DISTRICT - ECPPS - 2020 District Handbook for Students & Parents
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DRAFT
ECPPS
ELIZABETH CITY - PASQUOTANK PUBLIC SCHOOLS
PREPARING GLOBALLY COMPETITIVE CITIZENS
DISTRICT2019/20
HANDBOOK
ELIZABETH CITY-PASQUOTANK PUBLIC SCHOOLS
BOARD OF EDUCATION
CHAIR, Sharon Warden
2613 Willis Drive
Elizabeth City, NC 27909
252-338-6416 (home)
swarden@ecpps.k12.nc.us
VICE-CHAIR, Virginia Houston
602 W. Main Street
Elizabeth City, NC 27909
252-338-0068 (home)
vhouston602@gmail.com
MEMBER, George Archuleta
1613 Pot O’ Gold Trail
Elizabeth City, NC 27909
252-333-7392 (home)
garchuleta@ecpps.k12.nc.us
MEMBER, Walter B. Jolly
407 Inlet Drive
Elizabeth City, NC 27909
252-339-0585 (cell)
MEMBER, Pamela Pureza
2061 Rivershore Road
Elizabeth City, NC 27909
252-338-8565 (home)
ppureza@ecpps.k12.nc.us
VICE-CHAIR, Dr. Denauvo Robinson
604 Small Drive
Elizabeth City, NC 27909
252-207-1981 (cell)
denauvorobinson@hotmail.com
MEMBER, Dr. Sheila H. Williams
203 Golf Club Drive
Elizabeth City, NC 27909
252-335-5229 (home)
shwilliams@ecpps.k12.nc.us
Elizabeth City-Pasquotank Public Schools
Strategic Plan 2016-2021
“Preparing Globally Competitive Citizens”
In collaboration with caring, loving, thoughtful parents, other citizens, professionals and elected officials who have demonstrated through their
collective, unified voices their valuable insights and suggestions for the economic future of our county by speaking at community meetings,
the Strategic Planning Task Force has prepared this plan to build an exciting and vibrant future for the students enrolled in the Elizabeth City-
Pasquotank Public Schools.
STRATEGIC PLAN 2016-2021
VISION ~ In a changing world, ECPPS will prepare all MISSION ~ To ensure and provide an innovative, responsive, and safe
learners to be productive, competitive, and successful environment that prepares and engages all learners.
citizens.
GOAL: STRATEGIES:
Every student in ECPPS will graduate from high school Expand job shadowing, internships, mentorships and career fair opportunities
prepared for work, further education and citizenship. for all careers.
OBJECTIVE: Explore rezoning to reclassify grade spans (K-3, 4-6, 7-8) to help close the
By June 2021, 100% of ECPPS students will graduate from high achievement gap and provide age-appropriate, learner focused education.
school prepared for citizenship and further education, work, or Solicit the Elizabeth City-Pasquotank community, faith based community, Coast
military services as determined by school district reports required Guard community and college community to assist with all learners in reaching
by law. their full potential.
Increase dual enrollment services and establish an early college high school.
Aggressively market school system success as well as individual school
success.
GOAL: STRATEGIES:
Every student in ECPPS will have a personalized Provide differentiated support to all educators including training, coaching and
education. monitoring to ensure personalized education for all learners.
OBJECTIVE: Define and communicate to all stakeholders the meaning and expectations of a
By 2021, personalized education will result in 100% of ECPPS personalized education.
students fulfilling expectations as demonstrated by district, state Utilize the multi-tiered system of support framework for Pre-K - 12th Grade
and national assessments throughout the K-12 experience. student success (MTSS).
Incorporate personalized education into the culture of the district.
Reestablish a parent center that will provide communication and support for all
stakeholders.
Dis tr ic t H a n d b o o k
2 0 1 9 - 2 0 2 0 Stra tegic Pla n
Elizabeth City-Pasquotank Public Schools
Strategic Plan 2016-2021
“Preparing Globally Competitive Citizens”
GOAL: STRATEGIES:
In ECPPS, every student, every day will have excellent Evaluate current entry program for new teachers and develop a rubric for
educators. district hiring process.
OBJECTIVE: Implement a process to address teacher expectations, retention,
By 2021, there will be an increase in ECPPS teachers pursuing empowerment, accountability, community support, and hiring.
further education, graduate degrees, or National Board Broaden communication opportunities/strategies for community support for
Certification as determined by the NC Public School Report Card. educators - marketing plan (use all forms including social media, radio,
newspaper, etc.).
Create an incentive program and customized PD opportunities for educators
that motivate them to exceed expectations.
GOAL: STRATEGIES:
ECPPS will have up-to-date financial, business, and Financial:
technology systems to serve its students, parents, and Develop operational review/project needs assessment to determine funding
educators. and resources.
OBJECTIVE: Secure grant writing expertise for funding.
By 2021, ECPPS will develop and implement a district Create budget planning timelines for allocation of resources and ability to meet
educational/instructional technology plan incorporating the goals and strategies.
financial, business and technology needs by measuring: Business:
Student performance/satisfaction
Utilize technology to improve processes and relationships.
Staff performance/satisfaction
Business efficiencies Develop and sustain business and government agencies
Community satisfaction partnerships/incorporate marketing.
Expand communication between school and community, parents and students.
Technology:
Complete student needs assessment (school and home).
Provide training/professional development for staff, students and parents
GOAL: STRATEGIES:
Every student in ECPPS will be healthy, safe, and Healthy: Improve the overall health/wellness of all stakeholders.
responsible. Provide breakfast for all students.
OBJECTIVE: Expansion of the following programs: guidance, nursing, mental health,
By 2021, 100% of ECPPS students will demonstrate healthy, safe emotional health/self-esteem, physical/exercise.
and responsible behaviors as measured by data (discipline Safe: All stakeholders are responsible for ECPPS safety.
attendance, student survey, wellness/mental health). Memorandum of understanding (MOU) for School Resource Officers.
Camera access for law enforcement.
Staff development/ongoing professional development.
Community mentors.
Facilities.
Responsible: Promote and develop positive citizenship behavior.
Implement PBIS (Positive Behavior Intervention Strategies).
Mentorships in community.
