Virginia Beach City Public Schools
2512 George Mason Drive
P.O. Box 6038
Virginia Beach, Virginia 23456-0038
757.263.1000 757.263.1240 TDD

vbschools x-tra Alert Now

Elementary Parent/Student Handbook
2009-2010 School Year

This handbook contains useful information for both parents and students regarding the daily operations of Virginia Beach City Public Schools’ fifty-six elementary schools. You will find information highlighting some of the school division’s policies and guidelines that are necessary for the safety, welfare, and well-being of our students. Please keep this handbook throughout the 2009-2010 school year. You are encouraged to review the contents of this handbook and share appropriate information with your child. As a parent or guardian, your interest and involvement with your child’s education will promote a positive attitude toward learning and academic achievement. Should you have any questions about the contents of this handbook or Virginia Beach City Public Schools, please contact your school principal.

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Academy Programs
Christopher Farms Elementary offers a Foreign Language Partial Immersion Academy designed to offer students a foreign language experience in the elementary school setting. Students are selected through an application process, which is open to any rising first-grader at Christopher Farms Elementary.

A Mathematics & Science Academy at Linkhorn Park Elementary offers students a program of study that is fast-paced and combines instruction in core subjects with enriched coursework in science and mathematics. Students will have the opportunity to learn through hands-on laboratory experiences to develop their problem solving and higher order thinking skills. Students must apply to the Mathematics and Science Academy for admission. Only students who attend Alanton, Birdneck, Cooke, John B. Dey, Linkhorn Park, Seatack, and Trantwood elementary schools are eligible.

For additional information on both academy programs, please call the Office of Academy Programs at 757.263.1405 or visit our Web site at vbschools.com and select the category Academy Program found on the homepage.

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Access/Disclosure of Student Records
In compliance with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) and in accordance with School Board Policy (5-31) and Regulations (5-31.1 & 2), parents may review their children’s cumulative education records at the school office upon request. If student education records are inaccurate or misleading, the student’s parent or guardian may request an amendment by contacting the school principal. Cumulative records are treated as confidential material, and the privacy rights of parents and students are safeguarded. Except as provided by law, no outside agencies or individuals may have access to a student’s record without written consent of the parent. If records are copied, a minimal fee may be charged. Parents/guardians have the right to file a complaint with the Family Compliance Office, U.S. Department of Education for failure to comply with FERPA. Whenever a student transfers from one school or school division to another, the scholastic and discipline record or a copy of the scholastic and discipline record will be transferred to the school or school division upon request from the school or school division.

The School Board authorizes making “Student Directory Information” public as permitted under state and federal laws and regulations. Student Directory Information means information contained in an education record of a student which would not generally be considered harmful or an invasion of privacy if disclosed. School Board Policy 5-66 defines Student Directory Information as the following: name of student in attendance or no longer in attendance; address; date and place of birth; telephone listing; dates of attendance; participation in officially recognized activities and sports; height and weight, if member of athletic team; awards and honors received; and other similar information. Examples include release of student name, school, and grade for submission to The Virginia Beach Beacon for scholastic recognition and/or to elected officials contacting the school division to request student addresses for congratulatory purposes. School Board policy provides the Superintendent with the discretion of selecting which student directory information may be released. Detailed information on FERPA is available.

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Acceptable Use Agreement for Computer Technology
Virginia Beach City Public Schools provides Internet access and e-mail accounts (collectively, the “System”). In order to use the System, students under the age of 18 must obtain parental/legal guardian acknowledgment of the provisions of the Acceptable Use Agreement which is integrated into the Code of Student Conduct. A Parent Acknowledgment Form will be forwarded annually and signed by the parent(s)/legal guardian(s) acknowledging that they have read and understand the policies and regulations. (Policies 6-62 and 6-64; Regulations 6-62.1 and 6-64.1) Inappropriate use of the computer can result in disciplinary action taken under the provisions of the Code of Student Conduct and/or other School Board policies and division regulations governing student discipline. Any violation will be handled in accordance with School Board Policy 5-21 and its implementing regulations. Understanding the importance of Internet/computer safety, information on this subject will be made available to all students throughout the school year. Additionally, Internet/computer safety tips are available.

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Accident/Dental Insurance
The school division contracts with authorized insurance carriers for voluntary scholastic accident and dental accident insurance programs. This insurance is available to all students for the 2009-2010 school year. Fee information, application forms and information on full-time scholastic accident coverage, school-time only scholastic accident coverage, and dental accident insurance are sent home with students at the beginning of the school year.

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Attendance/Tardies/Leaving School Early
Regular and prompt attendance is necessary for a student to maintain satisfactory progress. Excessive absences and tardiness from school are detrimental to the educational process. With our hands-on, cooperative learning, regular attendance is crucial. Learning takes place through discussion and shared activities. Parents should plan vacations and trips which do not conflict with the school’s instructional calendar. When students arrive late or must leave early, they miss valuable information and are at a disadvantage.

Late arrivals and early dismissals can be very disruptive to other students and to the teacher. When possible, please try to schedule appointments so they do not conflict with school hours.

Sickness, severe illness or death in the family, exposure to a contagious disease, religious holidays or extremely inclement weather are considered legitimate excuses for absences or tardiness.

If a student is to be absent, parents are urged to inform the school in advance. Students having more than twenty-four (24) absences for the year may, on the authority of the principal, be denied promotion.

