2021 2022 SOUTH ELEMENTARY SCHOOL - "Where Opportunity Begins" - Amazon AWS
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SOUTH ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
“Where Opportunity Begins”
2021 ~ 2022
Parent – Student Handbook
Interim Principal, Mrs. Angie Ruebush South Elementary School
655 South Clarksville Rd
Phone: 217-285-2431, 217-285-2613 Fax: 217-285-5479 Pittsfield, IL 62363
Follow us on Facebook at Pikeland CUSD #10
Twitter - @gosaukees Website-www.pikeland.net
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SOUTH SCHOOL MOTTO
“Where Opportunity Begins”
THE LITTLE BRAVE PROMISE
Our Little Brave Promise is to work hard, be good friends and try
to do our best everyday!
We will work together so we can learn. We will be respectful,
responsible, and safe in whatever we do.
It might be hard, but we can do it!
Our day begins with a moment of silence,
The Pledge of Allegiance, and The Little Brave Promise
led by student helpers.
4TABLE OF CONTENTS
GENERAL INFORMATION
Staff 7
Introduction 8
Supply List 8
Grading Scale 9
Student Use of Phones 9
Arrival/Dismissal Information 9
Visitors 9
Restricted Pick up 10
Emergency/Early Dismissal 10
Delayed Start Procedures 11
School Calendar 12
Compliance Day 12
Change of Address 12
Student Pictures/Names in the News, South School Facebook 12
Keeping Parents Informed 13
Material Fees & Waivers 13
School Operations During a Health Emergency 14
Lunch Prices & Procedures 15
Distribution of Non-School Materials 16
Lost and Found 16
Volunteers 16
Classroom Parties & Birthday Celebrations 16
Delivery of Items to Students 17
School Visitation Rights 17
Field Trips 17
Smoke Free Policy 17
Safety Drill Procedures & Conduct 17
Mandated Reporters 17
Sex Offender Notification 18
EDUCATION
Preschool 18
All Day/Half Day Kindergarten 19
Special Education 19
Education of Students with Disabilities 20
Accommodating Students with Disabilities 20
Related Service Logs 20
Care of Students with Diabetes 21
Four Rivers Special Education 21
Every Student Succeeds Act 21
Transition Plan for Entering Pikeland Community School 22
English Learners 22
Education of Homeless Children 22
Destruction of Records 22
Equal Opportunity and Sex Equity 23
Directory Information 23
School Board Promotion Policies 24
Authorization for District Network Access 29
Educational Technology Vendors 30
Testing 30
5ATTENDANCE
Student Attendance 30
Mid-Day Appointments 31
School Tardiness 31
Truancy & Attendance Procedures 31
HEALTH INFORMATION
Medicine at School 32
Designated Caregiver Administrations of Medical Cannabis 33
Undesignated Medications 33
Emergency Aide to Students 34
Head Lice 34
School Nurse 34
Sick at School 34
Injuries at School 34
Hearing and Vision Screening 34
Communicable Diseases 34
Students with Food Allergies or Other Medical Concerns 35
Home and Hospital Instruction 35
Immunizations, Health, Eye & Dental Examinations 35
Suicide and Depression Awareness & Prevention 36
Notification of Asbestos 36
Integrated Pest Management Policy 37
DISCIPLINE
General School Rules 37
Threats 38
When and Where School Rules Apply 38
Student Searches 38
Seizure of Property 38
Questioning of Students Suspected of Criminal Activity 38
Cool Tools for Life 39
Discipline/Consequences 41
District Discipline Policy & Procedures 42
Prohibited Student Conduct 43
Prevention of and Response to Bullying, Intimidation, & Harassment 45
Disciplinary Measures 46
Reengagement of Returning Students 48
Discipline of Students with Disabilities 48
Cooperation with Law Enforcement 48
Search and Seizure 48
Video and Audio Monitoring Systems 49
Lunchroom Cool Tools 50
Dress Code 50
Bus Transportation 50
MISCELLANEOUS
Little Brave Boosters 51
Map of School 52
The Pikeland CUSD #10 Policy Handbook is available at the Pikeland Board office.
6*****GENERAL INFORMATION*****
STAFF DIRECTORY
Interim Principal … ... ... ... Mrs. Angie Ruebush aruebush@pikeland.org
Secretary ... ... ... ... ... Mrs. Melissa Douglas mdouglas@pikeland.org
Custodians ... ... ... ... … Mrs. Becky Amann
Mrs. Vicki Tharp
Preschool … … … … … Mrs. Jennifer Herren jherren@pikeland.org
Mrs. Bethany Williams bwilliams@pikeland.org
Parent Coordinator/Media Center … … Mrs. Gretchen Petty gpetty@pikeland.org
Kindergarten ... ... ... ... … Mrs. Brittney Frieden bfrieden@pikeland.org
Mrs. Jodi Gengler jgengler@pikeland.org
Mrs. Jennifer Wessel jwessel@pikeland.org
Mrs. Emily Rhodes erhodes@pikeland.org
First Grade … … … … … Mrs. Kim Groom kgroom@pikeland.org
Mrs. Kaitlyn McPherson kmcpherson@pikeland.org
Miss Whitney Crowder wcrowder@pikeland.org
Mrs. Darlene Corgiat dcorgiat@pikeland.org
Second ... ... ... ... … Mrs. Michelle Bigley mbigley@pikeland.org
Mrs. Katie Wiese weise@pikeland.org
Mrs. Kristi Heafner kheafner@pikeland.org
PE … … … … Mrs. Kate Marable kmarable@pikeland.org
Fine Arts ... ... ... … TBA
Resource Teacher ... ... ... Mrs. Debbie Barton dbarton@pikeland.org
Special Education ... ... ... ... Miss BJ Yelliott bjyelliott@pikeland.org
Mrs. Maggie Martin mmartin@pikeland.org
Title I ... ... ... … Mrs. Mary Pursley mpursley@pikeland.org
Title I … … … … Mrs. Sandy Curless scurless@pikeland.org
Speech/Language ... … … Laura West lwest@pikeland.org
Social Worker … … … … Mr. John Heafner jheafner@pikeland.org
Nurse … … … … Mrs. Tasha Bartlett tbartlett@pikeland.org
Paraprofessionals … … … … Mrs. Kathy Lehr
Mrs. Chris Browning
Miss Emily Hoover
Ms. Julie Rumple
Mrs. Melanie Plattner
Mrs. Tricia Moore
Miss Rinne Ceja
Mrs. Amy Casto
Mrs. Lindsey Burton
Mrs. Sara Wyatt
Mrs. Shannon Lowry
Mrs. Kristen Killebrew
SRO … … … … … … … Mr. Mike Gangloff
COOKS FOR SOUTH: Karen Hooper, Tammy Zumwalt, Cashier, Amy Davis
Susan Collins, Cafeteria Supervisor
7PIKELAND COMMUNITY UNIT DISTRICT #10
South Elementary School - 285-2431 & 285-2613
INTRODUCTION
Welcome to South Elementary School. At South School we have grades Preschool through 2. We
sincerely hope this handbook will prove to be of value to all our parents. It is designed to answer the many
questions parents have concerning our school. We have tried to organize the handbook in a logical manner, but
would recommend parents read the entire contents to become familiar with the material. Although those topics
and rules dealt with most frequently are addressed, this handbook is not all-inclusive and situations not
covered within will be dealt with as the need arises.
