FENNIMORE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL 2020-2021
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FENNIMORE ELEMENTARY
SCHOOL
PARENT/STUDENT HANDBOOK
2020-2021
The Fennimore Community Schools does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion,
national origin, ancestry, creed, pregnancy, marital status, parental status, or physical, mental,
emotional, or learning disability in any of its student programs and activities or any of its hiring,
employment, or volunteer opportunities and procedures.
Please indicate if you need this information presented in another language.
Por favor indique si necesita esta informaciόn en Español.
1FENNIMORE COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT MISSION
To continuously improve student achievement, utilizing all of the resources available to our
community. We strive to improve course offerings, promote a positive school climate, build
relationships, increase parent involvement, promote community involvement, set clear performance
collaborative standards, and facilitate faculty commitment to the mission.
School District Philosophy
The Board of Education believes that the purpose of education is to facilitate the development of the
potential of each student. In a free society, every individual has both the right and responsibility to
make choices and decisions for himself/herself and for society. A prerequisite for every member of
such a society in meeting those responsibilities is competence in the use of the rational thought
processes needed to make intelligent, ethical choices and decisions. If our society, as originally
conceived, is to survive and function effectively, its young people need to be prepared to exercise their
rights and their responsibilities in ways that benefit them and the society. Likewise, if individuals are to
be able to achieve their life goals in a free society, they need to be competent to choose among the
myriad alternatives that are and continue to be available to them.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Allergy Aware School and Treats 6 Medication Administration 21
Animals in School 6 Open Enrollment 21
Attendance Procedures 7 Parent Involvement 22
Behavior/Discipline 11 Physical Education Excuses 22
Bicycle Riders 12 Physical Examination 22
Bullying/Harassment 12 Promotion 22
Bus Loading and Walking Students 13 Pupil Services 23
Bus Procedures 14 Religious Beliefs 23
Cancellation of School 5 School Day Schedule 3
Candy/Gum/Soda 15 School Fees 24
Cell Phones/PCD 15 School and District Performance 24
Co-Curricular Activities 15 Student Assessment 24
Concussion 15 Student Hazing 24
Drug Abuse Prevention 15 Student Illness 24
Due Process Procedures Student Injury 25
for Concerned Parents 15 Student Records 26
Early Dismissal / Student Rights of Expression 26
Emergency Closing of School 16 Student Searches 26
Emergency Drills 16 Technology Acceptable Use 26
Field Trips 16 Telephone 26
Flag and Pledge of Allegiance 17 Telephone extensions 4
Grading Procedures 17 Tobacco Prohibited 26
Hand Washing/Sanitizing 17 Toys/Learning/Safety 27
Head Lice 17 Tuition Waiver 27
Immunization Requirements 17 Video Surveillance 27
Interviews (Student) 17 Visitors 27
Lockers and Desks 19 Volunteerism 27
Lost and Found 20 Water Bottles 28
Lunch/Breakfast Program 20 Weapons 28
Nondiscrimination and Access to Equal Withdrawal from School 28
Educational Opportunity 5
2GENERAL INFORMATION
District Administrator Principal
Jane Wonderling Carmen Burkum
OFFICE PHONE NUMBERS
District Office 822-3243
Elementary Office 822-3285
High School Office 822-3245
Bus Garage 822-3111
District Office Fax 822-3250
High School Fax 822-3247
Elementary School Fax 822-3257
SCHOOL BOARD MEMBERS
JoAnn Wiederholt, President Herman Maier
Peter Heberlein, Vice-President Sheila Ruchti, Treasure
Margaret Sprague Lyle Lang
Diane Helms, Clerk Peter James
Heather Horsfall
Fennimore Elementary School
Daily Schedule
7:30 AM SCHOOL DOOR (FRONT) OPENS STUDENTS REPORT TO LUNCHROOM
7:30-8:00 BREAKFAST SERVED IN THE CAFETERIA
8:00 1st BELL STUDENTS REPORT TO CLASSROOMS
8:10 TARDY BELL ATTENDANCE TAKEN, SCHOOL NEWS TV
SHOW
11:00-11:50 LUNCH and RECESS 4k
11:10-12:00 LUNCH and RECESS 5k
11:40-12:15 LUNCH and RECESS 1ST
11:45-12:15 LUNCH and RECESS 2ND
12:00-12:45 LUNCH and RECESS 3RD
12:20-1:05 LUNCH and RECESS 4TH
12:15-1:05 LUNCH and RECESS 5TH
3:00 MESSAGE CHECK, ANNOUNCEMENTS, PREPARE FOR DISMISSAL
3:05 BUS STUDENTS DISMISSED
3:10 OTHERS DISMISSED (Following the departure of the busses)
** School will dismiss at 2:35 on early release days.
320-21 Elementary Staff Telephone Extensions
Fennimore Elementary School Staff – Dial 822-3285, select 2 for the elementary school and the
extension number listed:
Principal
● Carmen Burkum 2100 Guidance
Secretary ● Krystle Ambort 2120
● Carrie Friederick 2100 Art
Director of Pupil Services ● Kara James 2239
● Gavin Greenlee 2273 Food Service
Early Childhood ● Amy Boebel 2277
● Kimberly Ammon-Aide 2242 Library Media Specialist
4-year old Kindergarten ● Kelly Ahnen 2276
● Deanna Gunderson 2203 Music
● Darla Nalepinski 2201 ● Joy Schewe 2241
5-year old Kindergarten Nurse
● Samantha Biddick 2205 ● Sara Peterson 2113
● Jenna Govier 2208 Physical Education
● Becky Timmerman 2206 ● Tom Needham 2244
1st grade ● Jim Prochaska 3409
● Brenda Bunn 2207 Technology Facilitator
● Maggie Kartman 2216 ● Kim Droessler 2116
● Robin Streeter 2214 Title 1
2nd grade ● Michelle Becwar 2219
● Brianna Melcher 2218 ● Lynn Knutson 2240
● Kristin Reinke 2223 Special Education
● Tammy Schwingle 2225 ● Joe Carl 2220
● Danielle Wagner 2233 ● Amy Hinrichsen 2222
3rd grade ● Megan McWilliams 2210
● Linda Gerlich 2235 ● Deanna Needham 2209
● Kate Goss 2237 Speech Therapist
● Jason Rutkowski 2236 ● Shelley Miles 2231
● Samantha Schoenberg 2238 ● Anna Schellhorn 2114
4th grade Computer Network Manager
● Tammy Greenlee 2249 ● Nate Myhre 3103
● Jerica Henkel 2243 Computer Tech/Data Specialist
● Alicia Wienkes 2251 ● Carol Jozefowicz 3601
5th grade Library/Circ Desk
● Dianne Langmeier 2252 ● Ellen Hines 2217
● Brenda Neisius 2253 Therapy/OT/PT 2250
● Coby Zwiefelhofer 2254
4CANCELLATION OF SCHOOL
When, for any reason, it becomes necessary to cancel school, this information will be communicated
in several ways.