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Before- & After-School KidzQuest Programs
Offered by the Virginia Beach Department of Parks and Recreation, the KidzQuest Before-School Program is available at selected “A” elementary schools from 6:30 a.m. to 8:00 a.m. and at selected “B” elementary schools from 7:00 a.m. to 8:30 a.m. The KidzQuestAfter-School programs operate from 2:30 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at “A” schools and from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at “B” schools. For information on registration, payments, and space availability, call the Virginia Beach Department of Parks and Recreation at 757-385-0400, the City of Virginia Beach at 757-385-3111, or visit vbgov.com/parks.

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Breakfasts/Lunches
Virginia Beach City Public Schools participates in both the National School Breakfast and Lunch Programs. All meals offered meet the established Recommended Dietary Allowances (RDAs), student's calorie needs, and the Dietary Guidelines for Americans. The menu planning system provides students approximately 1/4 of the RDA for key nutrients for breakfast and approximately 1/3 of the RDA for key nutrients for lunch. Current prices for breakfast, lunch, and a la carte are available.

Payments for meals can be made using one of three methods:

1. cash at time of purchase
2. computerized point of service which allows students to have individual accounts for prepayment of meals/snacks and payment at the time of service. Student accounts are used for full-price meals, reduced price meals, free meals, and a la carte purchases.
3. online at vbschools.com using Visa, MasterCard, or a debit card. This online service allows parents of students to prepay money directly into their child’s account; monitor their child’s food purchases; set up low-balance e-mail reminders; and schedule recurring payments.

Applications for free or reduced price benefits can be obtained from the following sources:

• School office
• Returning students will receive an application through the U.S. Postal Service during the summer.
• Office of Food Services: 757.263.1101

Menus are posted on vbschools.com and broadcast on VBTV (channel 48).

For more information on Lunch Menus/Food Services, call the Office of Food Services at 757.263.1101, or call your school’s cafeteria manager.

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Cafeteria Behavior
Every student is expected to buy or bring lunch. While eating meals in the cafeteria, all students are expected to follow these guidelines:

• Practice good manners and socialize quietly
• Leave the table and surrounding area clean and orderly
• Return trays and utensils to wash area
• Put trash in proper containers

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Cell Phone Use
Students enrolled in elementary school are not permitted to possess, display, use or activate a cell phone on school grounds, on buses, or at school-sponsored activities at any time. School officials are required to take possession of these devices when there is a violation. Parents/legal guardians must make arrangements with school officials to claim such devices.

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Child Custody
The school division recognizes that issues related to the legal and physical custody of students are complicated and can impact the student’s educational experience. Parents and legal guardians of students are strongly encouraged to stay involved with their student’s academic progress. Unless a court order decrees otherwise, either parent or a legal guardian may view education records and attend school functions or school meetings regarding the student. Official notices and report cards will be sent to the parent or legal guardian with primary physical custody of the student during the school year. It is the responsibility of the parent or legal custodian with primary physical custody to provide current copies of court orders to the school. Child visitation and exchange of custody should not take place during school hours or on school property. The school division will assume no responsibility for enforcing visitation or custody orders and reserves the right to prohibit parents or legal guardians from entering school board property if their conduct becomes disruptive to the school environment. Concerns regarding custody and visitation should be directed to the school principal.

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Child Find/Notice of General
Virginia Beach City Public Schools maintains an active and continuing Child Find program designed to locate, evaluate, and identify children who are in need of special education and related services. Child Find includes children who are migrant, homeless, attend private schools, or are home schooled.
 
Any child, whether enrolled in public education or a private school, who is suspected of having a disability, should be referred to the special education administrator or designee, who will initiate the process for determining eligibility for special education and related services. Referrals may be made by any source including school staff, parent(s), and other individuals. For children of school age, the special education administrator or designee at the neighborhood school will initiate the process for determining eligibility for special education and related services.

Children between the ages of two and four as of September 30, 2009 who are suspected of having a disability, should be referred to the Preschool Assessment Center at 757.263.2800. Children between the ages of birth and three should be referred to the Virginia Beach Infant and Toddler Connection at 757.427.4400.

As part of the Child Find program, the division conducts a general screening of new students who have not previously been identified as having a disability. All students in kindergarten through grade three are screened in the areas of speech, language, voice, fine and gross motor functions, vision, and hearing within the first 60 days of enrollment.

Vision and hearing screenings are conducted by the school nurse for all students new to the division in all grades within 60 administrative days of enrollment. Additionally, the school nurse conducts vision and hearing screenings for all students in grades three, seven, and ten. Parents are notified by the school nurse if their child fails one or more parts of the screening.

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Clinic: Overview of Health Services for Students
Each school clinic is staffed with a full-time Registered Nurse (RN), along with a trained clinic assistant in the larger schools. They provide health screenings, assessments for chronic and acute illness, and first aid. The RN at each school is available to consult with parents as needed, regarding health concerns of students.

If a student has special health needs (medication, seizure precautions, catheterizations, gastric tube feedings, blood sugar checks, oxygen needs, or others), the parent is to schedule a time to meet with the school RN to arrange for these needs to be taken care of during the student’s school day. All medications and treatments require both a written physician’s order and a parent/guardian’s signature. The school RN will assist the parent by preparing a plan of care for their student and advising them as to what supplies the student will need at school.

Administration of medications, especially short term, should be done at home whenever possible. However, if a student is required to take prescription or non-prescription medication during the school day, the following guidelines must be met:

•  A Request for Administration of Medication in Hampton Roads Schools form must be completed and signed by either a physician, dentist, nurse practitioner, or physician’s assistant and include the parent/guardian signature. This medication form is available for your convenience in the school clinic and on vbschools.com.
• Medication must be in a container that has been labeled by the pharmacy and has the most current prescription date. Over-the-counter medication must be in a sealed, unopened new bottle.
• Parents/guardians must deliver medication to the school clinic, as students are not permitted to transport medication.
• All medicine must be picked up by a parent at the end of the school year. Medicine not picked up will be discarded.