SOUTH ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
STUDENT SUPPLY LIST~
Grades Preschool, K, 1, 2 – School bag or Backpack (No Rollers)
Preschool Kindergarten 1st Grade 2nd Grade
**All Preschool Supplies 1-8 pack Crayola Crayons 1 pink eraser Pencil Box-Please choose
are optional** 4-24 pack Crayola Girls - Quart size Ziplocs one that will fit crayons,
Crayons & Baby Wipes markers, and glue sticks.
Clorox Wipes 6 glue sticks Boys - Gallon size 1 large box of #2 pencils
Baby Wipes 1 glue bottle Ziplocs & Clorox Wipes 1 - 4 pack of Black Dry
Playdough 1 pair of scissors (Fiskar) 4 boxes 24 crayons Erase Markers
One subject spiral 1 pack of crayola markers 2 box markers Soft pink erasers/eraser caps
notebook (classic colors) 2 Elmers bottle glue Colored Pencils
Small paper plates 1 box Dry erase Expo 4 Elmers glue sticks Box of 48 or less crayons
Crayola Pip Squeak Markers 1 Fiskar scissors 1 Watercolor set
Markers Pencils 2 boxes Black Expo Dry 8 glue sticks
Paper Towels Germ-X Erase Markers White Elmers Glue- no
Expo Brand Dry Erase Boys- Clorox Wipes & 2 boxes of tissue colored glue
Markers Sandwich Size Ziplocs 1 pencil box Pointed scissors
Girls- Baby Wipes & 2 boxes of pencils 2 large boxes of tissues
Boys - Gallon Size Gallon Size Ziplocs 1 Watercolor set Optional:
Ziplocs Cleaning Wipes
8 to 12 package of Crayola
Girls - Sandwich Size *No folders, notebooks, Markers (primary colors)
Ziplocs binders, or pencil boxes. Extra Black Dry Erase
Markers
Please label your Please don’t label Highlighter
student’s notebook Baby wipes
supplies, we use group
with his/her name on
the cover. supplies.
Backpacks only please - no
Trappers
8SOUTH SCHOOL GRADING SCALE
A=100-93 B=92-85 C=84-77 D=76-69 F=68-0
STUDENT USE OF PHONES
There is only one phone accessible to students, and students must have permission from the office staff
to use this phone. In fact, children should use the telephone only in case of emergencies. Cell phones may
not be used at South School.
ARRIVAL/DISMISSAL/SAFETY INFORMATION:
Alternate schedules may be implemented at short notice due to Covid -19.
Starting time: 8:25 a.m.
Dismissal time: AM Preschool & Half Day Kindergarten – 11:00 a.m
All-Day classes: 3:20 p.m.
Parents, we ask for your cooperation by not dropping off children before 8:07 a.m. There will be a teacher
at the front door each morning to greet your student. Students will have a grab and go breakfast. All adults
entering the building between 8:00 a.m. and 3:20 p.m. must register in the office and obtain a Visitor’s Pass.
Parent/visitor access will be strictly limited during the 2021-2022 school year.
Preschool students will be dropped off at the front door. Teachers or paraprofessionals will be waiting for them
to arrive. The morning class will be taken to the pick-up pad for pick-up. The afternoon class will be dropped
off at the front door. Pick-up parents will retrieve their students at the gym door at dismissal. Parents delivering
or picking up children at South School should use the North Entrance Area. Drop offs are not permitted in the
lane behind the building. This is a fire and emergency vehicle lane, and we need to keep this area free of
vehicles. The afternoon pick-up line may begin forming at 3:00 p.m.
Students may ride bicycles to school and should walk their bicycles across the street. All bicycles are to be
parked in the racks and left parked until school is dismissed. Bike riders and any student who walks should not
arrive prior to 8:07 a.m. They should always be careful and use good safety rules.
VISITORS
1. Due to Covid-19 restrictions on hallway and classroom capacities, parents will not be able to walk students to
class at all. Normally, we allow this for the first week.
2. After the first full week of school parents will be required to say their good-byes on the pick-up pad.
3. Normally, parents are welcome to come into the building for conferences, lunch, questions, birthdays,
celebrations, etc. This practice is suspended until Covid-19 protocols are lifted.
4. All visitors, including parents and siblings, are required to enter through the front door of the building and
proceed immediately to the main office.