● Parents and guardians should sign up for Skylert messages in their Family Access Account to
receive text messages and email notifications of school cancellations, delays, and other
important information.
● School closure information will be posted on our school Facebook page.
● The information will also be broadcast over the following radio and television stations as early
as possible:
○ WDMP 810 AM / 99.3 FM - Dodgeville/Mineral Point
○ KATFM 92.9 FM / KDTH 1370 AM / KGRR 101 FM / KXGE 102 FM / WJOD 103.3 FM /
WDBQ 1490 AM/ KLYV 105.3 – Dubuque
○ WGLR 1280 AM / 97.7 FM / WPVL 1590 AM / KLYV 106.1
Lancaster/Platteville/Dubuque
○ WTSO 1070 AM 100.9 FM / Z104 - Madison
○ WPRE 980 AM / 94.3 FM - Prairie du Chien
○ WKPO 105.9 – Viroqua
○ Channel 3 (WISC-TV) Madison
○ Channel 15 (WMTV) Madison
○ Channel 27 (WKOW) Madison
If a parent feels his/her child is at risk of injury due to inclement weather, he/she should keep the child
home for the day.
NONDISCRIMINATION AND ACCESS TO EQUAL EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITY
The Board does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, ancestry, creed,
pregnancy, marital status, parental status, sexual orientation, sex, (including transgender status,
change of sex or gender identity), or physical, mental, emotional, or learning disability ("Protected
Classes") in any of its student program and activities. This policy is intended to support and promote
nondiscriminatory practices in all District and school activities, particularly in the following areas:
A. use of objective bases for admission to any school, class, program, or activity;
B. prohibition of harassment towards students and procedures for the investigation of claims (see
Policy 5517);
C. use of disciplinary authority, including suspension and expulsion authority;
D. administration of gifts, bequests, scholarships and other aids, benefits, or services to students
from private agencies, organizations, or persons;
E. selection of instructional and library media materials in a nondiscriminatory manner and that
reflect the cultural diversity and pluralistic nature of American society;
F. design and implementation of student evaluation practices, materials, and tools, but not at the
exclusion of implementing techniques to meet students' individual needs;
G. design and configuration of facilities;
H. opportunity for participation in extra-curricular and co-curricular activities, provided that
separate programs for male and female students may be available provided comparable
activities are made available to all in terms of type, scope, and District support; and
I. the school lunch program and other school-sponsored food service programs.
Reporting Procedures
5Students, parents and all other members of the School District community are encouraged to promptly
report suspected violations of this policy to a teacher or administrator. Any teacher or administrator
who receives such a complaint shall file it with the District’s Compliance Officer at his/her first
opportunity.
Students who believe they have been denied equal access to District educational opportunities, in a
manner inconsistent with this policy may initiate a complaint and the investigation process that is set
forth below. Initiating a complaint will not adversely affect the complaining individual's participation in
educational or extra-curricular programs unless the complaining individual makes the complaint
maliciously or with knowledge that it is false.
District Compliance Officers
The Board designates the following individuals to serve as the District’s "Compliance Officers"
(hereinafter referred to as the "COs").
Boone Tollefson Carmen Burkum
Middle/High School Principal Elementary Principal
608-822-3245, ext. 3100 608-822-3285 ext. 2100
510 7th Street, 830 Madison Street,
Fennimore, WI 53809 Fennimore, WI 53809
tollefsonb@fennimore.K12.wi.us burkumc@fennimore.k12.wi.us
A CO will be available during regular school/work hours to discuss concerns related to student
discrimination in educational opportunities under this policy.
See school district policy #2260 for more information.
ALLERGY AWARE SCHOOL
Fennimore Community School District is an allergy aware school district. We want to alert you to the
fact that we have students in our schools that have food allergies including peanut or tree nut
allergies. Exposure to peanuts or tree nuts may cause a severe and/or life-threatening allergic
reaction that may require emergency treatment. We are asking for your help to provide a safe school
environment and reduce the chance of allergic reactions. Please be mindful as you plan lunches and
talk with your student about not sharing snacks or lunches brought from home. A nut-free table is
designated in the cafeteria to reduce the risk of exposure for students who possess an allergy to
peanut and or tree nut products.
Due to Covid-19, students will not be able to bring birthday treats to school at this time. Treats
can not be eaten on the way home on the bus. We ask that if a parent/guardian is going to send food
to school that they first check with the school nurse regarding possible food allergies within a specific
class. If you are sending treats to your child’s classroom, please consider non-food items, such as
pencils, erasers, or stickers for classroom treats. We also ask that parents/guardians do not send
latex balloons to school. There may be classrooms where homemade, bakery, or other food treats will
not be accepted because of severe allergies. If that is the case, the classroom teacher will
communicate that information to the parents.
NON-SERVICE ANIMALS IN SCHOOL School Board Policy 8390
Animals permitted in schools and elsewhere on District property shall be limited to those necessary to
support specific curriculum-related projects and activities, those that provide assistance to a student
6or staff member due to a disability (e.g., seizure disorder), or those that serve as service animals as
required by Federal and State law.