Accommodations can be made for students with asthma or life-threatening allergies to self-administer their inhaled asthma medication or their auto-injectable (Epi-Pen) medication.  The school RN must receive either an Asthma Health Care Action Plan & Authorization (to self-carry) Medication form, or a Care Plan for Emergency Alert and Self-Administered Epi-Pens form completed and signed by either a physician, nurse practitioner, or physician’s assistant. These forms can be obtained from your school clinic and on vbschools.com. Additional questions and concerns may be directed to your school’s RN.  

As per the Code of Virginia, the school division must comply with all requirements for immunizations of school age children.  There are specific requirements for DPT, Polio, MMR, Hepatitis B, & Varicella. All sixth graders are required to have a Tdap (Tetanus, Diphtheria, & Pertussis booster) prior to entering sixth grade. If a Tetanus containing booster has been given in the past five years, the Tdap booster is not required.  Documentation of a Tetanus containing vaccine may appear as DPT, TD, DtaP, DT and/or Tdap.

A student whose immunizations are incomplete may be admitted conditionally, if the student provides documentary proof at the time of enrollment of having received at least one dose of the required immunization(s) accompanied by a schedule for completion of the remaining required dosage(s). At the time of enrollment, ALL immunizations must be as current and as up-to-date as possible. Enrollment and attendance can be delayed if compliance with immunization requirements is not met. Questions and the need for further clarification of immunization requirements may be directed to your school nurse at your school or to the Student Health Services Office at 757.263.2025.

Parents are encouraged to keep their school RN informed of significant health concerns and diagnoses for their children. It is essential that the clinic staffs have current work, cell, home phone numbers, pagers, and any other means whereby they can be contacted should the need arise. Emergencies can occur at any time. It is imperative that your child’s school be able to reach parents and caregivers during the school day. Collaboration and communication with parents, guardians, and physicians are necessary in order for complete and effective care to be provided to students.

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Course Information
The Department of Curriculum and Instruction produces the Parent/Student Course Information Guides for students enrolled in kindergarten through fifth grade. These guides, available on vbschools.com, provide insight into the instructional program and learning expectations for every child to thrive as 21st century learners, workers, and citizens. This helpful publication also contains a list of the grade-level instructional objectives that include the Virginia Standards of Learning (SOL).

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Dress Code
Guidelines are established to promote a standard of appearance which enhances the learning environment while allowing for reasonable comfort and individuality of all students.

Students are expected to wear clothing appropriate to the school setting: extreme or outrageous apparel or appearance is to be avoided. Current “fads” involving appearance or clothing that disrupt the instructional process will not be allowed. Specific dress code standards are given below:

• Appropriate shoes are required; either hard-soled or tennis shoes are acceptable. For student safety, rubber-soled shoes are required for physical education.
• Shorts of an appropriate length and style are acceptable.
• Clothing which overexposes the body is unacceptable.
• Lewd or suggestive attire may not be worn.
• Apparel which advertises, glorifies, or symbolizes any illegal substance or substances illegal for use by minors may not be worn.
• Apparel that is gang-related may not be worn.
• Any item of jewelry or clothing that might create a hazard to a student’s safety may not be worn.
• Any questions regarding "appropriateness" will be determined by the principal.

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Early Dismissal/Leaving School Grounds
When leaving school prior to dismissal or being picked up at dismissal, students must report to the office to be signed out by a parent/guardian or an adult the parent/guardian designates. This requirement is to ensure the safety and well-being of your child.

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Extended Day Kindergarten
Students who need additional language arts and mathematics support may be selected to participate in the Extended Day Kindergarten (EDK) program. All parents of students selected to participate in EDK are required to attend an orientation meeting at their child’s school. Parents will receive notification of specific dates and times for this important opportunity to learn how EDK will help their child succeed in school. The EDK program will begin no later than September 30, 2009.

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Gifted Education
Gifted students may choose to apply to a centrally located full-time gifted elementary school, Old Donation Center, or students may remain in the neighborhood school and receive services via the resource-cluster program. Both models provide opportunities for gifted students to benefit from learning challenges offered through the differentiation of curricula, the incorporation of strategies designed to raise the level of learning, and the availability of specialized programs.

For additional information on gifted education, please call the Office of Gifted Education at 757.263.1405 or visit our Web site at vbschools.com and select the category Gifted Program on the  homepage.

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Guidance and Counseling Program
Each elementary school offers a comprehensive and developmental counseling program that is an integral part of the total educational program designed to promote the academic, social, and career development of all students. As an essential part of the instructional program, school counseling helps to build a foundation for student learning and academic success. Certified school counselors provide a variety of services, including classroom guidance, crisis intervention, individual and group counseling, consultation with parents, teachers, and administrators, and coordination of services with outside agencies.

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Health Insurance for Children
Health insurance is important for every child to ensure they have access to the resources needed to grow up healthy. Health insurance is available for children, of families who qualify based on income, through Family Access to Medical Insurance Security (FAMIS). FAMIS provides access to quality health services for children who do not have health insurance.
There are no monthly or yearly costs to your family with FAMIS. For children enrolled in FAMIS only, there are small co-payments ($2 or $5) for certain medical care. Services covered under FAMIS include:  doctor visits, hospital and emergency care, well-child and well-baby checkups, shots, prescriptions, tests and x-rays, vision and dental, care, mental health care, and more.

