the school group.  This includes children who are not school age.   

Before each trip, parents will receive a letter of explanation about the trip and a permission slip for both student and parent to sign and return to school. The parent’s signature on the permission slip is required before a student may go on the field trip. By signing the permission slip, the parent is agreeing to the guidelines set forth for the trip as well as giving permission for his/her child to participate. Field trip money is not refundable due to admission being prepaid and the cost of riding the buses. 

 

The school does not have special health insurance for injuries sustained on field trips. If you purchase insurance through the school, or if your family has a personal health insurance plan, its coverage is maintained on field trips. 

 

General Overview

1. The trip must be relevant to the educational objectives of the grade level or course.

2. The health and safety of every student/adult is attended to during the trip.

3. Written parental permission for each student participating in a field trip must be filed at the school before the trip takes place, including emergency contact information.

4. All students for whom the trip was intended must have equal access to participate in the trip and are expected to participate with the group unless the school deems exclusion is necessary or unless the trip is optional, in which cases alternative educational settings will be provided at school.

5. Students may not be denied a field trip solely on the basis of inability to pay the required fee. Each case will be dealt with on an individual basis at the discretion of the principal.

 

GRADING SYSTEM

 

All grading practices will follow the established Caswell County grading scale for elementary students. Grades should reflect the degree to which a student achieves the objectives and skills set forth by the North Carolina Department of Instruction and Caswell County Schools. Student will receive report cards at the end of each nine-week marking period. 

 

Kindergarten – Second Grade

 

In K – 2, numeric grades, letters, and proficiency level descriptors may be used as appropriate to report individual progress. The following letters may be used in reporting individual progress:

Third – Fifth Grade

 

GRIEVANCE POLICY FOR PARENTS

If parents have a concern about something that happens in the classroom, please follow these steps:

1. Talk to your child’s teacher about the problem first.

2. Talk to the principal if not satisfied after talking with the teacher.

The grievance procedure may be used for any situation occurring within the operation or normal procedures of the school which causes a student, parent, guardian to believe the student has been wronged, except in the case of a long-term suspension or expulsion where the provisions of the Code of Student Conduct shall apply. A student, parent, or guardian may initiate the procedure when they believe that a violation, misapplication, or misappropriation of Board policy, or state or federal law or regulation, has occurred.

Step I: Principal Conference

Step II: Superintendent Review

Step III: Appeal to the Board of Education 

See the Caswell County Schools Code of Student Conduct – Student Grievances for further information.

HOMEWORK

Homework is essential to each student’s academic growth and should be designed to be an extension and reinforcement of the skills taught at school. It should be meaningful and connected to the skills presented in class and allow students to work independently while taking responsibility for completion. Homework should be recorded in homework folders and student planners.

 

Recommended time allotments (for the average student) for the completion of homework are as follows:

• Kindergarten through third grade – 20 to 30 minutes

• Fourth and fifth grade – 25 to 45 minutes

 

MEDICATION

 

School personnel cannot administer medication to students unless a physician (or other practitioner authorized to prescribe medication) prescribes the medications. The medical form “Authorization to Administer Medication” (given by the school) must be completed and signed by the doctor. If medication is necessary during school hours, designated personnel or the school nurse will abide by the school board policy on administering medication to students. 

 

This policy also includes all over the counter medications such as cough medicine or Tylenol. Please note that students cannot keep prescription medication,or over the counter medications in their possession. However, some medications such as inhalers or emergency injections can be self-administered and kept by the student with written medical provider permission documented on the Medication Authorization Form completed by the physician, parent, student, and nurse. The Caswell County Board of Education and School Nurses assume no responsibility for students who self-medicate. 

 

Students who distribute medication will be subject to disciplinary action. 

 

Caswell County School Board Policy #422: Administering Medication:

 

It is the policy of the Caswell County Schools to discourage the practice of students taking medication during the school day. School personnel are not to administer medication to students except when medications are prescribed by a physician or other practitioner authorized to prescribe medication. If a physician/practitioner determines that medication administration is necessary during school hours, school personnel will abide by the following policy:

1. Responsibilities of Parents/Guardians

   1. To obtain from the school and complete a form authorizing administration of medication to their child. This form will contain the following:

      • Student’s name

      • Name of medication

      • Time and directions for administration

      • Dosage and route of administration

      • Possible side effects

      • Signature of physician or practitioner prescribing the medication

      • Signature of parent/guardian

   2. To obtain from the pharmacist a separate container for school with the following labeling:

      • Student’s full name

      • Name and dosage of medication

      • Time and directions for administration

      • Prescriber’s name

      • Date

   3. To bring limited quantities of their child’s medication to school personally

   4. To inform the school administration of any change in the medication or its administration by providing a note from the prescriber

2. Responsibilities of the Student:

   1. To know and follow the regulations of the medication policy

   2. To avoid sharing medication with other students

 

Students are not to bring prescribed or over the counter medications on the bus or to school. This will include Tylenol or other medications for colds. 