Taking into consideration that some animals can cause or exacerbate allergic reactions, spread
bacterial infections, or cause damage and create a hazard if they escape from confinement, the
Principal may permit non-service animals to be present in classrooms to support curriculum-related
projects and activities only under the following conditions:
A. the staff member seeking approval to have a non-service animal in his/her classroom shall:
1. provide a current satisfactory health certificate or report of examination from a
veterinarian for the animal, if required by applicable law or ordinance;
2. take precautions deemed necessary to protect the health and safety of students and
other staff;
3. ensure that the animal is treated humanely, keeping it in a healthy condition and in
appropriate housing (e.g., a cage or tank) that is properly cleaned and maintained;
4. keep the surrounding areas in a clean and sanitary condition at all times; and
B. other staff members and parents of students in areas potentially affected by animals have
been notified in writing and adjustments have been made to accommodate verified
health-related or other concerns.
Except where required by law, the presence of a non-service animal shall be disallowed if
documented health concerns of a student or staff member cannot be accommodated.
ATTENDANCE School Policy
For further information refer to School Board Policy 5200
Elementary students must be in the classroom by 8:10 AM and remain in school until dismissal in
order to be counted as present for the full day. Unexpected absences should be phoned in to the
school by 8:00 AM on the day of the absence.
State law requires the Board of Education to enforce the regular attendance of students. Further, the
Board recognizes that the District's educational program is predicated upon the presence of the
student and requires continuity of instruction and classroom participation. The regular contact of
students with one another in the classroom and their participation in a well-planned instructional
activity under the tutelage of a competent teacher are vital to this purpose.
All children between six (6) and eighteen (18) years of age shall attend school regularly during the full
period and hours, religious holidays excepted, that the school in which the child is enrolled is in
session until the end of the term, quarter, or semester of the school year in which the child becomes
eighteen (18) years of age, unless they fall under an exception under State law, this policy, or
administrative guideline issued under this policy. A child who is enrolled in five (5) year-old
kindergarten shall attend school regularly, religious holidays excepted, during the full period and hours
that kindergarten is in session until the end of the school term.
Parent Notification of Absence Required
The District Administrator shall require, from the parent of each student or from an adult student, who
has been absent for any reason a written notification (may be sent through Skyward or email)
stating the reason for the absence and the time period covered by the absence. The Board
reserves the right to verify such statements and to investigate the cause of each:
A. single absence; or
B. prolonged absence; or
7C. repeated unexplained absence and tardiness.
School Attendance Officer
The District Administrator shall designate an administrator at each school to be the School
Attendance Officer. The School Attendance Officer shall perform any duties and responsibilities s/he
is required to perform by State law, this policy, and any administrative guidelines issued by the school.
The duties of the School Attendance Officer shall include, but not be limited to, the following.
A. Determining daily from attendance reports submitted by teachers which students enrolled in
the school are absent from school and whether the absence is excused.
B. Submitting to the District Administrator, on or before August 1st of each year, a report of the
number of students enrolled in the school who were absent in the previous year and whether
the absences were excused. The District Administrator shall then submit this information to
the State Superintendent.
C. Providing student attendance information to individuals and agencies for purposes authorized
by State law and the Board's Policy 8330 - Student Records.
Excused Absences
As required under State law, a student shall be excused from school for the following reasons:
A. Physical or Mental Condition
The student is temporarily not in proper physical or mental condition to attend a school
program.
B. Obtaining Religious Instruction
To enable the student to obtain religious instruction outside the school during the required
school period (see Policy 5223 - Absences for Religious Instruction).
C. Permission of Parent
The student has been excused by his/her parent before the absence for any or no reason. A
student may not be excused for more than ten (10) days per school year under this paragraph
and must complete any course work missed during the absence.
D. Religious Holiday
For observance of a religious holiday consistent with the student's creed or belief.
E. Suspension or Expulsion
The student has been suspended or expelled.
F. Program or Curriculum Modification
The Board has excused the student from regular school attendance to participate in a program
or curriculum modification leading to high school graduation or a high school equivalency
diploma as provided by State law.
G. High School Equivalency – Secured Facilities
The Board has excused a student from regular school attendance to participate in a program
leading to a high school equivalency diploma in a secured correctional facility, a secured child
caring institution, a secure detention facility, or a juvenile portion of a county jail, and the
student and his/her parent agrees that the student will continue to participate in such a
program.
H. Child at Risk
The student is a "child at risk" as defined under State law and is participating in a program at a
technical college on either a part‑time or full-time basis leading to high school graduation, as
8provided under State law.
A student may be excused from school, as determined by the School Attendance Officer, or his/her
designee, for quarantine of the student's home by a public health officer.
Unexcused Absences
Unexcused absences demonstrate a deliberate disregard for the educational program and are
considered a serious matter. The District Administrator shall develop guidelines to address
unexcused absences.
Late Arrival and Early Dismissal
It is necessary that a student is in attendance throughout the school day in order to benefit fully from
the educational program of the District.
The Board recognizes, however, that from time-to-time compelling circumstances require that a
student be late to school or dismissed before the end of the school day.
As agent responsible for the education of the children of this District, the Board shall require that the
school be notified in advance, if possible, of such absences by written request of the student's parent,
who shall state the reason for the tardiness or early dismissal. Justifiable reasons shall be determined
by the building administrator.
No student who has a medical disability which may be incapacitating may be released without a
person to accompany him/her.
No student shall be released to anyone who is not authorized such custody by the parents.
Truancy Plan
The Board will issue a Truancy Plan based upon the recommendations of the County Truancy
Committee convened under State law, the Board's policies and procedures, and applicable provisions
of State law. The Board will review and, if appropriate, revise the Truancy Plan at least once every
two (2) years.