Clear expectations for all stakeholders (parents, students, staff, community).
Elizabeth City-Pasquotank Public Schools
1200 Halstead Boulevard, Elizabeth City, NC 27909
252.335.2981 ~ www.ecpps.k12.nc.us
D i str i c t H a n d b o o k
2 0 1 9 - 2 0 2 0 S t rate g i c Pl a n
TABLE OF [ C o n t e n t s ]
SECTION 1: [ Ever y studen t i n ECPPS w ill graduate from high scho ol
p rep a red f o r work , f ur th er educati on, and cit ize nship ]
Accreditation / Attendance/Absences / District/School Report Cards, 2-3
High School: Graduation Requirements, 3
High School: Preparing for Career and College Readiness / Kindergarten: Registration Information, 4
Middle School: Course Requirements / Pre-Kindergarten: Information, 4-5
SECTION 2: [ Every student in ECPPS will have a personalized education ]
Access of Pupil Records / AIG Program, 5
Advancement Via Individual Determination (AVID) / Band / Career & College Promise Program, 6
Career & Technical Education / Credit by Demonstrated Mastery (CDM) / Curriculum, 7
Cyber Campus & Distance Learning Opportunities / Exceptional Children’s Services, 8
H.L. Trigg Community School / Parent-Teacher Conferences / Report Cards, 9
Testing Information, 10
SECTION 3: [ In ECPPS, every student, every day will have excellent educators ]
Excellent Educators, 11
SECTION 4: [ E C PPS wi l l h ave up -to - date financial, busine ss, and te chnol o gy
s y s tem s to s e r ve studen ts, paren ts, and e ducator s ]
Board of Education Meeting Schedule / Booster Clubs, 11
Central Services Contacts / Channel 8/ECPPS TV, 12
Education Foundation / Facility Access / Parent Phone Notification System, 13
Parent/Student Portal - Power School, Publicity & News Media Disclaimer, 13
School Delays or Closings / Student Fees / Volunteers & Business Partnerships / Website, 14-15
SECTION 5: [ Ever y studen t i n ECPPS w ill b e he althy, sa fe, and re sp onsibl e ]
AED Information / After School Care and Summer Camp Program / AHERA Notification, 15
Athletics: Concussion Awareness / Athletics: Eligibility, 16
Athletics: Sickle Cell Traits and Sports, 17
Bullying, Discrimination and Harassment / Bus Transportation Information 17-18
Character Education / Children With Diabetes, 18
Counseling Services / Critical Incident Response, 18
Crossing Guards / Dress Code / Driver’s Education / Dropout Prevention/Driver’s License, 19
FERPA / Health & Wellness, 20-21
Healthy Youth Act / Homelessness, 21
Immunizations, 22
Junior and Senior Information Release to College & Military Recruiters / Kindergarten Swim Lessons, 22
Local Student Wellness Policy / Safety Prep of Foods, 23
Multi-tiered System / NC Safe Surrender Law / Pesticide Information / Protection of Pupil Rights, 23-24
Safety Drills / School Nurses & First Responders / School Nutrition Program, 25-26
School Psychologists / Section 504, 26
Social Workers / Student Medications / Student Searches / Technology: Responsible Use Information, 26-27
Use of Seclusion & Restraint / Visitors / Voluntary Insurance, 27-28
Parent Appeal Process, 29
Student Discipline Information 30-37
Elizabeth City-Pasquotank P u b l i c S c h o o l s
Preparing Globally Competitive Citizens
19 / 20 HANDBOOK
Section 1 ( Ever y studen t i n E C PPS w ill 9. visitation with the student’s parent or legal guardian, at the
discretion of the superintendent or designee, if the parent or
g rad ua te f ro m h i gh sc h o ol prepared for legal guardian (a) is an active duty member of the uniformed
work , f u r t h er educati on , & c i ti zen sh i p ) services as defined by policy 4050, Children of Military Families,
and (b) has been called to duty for, is on leave from, or has
immediately returned from deployment to a combat zone or
A C C R E D I TAT I O N combat support posting.
Excessive absences for any of the reasons listed above may be
The Elizabeth City-Pasquotank Public School District is subject to further review by the principal or designee.
accredited by the AdvancED Accreditation Commission, the
national commission that confers the Southern Association In the case of excused absences, short-term out-of-school
of Colleges and Schools Council on Accreditation and suspensions, and absences under G.S. 130A-440 (for failure
School Improvement accreditation seal. This means that to submit a school health assessment form within 30 days of
the district and all of its schools are accredited, and that entering school) the student will be permitted to make up
the Elizabeth City-Pasquotank Public School District is his or her work. (See also policies 4110, Immunization and
recognized across the nation as a quality school system. Health Requirements for School Admission, and 4351, Short-
Term Suspension.) The teacher will determine when work is to
be made up. The student is responsible for finding out what
AT T E N D A N C E / A B S E N C E S assignments are due and completing them within the specified
time period.
The Elizabeth City-Pasquotank Board of Education (the
“board”) believes that attendance in school and participation C. SCHOOL-RELATED ACTIVITIES
in class are integral parts of academic achievement and the All classroom activities are important and difficult, if not
teaching-learning process. Through regular attendance, impossible, to replace if missed. Principals shall ensure that
students develop patterns of behavior essential to classes missed by students due to school-related activities are
professional and personal success in life. Regular attendance kept to an absolute minimum. The following school-related
by every student is mandatory. The State of North Carolina activities will not be counted as absences from either class or
requires that every child in the State between the ages of 7 school:
(or younger if enrolled) and 16 attend school. Parents and
legal guardians are responsible for ensuring that students 1. field trips sponsored by the school;
attend and remain at school daily. 2. job shadows and other work-based learning opportunities, as
described in G.S. 115C-47(34a);
A. ATTENDANCE RECORDS 3. school-initiated and -scheduled activities;
School officials shall keep accurate records of attendance, 4. athletic events that require early dismissal from school;
including accurate attendance records in each class. 5. Career and Technical Education student organization activities
Attendance records will be used to enforce the Compulsory approved in advance by the principal;
Attendance Law of North Carolina. 6. independent study projects approved in advance by the
principal; and
B. EXCUSED ABSENCES
7. in-school suspensions
When a student must miss school, a written excuse signed
by a parent or guardian must be presented to the student’s Assignments missed for these reasons are eligible for makeup by
teacher on the day the student returns after an absence. the student. The teacher will determine when work is to be made
Absences due to extended illnesses may also require a up. The student is responsible for finding out what assignments
statement from a physician. An absence may be excused are due and completing them within the specified time period.
for any of the following reasons: D. EXCESSIVE ABSENCES (K-12)
1. personal illness or injury that makes the student physically Class attendance and participation are critical elements of the
unable to attend school; educational process and may be taken into account in assessing
2. isolation ordered by the State Board of Health; academic achievement. Students are expected to be at school
3. death in the immediate family; on time and to be present at the scheduled starting time for
each class. Students who are excessively tardy to school or class
4. medical or dental appointment; may be suspended for up to two days for such offenses.