NOTIFICATION OF PESTICIDE USE

 

Our school system may find it necessary to use pesticides to control pests at your school or other school system sites.  North Carolina state law gives you the right to be notified annually of our school system’s pesticide application schedule, and 72 hours in advance of pesticide applications made outside that schedule, but the latter only if you request notification ahead of time.  Please contact the school if you need additional information.  

 

Exceptions: Certain relatively low-risk pesticides are exempted from these notification requirements, including antimicrobial cleansers, disinfectants, self-contained baits and crack-and-crevice treatments, and any pesticide products classified by the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) as belonging to the US EPA’s Toxicity Class IV, “relatively nontoxic.” Your right to be notified extends to all non-exempt pesticide applications at your school or other non-school (office building, garage, workshop, etc.), both indoor and outdoor pesticide applications, and including applications that take place over summer recess, holidays, weekends, or after school hours. 

PROMOTING STUDENT NUTRITION—HEALTHY SCHOOL ENVIRONMENT

 

Caswell County Schools recognizes the importance of nutrition to student physical health, growth, and development. Healthful, balanced food choices provide well-nourished students the opportunity to actively participate in the educational experience. Healthier life-style choices and balanced food choices benefit each student, their classmates, the school environment, and the community as a whole. No soft drinks are allowed in the cafeteria.  No sharing of food among students is allowed in the cafeteria.  Birthday cakes and/or cupcakes are not allowed in the cafeteria. 

 

In an effort to promote student wellness:

• Caswell County Schools does not allow “fast food” promotion and packaging during student dining experiences

• If a meal from a fast food establishment is provided from home for student breakfast, lunch, or snack, it is the policy of Caswell County Schools that the food not be packaged in restaurant wrappers and/or containers. 

 

PROMOTION AND RETENTION POLICY #3420

 

Promotion Retention Policy 3420 

A. Purpose

The board believes that students should progress to the next level of study only after they are proficient in their knowledge and application of the current curriculum level.  To the extent reasonably possible, students should be given as much time or as little time as they need to be proficient at a particular level of study.  Students will be promoted to the next level of study as described in this policy.

B. Student Promotion Standards

The superintendent shall develop promotion processes consistent with the standards established in this section for determining a student’s readiness to progress to the next level of study and any additional requirements of state law and the State Board of Education. 

Principals shall ensure that the promotion standards are used by teachers and school administrators in assessing each student’s readiness to progress to the next level of study.  Principals have the ultimate authority to promote or retain students based upon the standards approved by the board and any applicable standards set by the State Board of Education. 

To reduce the number of students who do not meet promotion standards, the board directs school administrators and teachers to address the needs of students who are not making adequate academic progress as required by policy 3405, Students at Risk of Academic Failure.

The board establishes the following promotion standards:

1. Promotion Standards for Grades K-5

Students must demonstrate mastery of basic skills in reading, writing, and mathematics to exit the elementary grades (K-5).  Grade level proficiency in these skills will be measured as follows:

a. Kindergarten

At the end of kindergarten, a student is expected to demonstrate proficiency on at least 12 out of 15 major math skills from the NC Math objectives, and achieve four out of five of the English Language Arts grade level objectives and expectations listed below to be considered for promotion to the first grade:

(1) Read and demonstrate an understanding of word analysis and text appropriate for the end of kindergarten based on the NC DPI Literacy Standards and Assessments

(2) Recognize upper and lowercase letters (52)

(3) Demonstrate an understanding of letter sounds by identifying all basic letter sounds (26)

(4) Score at or above proficiency level on a Kindergarten Writing Assessment, representing spoken language with temporary and/or conventional spelling, as defined by local or state standards