The Truancy Plan will include, at a minimum, the following:
A. procedures to be followed for notifying the parents of the unexcused absences of a student
who is truant or a habitual truant and for meeting and conferring with such parents
B. plans and procedures for identifying truant children of all ages and returning them to school,
including the identity of school personnel to whom a truant child shall be returned
C. methods to increase and maintain public awareness of and involvement in responding to
truancy within the School District
D. a provision addressing the immediate response to be made by school personnel when a truant
child is returned to school
E. the types of truancy cases to be referred to the District Attorney and the time periods within
which the District Attorney will respond to and take action on the referrals
F. plans and procedures to coordinate the responses to the problems of habitual truants, as
defined under Sec. 118.16(1)(a), Wis. Stats., with public and private social services agencies
G. methods to involve the truant child's parent in dealing with and solving the child's truancy
problem
A student will be considered truant if s/he is absent part or all of one (1) or more days from school
during which the School Attendance Officer, principal, or a teacher has not been notified of the legal
9cause of such absence by the parent of the absent student. A student who is absent intermittently for
the purpose of defeating the intent of the Wisconsin Compulsory Attendance Statute Sec. 118.15,
Wis. Stats. will also be considered truant.
A student will be considered a habitual truant if s/he is absent from school without an acceptable
excuse for part or all of five (5) or more days on which school is held during a school semester.
Notice of Truancy
The School Attendance Officer shall notify a truant student's parent of the student's truancy and direct
the parent to return the student to school no later than the next day on which school is in session or to
provide an excuse for the absence. The notice under this paragraph shall be given before the end of
the second school day after receiving a report of an unexcused absence. The notice may be made by
electronic communication, personal contact, telephone call or 1st class mail and a written record of
this notice shall be kept. This notice must be given every time a student is truant until the student
becomes a habitual truant.
Notice of Habitual Truancy
When a student initially becomes a habitual truant, the School Attendance Officer shall provide a
notice to the student's parent, by registered or certified mail, or by 1st class mail. The School
Attendance Officer may simultaneously notify the parent of the habitually truant student by an
electronic communication., The notice must contain the following:
A. a statement of the parent's responsibility under State law to cause the student to attend school
regularly
B. a statement that the parent or student may request program or curriculum modifications for the
student under State law and that the student may be eligible for enrollment in a program for
children at risk
C. a request that the parent meet with the appropriate school personnel to discuss the student's
truancy. The notice shall include the name of the school personnel with whom the parent
should meet, a date, time, and place for the meeting and the name, address, and telephone
number of a person to contact to arrange a different date, time, or place. The date for the
meeting shall be within five (5) school days after the date that the notice is sent, except that
with the consent of the student's parent the date for the meeting may be extended for an
additional five (5) school days.
D. a statement of the penalties, under State law or local ordinances that may be imposed on the
parent if s/he fails to cause the child to attend school regularly as required by State law
The School Attendance Officer will also continue to notify the parent of a habitual truant's subsequent
unexcused absences.
Referral to the District Attorney
Truancy cases will be referred to the District Attorney as provided in the County Truancy Committee
Plan. The School Attendance Officer will ensure that appropriate school personnel has done the
following before any case is referred to the District Attorney:
A. met with the student's parent to discuss the student's truancy or attempted to meet with the
student's parent and received no response or were refused
B. provided an opportunity for educational counseling to the student to determine whether a
change in the student's curriculum would resolve the student's truancy and have curriculum
modifications under State law
C. evaluated the student to determine whether learning problems may be a cause of the student's
truancy and, if so, have taken steps to overcome the learning problems, except that the
10student need not be evaluated if tests administered to the student within the previous year
indicate that the student is performing at his/her grade level
D. conducted an evaluation to determine whether social problems may be a cause of the
student's truancy and, if so, have taken appropriate action or made appropriate referrals
Note that paragraph A. is not required if the meeting between school personnel, the student, and the
student's parent, which was requested in the Notice of Habitual Truancy to the parent, did not occur
within ten (10) school days after the Notice was sent. Paragraphs B., C., and D. are not required if
appropriate school personnel were unable to carry out the activity due to the student's absences from
school.
Make-up Course Work and Examinations
Students who are absent from school, whether the absence was excused or unexcused, shall be
permitted to make-up course work and examinations missed during the absence when they return to
school. It is the student's responsibility to contact his/her teachers to determine what course work and
examinations must be made-up. Teachers shall have the discretion to assign substitute course work
and examinations. Teachers shall also have the discretion to specify where and when examinations
and course work shall be completed, including outside regular school hours. The time for completing
the work shall be commensurate with the length of the absence, unless extended by the principal
based upon extenuating circumstances.
BEHAVIOR/DISCIPLINE School Board Policies 5500, 5511, 5610
Fennimore Elementary School uses Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports (PBIS). PBIS
focuses on creating and sustaining a school-wide system of support that improves the educational
environment for all children. Our aim is to explicitly teach behavioral expectations and then recognize
the positive behaviors shown by students. The core values that we will teach and expect in all areas
are; Be Respectful, Be Responsible and Be Safe. By improving the school environment, we hope
to increase learning time and promote academic and social success for every student. More
information will be sent home with your child at the beginning of the school year.
School-wide Guidelines
The following unacceptable behaviors have been identified as "absolutes" and will not be tolerated in
any school setting including playground, buses, classrooms, etc.
1. Destruction of property/stealing
2. Deliberate harm to another.
3. Sexual/Racial, or other forms of harassment or taunting.
4. Possession of any type of weapon, such as pocket knife or other knives, toy or real guns,
numb-chucks, etc.
5. Deliberate endangerment of self through inappropriate use of equipment, rocks, and sticks and
wood chips, or leaving the premises.
6. Excessive physical contact, i.e. tackle football, play fighting/wrestling, etc.
7. Chronic insolence or disrespect to supervising adults.
8. Use/possession of alcohol and/or drugs.
9. Serious classroom disruptions.
10. Foul language.
Identified behaviors will be addressed by prompt action which may include:
● Removal from play.
● Removal from the playground and/or classroom.
● Referral to the principal.