5. The security system requires visitors to be “buzzed” in after 8:00 each morning and then the remainder of the
day. Each visitor must push the button on the intercom system and look at the camera. All visitors buzzing in
will receive the same message. Each visitor will state their name and purpose for their visit. If deemed
necessary, you may be asked to provide identification. The office staff will electronically unlock the door in
order for you to gain entry into the building. A person will have a few seconds from the click to open the door.
6. Visitors must stop in the office and sign in, identifying their name, the date and time of arrival, and the
classroom or location they are visiting. Approved visitors must take a tag identifying themselves as a guest and
9place the tag to their outer clothing in a clearly visible location. Visitors are required to proceed immediately to
their location in a quiet manner. All visitors must return to the main office and sign out before leaving the
school.
7. Students may not bring guest visitors to school with them unless a specific time has been assigned for this
activity. This does not prohibit parent visitation. Parents are encouraged to visit schools. Please prearrange
your visit with your child’s teacher between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 3:20 p.m. Visitors are expected to abide
by all school rules during their time on school property. A visitor who fails to conduct himself or herself in a
manner that is appropriate will be asked to leave and may be subject to criminal penalties for trespass and/or
disruptive behavior.
No person on school property or at a school event shall perform any of the following acts:
1. Strike, injure, threaten, harass, or intimidate a staff member, board member, sports official or coach, or
any other person.
2. Behave in an unsportsmanlike manner or use vulgar or obscene language.
3. Unless specifically permitted by State law, possess a weapon, any object that can reasonably be
considered a weapon or looks like a weapon, or any dangerous device.
4. Damage or threaten to damage another’s property.
5. Damage or deface school property.
6. Violate an Illinois law or municipal, local, or county ordinance.
7. Smoke or otherwise use tobacco products.
8. Distribute, consume, use, possess, or be ipmaired by or under the influence of an alcoholic beverage,
cannabis, other lawful product, or illegal drug.
9. Be present when the person’s alcoholic beverage, cannabis, other lawful product, or illegal drug
consumption is detectible, regardless of when and/or where the use occurred.
10. Use or possess medical cannabis, unless he or she has complied with Illinois' Compassionate Use of
Medical Cannabis Act and district policies.
11. Impede, delay, disrupt, or otherwise interfere with any school activity or function (including using
cellular phones in a disruptive manner).
12. Enter upon any portion of school premises at any time for purposes other than those that are unlawful
and authorized by the board.
13. Operate a motor vehicle: (a) in a risky manner, (b) in excess of 20 miles per hour, or © in violation of an
authorized district employee’s directive.
14. Engage in any risky behavior, including roller-blading, roller-skating, or skateboarding.
15. Violate other district policies or regulations, or a directive from an authorized security officer or district
employee.
16. Engage in any conduct that interferes with, disrupts, or adversely affects the district or a school function.
RESTRICTED PICK-UP
Parents requesting Restricted Pick-up for their children must do so each school year. A request for restricted
pick-up must be accompanied with unaltered proof that the person making the request has sole custody or an
active Order of Protection for the child.
EMERGENCY/EARLY SCHOOL CLOSINGS
In cases of bad weather and other local emergencies, please listen to any local radio (WBBA) or television
station (WGEM or KHQA) to be advised of school closings or early dismissals. The district messaging system
will also notify you by phone. If bad weather or other emergency occurs during the day, please listen to local
media stations for possible early dismissal information. For your child’s safety, make certain your child knows
10ahead of time where to go in case of an early dismissal. PLEASE DO NOT CALL THE SCHOOL EACH
TIME THERE IS AN EARLY DISMISSAL.
If we dismiss early for an emergency, all after-school functions are automatically cancelled.
DELAYED START PROCEDURES
Inclement weather in the early morning hours during the winter months can often lead to decisions of closing
school for the entire day due to unsafe travel over the roads. However, two hours later, the sun has come out,
the roads have been cleared and salted and travel is much safer…..and learning could be taking place in our
classrooms. As a result of this scenario, the Pikeland administration has put the following plan in place.
With a delayed start, buses will arrive at the current pick-up points two hours later than their regularly-
scheduled time. Those students who walk or drive to school should not arrive prior to the drop off times listed
below. In the event a delayed start schedule is utilized, class periods will be shortened, but dismissal times will
NOT change.
If a delayed start schedule is activated:
● Schools will begin exactly two hours later than usual.
● All busses will operate exactly two hours later than usual.
● Parent drop off time will be two hours later than usual.
For example: If the bus usually picks up your student at 7:30 in the morning then it would pick them up at 9:30
in the morning instead.
Delayed Start Schedules are as follows:
Pikeland Preschool
Morning (a.m.) classes will be cancelled. Afternoon (p.m.) preschool classes will begin and end at their usual
times.
South School Grades K-2
Class starts at 10:27 a.m. with drop-off starting at 10:00 a.m. Students will be dismissed at the usual time of
3:20 p.m. Cereal, milk and juice will be available for purchase and for free/reduced students wanting breakfast
when they arrive at 10:00 a.m. Lunch will remain at the usual time.
Pikeland Community School
Class starts at 10:27 a.m. with drop-off starting at 10:00 a.m. Cereal, milk and juice will be available for
purchase and for free/reduced students wanting breakfast when they arrive at 10:00 a.m. Lunch period lengths
will remain the same and an alternative class schedule will be put in place. Dismissal time will remain the same
at 3:25 p.m. After school activities and athletics could remain as scheduled weather permitting. Please check
the website for updated information.
Pittsfield High School
First period will begin at 10:25 a.m. with drop-off/arrival starting at 10:00 a.m. Cereal, milk and juice will be
available for purchase and for free/reduced students wanting breakfast when they arrive at 10:00 a.m. An
alternative schedule will be put in place. Dismissal time will remain the same at 3:20 p.m. After school
activities and athletics could remain as scheduled weather permitting. Please check the website for updated
information.