Children may be eligible for FAMIS if they: live in Virginia; are under age 19; meet certain income criteria; and are U.S. citizens (some non-citizens also qualify). A parent’s citizenship is not considered.

Applying for FAMIS is quick and easy.

• Call toll-free 1-866-87FAMIS (1-866-873-2647). Interpreters are available. Representatives will connect you with someone who speaks your preferred language.
• Apply online at www.famis.org
• Contact your school nurse or school social worker
• Apply at your local Department of Human Services at 757-437-3610.

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Help Us Keep the Flu Out of School
Typically, flu season occurs in the fall and winter months. With this in mind, our health services staff suggests that parents remind their children that one of the most effective flu-fighting strategies is regular and thorough hand washing. Follow these steps to ensure a thorough approach:

• Wet hands with warm water.
• Lather both hands with soap.
• Scrub fingertips, wrists and between fingers.
• Scrub hands for at least 20 seconds.
• Rinse hands thoroughly under running water.
• Dry hands on a clean paper towel or let hands air dry if no towel is available.  

•	If your child displays flu-like symptoms to include fever, cough, and sore throat, please contact your health-care provider. (Additional symptoms may include headache, chills, fatigue and body aches).
•	Please watch your children for any signs of the flu. If flu symptoms are present, you should keep your child out of school for seven days after these symptoms begin and until they are symptom-free for 24 hours. This is to keep from infecting others and spreading the virus further.
•	Should your child display any flu-like symptoms while in attendance at school, for the health and safety of students and staff, you will be contacted and asked to come to school and pick up your child.
•	Additional Information on the guidelines school nurses will follow to minimize the impact of seasonal flu is available .

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High School Graduation Requirements
The Virginia State Board of Education establishes graduation requirements for all students in public schools. Virginia Beach City Public Schools bases its requirements on the Virginia State Board of Education requirements. To determine graduation requirements, students and parents must consider both the type of diploma sought and the year the student first entered ninth grade. Specific diploma requirements are distributed separately from this document in the annual Notice of Graduation Requirements . It is the responsibility of the student, with family support, to meet all requirements for graduation.

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Homework
Homework is a vital part of the total learning process. Grade-level practices are communicated to students during the first week of school. The following list serves as a reminder about the importance of homework:

• provides essential practice in needed skills
• trains students in good work habits
• affords opportunities for increasing self-direction
• enriches and extends school experience
• helps students learn to budget time
• promotes growth in responsibility
• brings students into contact with out-of-school learning resources

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Honor Roll
In keeping with the philosophy of the school system and its commitment to excellence in education, academic achievement is recognized through the establishment of a principal’s list and honor roll for students in grades 3, 4, and 5.

• Principal’s List: A student must make an “A” in all subjects with outstanding or satisfactory in all other areas.
• Honor Roll: A student must maintain a “B” average in all subjects with no grade lower than a “C” and satisfactory ratings for work habits, conduct, art, music, and physical education to be eligible for the honor roll.

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Inclement Weather/School Closings/Make-up Schedule
In the interest of student safety, federal and local agencies are consulted prior to making a decision to close, delay, or dismiss schools early due to inclement weather.  Parents will be notified via phone and/or e-mail about school delays or cancellations using the rapid notification system AlertNow. An official notice will also be posted on the homepage of the school division’s Web site.

Each school has an Emergency Response Plan for use in the event of early closings and other emergencies. Parents should make sure they have plans in place since students will be transported home earlier.

Should school be cancelled due to inclement weather, make-up days will be at the discretion of the Superintendent. Potential make-up days may include single-day holidays and staff work days. Should these days be insufficient, Spring Break days and Saturdays will be considered. It is within the discretion of the Superintendent to elect not to make up instructional days unless necessary to meet the statutory minimum.

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Investigating School-Related Incidents
If an allegation were made that an employee was exhibiting poor performance and/or engaging in misconduct (which could include an allegation of child abuse/neglect), a school division Employee Relations Specialist or other administrator could decide to interview one or more students to obtain pertinent information. In appropriate circumstances, an interview(s) may be conducted jointly with the Virginia Beach Department of Social Services and/or law enforcement personnel. Although division administrators are not legally obligated to obtain parental permission before interviewing a student, as a general rule the principal or his/her designee will make a reasonable attempt to notify a parent or guardian that an interview will be conducted. If notification cannot be given prior to the interview, the principal or his/her designee will make a reasonable attempt to notify a parent or guardian that an interview has been conducted. Virginia law permits law enforcement personnel and/or child protective service workers to interview any child suspected of being abused or neglected and/or siblings without first obtaining parental consent.

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Keeping in Touch with Your Child's School [Top]
As a parent of an elementary level student, keeping in touch with your child’s school and teacher is important to the academic success of your child’s education.

Parents are always encouraged to communicate with teachers about their child’s progress. This can be done by participating in back-to-school and orientation programs scheduled at each school, arranging a meeting with your child’s teachers and school counselor to monitor their progress, and contacting teachers using e-mail or telephones. The e-mail addresses of all teachers are posted on every school’s Web site.

Another convenient way for a parent to stay in touch with school activities and news is through MySchool Mail – an e-mail subscription service used by all schools to distribute announcements and news.

Each school uses the AlertNow parent notification system to contact parents about important school information and events, testing schedules, report card distribution, open houses, delayed buses, field trips, and more. Messages will typically be delivered to your home phone.

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Late Arrival
Students arriving at school late must report to the office to be counted in attendance before going to class. A note from the parent explaining the reason for late arrival is required or an adult must sign the child in at the main office.

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Minute of Silence
The Virginia General Assembly has mandated a daily minute of silence. Each school will implement this requirement as guidelines dictate.