Referral to Principal
When a child is referred to the principal for discipline, the child and the principal collaborate on a plan
11for subsequent success and restitution (fixing the problem). This may include:
1. Written and/or verbal contact with parent.
2. Plan for restitution.
3. Temporary suspension from play, and/or the classroom, and/or school.
Extreme or repeated misconduct or misbehavior may result in:
1. In-school detention or suspension
2. Referral to police
3. Out-of-school suspension (1-10 days)
4. Expulsion (per school board policy)
Parents are always encouraged to dialogue with their children’s teachers and with the principal
whenever there is a concern regarding behavior and/or consequences. In addition to these general
behavior guidelines, Fennimore Community School Board policy #5610 more specifically defines
conditions under which a student may be suspended or expelled from school.
BICYCLE RIDERS
Parents are urged to allow children to ride bicycles to school only when they are sure the child has the
maturity, ability and good judgment to ride safely. Riding bicycles to school is potentially dangerous
for primary grade children.
1. Bicycles must be parked in the bike racks as soon as the student arrives at school.
2. Remember to observe all traffic regulations while riding to and from school.
3. Students are not allowed to ride their bikes on school grounds.
BULLYING/HARASSMENT School Board Policy 5517 and 5517.01
"Bullying” Bullying is deliberate or intentional behavior using word or actions, intended to cause fear,
intimidation, or harm. Bullying may be a repeated behavior and involves an imbalance of power.
Furthermore, it may be serious enough to negatively impact a student's educational, physical, or
emotional well being. The behavior may be motivated by an actual or perceived distinguishing
characteristic, such as, but not limited to: age; national origin; race; ethnicity; religion; gender; gender
identity; sexual orientation; physical attributes; physical or mental ability or disability; and social,
economic, or family status; however this type of prohibited bullying behavior need not be based on
any of those particular or other particular characteristics. It includes, but is not necessarily limited to
such behaviors as stalking, cyberbullying, intimidating, menacing, coercing, name-calling, taunting,
making threats, and hazing.
"Cyberbullying" – the use of information and communication technologies such as e-mail, cell phone
and pager text messages, instant messaging (IM), defamatory personal web sites, and defamatory
online personal polling websites, to support deliberate, repeated, and hostile behavior by an individual
or group, that is intended to harm others."
"Harassment" includes, but is not limited to, any act which subjects an individual or group to
unwanted, abusive behavior of a nonverbal, verbal, written or physical nature on the basis of sex,
(including transgender status, change of sex, or gender identity), race, color, national origin, religion,
creed, ancestry, marital or parental status, sexual orientation or physical, mental, emotional or
learning disability, or any other characteristic protected by Federal or State civil rights laws.
“Sexual Harassment” consists of unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, sexually
motivated physical conduct or other verbal or physical conduct or communication of a sexual nature.
Complaint Procedures
Any student that believes s/he has been or is the victim of bullying should immediately report the
situation to the building principal or assistant principal, or the District Administrator. The student may
also report concerns to a teacher or counselor who will be responsible for notifying the appropriate
administrator or Board official. Complaints against the building principal should be filed with the
12District Administrator. Complaints against the District Administrator should be filed with the Board
President.
Every student is encouraged to report any situation that they believe to be bullying behavior directed
toward a student. Reports may be made to those identified above.
All school staff members and school officials who observe or become aware of acts of bullying are
required to report these acts to the building principal or assistant principal, or the District
Administrator.
Reports of bullying may be made verbally or in writing and may be made confidentially. All such
reports, whether verbal or in writing, will be taken seriously and a clear account of the incident is to be
documented. A written record of the report, including all pertinent details, will be made by the recipient
of the report.
If the investigation finds that bullying has occurred, it will result in prompt and appropriate remedial
and/or disciplinary action. This may include student discipline, including, but not limited to reprimand,
suspension, or possible expulsion. Further, the result of an investigation that finds that bullying has
occurred may result in discharge for employees, exclusion for parents, guests, volunteers, and
contractors, and removal from any official position and/or a request to resign for Board members.
Individuals may also be referred to law enforcement officials.
This policy shall not be interpreted to infringe upon the First Amendment rights of students (i.e., to
prohibit a reasoned and civil exchange of opinions, or debate, that is conducted at appropriate times
and places during the school day and is protected by State or Federal law).
Retaliation against any person who reports, is thought to have reported, files a complaint, or otherwise
participates in an investigation or inquiry concerning allegations of bullying is prohibited and will not be
tolerated. Such retaliation shall be considered a serious violation of Board policy and independent of
whether a complaint is substantiated. Suspected retaliation should be reported in the same manner as
bullying. Making intentionally false reports about bullying for the purpose of getting someone in trouble
is similarly prohibited and will not be tolerated. Retaliation and intentionally making a false report may
result in disciplinary action as indicated above.
If a student or other individual believes there has been bullying, regardless of whether it fits a
particular definition, s/he should report it and allow the administration to determine the appropriate
course of action.
Privacy/Confidentiality
The School District will respect the privacy of the complainant, the individual(s) against who the
complaint is filed, and the witnesses as much as possible, consistent with the Board’s legal
obligations to investigate, to inform parents, to take appropriate action, and to conform with any
discovery or disclosure obligations. All records generated under this policy and its related
administrative guidelines shall be maintained as confidential to the extent permitted by law.
To the extent appropriate in conducting a thorough investigation and/or as legally permitted,
confidentiality will be maintained during the investigation process.
BUS LOADING/UNLOADING AND WALKING STUDENTS
Buses unload on the North side of the building in the morning. Students should proceed to the grade
level entrance of the school. Parents dropping off students should do so on the front (East side)
13sidewalk.Please pull ahead as far as possible and drop students off next to the sidewalk. Walking
students are expected to exercise extreme care when coming to and leaving school. Students must
use the sidewalks and crosswalks. Cutting through the bus loading area is dangerous and not
allowed. Walking students should refrain from walking on lawns of adjacent properties to the school
when coming to or leaving school.