(5) Recognize 80 out of the 97 words on the Kindergarten High Frequency Word List

b. First Grade

At the end of first grade, a student is expected to demonstrate proficiency on at least 13 out of 16 major math skills from the NC Math objectives, and achieve three out of four of the English Language Arts grade level objectives and expectations listed below to be considered for promotion to the second grade:

(1) Read text appropriate for the end of first grade based on the NC DPI Literacy Standards and Assessments

(2) Demonstrate an understanding of phonics and word analysis appropriate for first grade using NC DPI Literacy Standards and Assessments

(3) Score at or above proficiency level on a First Grade Writing Assessment, representing spoken language with temporary and/or conventional spelling, as defined by local or state standard

(4) Recognize 180 out of the 225 words on the First Grade High Frequency Word List

c. Second Grade

At the end of second grade, a student is expected to demonstrate proficiency on 8 out of 10 major math skills from the NC Math objectives, and achieve three out of four of the English Language Arts grade level objectives and expectations listed below to be considered for promotion to the third grade:

(1) Read text appropriate for the end of second grade based on the NC DPI Literacy Standards and Assessments

(2) Demonstrate an understanding of phonics and word analysis appropriate for second grade using NC DPI Literacy Standards and Assessments

(3) Score at or above proficiency level on a Second Grade Writing Assessment, representing spoken or language as defined by local or state standards

(4) Recognize at least 400 out of 500 words on the Second Grade High Frequency Word List

d. Third Grade

At the end of third grade, a student must demonstrate grade level proficiency in reading and mathematics as defined by state and local standards and assessments (scoring a Level III or above on the state End of Grade tests in reading, math, and/or scoring at set proficiency levels in other state and local approved alternate assessments).  A student is also expected to achieve 2 of the 3 standards listed below in order to be considered for promotion to the fourth grade.

(1) Have a yearly average of 70 or above in math

(2) Have a yearly average of 70 or above in reading

(3) Score at or above proficiency level on a third grade writing assessment as defined by State or local standards

e. Fourth Grade

At the end of fourth grade, a student must demonstrate grade level proficiency in reading and math as defined by state and local standards and assessments (scoring a Level III or above on the state End of Grade tests in reading, math, and/or scoring at set proficiency levels in other state and local approved alternative assessments).  A student is also expected to achieve 2 of the 3 standards listed below in order to be considered for promotion to the fifth grade.

(1) Have a yearly average of 70 or above in math

(2) Have a yearly average of 70 or above in reading

(3) Score at or above proficiency level on a fourth grade writing assessment as defined by state or local standards

f. Fifth Grade

At the end of fifth grade, a student must demonstrate grade level proficiency in reading, math, and science as defined by state and local standards and assessments (scoring a Level III or above on the state End of Grade tests in reading, math, science, and/or scoring at set proficiency levels in other state and local approved alternate assessments).  A student is also expected to achieve 2 of the 3 standards listed below in order to be considered for promotion to the sixth grade.

(1) Have a yearly average of 70 or above in math

(2) Have a yearly average of 70 or above in reading

(3) Score at or above proficiency level on a fifth grade writing assessment as defined by state or local standards

 

REPORTING STUDENT PROGRESS

 

Interim Grade Report

Interim Grade Reports will be sent home on the district’s established dates. Interim reports should be signed by the parent and returned to the homeroom teacher. 

 

Interim Dates

Thursday, September 29, 2022

Monday, December 5, 2022

Monday, February 27, 2023

Monday, May 8, 2023

 

Report Cards

Student report cards will be issued to students and parents following the end of each 9 weeks, based on the Caswell County 2022-2023 Academic Calendar.

Issue Dates-Dates subject to change

Monday, November 7, 2022

Thursday, January 26, 2023

Wednesday, April 5, 2023

Friday, June 16, 2023 (Final report card will be mailed.)

SCHOOL NURSE

 

Caswell County offers School Health Services, which includes school nursing. These services are essential for the health and well-being of our students. Nurses manage care and provide services to support and sustain school attendance and academic achievement. 

 

The school nurses and dental hygienist will conduct health screenings selectively during the school year. The health screen will include the following: height, weight, body mass index, vision, dental, and blood pressure as needed. Parents/Guardians will receive any information regarding results and need for referrals. If the parent/guardian chooses not to participate, please send a letter of refusal to the school nurse. 