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News Media Coverage
From time to time, news media representatives may photograph or videotape students in incidental news coverage. If a student is to be interviewed on school property by the news media, a signed parental consent form is required (Parental Release for Interviewing, Photographing, and Videotaping/Audio-recording of Students Form). This form is included in the Registration/Emergency Data Form and is also available in each school office. If a parent objects to their child being interviewed or photographed, this should be indicated on the Parental Release for Interviewing, Photographing, and Videotaping/Audio-recording of Students Form and returned back to their child’s teacher.

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Parent Acknowledgement Form and Supporting Documents
Each parent will receive a Parent Acknowledgement Form during the first week of the school year. This form is for parents/legal guardians of all students or for students who are eighteen years of age or older enrolled in Virginia Beach City Public Schools.

Parents are asked to return the Parent Acknowledgement Form to your child’s teacher in order to verify that you have received the documents listed below.

• Supporting Documents
• Code of Student Conduct, Including Regulations for Passengers Riding School Buses, Anti-Tobacco Use Program and Acceptable Use Agreement (for computers)
• About Student Records: Family Education Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA)
  Note: Any parent who objects to the release of any directory information must notify, in writing, the principal of the school where the records are kept.
• Protection of Pupil Rights Amendment (PPRA) Note: Included in Parent/Student Handbook
• Graduation Requirements
• Parent/Student Handbook (Elementary, Middle, or High)
• Parent/Student Course Information Guide (K-5), online access
• Section 504
• Parental Responsibility and Involvement Requirements
• Compulsory Attendance Law

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Parent-Teacher Conferences
Parents are encouraged to have periodic conferences with teachers. For a conference at any time other than on a regularly scheduled school conference date, please contact the office for arrangements to meet with the teacher.

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Physical Education
The physical education program is an important part of the elementary education experience for students. If a health condition prevents a student from participating in physical activities over an extended period of time, a note from a doctor indicating the limitation is required. For a student to be excused from physical education for a short period (up to three days) due to a temporary illness or physical condition, a written request from a parent is sufficient.

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Promotion Guidelines
Each student should learn the relevant grade level subject matter before promotion to the next grade. Each student shall take and be expected to achieve a passing score on the Standards of Learning (SOL) tests for the student’s respective grade. Schools shall use SOL test results as part of a multiple set of criteria for determining promotion in grades 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 and 8 as set forth in more detail in School Board Policy 5-27.

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Protection of Pupil Rights Amendment (PPRA)
PPRA affords parents certain rights regarding our conduct of surveys, collection and use of information for marketing purposes, and certain physical exams. These include the right to: Consent before students are required to submit to a survey that concerns one or more of the following protected areas (“protected information survey”) if the survey is funded in whole or in part by a program of the U.S. Department of Education (ED):

1. Political affiliations or beliefs of the student or student’s parent;
2. Mental or psychological problems of the student or student’s family;
3. Sex behavior or attitudes;
4. Illegal, anti-social, self-incriminating, or demeaning behavior;
5. Critical appraisals of others with whom respondents have close family relationships;
6. Legally recognized privileged relationships, such as with lawyers, doctors, or ministers;
7. Religious practices, affiliations, or beliefs of the student or parents; or
8. Income, other than as required by law to determine program eligibility.

Receive notice and an opportunity to opt a student out of:

1. Any other protected information survey, regardless of funding;
2. Any non-emergency, invasive physical exam or screening required as a condition of attendance, administered by the school or its agent, and not necessary to protect the immediate health and safety of a student, except for hearing, vision, or scoliosis screenings, or any physical exam or screening permitted or required under State law; and
3. Activities involving collection, disclosure, or use of personal information obtained from students for marketing or to sell or otherwise distribute the information to others.

Inspect, upon request and before administration or use:

1. Protected information surveys of students;
2. Instruments used to collect personal information from students for any of the above marketing, sales, or other distribution purposes; and
3. Instructional material used as part of the educational curriculum.

These rights transfer from the parents to a student who is 18 years old or an emancipated minor under State law. Virginia Beach City Public Schools (VBCPS) has developed and adopted policies, in consultation with parents, regarding these rights, as well as arrangements to protect student privacy in the administration of protected information surveys and the collection, disclosure, or use of personal information for marketing, sales, or other distribution purposes. VBCPS will directly notify parents of these policies at least annually at the start of each school year and after any substantive changes. VBCPS will also directly notify, such as through U.S. Mail or email, parents of students who are scheduled to participate in the specific activities or surveys noted below and will provide an opportunity for the parent to opt his or her child out of participation of the specific activity or survey. VBCPS will make this notification to parents at the beginning of the school year if the school division has identified the specific or approximate dates of the activities or surveys at that time. For surveys and activities scheduled after the school year starts, parents will be provided reasonable notification of the planned activities and surveys listed below and be provided an opportunity to opt their child out of such activities and surveys. Parents will also be provided an opportunity to review any pertinent surveys. Following is a list of the specific activities and surveys covered under this requirement:

• Collection, disclosure, or use of personal information for marketing, sales or other distribution.
• Administration of any protected information survey not funded in whole or in part by ED.
• Any non-emergency, invasive physical examination or screening as described above.

Parents who believe their rights have been violated may file a complaint with:
Family Policy Compliance Office
U.S. Department of Education
400 Maryland Avenue, SW
Washington, D.C. 20202-5901

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Recess
The schedule and specific types of recess are site-based with each elementary school providing students with regularly scheduled recess.