Student entrances:
● Grades 4k-5K enter through using the front entrance
● Grades 1-2 South Front entrance
● Grades 3-5 North entrance
Students will go directly to their classrooms.
BUS PROCEDURES/GUIDELINES
It is the policy of the Board of Education to provide transportation for those students, of any age,
whose distance from their school makes this service necessary within the limitations established by
State law and the regulations of the Department of Public Instruction or other appropriate agency.
A. Fennimore Community School District will transport currently enrolled students and assigned
for curricular and co-curricular programs. Students and assigned chaperones are the only
persons authorized to be transported by district school buses.
B. Students who wish to participate in curricular and co-curricular programs requiring
transportation shall utilize district transportation services. If a student will be riding home from
a school event, they must provide the adult in charge of the event a signed written permission
from their parent/guardian.
C. Transportation of eligible students with exceptional educational needs shall be arranged
through the use of District-owned vehicles, through cooperation with other districts, through
commercial carriers, and/or by other means in the most efficient and economical manner.
School Bus Rider Responsibilities
A. The same behavioral expectations are held for students on the school bus and at bus stops as
at school.
B. Some situations are unique to the bus:
a. No eating or drinking is allowed on daily bus routes.
b. Be on time at the designated school bus stop - keep the bus on schedule.
c. Do not move toward the bus at the school loading zone until the bus has been brought
to a complete stop.
d. Keep the hands, head, and objects inside the bus at all times after entering and until
leaving the bus.
e. In the event of a road emergency, remain in the bus until directed to do otherwise by
the bus driver. Cross the road when necessary after getting off the bus at least ten feet
in front of the bus, but only after checking to be sure no traffic is approaching and after
receiving the sign from the driver.
f. Bus riders are not permitted to leave the bus except at regular bus stops unless written
authority has been given in advance by the parents to school officials.
g. Students must have written permission from parents and school to ride a different bus
or get off at a different bus stop.
h. Due to limited capacity on buses during the 20-21 school year, we ask that the
parents/guardians give the school as much notice as possible for transportation
changes. In the event that multiple riders (4 or more) are going to the same
address for an event, please provide a one week notice.
Transportation privileges may be revoked if the student's conduct is in violation of the District
Administrator's administrative guidelines or the Code of Conduct pertaining to student transportation.
14Such revocation shall be in accord with statutorily-required procedures.
CANDY/GUM/SODA
Candy and gum are not necessary at school except in situations with specific permission of the
teacher. Sodas are not allowed to be consumed during the school day on school grounds. Please
consider this when packing lunches. For field trips, parents are encouraged to send juice boxes or
flavored water. No food or drink should be consumed on the school bus.
CELL PHONES and other PERSONAL COMMUNICATION DEVICES (PCD) School Board Policy
5136
Students in grades PK-5 may not use PCDs during the school day. The devices must be powered
completely off (i.e. not just placed in vibrate or silent mode) and stored out of sight.
CO-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES
The purpose of co-curricular activities in the Fennimore Community Schools is to promote and nurture
maximum participation by all students of Fennimore Schools, to stimulate interest in wholesome
activities and to establish widespread interest in such activities.
Co-curricular activities available for elementary school students include After School Activities
scheduled by grade levels. It is important for students to listen for the announced times and type of
activity, and then have parents sign the necessary permission slip before they are able to participate.
It is the parents' responsibility to pick up the student on time at the end of the activity.
CONCUSSION
A concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury. Concussions occur when there is a forceful blow to
the head or body that results in rapid movement of the head and causes any change in behavior,
thinking, or physical functioning. Concussions are not limited to situations involving loss of
consciousness. Some symptoms of a concussion include headache, nausea, confusion, memory
difficulties, dizziness, blurred vision, anxiety, difficulty concentrating, and difficulty sleeping.
If a student is going to participate in an activity where a concussive event may occur, they shall be
provided with an information sheet regarding concussion and head injury and the appropriate release
must be signed at least once per school year.
Further, parents who inform coaches and teachers that their child is being treated by a healthcare
professional for a concussion must provide written clearance from that healthcare professional for full
or limited participation in class, practice, activity, or competition. Prior to receiving written clearance
from a healthcare professional, students who have sustained a concussion may not participate in any
school-related physical activities.
DRUG ABUSE PREVENTION School Board Policies 5500 and 5530
The administration and staff recognize that the misuse of drugs is a serious problem with legal,
physical, and social implications for the entire school community.
The use, possession, concealment, or distribution of any drug, drug look-alike and any
drug-paraphernalia at any time on school property or at any school‑related event is prohibited.
Disciplinary sanctions, up to and including expulsion and referral for prosecution, will be imposed on
students who violate the school's drug abuse guidelines.
DUE PROCESS FOR CONCERNED PARENTS
Occasionally parents find themselves concerned over a school service or procedure. Communication
15between home and school can be enhanced if parents are aware of the course of action that can be
followed.
For parents who wish to discuss their concern, the following procedures are recommended
1. If the concern is with a teacher and/or classroom service, a conference with the teacher should
be scheduled at a mutually convenient time. The matter should be discussed openly and
frankly.
2. If resolution cannot be reached in a conference with the teacher, the matter should then be
discussed with the principal. In some cases the teacher may be requested to be present at
the conference. In some situations the principal may request parents to submit their concern,
in writing, on a district form.
3. Most concerns can be resolved at the local school level. However, if further steps become
necessary, parents may contact the superintendent. The school principal may be a part of any
discussion with parents resulting from a central office contact.
4. If necessary, concerns may be taken to the Board of Education. If a parent feels it is
necessary to take a concern to the Board level, this may be done by written communication to
the District Administrator or the Board of Education.
A parent may need to communicate with other employees in the school organization if the problem is
not a classroom concern. Examples would be related to food services, special education matters, or
transportation issues. These can be referred to the administrator and/or employee responsible for the
specific area.