5. participation under subpoena as a witness in a court The principal shall notify parents and take all other steps
proceeding; required by G.S. 115C-378 for excessive absences. Students may
6. a minimum of two days each academic year for observance be suspended for up to two days for truancy.
of an event required or suggested by the religion of the If a student is absent from school for five or more days in a
student or the student’s parent(s); semester, the principal or a committee established by the
7. participation in a valid educational opportunity, such as principal shall consider whether further interventions are
travel or service as a legislative or Governor’s page, with appropriate. Such interventions may include counseling, social
prior approval from the principal; work services, dropout prevention services, referral to social
services or juvenile justice, instructional modifications, and/or
8. pregnancy and related conditions or parenting, when an extended learning program for students needing to make up
medically necessary; or instructional time. The extended learning program may include
opportunities for students to make up instructional time before
school, after school, on weekends, or during teacher workdays.
D i s tr i c t H a n d b o o k
2 0 1 9 - 2 0 2 0 Accre d i t at i on • At te nd ance s/A b se n ce s PAGE 2
AT T E N D A N C E / A B S E N C E S DISTRICT/SCHOOL REPORT CARDS
continued Information from the North Carolina Department of Public
Instruction(NCDPI):
If a student is absent from school for ten or more days in
a semester, the student will receive (1) a grade of F for the Report Cards are provided for all public, charter, and alternative
semester if the student is failing the course or grade or (2) schools. District information is also included. Just as student
a grade of FA (failure due to absences) for the semester report cards provide parents with information on their child’s
if the student is otherwise passing the course or grade. performance, the NC School Report Cards offer a snapshot of
A failing grade (i.e., F or FA) due to a student’s excessive some of the important information about individual schools. The
absences may be appealed by the student, parent or School and District Report Cards are divided into five areas: the
guardian, or teacher. The appeal must be submitted in
School/District Profile; School Performance; School Indicators;
writing to the principal or a committee established by the
principal and must explain (1) the reasons for the absences, School Environment; and Personnel. The release date for the NC
including official documentation, as appropriate, and (2) School Report Cards varies; however, ECPPS releases information
why those reasons should justify full or partial credit or on these report cards as directed by NCDPI.
an opportunity to make up the work and/or instructional
time. Appeals which do not satisfy the aforementioned HIGH SCHOOL: GRADUATION
requirements are not required to be reviewed or otherwise REQUIREMENTS (in effect)
considered by the principal or committee.
The principal or a committee established by the principal In order to graduate, a student must pass all required
shall review and consider the appeal submitted by the courses in his/her course of study. End-of-Course exams
student, parent or guardian, or teacher, including whether mandated by the State of North Carolina count 25% of the
the student’s grades should be reduced because of the final course grade. The other 75% of the course grade comes
absences. In addition, the principal or committee shall from classroom work, projects and tests.
review other measures of academic achievement, the
circumstances of the absences, the number of absences, HIGH SCHOOL GRADING SCALE:
and the extent to which the student completed missed
work. A committee may recommend to the principal and GRADE POINT AVERAGE CALCULATIONS
the principal may make any of the following determinations:
In October 2014, the State Board approved a standard
1. the student will not be promoted to the next level of study 10-point grading scale that began with the 2015-16 school
and/or will not receive credit for the semester; year for all high school students. This scale does not include
“pluses” or “minuses.” Grades from prior years will not be
2. the student will not receive a passing grade for the altered retroactively. Local school districts are required to
semester (i.e., F or FA);
follow the new scale at the high school level (grades 9-12).
3. the student’s grade will be reduced; Under the new scale, grades and grade point average
4. the student will receive the grade otherwise earned; or calculations will be applied as follows:
• A: 90-100 = 4.0 • B: 80-89 = 3.0
5. the student will be given additional time to complete the
missed work before a determination of the appropriate • C: 70-79 = 2.0 • D: 60-69 = 1.0
grade is made, provided that the principal or designee
• F: < 60 = 0.0
will ensure that the standards for receiving credit for the
course or grade are comparable to those required of other Quality Points: In addition to the grade scale change,
students in the course or grade. new standards for quality points also took effect in the
Students with excused absences due to documented 2015-16 school year. The new quality points standard will
chronic health problems are exempt from this policy. In provide an additional .5 quality point to Honors courses
addition, for students experiencing homelessness (see and a 1.0 additional quality point to Advanced Placement
board policy 4125, Homeless Students), school officials (AP)/International Baccalaureate (IB) courses, community
must consider issues related to the student’s homelessness, colleges courses, or four-year university or college courses
such as a change of caregivers or nighttime residence, taken in high school. This eliminates discrepancies between
before taking disciplinary action or imposing other barriers
AP/IB and community college or college/university courses
to school attendance based on excessive absences or
tardies. and quality points and provides the same additional quality
point to all college-level coursework. For example, a student
Excessive absences may impact eligibility for participation who earns an A in an AP course would receive a weighted
in interscholastic athletics. See policy 3620, Extracurricular 5.0 grade for that particular course. A student who earns an
Activities and Student Organizations. ECPPS Board of
A in an Honors course would receive a weighted 4.5 grade.
Education policies are located on the website at
www.ecpps.k12.nc.us. Policies are listed under Board of
Education and under “Quick Links”.