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Reporting Student Progress
A formal report on a student’s progress in school is sent to parents or guardians at the end of each nine-week grading period. Progress reports are issued at various times throughout the school year. These dates are included on the school calendars. At the end of the third, fourth, and fifth grades, parents also receive their child’s scores on state-mandated Standards of Learning (SOL) tests. Parents of fourth graders will also receive their child’s test scores on the Stanford 10 Test.

GRADING CODE
Grades K-2

4	Exceeds grade level expectations
3	Meets grade level expectations
2	Experiences difficulty meeting grade level expectations
1	Does not meet grade level expectations
NE	Not evaluated at this time
X	Area of concern/needs additional attention

Grades 3-5

A	100-94
B	93-86
C	85-78
D	77-70
E	69 and below
I	Incomplete
NE	Not evaluated
X	Area of concern/needs additional attention

The following scale is used in evaluating citizenship, work habits, art, music, health, and physical education.

O	Outstanding
S	Satisfactory
N	Needs improvement
NE	Not evaluated
U	Unsatisfactory
X	Area of concern/needs additional attention

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Safe Schools and Emergency Procedures
Virginia Beach City Public Schools is committed to providing a safe environment for students, staff and visitors. The school division conducts annual safe school audits of all school facilities in accordance with Virginia State Code. The audit process provides a comprehensive overview of the school division’s security and emergency preparedness.

We work closely with national, state, and local safety officials -- police, fire, emergency medical services, and public health -- in order for our schools to be prepared to prevent and respond to an emergency. Together, we have developed a comprehensive Emergency Response Plan that covers a wide variety of emergencies that serves as a guide to help staff and our public safety partners respond swiftly should a crisis occur in our schools.

Should a school emergency occur, parents will be notified and updated by phone and/or e-mail using the school division’s new rapid notification system – AlertNow. Prior to reporting to your child’s school during an emergency, it is critical for parents to follow directions communicated via AlertNow.  Additional information is available.

Should a school be evacuated, each school has a procedure for helping parents locate their child. Parents will be directed to a specific location where they will be required to show proper identification. Remember, a student can only be released to an adult who is documented as an emergency contact. If you are a non-custodial parent, you must be listed with your child's emergency contact information as a guardian and show proper identification.

In addition to being notified via AlertNow, parents are able to receive information about the school emergency by:

• Calling the school division’s Emergency Hotline at 757-263-1000
• Visiting the homepage of vbschools.com.  

Additional information on AlertNow, school emergencies, and important terms that are used during an emergency, such as internal/external lockdowns, are available.

Should an emergency situation occur at your child’s school, it is important that parents are familiar with these terms.

Internal lockdown: all school interior doors are locked and students are confined to their classrooms and no entry or exit of the school is allowed. This takes place if there is a threat or possible threat inside the school. During an internal lockdown, the main entrance doors will be locked and a sign will be posted on the front door indicating that the school is in an internal lockdown. If there is no admittance to the building you will be referred to the VBCPS Emergency Hotline at 757.263.1000 for information regarding this incident.

External lockdown: all school exterior doors are locked. This takes place if the threat is outside of the school. If the situation allows, parents could be admitted into the school with proper identification. If it is deemed safe for you to enter the building, you will need to show a proper form of identification such as a driver’s license, military I.D., VBCPS school I.D. or other valid photo identification.

Shelter-in-Place: means selecting small, interior rooms in the school, with no or few windows, and taking refuge there until it is safe to release students. This is a precaution aimed to keep our students safe from hazardous materials that may have been released into the atmosphere. (This is not the same thing as going to a shelter in case of a storm.) This procedure is implemented if it is determined that evacuation or dismissal could possibly place students at risk.

Fostering school safety is everyone’s responsibility – staff, students, parents, and the entire community. Please report any safety concerns you have to your school principal.

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SchoolNet Parent Portal
Parents of elementary students will have access to the SchoolNet Parent Portal  during the 2009-2010 school year.  SchoolNet Parent Portal is a powerful online tool for parents and guardians to monitor their child’s progress in school. Best of all, it can be accessed from any computer connected to the Internet – 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Since the rollout of this online tool, to parents of elementary students, will take place in six phases, a list of schools along with the date parents will have access to the SchoolNet Parent Portal can be found on vbschools.com by selecting the link SchoolNet Parent Portal found on the home page. Parents will be able to view important current school year information such as:

• Grades
• Attendance records
• Student assignments
• Missing assignments
• Notes from your child's teacher about assignments
• Standardized test scores (Example: SOL, Stanford 10)
• Sign up for e-mails notifying parents when their child has an unexcused absence or receives a certain class grade; detailed attendance reports, detailed assignments, reports, and grade summary reports.

Parents will also be able to view historic academic and enrollment information dating back to the 2004-2005 school year.

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School Pictures
The school division arranges with a local photography studio to have individual and class group photos taken. Funds generated from this activity are used to buy various supplementary materials and equipment for the school.

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School Planning Council
Each school has a School Planning Council consisting of staff, parents, and community members who meet several times a year. The council’s mission is to develop and assess school improvement initiatives.

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School Regulations
Guidelines have been established to maintain an effective learning environment and to provide for the safety and well-being of students. School regulations apply in the school building, on the school grounds, while traveling to and from school, and at any event where the school is represented.

• For the safety of students, fund-raising activities which involve door-to-door solicitations by elementary and/or middle school students are prohibited.
• Students are to ride assigned buses unless special permission has been requested and granted. Students are to comply with the Code of Student Conduct. Disruptive behavior on buses or at bus stops may result in loss of bus-riding privileges and/or other disciplinary measures.
• Students may not bring personal items such as toys, radios, tape recorders, televisions, microphones, etc., to school without permission from the teacher. Responsibility for loss, damage, or theft cannot be assumed by the school if permission is granted.
• Chewing gum is not allowed on school property.
• Animals, other than animals used to assist individuals with disabilities,  may not be brought on school property.
• Unauthorized use of computer technology will result in students being disciplined in accordance with the Virginia Beach City Public Schools’ Code of Student Conduct.