11SCHOOL CALENDAR
First Student Day……………...…………………………August 18
Kindergarten/Compliance day………………..………….August 19
Labor Day…...……………………………………………September 6
First Day of Preschool…………. ………………………..August 23
Preschool Compliance……………………………………August 24
Parent/Teacher Conferences………(evenings)…………. October 5 & 7
Columbus Day…………………………………..……….October 11
Veterans Day…………………………………..………....November 11
Thanksgiving Vacation Begins…………………………..November 24
Classes Resume…………………………………....…….November 29
Christmas Vacation Begins………………........................December 17 @ 2:35 pm
Classes Resume……………………………..……………January 4
Martin Luther King Day………………………………….January 17
President’s Day……………………………….…………..February 21
Parent/Teacher Conferences… (evenings)..……..………..March 15 & 17
Spring Break……………………………………………....April 15
Classes Resume…………………………………..……….April 19
Last day of school…………(tentative) ………………….May 19
Memorial Day………………………..……………………May 30
COMPLIANCE DAY
New students in all grades (including Preschool) and those entering from out of state must have the following
records on file: 1. Physical examinations signed by a physician (M.D. or D.O.), a certified nurse practitioner or
a physician’s assistant. 2. Age-appropriate immunizations required by the state of Illinois, 3. A copy of a
certified birth certificate, and 4. A notarized Affidavit of Residency. Failure to provide any of these on
compliance day will result in your child being excluded from school.
Compliance Date First and Second Grade- August 18th
Compliance Date Kindergarten- August 19th
Compliance Date Preschool- August 23rd
CHANGE OF ADDRESS OR OTHER PERSONAL INFORMATION
Please notify the school office immediately if there is a change in your address, telephone number or other
personal information so that we can maintain accurate school records. When changing your address, current
proof of residency is required. Should an emergency arise, it is extremely important that we are able to contact
parents/guardians in the quickest manner possible.
STUDENT PICTURES, NAMES IN THE NEWS, & FACEBOOK
Students’ pictures and/or names are sometimes displayed in newspapers, on the internet (District website and/or
Pittsfield South Elementary Facebook Page & Pikeland Unit #10 Social Media Platforms), on the radio, or in
educational publications. Parents objecting should write a “Note of Objection” on a yearly basis.
12KEEPING PARENTS INFORMED
An important function of the school is to keep parents informed as to what is going on in the school. You will
receive a weekly bulletin with announcements and important dates to remember. Parents are encouraged to sign
up for “REMIND” text messaging and follow us on Facebook at Pittsfield South Elementary School.
MATERIAL FEES & WAIVERS
Grades K-2 - $60.00 (1/2 Day Kindergarten - $30.00)
If you feel you cannot pay for needed school materials, ask the teacher in your child’s room for the proper
forms to be filled out. Forms will be sent home at the beginning of school for fee waivers and free/reduced
lunch.
The school establishes fees and charges to fund certain school activities. Some students may be unable to pay
these fees. Students will not be denied educational services or academic credit due to the inability of their
parents or guardian to pay fees or certain charges. Students whose parent or guardian is unable to afford student
fees may receive a fee waiver. A fee waiver does not exempt a student from charges for lost and damaged
books, locks, materials, supplies, and/or equipment.
Applications for fee waivers may be submitted by a parent or guardian of a student who has been assessed a
fee. As student is eligible for a fee waiver if at least one of the following prerequisites is met:
1. The student currently lives in a household that meets the free lunch or breakfast eligibility guidelines
established by the federal government pursuant to the National School Lunch Act; or
2. The student or the student’s family is currently receiving aid under Article IV of the Illinois Public Aid
Code (Aid to Families of Dependent Children).
Pursuant to the Hunger-Free Student’s Bill of Rights Act, the school is required to provide a federally
reimbursable meal or snack to a student who requests one, regardless of whether the student has the ability to
pay for the meal or snack or owes money for earlier meals or snacks. Students may not be provided with an
alternative meal or snack and the school is prohibited from publicly identifying or stigmatizing a student who
cannot pay for or owes money for a meal or snack.
A. ASSESSMENT: Parents or guardians may be charged fees relative to students as authorized by the
Board of Education or in accordance with board policy or law. Student fees may include, but not necessarily be
limited to, textbook rental.
B. WAIVER
IN GENERAL: Fees may be waived or reduced by the Board of Education where good cause exists or the law
requires such waiver or reduction. Good cause specifically includes the inability of parents or guardians to
afford the fees.
APPLICATION: Parents or guardians unable to pay any fee shall apply to the principal for a waiver or
reduction of such fee within seven (7) days after receiving notice that a fee is due. The notice of fees due shall
advise parents or guardians that fees may be waived if they are unable to afford them and the procedures for
initialing a request for a waiver. In the case of textbook rental fees, the application shall be made within seven
(7) days after the scheduled date for student registration or after the day on which the student was registered,
whichever is later.
13PROCEDURES: The application for fee waiver shall state the specific reason or reasons a parent or guardian
is unable to afford the fee which may include, but not necessarily be limited to, that the student is eligible for
free lunches or breakfasts under the Community School Lunch program. Supporting documentation may be
provided or requested by the principal, superintendent or Board of Education. The principal shall make a
recommendation to the superintendent regarding waiver or reduction of a fee. The superintendent may approve
or disapprove the waiver request in whole or in part. A parent or guardian not satisfied with the
superintendent’s action may request in writing within seven (7) days after being notified of the superintendent’s
action that the superintendent submit such request to the Board of Education for its determination at its next
regular board meeting. At the board meeting, the parent or guardian shall be provided the opportunity to be
heard verbally or in writing. Any requirement to pay fees shall be deferred until a decision on a request for
waiver is made by the superintendent or Board, as appropriate.
INSTALLMENT PAYMENTS: Where fees are not waived in the entirety, a parent or guardian may request
to make payment on an installment basis. The principal and the superintendent are authorized to allow such
installment payments.
DISCRIMINATION: No discrimination or punishment of any kind, including the lowering of grades or
exclusion of classes, shall be exercised against a student whose parents or guardians are unable to purchase
required textbooks or instruction materials or to pay required fees. Remedies shall be pursued only against a
child’s parent or guardian.