El i z ab e t h Ci t y-Pasq u ot ank Pu bl ic S c h o o l s
PAGE 3 2 0 1 9 - 2 0 2 0 A ttendance/Absences • D istric t Rep or t Cards • Graduation Requirements
HIG H SCHOOL:P R E PA R I N G FO R information, parents may call the elementary school their
C A REER & C OLLE G E R E A D I N E S S child will be attending. If parents are uncertain which
elementary school their child will attend, they may call
On entering high school, the life stakes surrounding the ECPPS Transportation Office at 252-335-5684 or visit
student decision-making reaches a new level. While our website at www.ecpps.k12.nc.us for attendance zone
there is some limited time available for a young adult to information.
consider possible future options, making good choices
(with a Career Development Plan as their foundation) to
reach that objective becomes critical. Many times young
people don’t realize that wasted opportunities during
their freshman year can make it extremely difficult to
accomplish desired career goals on the junior and senior
levels. Missed chances to take courses during grades nine
and ten sometimes come back to haunt students. In some
cases, students find they are not eligible to take certain
course offerings. In other cases, students simply don’t
have the capability to complete courses successfully. Not
being able to follow a career dream could have a serious
effect on how a young person sees the future. Too many
students just drift along without really thinking about MIDDLE SCHOOL
the future. They get to their junior or senior year and start
thinking, “Let’s get started,” only to find out it’s too late. It’s
COURSE REQUIREMENTS
also important to realize that everything starts to count as The courses listed in the chart are the minimum required
a freshman. courses for students enrolled at Elizabeth City Middle and
In North Carolina students must complete the requirements River Road Middle schools.
for a “Course of Study” as well as meet local standards to
earn a diploma. Students entering the ninth grade in 2012-
13 or later must follow the Future-Ready Course of Study.
SIXTH GRADE
The Elizabeth City-Pasquotank Public School district REQUIRED COURSES: ENRICHMENT COURSES:
requires 28 credits for graduation. English/Language Arts Art*
Rising high school freshmen and their parents should Healthful Living/P.E. Band
consult their high school course catalog which is printed Social Studies Computer Skills*
annually or contact the Student Services Office for more
detailed information about high school curriculum, course Mathematics
offerings, special programs and opportunities. Science
* Semester in length
KINDERGARTEN SEVENTH GRADE
R E G I S T R AT I O N I N F O R M AT I O N
REQUIRED COURSES: ENRICHMENT COURSES:
• Child MUST be five years old on or before August 31, 2019 English/Language Arts Band
• Original birth certificate MUST be presented at registration Healthful Living/P.E. Art*
• MUST have an up-to-date immunization (shot) record Social Studies Computer Skills
• Present child’s original Social Security card (if available) Mathematics
• MUST have current proof of residence (original electric Science
bill, phone bill, etc. Only original bills will be accepted; no * Semester in length
copies.)
According to state law, a complete immunization record EIGHTH GRADE
AND a completed kindergarten health assessment are
required on the child’s first day of school attendance. REQUIRED COURSES: ENRICHMENT COURSES:
The health assessment has to be current within one year English/Language Arts Band
of the first day of school for students. We cannot accept Healthful Living/P.E. Art*
Kindergarten Assessments that are incomplete. Please
Social Studies Computer Skills*
advise your health provider that a vision and hearing
screening is REQUIRED. For more kindergarten registration Mathematics
Science * Semester in length
D i s tr i c t H a n d b o o k
2 0 1 9 - 2 0 2 0 High School Prep for College • Kindergarten Registration • Middle School Requirements PAGE 4
PRE-KINDERGARTEN The principal will schedule the review as early as possible
PROGRAM after the date of the request (but in no case will the review
take place any later than 45 days). The review will take
The Elizabeth City – Pasquotank Public School System place in the principal’s office or at another designated
offers a pre-kindergarten program for selected children place. A school official competent in interpreting student
who are four years old on or before August 31st of the records will be present at the review. Copies of the records
current year. This program is supported through federal may be requested after the review at a cost of $.05 per
Title I funds and state funds through the NC Pre-K program. page. Parents interested in making any modification to
Our classrooms are licensed through the North Carolina a student’s cumulative record folder should follow the
Division of Child Development and Early Education and procedure as outlined in the Elizabeth City-Pasquotank
maintain a 5-Star Rated License, the highest star-rated Public Schools Policy Manual. For more information about
license. All Pre-K classes are located at Sheep-Harney FERPA or pupil record access, call 252.335.2981.
Elementary School.
Family involvement is an integral component of our Pre-K AIG PROGRAM
program. Communication between the home and school
strengthens the family’s knowledge and understanding The Academically/Intellectually Gifted (AIG) Program is
of their child’s development; thus, allowing parents and based on the concept that outstanding academic abilities
teachers to work together to plan appropriate learning can be found in all types of students, regardless of cultural
experiences. Within our program, there are many group or economic status. The primary focus of the program
opportunities for families to participate in their child’s is to recognize those students and provide appropriate
learning experiences. During the year, there will be parent services. We are committed to meeting the diverse needs
orientation and conferences, take-home and in-class through providing an array of service options and the
projects, home visits, home/school communication, PTA funding necessary to implement them. Special services
meetings/events, and various other parent involvement are often required to meet the unique needs of gifted
opportunities. children. A team of professionals with input from the child’s
The primary objective of the Pre-K program is to offer parent(s) plan the student’s educational program based
early intervention skills to students for the purpose of on the assessment information obtained through the
creating successful lifelong learning opportunities. evaluation process. All procedural safeguards are followed
The instructional program is designed to provide to ensure evaluation procedures are nondiscriminatory.
developmentally appropriate learning experiences within Anyone, including the student, parent(s), guardian,
each of the objectives for developmental learning – teacher or community professional may refer a student for
cognitive, social/emotional, language, physical, literacy, nomination and possible evaluation. Screening referrals
mathematics, science and technology, social studies, art, will be accepted during October, January, and April of each
and English language acquisition. school year. Eligibility for services as a gifted student is
based on evaluation in each of the following areas:
• Academic Achievement
• Interest/Motivation
• Academic Performance
• Cognition/Intelligence
For more information on the AIG program and services, call
the Board of Education office at 252-335-2981 or visit our
department on the ECPPS website.