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School Visitors and Employees
Visitors are welcome in the Virginia Beach City Public Schools. For the safety and protection of students, all persons entering any school must sign in at the school office and wear an identification badge while in the school. This includes school staff and other School Board employees, parents, and visitors. Trespassers are subject to legal action. School buildings and grounds are smoke-free at all times.

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Section 504                                                 
Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended, is a civil rights law that prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities. The statute ensures that a qualified student with a disability receives reasonable accommodations necessary for that student to access education or school-related programs and activities. Any child suspected of needing a Section 504 Plan should be referred to the Section 504 designee within the school where the child attends. The designee will then initiate the process for determining whether the student meets the qualifications under this federal law.

The Director of Special Education and the Section 504 Coordinator for the Virginia Beach City Public Schools is Robert L. Mitchell, Office of Programs for Exceptional Children, 757.263.2400, Laskin Road Annex, 1413 Laskin Road, Virginia Beach, VA 23451.

Parent/Student’s Rights Under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973
The following is a description of the rights granted by federal law to students identified as disabled under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. The intent of the law is to keep you fully informed concerning decisions about your child and to inform you of your rights if you disagree with any of these decisions.

You have the right to:

• File a grievance with the school district over an alleged violation of Section 504 regulations.
• Have an evaluation that draws on information from a variety of sources.
• Be informed of any actions to determine qualification under Section 504 and provide a plan for services.
• Examine all relevant records.
• Receive all information in the parent’s/guardian’s native language and primary mode of communication.
• Periodic re-determination of qualification and an assessment before any significant change in program/service modifications.
• Request an impartial hearing if there is a disagreement with the school division’s proposed action.
• Be represented by counsel in the impartial hearing process.
• Appeal the decision of the impartial hearing officer’s decision to a court of competent jurisdiction.

Contact the Virginia Beach City Public Schools Director of the Office of Programs for Exceptional Children, Laskin Road Annex, 1413 Laskin Road, Virginia Beach, Virginia 23451, Telephone 757.263.2400 or Fax 757.263.2067 to file a complaint concerning discrimination based upon disability.

For additional information please contact the Section 504 coordinator at your child’s school.

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Student Conduct/Disciplinary Consequences
The school system’s Code of Student Conduct is distributed separately during the first week of school. It contains specific information concerning behavior which will not be tolerated, disciplinary consequences, and expectations and rights of students. Both parents and students should read and understand its contents thoroughly. Disruptive students who interfere with the educational process and/or do not comply with regulations and procedures are subject to administrative action.

The following offenses will result in automatic recommendation for expulsion by the principal:

• Arson or attempted arson
• Assault and battery on an employee or student
• Possession, use or sale of a firearm or dangerous weapon
• Use, possession, being under the influence of, selling, bringing, giving, distributing or passing to another individual or possessing with intent to sell, give, or distribute: alcohol, marijuana, controlled substances or imitation controlled substances, and inhalants
• Extortion, attempted extortion, robbery, burglary, motor vehicle theft, and/or larceny
• Sex Offenses: sexual battery, inappropriate sexual behavior, obscene phone calls, and sexual assault
• Hazing: Initiation of another student through abuse and humiliation so as to cause bodily injury
• Kidnapping or other serious criminal violations
• Possession, use, distribution, sale, lighting or discharge of explosive devices
• Homicide
• Malicious wounding of an employee or student
• And other good and just causes as determined by the Superintendent

When expelled, a student is denied access to all program offerings in the school division. When suspended, a student is not allowed on school grounds, to attend classes or to participate in school activities for the duration of the suspension.

Students may be suspended for up to five school days by the school principal, assistant principal or designee and for up to an additional five school days with the concurrence of the Director of the Office of Student Leadership. Students may be suspended out of school in excess of ten school days after a hearing before a Hearing Officer or a Discipline Committee of the School Board. (School Board Regulation 5-21.1)

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Social Security Numbers
Virginia law requires that a student must present a Social Security number upon enrollment. Virginia Code §22.1-260 requires that a student present a federal Social Security number within ninety days of enrollment. Parents who are unable or unwilling to present a federal Social Security number may request that the school division provide an alternative identification number. No student will be denied enrollment or services based upon not providing a Social Security number.

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Textbooks
The school division provides free textbooks for use during the school year. If parents prefer to buy new texts for students in grades one through five, order forms are available in the office upon request. The school does not sell or buy used texts. Students are expected to care for the books they receive. Fees may be assessed for damaged or lost books.

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Transfers
Parents of students withdrawing from school should contact the office at least two days prior to the last day of attendance. This allows time for completion of records, return of books, and completion of the transfer form. Parents may pick up the transfer form from the office on the student’s last day or it may be sent home with the student upon request. All accounts with the school should be settled prior to the transfer.

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Transportation
Bus transportation is provided for Virginia Beach City Public Schools’ students to and from school, based on each school’s transportation zone. Your school principal will assist you with determining if your child will be riding the bus to school. Students riding a bus to school must be on time. It is recommended that students be at their stop no earlier than five minutes before regular pickup time. The Code of Student Conduct, distributed to all parents at the start of the school year, clearly outlines the conduct for all students while riding a school bus. Parents are encouraged to remind their children of acceptable behavior on a school bus. To ensure the safety of our students, parents should consider sharing “watch” responsibilities with a neighbor so your children have an adult overseeing safety at their bus stops.