EARLY DISMISSAL/EMERGENCY CLOSING OF SCHOOL If because of weather it becomes
necessary during the course of the school day to dismiss students before the usual dismissal time,
five key points are emphasized:
1. See page 5 for notification information.
2. PARENTS ARE TO MAKE SURE ALL FAMILY MEMBERS & CAREGIVERS ARE AWARE
OF WHAT TO DO IN CASE OF EARLY DISMISSAL.
3. Inform the school office in advance of any factors you feel should be known if an early
dismissal occurs.
4. Students should return home by their usual means of transportation. When a student fails to
ride the regular bus home, it shall be the parent's responsibility to provide a method of
transportation from school to home.
EMERGENCY DRILLS
As required by State law, Fennimore Elementary School will schedule a Fire Drill each month that
school is in session. Students should quietly follow the instructions of their teacher/supervisor.
Tornado and Emergency drills will be scheduled twice during the school year, once in the Fall and
once in the Spring. Students should walk quietly and listen for instructions from their teacher. Upon
reaching their protection area students should sit in a tuck position with their head between their legs
and their hands behind their head. Stay in the tuck position until the ALL CLEAR signal is given.
FIELD TRIPS
Field trips may be planned for all students or students in a particular classroom. You will receive a
permission slip form for you to sign and return to your child's teacher, indicating your approval for your
child to attend these field trips throughout the school year. Prior to each field trip that your child's
teacher or the principal plans, you will receive a notice informing you of the trip, including date and
16time. The School District will pay the transportation cost. Admission costs, etc. will be paid by the
student.
FLAG AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE School Board Policy 8800
The United States flag shall be displayed at each school during school hours and in each classroom.
The Pledge of Allegiance or the National Anthem is offered in grades 1-12 each school day. No
student shall be compelled against his/her objections or those of his/her parents or guardians to recite
the Pledge of Allegiance or sing the National Anthem.
GRADING PROCEDURES
It shall be the policy of the Fennimore Community Schools to evaluate pupil achievement in grades
Pre-K-12 based on the Wisconsin Common Core Standards and the Wisconsin Model Academic
Standards. An Incomplete will be given when course requirements are not met within the designated
time. Work not completed or not excused within two weeks following the end of the grading period will
receive a failing grade.
In some cases, curriculum will be modified to address student needs. In these cases, parents will be
consulted and modified grading will be noted on report cards.
Grades should reflect the student's progress toward the standards in each subject area.
HAND WASHING/SANITIZING
Handwashing and/or sanitizing will be required before eating and after eating. Hand sanitizing will be
required before and after recess, Physical Education, and any class period that utilizes shared
materials.
HEAD LICE School Board Policy 8451
If a child in the District is found to have live lice, the child's parent will be contacted to have the child
treated and to pick him/her up immediately. After treatment and upon returning to school, the child will
be examined by the school nurse. The District practices a policy of "no live lice" as a criteria for return
to school.
IMMUNIZATION REQUIREMENTS
State law 140.05 REQUIRES every student entering a Wisconsin school for the first time to submit
evidence of complete immunization or a signed waiver claiming health, religious or personal
conviction exemption. The specific requirements by grade are indicated on the Student Immunization
Form. THIS FORM MUST BE COMPLETED, SIGNED AND RETURNED TO YOUR CHILD'S
SCHOOL BEFORE THE 30TH SCHOOL DAY AFTER YOUR CHILD IS ADMITTED TO SCHOOL IN
ORDER FOR YOU TO BE IN COMPLIANCE WITH THE LAW.
By law, there are new requirements for two doses of the varicella vaccine or documentation of chicken
pox disease and Tdap boosters for certain grade levels. Your child will be notified if they need further
immunizations or you may contact the school nurse to inquire if your child is compliant.
INTERVIEWS (STUDENT) School Board Policy 5540
The Board of Education is committed to maintaining the educational atmosphere of the schools and
restricting access by individuals not part of the school system but also recognizes its responsibility to
cooperate with law enforcement agencies and its need for assistance from law enforcement in certain
circumstances.
When law enforcement requests permission to interview a student at school, the District Administrator
17or building administrator shall be contacted prior to any further action by law enforcement. The
administrator shall determine whether it is appropriate to provide access to the student based on the
officer's purpose, whether the officer has stated that there is an emergency involving imminent threat,
or that the officer is in possession of a valid warrant. A warrant shall be deemed valid if executed by a
judicial officer and describes the school premises.
If law enforcement is contacted by the administration for assistance, administration shall maintain the
lead role in the investigation and shall be present or contact a parent to be present for any interview to
the extent reasonable.
When an agency requests permission to remove a student, or does remove a student without prior
permission, the building administrator shall notify the District Administrator.
Law enforcement investigations on school premises fall into two (2) primary categories. First, some
investigations will occur at the request of school administration due to suspicion of a violation of
school policy that may also be criminal. Second, law enforcement investigations may occur without
the initiation of school officials and may or may not involve activity on school grounds.
Different procedures are to be followed in each instance as outlined below:
By law enforcement personnel, on request of school authorities
An administrator may exercise his/her discretion in determining whether to request assistance of law
enforcement in investigating a crime, or allegation of a crime, committed in his/her school building or
school grounds during school hours. If assistance is so requested, it shall be directed to the local law
enforcement agency and the administration shall remain the primary investigator with assistance from
law enforcement. When determining whether to contact law enforcement, a school administrator shall
consider the mandatory reporting requirements of Section 48.981 in the event the allegations involve
suspected child abuse or neglect.
If the administrator requests assistance, a law enforcement officer may conduct an investigation within
the school building and interview students as witnesses in school during the school day.
Administrators shall take steps to assure that students are not removed from classes if at all possible.
The administrator shall be present during the interview unless the law enforcement officer, student or
his/her parent requests that the school official not be present. The student may request other
representation such as legal counsel. If a student requests legal counsel, the administrator will make
an effort to contact the parent(s) and the student will be put in custody of the law enforcement agency.
The administrator shall attempt to contact the parent(s) of any student prior to questioning by law
enforcement. A decision whether to take a student into custody is the decision of the law enforcement
officer.