Section 2 ( Ever y studen t i n E C PPS w ill
h ave a p er s o n a li zed educati on )
ACCESS TO PUPIL RECORDS
Parents/guardians or eligible students who wish to
inspect and review the cumulative record folder should
submit a request in writing or by phone to the principal
of the student’s school, in accordance with Elizabeth City-
Pasquotank Public Schools Policy.
El i z ab e t h Ci t y-Pasq u ot ank Pu bl ic S c h o o l s
PAGE 5 2019 - 2020 Pr e - K P r o g r a m • A c c e s s t o P u p i l R e c o r d s • A I G P r o g r a m
AV I D E L E M E N TA R Y to a comparable band instrument. The switch will
be made at the discretion of the band director
By teaching and reinforcing academic behaviors and
based on the result of the audition.)
higher-level thinking at a young age, AVID Elementary
teachers create a ripple effect in later grades. Elementary h. For further inquiry, please contact the band director
students develop the academic habits they will need to be at each individual school.
successful in middle school, high school, and college, in
an age-appropriate and challenging way. Children learn 2. MIDDLE SCHOOL BAND
about organization, study skills, communication, and self- a. At the middle school level, the beginning of 6th
advocacy. AVID Elementary students take structured notes grade year is the only time students may join the
and answer and ask high-level questions that go beyond school band. All band classes are “carry-on” classes,
routine answers. with successful completion of the previous year
The strong college-going culture on an AVID Elementary being a requirement of participation the following
campus encourages students to think about their college year.
and career plans. Schools cover their walls with college b. No prior musical knowledge is expected at the
pennants and banners, and educators speak about their
beginning of the 6th grade year.
college experiences. College and careers are no longer
foreign concepts, and teachers provide the academic c. Since there are a limited number of spaces in the
foundation students need to be on a path for college and 6th grade band, students will be taken on a first
career success. come, first served basis.
d. Due to state requirements and scheduling conflicts,
AV I D S E C O N D A R Y students who take band may not be able to take
The power of AVID Secondary is the ability to impact other elective/enrichment classes such as art or
students in the AVID Elective class and all students computer skills.
throughout the campus. AVID Secondary can have 3. HIGH SCHOOL BAND
an effect on the entire school by providing classroom
activities, teaching practices, and academic behaviors a. All freshmen band students are required to take
that can be incorporated into any classroom to improve band both semesters.
engagement and success for all students. Teachers can
b. After freshman year, if band must be dropped
take what they’ve learned at AVID training back to any
classroom to help all students, not just those in AVID, to during one semester due to scheduling conflicts
become more college and career ready. this needs to be worked out in advance with the
band director.
B A N D AT E C P P S c. Students enrolled in marching band class must
attend band camp the summer before.
1. GENERAL INFORMATION d. Jazz band may be offered as a credit-bearing class
a. ECPPS has traditional school bands in grades 6-12. scheduled before or after school. New members
Band classes are scheduled during the school must audition for jazz band. All members must
days, with required performances and after school provide their own transportation.
rehearsals.
b. We teach traditional concert and parade band CAREER AND COLLEGE
instruments, with an emphasis on reading music. PROMISE PROGRAM
c. Parents/Guardians must provide a working (College courses for high school students)
instrument, as well as other required materials,
supplies, and/or payment of fees for band. The Career and College Promise program is designed
d. Students who play percussion, tuba, or other to allow eligible North Carolina high school juniors and
school-owned instruments must pay a rental fee to seniors the opportunity to take college level courses
the school band. through their local community college while the student
is still enrolled in high school. These courses are tuition
e. Any student not passing band class at semester
free and allow students to earn college credits and satisfy
end will be removed.
high school graduation requirements at the same time.
f. Students who transfer into ECPPS from other Interested students or parents of interested students
school districts after the beginning of 6th grade should contact the guidance office at their child’s high
must audition for the band director before joining school for details.
the school band.
Other details on the program are located at:
g. Band directors may determine eligibility of students
http://www.nccommunitycolleges.edu/Programs/ccp.htm
switching band instruments based on training and
potential auditions. (Students that have training on and
other classical instruments may be able to switch https://www.albemarle.edu/apply-register/degree-seeking-
credit-students/high-school-students/
D i s tr i c t H a n d b o o k
2019 - 2020 B a n d a t E C P P S • C a r e e r & C o l l e g e P r o m i s e • C a r e e r & T e c h E d u c a t i o n PAGE 6CAREER & This process was established to personalize learning
T E C H N I C A L E D U C AT I O N for students and to respond to the needs of students,
families, the Academic and Intellectually Gifted (AIG)
Business leaders agree community, school personnel, and leadership. CDM is
that the public schools available for any NC Public School student.
must play a major role Before initiating this process, students and parents must
in preparing students meet with the School Counselor. During the summer
for the changing work months, Central Office faculty will perform this duty.
of the 21st century.
CDM is open across all content areas, including CTE,
Therefore, the mission
for standard level HS courses in grades 9-12 (and HS
of Career & Technical
courses offered for 6-8 grade Middle School students).
Education is to help empower students for effective
Only courses offered within ECPPS are eligible for
participation in an international economy as world-class
CDM. Excluded courses include: CPR, Healthful Living
workers and citizens. Through Career & Technical Education,
and PE, English Language Learner (ELL), Advanced
the Elizabeth City-Pasquotank Public School System is
Placement (AP), International Baccalaureate (IB), Honors,
providing a systematic, comprehensive, community-wide
Occupational Course of Study (OCS), and Occupational
effort to give all young people the opportunity to: Preparation I-IV courses. In addition, Career Technical
• prepare for further vocational and technical education Education (CTE) work-based learning courses – co-op,
and lifelong learning, internship, apprenticeship; CTE courses that have
a clinical setting as a requirement – Pro Start, Early
• receive industry-recognized credentials Childhood Education I and II, Nursing Fundamentals, and
(for secondary students), CTE Advanced Studies courses are exempt from CDM.