Bus routes and pickup times are available on the school division’s Web site vbschools.com just prior to the beginning of the school year. Please be reminded that students must ride their assigned buses unless the parents or their designee will be transporting the child.

Extenuating circumstances requiring a bus change must be submitted in writing and approved by the principal. This notice must be given to the teacher upon the student's arrival at school. Note: We must have a name listed on the information card filed in the office or a note signed by the parent in order to release the child to anyone other than the parent/guardian.

School Bus Safety Tips for Students
As a parent, you can help ensure our students arrive to and from school safely each day by practicing the following school safety tips:

• Please consider sharing “watch” responsibilities with a neighbor so your children have an adult overseeing safety at their bus stops. If possible use the buddy system and have your child travel in a group or with fellow students.
• Be sure your child arrives at their bus stop 5 minutes before the bus is scheduled to arrive.
• When the bus approaches, remind your child to stand at least 5 giant steps (ten feet) away from the curb and line up away from the bus.
• Never run after the school bus if it has already left the bus stop.
• Never run in front or behind the school bus to pick up something that your child dropped or forgot.
• Make sure you tell your child never to get on the bus until it has completely stopped.
• After the bus stops and the door opens, take firm hold of the handrail and get onto the bus.
• Never push another student while getting on or off the bus.
• All students riding the bus should go directly to a seat and sit quietly. This allows the bus driver to concentrate on driving safely.
• Students should never place any part of their body through the bus window.
• On school bus routes that are dedicated to mid-day kindergarteners and preschool students, there should always be a responsible person waiting at the bus stop when children are dropped off from school.  If not, the child will be returned to school and the parent will be contacted.
• When outside of the bus, make sure your child is aware of the danger zones and is always within sight of the bus driver. The Danger Zone is a 10-foot wide area on all sides of a school bus -- an area where children are in the most danger of being hit. Children should be taught to stay 10 feet away from a school bus (or as far away as they can) and never go behind it. They should be told to take five giant steps in front of the bus before crossing so the driver can see them.

Road Safety Tips for Drivers
As the parent of a student, please review the following bus safety reminders for all motorists and share them with a neighbor or friend:

• Never pass on the right side of a school bus where children enter or exit. This is illegal and can have tragic results.
• Yellow flashing lights mean the bus is preparing to stop and load or unload children. Motorists need to slow down and prepare to stop.
• Red flashing lights and an extended stop arm mean the bus has stopped and children are boarding or exiting the bus. Motorists must come to a complete stop a safe distance from the bus and wait until the red lights stop flashing, the stop arm is retracted, and the bus begins moving before they start driving again.
• Watch out for children who may be thinking about getting to school, but may not be thinking about getting there safely.
• Slow down. Watch for children walking in the street, especially if there are no sidewalks in the neighborhood. Watch for children playing and gathering near bus stops.

Be alert. Children arriving late for the bus may dart into the street without looking for traffic.

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Tips for a Successful School Year

• Talk to your child’s teacher frequently. Together you are a team for your child’s academic success.
• Provide a quiet place and a consistent time to do homework. Support your child in homework efforts but refrain from doing the homework.
• Help your child learn to follow directions. Give one- and two-step directions and see that the task is completed.
• Teach your child to show respect for others by using polite phrases such as “please,” “thank you,” and “excuse me.”
• Model and reinforce appropriate behavior.
• Help your child learn his/her address and telephone number.
• Guide and monitor your child’s television viewing.
• Listen to your child and encourage your child to talk about new experiences.
• Explain the meaning of new words to your child.
• Encourage your child to succeed by encouraging his/her best work, but do not expect more than your child is capable of doing.
• Involve your child with reading and writing activities.
• See that your child gets a good night’s sleep and has a nutritious breakfast.
• Write your child’s name on all personal items brought to school such as coat, hat, gloves, boots, sweater, lunch box, etc.
• Refrain from sending to school a sick child or one who has had a fever within the past 24 hours. This precaution will help preserve the health of other children.
• Please telephone the school when your child will be absent. Your child will need a written excuse upon returning to the classroom.
• Dress your child according to the weather; outside activities will take place when the weather permits. A note from you will be required if your child should remain inside because of a physical condition.
• Provide the teacher with a correct telephone number where parents or a family friend may be reached during the school day, in case of an emergency.
• Discuss with your child what to do and where to go in the event you are not at home when he/she arrives.
• Monitor your child’s academic progress in school using the SchoolNet Parent Portal. Learn about this great online resource at vbschools.com.

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Volunteers in Education
Virginia Beach City Public Schools encourages and values community involvement. To effectively accomplish the goal of meaningfully engaging the community, parents, and partners, we collaborate with the Virginia Beach Council of PTAs, and the community as a whole, to facilitate this interaction. More than 20,000 volunteers, parents, and partners serve our schools annually. They expand and enrich learning opportunities for students and bring resources to schools in many ways, including mentoring, tutoring, classroom assistance, volunteering in the office and library, and participating in curriculum committees and school planning/advisory councils. You don’t have to be a parent to get involved. We welcome volunteers from throughout the community including military, businesses, civic organizations, churches, and area schools and universities. Seniors and retired citizens are encouraged to volunteer through the school division’s Golden Circle Initiative. To volunteer, contact the school of your choice, or call the Office of Community Relations at 757.263.1337.

Alternative formats of this publication which may include taped, Braille, or large print materials are available upon request for individuals with disabilities. Contact the Department of School Administration via phone: 757.263.1088; fax: 757.263.1260 or e-mail: terry.skidmore@vbschools.com.