If the investigation focuses on a particular student as a prime suspect of crime, the administrator and
the law enforcement officer shall abide by the guidelines with respect to any interrogation, search and
arrest. Once law enforcement is involved in an investigation of possible criminal activity on school
grounds, assuring that the constitutionally protected rights are respected during the investigation
process is the law enforcement officers' responsibility.
School officials shall assist and cooperate in investigations as requested by law enforcement and
consistent with District responsibility to maintain the confidentiality of student records under State and
Federal law.
18By law enforcement personnel without request of school authorities
Law enforcement officers will be asked to make every effort to interview students outside of the school
hours and outside of the school setting in those cases where assistance has not been requested by
school authorities. This procedure will not apply to circumstances where a serious crime may be
involved, or where imminent threats to persons or property may be involved or where law enforcement
states that it is not feasible to interview the student outside of school due to the nature of the
investigation and that they are not able to provide specific information substantiating the need to
immediately interview the student.
If law enforcement deems it absolutely necessary to interview a student at school, the law
enforcement personnel shall first contact the administrator regarding the planned visit and inform the
administrator of the circumstances that require him/her to investigate within the school and obtain
his/her approval to interview a student during school hours. The police officer shall not commence
his/her investigation until such approval is obtained. The law enforcement personnel may appeal to
the District Administrator if it is deemed that approval was unreasonably withheld.
The administrator shall make every effort to maintain the privacy of the student.
Accordingly, the administrator shall do the following:
Request that every attempt be made to schedule questioning during a time the student is not in class.
Request that the student be pulled out of class by a school administrator, rather than a police officer, if
necessary.
Notify the law enforcement officer that the school official will attempt to contact the student's parent(s)
prior to questioning, unless specifically requested not to because such contact would unduly impede
the investigation.
If law enforcement officer is in possession of a valid warrant, school officials shall in no way interfere
with the officer's execution of the warrant. A warrant shall be considered "valid" if it accurately
describes the school facility and is executed by an authorized judicial official. District officials shall not
attempt to evaluate the sufficiency of probable cause upon which the warrant is based.
In the event a law enforcement officer seeks to execute a warrant on school grounds, the officer is to
be directed to building administration. The administration shall attempt to assist in executing the
warrant by directing the student to report to the office. The school administration shall then (1) contact
the student's parent if the student is a minor; and (2) contact the District Administrator. This process
shall be followed unless the law enforcement official states that s/he has reason to believe that the
subject of the warrant poses an immediate threat to the health and safety of others while in the
school. In such a case, school officials shall grant access to the facility for execution of the warrant.
LOCKERS AND DESKS School Board Policy 5771 (See section on student searches)
Homeroom teachers will assign a corridor locker to each student. Two students may share a locker in
grades K-5. It is expected that good housekeeping and organizing habits will be used by students at
all times. Teachers are expected to inspect students' lockers and desks periodically.
School lockers and desks are the property of Fennimore Community Schools. At no time does the
Fennimore School District relinquish its exclusive control of lockers or desks provided for the
convenience of students. Periodic general inspections of lockers and desks may be conducted by the
19school principal or his/her designee for any reason at any time, without notice, without student
consent, and without a search warrant.
LOST AND FOUND
The lost and found area is in the cafeteria hallway.. Students who have lost items should check there
and may retrieve their items. Items that may have a higher value such as jewelry, wallets, etc. will be
kept in the office and can be claimed if a proper description is given. Unclaimed items will be given to
charity at the close of the school year.
LUNCH/BREAKFAST PROGRAM School Board Policy 8500
The Fennimore Community School District’s breakfast and hot lunch program offers family accounts.
Money may be deposited in your account by bringing your deposit to the elementary, high school or
district offices. Monies brought to school will be deposited in the family account in full. All students
within one household will share an account regardless of which building they attend. Each student will
have an electronic meal card. The card will contain the student’s name and picture. The card will be
scanned each time the student eats breakfast, hot lunch or has milk outside these programs. The cost
will then be deducted from the balance in the family account. Parents may check the status of their
family’s lunch account online via Skyward Family Access. Questions regarding Family Access may
be directed to Jeanne Henkel in the District Office (822-3243 ext 1004).
The price of lunches will be $3.00 per day in the elementary building. A student requesting a second
entree $.25 Breakfasts are $1.50. Morning milk only and additional milk at lunch will be deducted
from the family account at $.30 per carton. Families will be given a notice when their account balance
drops under $10.00. Families may make deposits to their account at anytime. Families are
encouraged to pay by the month, the quarter or the semester. Changes in family situations will be
addressed on an individual basis. Please contact the office of the building in which your child(ren)
attend school.
Office staff will attempt to contact parents of elementary students with insufficient funds in their
accounts. A new district policy is in place concerning insufficient funds in a family lunch account.
Please see the new policy in the District Newsletter, or contact the school for more information. There
will be no loaning of scan cards. No students will be allowed to access accounts other than their own.
Initial cards are issued free of charge. Replacement cards are $5.00 each.
Free and reduced priced breakfasts and lunches will continue to be available to qualifying families.
Fennimore Schools encourages all families to apply by completing an application and submitting it to
the Fennimore Community School District office.
Parents are permitted to come to school and eat lunch with their child(ren). Adult lunch tickets cost
$4.00 per day and adult breakfast tickets cost $2.25. Please call the school in advance to enable the
cooks to plan accordingly. Parents and visitors will not be able to eat lunch with their children during
the 2020-21 school year.
Any student wishing to bring a sack lunch from home may do so. Students bringing their own lunch
will go to the cafeteria with their class and eat with their classmates. Students choosing to bring a
sack lunch are encouraged to bring nutritious foods and are reminded that no soda pop is allowed in
the lunchroom. Any student wanting milk must have sufficient funds in their family account.
Proper manners and general lunchroom behavior is expected at all times. Respect will be shown to
all students and adults alike. Students are expected to eat quietly and orderly and enjoy the
lunchroom as a part of the total positive school experience. Talking in a normal tone of voice is
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