• prepare for initial and continued employment,
• make educational and career decisions, UPCOMING DPI CDM TESTING WINDOWS
• apply/reinforce related learning from other disciplines, • July 18, 2019 - July 31, 2019
• September 17, 2019 - September 30, 2019
• develop decision-making, communication, problem-
• February 17, 2020 - February 28, 2020
solving, leadership, and citizenship skills, and
• July 20, 2020 - July 31, 2020
• prepare to make informed consumer decisions and
Note that testing windows for non-state assessments are
apply practical life skills
determined locally and can be administered at any time.
The middle school and alternative school programs
include courses in Business Education and activities in CREDIT RECOVERY
Career Development. The high school programs include
courses in Agricultural Education, Business Education, Credit recovery provides an additional learning
Career Development, Family & Consumer Sciences opportunity for students who have previously been
Education, Health Science Education, Marketing unsuccessful in mastering content or skills required to
Education, Technology Engineering & Design Education, receive course credit. The term “credit recovery” refers
and Trade & Industrial Education, as well as activities to a block of instruction that is less than the entirety
in Career and Technical Student Organizations such of the Standard Course of Study for that course. Credit
as DECA, FCCLA, FBLA, and FFA. In addition, high recovery delivers a subset of the Standard Course of
school students may earn dual credit by taking certain Study or blueprint of the original course in order to
courses at College of The Albemarle. Finally, students specifically address deficiencies in a student’s mastery of
may participate in real-world work experience through the course and target specific components of a course
the Apprenticeship Program. Appropriate provisions are necessary for completion. The “credit” offered through
made for students with special needs to be successful in the Credit Recovery Program is credit toward graduation
the program. Career and Technical Education benefits requirements only. Only students who fail a high school
everyone: students, employers, parents, school systems, course may participate in the Credit Recovery Program.
and communities. For more details concerning the A student’s participation in a credit recovery course is
Career & Technical Education programs at the middle based on the eligibility of the student and the school
or high schools, contact the Office of Career & Technical principal’s approval. Credit recovery courses will be
Education at 252-335-2981. graded as pass or fail. A student participating in the
Credit Recovery Program must demonstrate proficiency
CREDIT BY DEMONSTRATED MASTERY (CDM) in each component or module included in the credit
recovery course in order to receive course credit.
CDM is the process by which a student may earn credit
for a high school (HS) course by demonstrating deep
understanding of the content, without course enrollment
or seat time. El i z ab e t h Ci t y-Pasq u ot ank Pu bl ic S c h o o l s
PAGE 7 2019 - 2020 Career & Tech Education • Credit By Demonstrated Mastery • CurriculumCYBER CAMPUS & DISTANCE
LEARNING OPPURTUNITIES
ECPPS offers distance learning opportunities at each of
our traditional high school campuses. In partnership with
the North Carolina School of Science and Mathematics,
both PCHS and NHS are equipped with teleconferencing
distance learning labs. These labs are equipped with
multimedia computers, video conferencing rooms and
a television studio.
Many videoconference course offerings come from
the North Carolina School of Science and Mathematics
Distance Learning department. The Cyber Campus also
coordinates other forms of distance learning for the
district. Students are also able to take online courses
Students eligible for special education services,
at all of our high school campuses via NC Virtual Public
including any related service, receive specially designed
Schools and Edgenuity. Course examples include:
instruction as described in an Individualized Education
German, Medieval Studies, Psychology, Sociology,
Program (IEP) to meet their unique educational needs
and Computer Programming. For more information
for academic success. This special education service is
regarding the Cyber Campus or distance learning, call
implemented by a special education teacher.
252-331-2416.
Special education services are initiated through a referral
EXCEPTIONAL process, in which, either a parent, teacher, or involved
individual with in-depth knowledge of a child’s skills,
CHILDREN’S SERVICES
submits a written statement describing the specific
The services provided by the Exceptional Children’s concern that appears to be impeding the child’s academic
Program are aligned with state and federal guidelines success. The written concern is submitted to the child’s
as outlined under the Individuals with Disabilities Act principal, teacher, or other school professional. Once the
(IDEA) to meet the diverse needs of children with written concern is received, a Student Assistance Team
disabilities. These services are available to any student meeting is convened and the child’s parent is invited to
meeting the eligibility criteria under one or more of the participate as a contributing member of this team. This
following categories: team meeting allows the parent and other members
of the team to discuss the specific concern, develop
• Autism; practical interventions to bridge the child’s academic
• Deaf-Blindness; success, and delineate whether a referral is needed for
comprehensive assessments. Anyone needing additional
• Deafness; information regarding special education services and
• Developmental Delay; procedures may contact the Exceptional Children’s
Director by calling 252-335-2981.
• Serious Emotional Disability;
• Hearing Impairment;
• Intellectual Disability;
• Multiple Disabilities;
• Orthopedic Impairment;
• Other Health Impairment;
• Specific Learning Impairment;
• Speech or Language Impairment;
• Traumatic Brain Injury; and
• Visual Impairment including blindness.
D i s tr i c t H a n d b o o k
2019 - 2020 Cyber Campus • Exceptional Children Ser vices PAGE 8H . L . TRIGG COM M UN I TY SCH OO L
partnership to help the child. Parents may ask for
The philosophy of the Trigg Community School is to meet a conference when they want to share information
the needs of those children who have had a problem about their child, when they are concerned about their
adjusting to the regular school program by providing child’s academic progress, or when there are family or
them with a nurturing, intense and enriched academic other concerns that may affect the child’s progress.
curriculum. H.L. Trigg’s structured school environment Before going to the conference, parents should make a
is intended to stimulate the student’s intellectual, list of things to ask, share, or discuss with the teacher.
physical, emotional, social, and moral development. These can include such things as the child’s hobbies,
This environment is meant to develop a competent study habits, and/or any sensitive issues. During the
individual ready for success in today’s society and to conference, parents may take notes regarding the
insure that “no child is left behind.” Educational and discussion. After the conference, parents should talk
developmental opportunities are provided through a with the child about the results and make follow-up
variety of programs, strategies, and activities. contacts with the teacher. To find out if the school
These include: district has scheduled a special day for parent-teacher
• Individual and group counseling conferences or to schedule a conference for yourself,
• Multi-Tiered System of Support (MTSS) contact your child’s school.