SCHOOL OPERATIONS DURING A HEALTH EMERGENCY
A pandemic is a global outbreak of disease. Pandemics happen when a new virus emerges to infect individuals
and, because there is little to no pre-existing immunity against the new virus, it spreads sustainably. Your
child’s school and district play an essential role, along with the local health department and emergency
management agencies, in protecting the public’s health and safety during a pandemic or other health
emergency.
During a pandemic or other health emergency, you will be notified in a timely manner of all changes to the
school environment and schedule that impact your child. Please be assured that even if school is not physically
in session, it is the goal of the school and district to provide your child with the best educational opportunities
possible.
Additionally, please note the following:
1. All decisions regarding changes to the school environment and schedule, including a possible
interruption of in-person learning, will be made by the superintendent in consultation with and , if necessary, at
the direction of the Governor, Illinois Department of Public Health, local health department emergency
management agencies, and /or Regional Office of Education.
2. Available learning opportunities may include remote and/or blended learning. Blended learning may
require your child to attend school on a modified schedule.
3. Students will be expected to participate in blended and remote instruction as required by the school and
district. Parents are responsible for assuring the participation of their child. Students who do not participate in
blended or remote learning will be considered truant.
4. All school disciplinary rules remain in effect during the interruption of in-person learning. Students are
subject to discipline for disrupting the remote learning environment to the same extent that discipline would be
imposed for disruption of the traditional classroom.
145. Students and parents will be required to observe all public health and safety measures implemented by
the school and district in conjunction with state and local requirements.
6. During a pandemic or other health emergency, the school and district will ensure that educational
opportunities are available to all students.
7. School personnel will work closely with students with disabilities and other vulnerable student
populations to minimize the impact of any educational disruption.
8. Students who have a compromised immune system, live with an individual with a compromised immune
system, or have a medical condition that may impact their ability to attend school during a pandemic or other
public health emergency should contact school officials.
9. During a pandemic or other health emergency, teachers and school staff will receive additional training
on health and safety measures.
10. In accordance with school district or state mandates, the school may need to conduct a daily health
assessment of our child. Parents and students will be notified of the exact assessment procedures if this becomes
necessary.
11. Parents should not send their child to school if their child exhibits any symptoms consistent with the
pandemic or other health emergency.
12. Please do not hesitate to contact school or district officials if you have any concerns regarding your
child’s education, health or safety.
SCHOOL LUNCH PRICES/PROCEDURES
There will be no breakfast or lunch fees assessed during the 2021-2022 school year based on USDA guidelines. In
typical years the fee schedule is as follows. Lunch is served daily at a cost of $2.40 a day. Breakfast is served from
8:07 – 8:25 a.m. at a cost of $1.00. A menu is published each week in our Friday Note. Adult lunches are
$2.60 and adult breakfasts are $1.25. One milk comes with lunch. Extra milk is 30 cents. Students are allowed
to bring their own lunch. Milk can be purchased for 30 cents. Soda is not allowed.
Pikeland Unit #10 has a policy that strongly encourages students to pay for their breakfast/lunch in advance or
on the day of purchase. Advance payments may be sent in an envelope to your child’s school with your child’s
name on the envelope. The cashier at each school will also accept payments daily. If you have children in two
or more buildings and want to make one payment each month, please specify how much money goes to each
child’s account when you send the payment. Regular charging of student meals is not allowed. In case of an
emergency, students will be allowed to charge their breakfast/lunch. If your child’s account is out of money
they will receive a red ticket to let you know they have no money left on their account. If your child owes
$20.00 or more in meal charges, they will receive an alternative breakfast (toast, milk and juice) and alternative
lunch (peanut butter and jelly sandwich, milk and fruit) until balance is paid in full. Students owing more than
$20.00 can pay on a daily basis to prevent them from receiving an alternative meal. Bills for lunches are sent
out when a student’s account reaches -$10.00. Free and reduced price meal forms are always available in
each school office if you feel your child might qualify. Free and reduced form can be filled out anytime
during the year if your financial status changes. A new application must be completed each school year.
Contact Susan Collins at 285-9462 with any questions.
Recess Times Lunch Times
Kindergarten 11:00- 11:30 11:30-12:00
Grade 1 11:30-12:00 12:00-12:30
Grade 2 12:00-12:30 12:30-1:00
Students may leave for lunch with their parents and must bring a note from their parent/guardian. When the
student leaves for lunch their parent/guardian must sign them out in the office and must also sign them back in
when they return from lunch. Children are not allowed to leave the school ground during lunch or playtimes
without signing out. Students will be going outdoors during recess and noon whenever weather permits. Any
15child who must remain indoors due to illness must bring a written note from home. If this becomes
habitual, a doctor’s statement will be requested.
DISTRIBUTION OF NON-SCHOOL MATERIALS
School does not mass distribute commercial flyers or brochures to students. Information of this type may be
placed in the office and students may pick it up in the office. The announcement of these items will be included
in the Friday Note.
LOST AND FOUND
.
We maintain a lost and found box by the office. Any textbooks or other articles found in the building or on the
school grounds should be taken to the office promptly. Articles not claimed by the end of the second semester
will be disposed of at that time. It is advisable to place names on all articles brought to school to aid in
their return to owners. We cannot be responsible for any items lost or stolen. Students should not bring
any items (toys, electronic games) to school.
VOLUNTEERS
We invite parents/grandparents to volunteer at South School. All school volunteers that come on a regular basis
must complete the “Volunteer Information Form” and be approved by the school principal prior to assisting at
the school. Forms are available in the school office. Some teachers utilize parent volunteers in the classroom.
The individual teachers make this decision. Teachers who desire parent volunteers will notify parents. For
school-wide volunteer opportunities, please contact the building principal. Volunteers are required to check in
the office and receive a visitor badge.
PARTIES & BIRTHDAY CELEBRATIONS
Classroom parties for the whole school are permitted for Halloween, Christmas, Valentine’s Day, and Easter.