SELLING/DISTRIBUTION OF MATERIALS

 

The administration must grant permission before any posters may be placed anywhere on campus or before any printed materials (newspapers, advertisements, etc.) may be distributed to staff or students. Only school groups may sell items or engage in any fundraising activity and may do so only with the approval of administration. (Reference Board of Education Policy #330). Students may not sell items for non-school groups on campus. 

STUDENT RECORDS

 

Confidentiality is required by law for access to student records and medical information. For this reason, certain areas of the building are restricted to employees only. Only parents or legal guardians and professionals serving students’ academic and medical needs have access to students’ records. Parents have certain rights regarding your child’s records based on the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA).

 

Parents or legal guardians desiring to view their child’s cumulative records are required to notify the principal and appropriate forms will need to be completed. In order to review your child’s records, please contact the school one day prior to reviewing the records so arrangements can be made. Others seeking access must have written permission from the parent on a form obtained from the school.

 

If you do not want Stoney Creek Elementary to use your child’s name in public listings, please notify the school in writing. The public listings will be used only for school functions/activities which include the yearbook, listing your child’s birthday and accomplishments on the school monitors/bulletin boards, Honor Roll recognition, and other school programs.

 

TRANSFER OF RECORDS

 

We realize that during the school year, some of our families may leave the community. Please give your child’s teacher and principal as much advance notice as possible. All books and equipment must be returned before leaving. Your child’s records will be forwarded to the new school upon receipt of a written request from that school. A parent or legal guardian must sign the request. 

 

USE OF TOBACCO PRODUCTS ON SCHOOL GROUNDS – Refer to CCS Code of Student Conduct Section 10

 

As mandated by state law (115C-4070) the Caswell County Board of Education directs that there be no tobacco use by anyone in school facilities, on school facilities, on school campuses, and in or on any other school property owned or operated by the local school administration unit.  The policy further prohibits the use of all tobacco products by persons attending a school-sponsored event at a location not listed above when in the presence of students or school personnel or in an area where smoking is otherwise prohibited by law. This policy includes E-Cigarettes.

VOLUNTEERS / GUEST SPEAKERS / COMMUNITY RESOURCES

Caswell County Schools Board of Education Policy 792- 

Caswell County Schools is aware of the value of community involvement through the use of volunteers in the school system and the important role that volunteers play in making our schools a success.  In order to assure a safe environment for our students, individuals must be approved by the school system before being allowed to serve.

 

All volunteers will be asked to complete an application and volunteer profile.  Individuals can be approved at two different levels; the level of volunteer screening will increase as a volunteer’s contact with students increases and the degree of staff supervision decreases.  Volunteer applications are available in the front office.

 

There are two levels:

 

Level I – only requires the signature of the school principal and is intended for activities that do not involve supervision of students, such as resource speaker, clerical work, outdoor projects, classroom assistant, copying and making materials,  fundraisers, athletic concessions, field day volunteer, school fair, test proctor, etc.

 

Level II – requires a criminal records background check and the Superintendent’s approval.  This level is intended for individuals who may be involved in supervising students, such as tutors, mentors, field trip chaperones, dance chaperones, volunteer coaches, book fair coordinator and/or media assistant, reading a book with an individual student or group of students without supervision of teacher, club sponsors, etc.

 

Approved volunteer status is valid for two school years.  All volunteers approved for the 2019-2021 school year MUST complete/update their volunteer profile and complete a background check, contingent on the volunteer level, by October 31, 2022.  All volunteers approved during the 2021-2022 school year are valid.

 

Any new volunteers for the 2022-2023 school year or upcoming must complete the appropriate documents and must be approved before volunteering with students.  No volunteer packets for approval will be accepted or approved after March 31, 2023.

 

District Expectations:

• Principal will have an opportunity to approve person(s) volunteering in the school;

• Adequate screening, including a criminal background check, which is valid for a period of three calendar years, of all Level II volunteers shall be completed before a volunteer is assigned a task in a school;

• Volunteers must sign in the school office upon arrival to the school and sign out when leaving the school.  A log of volunteers and their respective duties will be maintained at each school and shared regularly with the Personnel Department.

• Volunteers are required to have a criminal background check to accompany students on field trips;

• Volunteers are not to transport students or their families in private vehicles;

• Volunteers are expected to respect and maintain the confidentiality of information about students, staff, other parents, and the school community;

• All volunteer coaches must have a criminal background check prior to coaching;

• Volunteers must be professionally dressed and exhibit professional conduct;

• Superintendent and/or principal reserves the right to not approve a volunteer for services or to terminate a volunteer at any time.