• Character Education
• Tutoring REPORT CARDS
• Computer Assisted Instruction
All schools in the Elizabeth City-Pasquotank School
• Field Trips
System have computerized report cards. Parents
• Community Service
receive student information regarding academic
• Reading Program
progress, grade level standing, and responsibility. The
The Trigg program promotes strong ties and relationships
use of technology allows teachers to not only generate
with parents and/or guardians of its students. Regularly
a report card but also a grade book, lesson plans and
scheduled and special conferences with the school’s
numerous reports, including student progress reports
administration and staff form an essential part of a
at any time, with just a few keystrokes. Principals,
student’s instructional plan.
guidance counselors, and teachers can immediately
provide academic information to parents regarding
their child as they conference. Report cards are
released four times a year, or every nine weeks.
PARENT-TEACH E R CON FE R E N C E S
A parent-teacher conference is an opportunity for
a child’s parent(s) and teacher (and sometimes the
student) to discuss how the child can achieve the best
possible education. The two-way communication goes
beyond the report card to bring out more facts and
to create better understanding of the child’s progress.
The parent(s) and the teacher, together, form the ideal
El i z ab e t h Ci t y-Pasq u ot ank Pu bl ic S c h o o l s
PAGE 9 2 0 1 9 - 2 0 2 0 H.L. Trigg Community School • Parent/Teacher Conferences • Report CardsT E STING PRO G R A M
2019 - 2020 TESTING PROGRAM
(Tentative Dates)
SEPTEMBER 2019
Beginning of Grade 3 English/Language Arts Test
OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2019
PreACT Grade 10
College and Career Readiness
Alternate Assessment (CCRAA) Grade 10
Read to Achieve Test (By November 1st) Grade 3
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2019
ACT WorkKeys It is critical for all students to be present for scheduled
Standard and Accommodated Grade 12 testing days. Once set, these days will be announced
Administrations (CTE Completers - Early Graduates) by the school. Parents are asked for cooperation in not
JANUARY 2020 scheduling appointments or other excused absences, if
End of Course Exams Grade 9-12 possible, during test days.
NC Final Exams Grades 9-12 At the end of each semester under the 4x4 block
FEBRUARY/MARCH 2020 scheduling system, the following End-Of-Course tests will
be administered to students in grades 9-12 during the last
ACT WorkKeys 5 days of the semester:
Standard and Accommodated Grade 12
Administrations (CTE Completers - Early Graduates) • NC Math I**
ACCESS for ELLs2.0 • NC Math 3
ACT Grade 11 • English II
College and Career Readiness • Biology
Alternate Assessment Grade 11
** - Students in Grade 8 will be tested as well during the last ten
NC Extend 1 Alternate Assessment Grade 11 days of school.
MAY - JUNE 2020
At the beginning of each semester, vocational pre- and
Advanced Placement (AP) Exam Grades 10-12 post-assessments, administered under the CTE Instructional
NC Final Exams Grades 4-8 Management Program, are administered to eligible students
in grades 7-12. For more info, contact the office of Career &
End-of-Grade Tests (Reading & Math) Grades 3-8
Technical Education at 252-335-2981, ext. 133.
End-of-Grade Tests (Science) Grades 5 & 8
NC Extend 1 Alternate Assessment Grades 3-8
Math and English, Language Arts/Reading
Science Grades 5 & 8
NC Extend 1 Alternate Assessment -
Biology, English II, and Math I
JUNE 2020
NC Final Exams Grades 9 - 12
End of Course Exams Grades 9 - 12
Di s tr i c t H a n d b o o k
2 0 1 9 - 2 0 2 0 Te s t i n g Pro g ra m PAGE 10Section 3 ( Ever y studen t, ever y da y w ill
h ave excel l en t e ducators)
E X C E L L E N T E D U C AT O R S
Excellent educators motivate students to learn, by
teaching them how to learn, and doing so in a manner
that is relevant, meaningful, and memorable. Excellent
educators train students to be consumers of knowledge.
Excellent educators listen, question, are responsive, and
most importantly they remember that each student and
class is different. Excellent educators elicit responses and
MEETINGS The full Board policy manual is available
online at our web site: www.ecpps.k12.nc.us
develop the oral communication skills of all students. DATE TIME MEETING TYPE
Excellent educators care, nurture, and develop the minds
and talents of all students. Excellent educators help September 5, 2019 7:00 p.m. Regular Board Meeting
(Originally Scheduled Aug. 26 Meeting)
each student realize their strengths and encourage
and challenge each student to learn through those September 16, 2019 6:00 p.m. Committee Meetings
strengths. Excellent educators possess a solid command September 23, 2019 7:00 p.m. Regular Board Meeting
of the content they teach and have developed a strong
October 21, 2019 3:00 p.m. Committee Meetings
effective classroom management style. Excellent
educators sincerely care about each student and set high October 28, 2019 7:00 p.m. Regular Board Meeting
expectations for all students. November 18, 2019 6:00 p.m. Committee Meetings
During 2015-2016, ECPPS adopted a mission, vision and November 25, 2019 7:00 p.m. Regular Board Meeting
goals as part of the district’s strategic plan for 2016-2021.
One of the goals states, “In ECPPS, every student, every December 2, 2019 3:00 p.m. Organizational Meeting
day will have excellent educators.” ECPPS is developing December 16, 2019 4:00 p.m. Regular Board Meeting
steps of action to ensure we are meeting this goal.
January 21, 2020 (Tues.) 3:00 p.m. Committee Meetings
January 27, 2020 7:00 p.m. Regular Board Meeting
February 18, 2020 (Tues.) 3:00 p.m. Committee Meetings
February 24, 2020 7:00 p.m. Regular Board Meeting
March 16, 2020 6:00 p.m. Committee Meetings
March 23, 2020 7:00 p.m. Regular Board Meeting
April 20, 2020 3:00 p.m. Committee Meetings
Section 4 (ECPPS will have up-to- date
April 27, 2020 7:00 p.m. Regular Board Meeting
financial, business, and technology systems
to serve its students, parents, and educators) May 18, 2020 6:00 p.m. Committee Meetings
May 26, 2020 (Tues.) 7:00 p.m. Regular Board Meeting
2018-2019 BOARD June 15, 2020 3:00 p.m. Committee Meetings
O F E D U C AT I O N M E E T I N G S
7:00 p.m. Regular Board Meeting
The Elizabeth City-Pasquotank Board of Education, in an
effort to increase community participation in meetings,
will hold regularly scheduled meetings at school sites and
in the Board Room of the Administrative Offices, 1200 S.