Student birthday celebrations are permitted at South School on an individual basis when a parent and student
chooses to recognize a birthday at school.
Parents are asked to follow these guidelines:
1. Due to health concerns and scheduling, treats and snacks for any occasion must be arranged in advance
with the classroom teacher. All treats and snacks must be store bought and prepackaged in individual
servings. No homemade treats or snacks are allowed at school. Treats and snacks may not require refrigeration
and must have a clearly printed list of ingredients on the packaging. Prepackaged treats without ingredient
labels will not be served in classrooms with allergies. You will be notified if students in your child’s classroom
have an identified food allergy. We strongly encourage you to select a treat or snack with nutritional value.
2. Send no more than one food item to be passed out (a drink may be sent also, if the parents chooses. If
that is the case, cups should be sent.) NO hard candy or balloons are permitted.
DELIVERY OF ITEMS TO STUDENTS AT SCHOOL
16Lunch boxes, school supplies, party supplies, etc: When it is necessary to deliver such items to school or a
student, please check in at the office regarding where to leave the items.
Flower and Balloons: South School does not accept deliveries of flowers and/or balloons for students.
Birthday/party invitations: They are allowed at school only if everyone in the class is invited and addressed with
the student’s names.
SCHOOL VISITATION RIGHTS
The School Visitation Rights Act permits employed parents/guardians, who are unable to meet with educators
because of a work conflict, the right to time off from work under certain conditions to attend necessary school
functions such as parent-teacher conferences, academic meetings and behavioral meetings. Letters verifying
participation in this program are available from the school office upon request.
FIELD TRIPS
Field trips are a privilege for students. Students must abide by all school policies during transportation and
during field-trip activities, and shall treat all field trip locations as though they are school grounds. Failure to
abide by school rules and/or location rules during a field trip may subject the student to discipline.
All students who wish to attend a field trip must receive written permission from a parent or guardian with
authority to give permission. Students may be prohibited from attending field trips for any of the following
reasons:
● Failure to receive appropriate permission from parent/guardian or teacher;
● Failure to complete appropriate coursework;
● Behavioral or safety concerns;
● Denial of permission from administration;
● Other reasons as determined by the school.
SMOKE FREE POLICY
No person on school property or at school events shall smoke or otherwise use tobacco products.
SAFETY DRILL PROCEDURES AND CONDUCT
Safety drills will occur at times established by the school board. Students are required to be quiet and comply
with the directives of school officials during emergency drills. There will be a minimum of three (3) evacuation
drills, a minimum of one (1) severe weather (shelter-in-place) drill, a minimum of one (1) law enforcement drill,
and a minimum of one (1) bus evacuation drill each school year. There may be other drills at the direction of
the administration. Drills with the exception of ALICE drills will not be preceded by a warning to the students.
MANDATED REPORTERS
All school personnel, including teachers and administrators, are required by law to immediately report any and
all suspected cases of child abuse or neglect to the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services.
SEX OFFENDER NOTIFICATION LAW
State law prohibits a convicted child sex offender from being present on school property when children under
the age of 18 are present except for in the following circumstances as they relate to the individuals child(ren).
171. To attend a conference at the school with school personnel to discuss the progress of their child.
2. To participate in a conference in which evaluation and placement decisions may be made with respect to
their child’s special education services.
3. To attend conferences to discuss issues concerning their child such as retention or promotion.
In all other cases, convicted child sex offenders are prohibited from being present on school property unless
they obtain written permission from the superintendent or school board.
Anytime that a convicted child sex offender is present on school property – including the three reasons above -
he/she is responsible for notifying the principal’s office upon arrival on school property and upon departure
from school property. It is the responsibility of the convicted child sex offender to remain under the direct
supervision of a school official at all times he/she is in the presence or vicinity of children.
1. A violation of this law is a Class 4 felony.
2. Exceptions must be approved by the building administrator in advance.
3. Parents my access information regarding the Statewide Sex Offender Database via the Department’s
homepage at http://isp.state.il.us/sor/.
*****EDUCATION*****
PRESCHOOL
Enrollment Criteria:
1. Children must be 3, 4, or 5 years of age and not eligible for kindergarten.
2. Students must reside in Pikeland School District.
3. Students must complete a developmental screening before being considered for enrollment. Placement
is determined by a point system that considers his/her risk of academic failure as determined by results of
screening, family, medical histories, and other at-risk factors.
4. Students must meet Pikeland and Illinois enrollment requirements: Certified Birth Certificate, up-to-
date record of required immunizations, notarized affidavit of residence, physical completed by an M.D. or D.O.
within one year before the first day of school.
Absences and Irregular Attendance: Regular attendance to class is very important to your child’s progress.
Preschool will not help your child if he or she has frequent absences. Unless your child is sick or there is a
serious family problem, he or she should come to class. Reasons for being absent from school are recorded
daily. Poor attendance of 10 or more unexcused absences will result in your child being dropped from
the program. If your child has to miss class, please notify us as soon as possible by calling the school, 217-
285-2431 or 217-285-2613.
Illness: Please do not send your preschool student to school if he or she has any of the following symptoms:
1. A fever.
2. Diarrhea or vomiting
3. An infected (yellow or green) discharge from nose or eyes.
4. A rash with a fever.
Toilet Training: Children are encouraged to be toilet trained prior to Preschool. The Preschool program
understands that early childhood involves children not only learning academics, but also life skills, such as
going potty. Preschool will provide parent education and support to assist parents as they train their child. We
encourage parents to bring a change of clothes for their child if they are still working on toileting skills. Please
be aware, too, that if your child has an accident in school we may send them home in pull-ups if other clothing
is not available or not appropriate.
Drop Off/Pick up: Preschool students will be dropped off at the front door. Teachers or paraprofessionals will
be waiting for them to arrive. The morning class will be taken to the pick-up pad for pick-up. Parents will no
18longer need to get out of their cars. The afternoon class will be dropped off at the front door and pick-up parents
will retrieve their students at the gym door at dismissal.