All guest speakers, presenters, or community resources/programs must be approved by the principal prior to scheduling the presentation.  Once approved, these individuals will follow the established procedures for school visitors, including dress code.

 

2022-2023 SCHOOL HEALTH PROGRAM

 

Caswell County offers school health services, which includes school nursing. These services are essential for the health and well-being of our students. Nurses manage care and provide services to support and sustain school attendance and academic achievement. 

A Student Data and Health Information form MUST be maintained in the office or health room.

 

Injuries at School

• The teacher or other staff member responsible for the student at the time an injury occurs must complete an injury report with a copy to be sent home with the student.

• With injuries needing immediate attention, parents will be notified by school personnel for the following but may not be limited to:

  • Injury where there is swelling, severe pain, or a question of a broken bone

  • Injury where there is significant bleeding or if bleeding does not stop in a short period of time.

  • Dental injury

  • Eye injury

  • Head injury

  • Animal/Human bites

  • Burns

  • Poisoning

 

Dietary Considerations

• Students with special dietary needs should contact your school nurse or the school’s nutrition director to obtain the required specialized dietary form. This form must be completed and signed by your child’s physician.

• In an effort to promote student wellness, Caswell County Schools does not allow “fast-food” promotion and packaging during student meals. If a meal from a fast food establishment is provided from home for a student’s meal/snack, it is the policy of Caswell County Schools that the food not be packaged in restaurant wrappers and/or containers.

 

Allergies/Anaphylaxis

• All known allergies need to be reported on the Data and Student Health Form.

• Parents of students with known life threatening allergies and/or history of anaphylaxis should provide the school with written instructions from the student’s health care provider for handling anaphylaxis emergencies in the school (ex: Allergy Action Plan, completed medication forms, and medications as ordered).

• Per North Carolina law, should anyone on school grounds have an anaphylactic reaction to an UNKNOWN allergen, emergency Epinephrine is available and can be administered by trained school personnel. 

 

Health Concerns/Illness

• If your child is sick, DO NOT send the child to school until they are completely recovered.

• If your child becomes ill at school, we will contact you immediately as we cannot keep sick children at school, exposing other children to their illness. Please make sure you update your contact information so that we may contact you.  

• If a parent cannot be reached, emergency contacts listed on the Data and Student Health Form will be contacted as needed for pick up.  Please do not list an emergency contact that does not have their own transportation.  

• Any student with a fever of 100.4 or greater will be sent home (no exceptions).  Students must be fever-free for 24 hours without the benefit of medications before returning to school.

• If a student has persistent nausea, vomiting, and/or diarrhea, they need to be picked up and must remain out for 24 hours.

• Parents of children with identified chronic health conditions should contact the school nurse.  The nurse will develop a plan of care for the child with input from the parents, school personnel, and the student’s physician.  This includes students with asthma, seizures, and allergies.

• Students with diagnosed diabetes must have a diabetic care plan in place at the beginning of the school year. Diabetic students will be sent home if blood sugar level is 400 or more or as directed by the individual care plan. 

• Certain conditions such as head lice, ringworm, conjunctivitis, scabies, etc. may require medical documentation of treatment.  

COVID-19

What is it? COVID-19 is a contagious respiratory illness caused by the coronavirus (called SARS-CoV-2). Infection with the COVID-19 can result in illness ranging from mild to severe and in some cases produce life-threatening complications.

What are the symptoms? Symptoms include: fever/chills, cough, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, fatigue, muscle or body aches, new loss of taste or smell, sore throat, headache, congested or runny nose, nausea or vomiting, diarrhea

While symptoms in children are similar to adults, children may have milder symptoms.  Reported symptoms in children include cold-like symptoms such as fever (100.4 or higher), runny nose, and cough.  

How is it spread?  The virus is thought to spread mainly from person to person between people who are in close contact with one another (within about 6 feet) through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. 

Vaccine Information: Approved vaccines are available through your medical provider or the local health department.

 

Caswell County Schools will now be referencing the Center for Disease Control's (CDC) Operational Guidance for K-12 Schools for information regarding COVID-19 in school settings.

Head Lice  

• School staff have the right to inspect heads of students at any time to check for lice and/or nits.