Visiting Your Child’s Class: Parents and grandparents are welcome to visit their child’s preschool classroom.
We ask that you prearrange the date and time of your visit with the teacher. (See visitor information, page 12.)
Helpful Tips for Visitors
1. Be willing to join in activities.
2. Whenever possible get down on the child’s level when interacting with them.
3. Dress in comfortable clothing.
4. Support the teacher’s directions.
5. Most of all, enjoy yourself!
Field Trips: Your child will be going on a variety of field trips that are scheduled throughout the year. You
will be notified of the date, time, and destination in advance. No younger siblings may be transported on the
bus.
Class/Socialization Rules
1. Preschool classes are for enrolled children only. Siblings or children’s friends are not allowed to be present
in the classroom. This is due to safety and insurance liability reasons.
2. Every effort is made to provide your child with the type of learning environment, which leads to the
development of inner controls and positive self-discipline. We do not use corporal punishment. While
interaction between a parent and child is not directly interfered with, every effort is made to model positive
methods and encourage parents to explore the use of positive discipline techniques. Where necessary, “thinking
square time” is used. This is a place away from the group but within sight of an adult.
ALL DAY/HALF DAY KINDERGARTEN
Pikeland offers both Half Day and All Day Kindergarten. The Half Day program will be offered from 8:27-
11:00 a.m. Concentrated academic instruction will happen in the mornings. Enrichment, center-based
activities, and holiday parties will happen in the afternoons. Parents choosing to recognize their child’s birthday
at school may send store bought treats for parties in the mornings for Half Day K students and in the afternoon
for All Day K students. Parents of Half Day K students may bring their child to all school assemblies in the
afternoon. Parents choosing to do this are expected to stay for the event and supervise their child. Parents have
the option of switching their child from Half Day to All Day K or from All Day to Half Day K only once during
the school year.
SPECIAL EDUCATION
Pikeland schools, through membership in the Four Rivers Education District, offer a broad spectrum of services
for students with special needs from ages 3-21. Programs are designed to meet the needs of students who have
significant learning problems, which impact their school program. In most cases the services are offered at
Pikeland schools, whether on a part time basis or full time basis. An exception to this arrangement is made for
3-5 year olds who attend the Early Childhood program, and for students who have a severe and/or unique
disability, which requires placement in a neighboring district. Before a student is evaluated and placed in a
Special Education Program, parents and/or the legal guardians are involved in the process, and must give their
permission to proceed. In addition to the aforementioned programs, other support services are offered including
speech and language therapy, psychological evaluations and consultations and counseling.
Referral may be made by parents, teachers, or any authorized agency through the principal. Of special note is
the availability of Early Childhood screening and diagnostic services. Any parent of a child who suspects his
child may need special help, should contact the South School office or Four Rivers in Jacksonville, phone 217-
245-7174.
19EDUCATION OF STUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES
It is the intent of the district to ensure that students who are disabled within the definition of Section 504 of the
Rehabilitation Act of 1973 or the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act are identified, evaluated and
provided with appropriate educational services.
The School provides a free appropriate public education in the least restrictive environment and necessary
related services to all children with disabilities enrolled in the school. The term “children with disabilities”
means children between ages 3 and the day before their 22nd birthday for whom it is determined that special
education services are needed. It is the intent of the school to ensure that students with disabilities are identified,
evaluated, and provided with appropriate educational services.
A copy of the publication “Explanation of Procedural Safeguards Available to Parents of Students with
Disabilities” may be obtained from the Board Office.
Students with disabilities who do not qualify for an individualized education program, as required by the federal
Individuals with Disabilities Education Act and implementing provisions of this Illinois law, may qualify for
services under Section 504 of the Federal Rehabilitation Act of 1973 if the student (i) has a physical or mental
impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities, (ii) has a record of a physical or mental
impairment, or (iii) is regarded as having a physical or mental impairment.
For further information, please contact:
Becky Pepper
217-285-9462
Pikeland Community School
ACCOMMODATING STUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES
Individuals with disabilities will be provided an opportunity to participate in all school-sponsored services,
programs, or activities. Individuals with disabilities should notify the superintendent or building principal if
they have a disability that will require special assistance or services and, if so, what services are required. This
notification should occur as far in advance as possible of the school-sponsored function, program, or meeting.
RELATED SERVICE LOGS
For a child with an individualized education program (IEP), the school district must create related service logs
that record the type of related services administered under the child’s IEP and the minutes of each type of
related service that has been administered. The school will provide a child’s parent/guardian a copy of the
related service log at the annual review of the child’s IEP and at any other time upon request.
CARE OF STUDENTS WITH DIABETES
If your child has diabetes and requires assistance with managing this condition while at school and school
functions, a Diabetes Care Plan must be submitted to the building principal. Parents/Guardians are responsible
for and must:
20a. Inform the school in a timely manner of any change which needs to be made to the Diabetes Care Plan
on file with the school for their child.
b. Inform the school in a timely manner of any changes to their emergency contact numbers or contact
number of healthcare providers.
c. Sign the Diabetes Care Plan.
d. Grant consent for and authorize designated School District representatives to communicate directly with
the health care provider whose instructions are included in the Diabetes Care Plan.
Students who are diabetic may possess and self-administer diabetic testing supplies and insulin if authorized by
the student’s Diabetes Care Plan, which must be on file with the school.
For further information, please contact the building principal.