• If a student is screened and found to have lice, parents of the student will be notified and given instructions regarding medical interventions. 

• If the student with lice has siblings in the school system, they will also be checked prior to contacting the parents by phone and/or letter explaining what needs to be done.

• It is not necessary for an entire classroom to be checked if a case of lice is found; it is only necessary for those children exhibiting symptoms of lice to be screened.

• If live lice are found, the parent/guardian will be instructed on treatment guidelines and the student can remain at school.

• Two school days after a child has been found to have live lice, the school nurse or designated personnel should rescreen the children for the presence of live lice.

  • If only nits are seen on the hair strands, the student should be rescreened in 7-10 days

  • If live lice are found, the school nurse will contact the parent/guardian at the end of the school day to discuss further treatment options. The parent/guardian may be requested to consult a health care provider for treatment options and a note from a health care provider may be required.

• A letter to all class members WILL NOT be sent.  It is up to the Health Director to determine if a letter home is necessary.

• Absences related to treatment for head lice should not be excused.

 

Ringworm (tinea corporis)

• The school nurse will screen students suspected with ringworm infection and refer questionable cases to the Caswell County Health Department or the student’s usual medical provider.

• Screening may also be done to classroom contacts of the student identified as having a ringworm infection. Nurses will notify the parent/guardian of the presence of ringworm and give instructions regarding needed interventions.

• The child should keep the ringworm lesions covered until rechecked and cleared by the school nurse in 5-7 school days.

  • If the ringworm infection is still active when rechecked by the school nurse, the parent/guardian will be contacted at the end of the school day to discuss treatment options.

  • The parent/guardian may be requested to consult a health care provider for treatment options and a note from a health care provider may be required. 

• Absences related to treatment for ringworm should not be excused. 

Health Screenings

• Health screens will be conducted by the school nurse, hearing specialist, and dental hygienist selectively during the school year.

• Health screening could include height, weight, body mass index, vision, dental, hearing, and blood pressure.

• Information regarding results and any need for a referral will be sent to the parent/guardian.

• Should you choose for your child not to participate, please send a letter of refusal to the school nurse.

 

Immunizations/School Entry Health Requirements

• The North Carolina State Immunization Law places the responsibility on the parents to provide immunization records for their children within 30 calendar days after enrolling in a NC public school.

• Students must have the North Carolina School Entry Health Assessment Form turned in by the 30^th calendar day from school enrollment or they will be suspended.  The form must be completed by a licensed medical provider and the physical must have been performed within the past 12 months of the first day of school.

Students who distribute medication will be subject to disciplinary action. 

 

Medications at School: CCS Medication Administration Policy #422

• It is the policy of CCS to discourage the administration of medications during the school day.

• If medications are to be administered during the school day a Medication Authorization Form must be completed by the student’s medical provider and parent/guardian. This form must be completed annually. This pertains to ALL MEDICATIONS including: prescription medication and over the counter (Tylenol, Benadryl, Ibuprofen, cough drops, sunscreen, lotions, etc.).

• ALL MEDICATIONS ARE TO BE BROUGHT TO SCHOOL BY THE PARENT/GUARDIAN WITH THE MEDICATION AUTHORIZATION FORM COMPLETED!     ***NO EXCEPTIONS***  Do not put the school administrator in the position of having to discipline your child due to this policy.

• Asthma inhalers, emergency epinephrine, and insulin can be self-carried by the student if the Self-Carry Section of the Medication Form is completed by the medical provider, parent/guardian, student, and school nurse.

• All medications will be dispensed by the school nurse or an authorized staff member and kept in a secured location.

• All medication and health forms can be found at the school or on the Caswell County Schools website under the Health Services/Document Uploads section. Copies of the medication forms are attached to this handbook as well.

• Notice will be given for medication pick up at the end of the school year.  All medications not picked up will be destroyed.

 

Garrett’s Law

• Garrett’s law was enacted in 2004. It mandates schools provide parents and guardians with information about meningococcal meningitis and influenza and the vaccines that protect against these diseases.  The law was expanded in 2007 to mandate that information also be provided about human papillomavirus (HPV) and the vaccines available to protect against HPV.  The following materials are attached to support this law:

Meningococcal Disease Fact Sheet

The Flu Fact Sheet

HPV-Get Vaccinated Sheet

 

APPENDIX

 

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