FOUR RIVERS SPECIAL EDUCATION DISTRICT
Medicaid Parental Consent Written Notification Letter
Consistent with requirements in 34 CFR 300.503(dc) and in the event that your child requires health related
services pursuant to an Individual Education Plan (IEP) we hereby give notice of the following:
1. That a written and signed parental consent has been or will be obtained before accessing a child’s or
parent’s public benefits or insurance acknowledging that parent or guardian understands and agrees that the
public agency may access the child’s or parent’s public benefits or insurance to pay for services under 34 CFR
300;
2. That personally identifiable information may be disclosed for the purpose of seeking reimbursement for
Medicaid covered health-related services to its billing agent, other healthcare providers, the applicable State
Agency or Insurance Program, and/or the Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services (HFS) as
necessary to process claims;
3. That health related services pursuant to in Individual Education Plan (IEP) will be provided to your child
with no out-of-pocket expense to the child’s parent or guardian; and
4. That you have a right under 34 CFR part 99 and part 300 to withdraw your consent to disclosure of your
child’s personally identifiable information and that your withdrawal or refusal of consent does not relieve this
public agency of its responsibility to ensure that all required services are provided at no cost to the parent or
guardian.
PARENT NOTICES REQUIRED BY EVERY STUDENT SUCCEEDS ACT (ESSA)
I. Teacher Qualifications
A parent/guardian may request, and the District will provide in a timely manner, the professional qualifications
of your student’s classroom teachers, including, at a minimum, whether:
a. The teacher has met the State qualifications and licensing criteria for the grade levels and subject areas
in which the teacher provides instruction.
b. The teacher is teaching under emergency or other provisional status.
c. The teacher is teaching in the field of discipline of the certification of the teacher.
d. Paraprofessionals provide services to the student and, if so, their qualifications.
21II. Testing Transparency
The State and District requires students to take certain standardized tests.
A parent/guardian may request, and the District will provide in a timely manner, information regarding student
participation in any assessments mandated by law or District policy, which shall include information on any
applicable right you may have to opt your student out of such assessment.
TRANSITION PLAN FOR STUDENTS EXITING SOUTH SCHOOL AND
ENTERING PIKELAND COMMUNITY SCHOOL
Second grade students take a tour every May with the third grade principal at Pikeland Community School. He
shows them the building and goes over the school wide expectations of “Cool Tools.” In addition, at registration
nights in August, PCS Student Council Members take individual families on tours to help students find their
classrooms, lockers, and common areas of the building. The building principal frequently takes families on
individual tours upon request.
South Elementary School works closely with Pikeland Community School to share student information. Each
second grade teacher completes a snapshot for each student to pass on to their third grade teacher.
ENGLISH LEARNERS
The school offers opportunities for resident English Learners to achieve at high levels in academic subjects and
to meet the same challenging State standards that all children are expected to meet.
Parents/guardians of English Learners will be informed how they can: (1) be involved in the education of their
children, and (2) be active participants in assisting their children to attain English proficiency, achieve at high
levels within a well-rounded education, and meet the challenging State academic standards expected of all
students.
For questions related to this program or to express input in the school’s English Learners program, contact
Angie Ruebush at 217-285-2147.
EDUCATION OF HOMELESS CHILDREN
Each child of a homeless individual and each homeless youth has equal access to the same free, appropriate
public education, as provided to other children and youths, including a public pre-school education. A
“homeless child” is defined as provided in the McKinney Homeless Assistance Act and State Law. The
assistant superintendent shall act as or appoint a Liaison for Homeless Children to coordinate this policy’s
implementation.
DESTRUCTION OF RECORDS
Pikeland Community School District Unit No. 10 annually reviews all student records. This school district
keeps student information such as grades, classes taken and graduation date for not less than 60 years. Other
information such as disciplinary actions, test scores, and IEP information is retained for 5 years. Parents of
students and students that graduate or left this District are hereby notified that if they wish a copy of any
“temporary” information before it is deleted/destroyed, they must make a request to the Pikeland
Superintendent or South School’s principal within five (5) years of graduation or departure from school.
Temporary records will be destroyed five years following graduation or departure from school.
22EQUAL OPPORTUNITY AND SEX EQUITY
Equal educational and extracurricular opportunities are available to all students without regard to race, color,
nationality, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, ancestry, age, religious beliefs, physical or mental
disability, status as homeless, or actual or potential marital or parental status, including pregnancy.
No student shall, based on sex or sexual orientation, be denied equal access to programs, activities, services, or
benefits or be limited in the exercise of any right, privilege, advantage, or denied equal access to educational
and extracurricular programs and activities. Parents can examine instructional materials about body awareness
upon request to the building principal.
Any student or parent/guardian with a sex equity or equal opportunity concern should contact South School
administration.
NOTICE FOR DIRECTORY INFORMATION UNDER THE FAMILY
EDUCATIONAL RIGHTS & PRIVACY ACT (FERPA)
The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), a federal law, requires that Pikeland CUSD #10,
with certain exceptions, obtain your written consent prior to the disclosure of personally identifiable
information from your child’s educational records. However, Pikeland Unit #10 may disclose appropriately
designated “directory information” without written consent, unless you have advised the District to the contrary
in accordance with District procedures. The primary purpose of directory information is to allow the Pikeland
CUSD #10 to include this type of information from your child’s education records in certain school
publications.
Examples include:
A playbill, showing your student’s role in a drama production;
the annual yearbook;
Honor roll and other recognition lists;
graduation programs;
and sports activity sheets, such as for wrestling, showing weight and height of team members.
Directory information, which is information that is generally not considered harmful or an invasion of privacy if
released, can also be disclosed to outside organizations without a parent’s prior written consent. Outside
organizations include, but are not limited to, companies that manufacture class rings or publish yearbooks. In
addition, two federal laws require local education agencies (LEAs) receiving assistance under the Elementary
and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (ESEA) to provide military recruiters, upon request, with three directory
information categories-names, addresses and telephone listings-unless parents have advised the LEA that they
do not want their student’s information disclosed without their prior written consent.
If you do not want Pikeland CUSD #10 to disclose directory information from your child’s education
records without your prior written consent, you must notify the District in writing by September 1. Send
necessary correspondence to Mr. Doug Smith, Principal, 655 Clarksville Road, Pittsfield, IL 62363.
Pikeland CUSD #10 has designated the following information as directory information:
● Student name
● Student grade
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