Halstead Boulevard, Elizabeth City, NC 27909.
BOOSTER CLUBS
The Elizabeth City-Pasquotank Public School District is
Unless otherwise noted, committee meetings are scheduled
proud to have strong parental and community support
for the third Monday of each month and begin at 3:00 p.m.
for middle school and high school programs. The various
Unless otherwise noted, Board meetings are held on the
booster clubs provide needed support to the schools. For
fourth Monday of each month and begin at 7:00 p.m.
more information, call your school and ask for contact
(September 23 will be at Weeksville Elementary School &
information for available booster clubs.
April 27 will be at H.L. Trigg Community School)
El i z ab e t h Ci t y-Pasq u ot ank Pu bl i c S c h o o l s
PAGE 11 2 0 1 9 - 2 0 2 0 Excellent Educators • B oard Meetings • B o oster ClubsT H E E D U C AT I O N F O UN D AT I O N important recorded messages. Parents: please make sure
your contact phone numbers are correct with your
O F E L I Z A B E T H C I T Y- school office. The school district utilizes this service for
PA S Q U O T A N K P U B L I C S C H O O L S rapid parent/staff phone notification to provide courtesy
phone calls in a timely manner. Still, we remind parents
this service is a courtesy and does not replace monitoring
broadcast media in the event technical problems arise with
the system. You may opt out of this service by
calling 855-502-7867.
Since 1989, the Education Foundation has partnered with PARENT/STUDENT PORTAL -
the Elizabeth City-Pasquotank Public Schools by raising
funds and sponsoring programs that supplement and
POWERSCHOOL
enhance the efforts of our teachers and students. The PowerSchool is the student information system that is
Foundation is managed by a volunteer Board of Directors used to manage student data. This centralized system
who work to connect resources in our community with provides school districts with comprehensive and
the needs identified by the ECPPS district. Members real-time information regarding student information,
and donors to the Foundation’s programs include many grades and attendance. Student and Parent Portals are
individuals and businesses in our community. The components of the system and are accessible to all
generosity of these donors allows the Foundation to students and parents with internet access. Information on
support a variety of district initiatives. gaining access to the portal can be obtained through the
school office.
For more information or to offer your support, please call
the Foundation office at 252-338-9115, email us at PUBLICITY & NEWS MEDIA
contact@theeducationfoundation.net, visit: ACCESS DISCLAIMER
www.theeducationfoundation.net, or like us on Facebook.
Everyone deserves to be recognized and celebrated for
accomplishments during the school year. It is also important
for the school district to share its stories using its students
and staff members as subjects. It is the mission of the
ECPPS Office of Community Schools to do this through a
variety of media, including broadcast, print, and the district
website. There is also the possibility that the news media
may request access to students during the school day for
stories, features, etc. While the district grants reasonable
access to the news media, it is our policy not to allow an
interruption of the instructional day. In an effort to be
sensitive to parents’ wishes, the Community Schools Office
will gladly exclude any student in our district from publicity
activities. Parents have the option to NOT allow their child
to be photographed, videoed or publicly recognized by
completing the ECPPS Media Release Form. This form will
be sent home with students at the beginning of the school
year and is also available online at www.ecpps.k12.nc.us
FA C I L I T Y A C C E S S under the “Parents” page. For more information, call the
Community Schools Office at 252-335-2981, ext. 142.
The Elizabeth City-Pasquotank Board of Education (the
“board”) endorses the goals of the Community Schools
Act. The board will make specified indoor and outdoor
school facilities available for use by eligible community
groups under agreements developed in accordance with
policy 5030 Community Use of Facilities.
PA R E N T P H O N E A L E R T
N O T I F I C AT I O N S Y S T E M
The school district is pleased to provide parents with an
automated phone alert system. This service connects
parents to schools through phone communications. Schools
and the district’s Superintendent or designee will send
El i z ab e t h Ci t y-Pasq u ot ank Pu bl ic S c h o o l s
PAGE 13 2 0 1 9 - 2 0 2 0 Education Foundation • Facility Access • Phone Alert System • Parent/Student Portal • News MediaS C HOOL DELAY S OR CLOSI N G S
Inclement weather may affect the opening or closing of
school. Elizabeth City-Pasquotank Public Schools work
closely with Pasquotank Emergency Management to stay
informed of severe weather. Transportation Department
employees check road conditions each day, beginning
at 4:00 a.m. and make a final recommendation to the
Superintendent by 5:30 a.m. The Superintendent is also in
contact with Pasquotank Emergency Management if there
are concerns about road conditions. Our buses are on the
road before 6:00 a.m., so a decision to close or delay must
be made no later than 5:30 a.m. If fog rolls in or adverse
weather conditions form after that time we encourage our
drivers to use extreme caution and pull over if they feel
conditions are unsafe. Remember that you, as a parent,
know what is best for your child and your situation. If you
believe that weather conditions in your area are creating VOLUNTEERS &
unsafe travel conditions, we ask that you make the best
decision that you can in the interest of your child(ren). B U S I N E S S PA R T N E R S H I P S
During the school day, officials monitor weather conditions
Volunteers
and may close schools or delay the release of students if
warranted. Volunteers are our most important and most needed
Closings or delays are announced using the district’s phone resource. Community members and parents who give time
alert system, local media (television and radio) and the to our schools may aid teachers in the classroom, work
district website. Please monitor local media and check one-on-one with students, or offer their time in other
more than one source to confirm information. Please make ways. Sports events, school dances and trips, and school
sure that your contact phone numbers are current and committees all require volunteers. Anyone interested in
correct with your school office. any of the volunteer opportunities described here or in
volunteering at any school in the district should contact the
school’s volunteer coordinator at the appropriate school or
the district’s volunteer coordinator at 252-335-2981, ext. 142.
STUDENT FEES
Parents have the right to request four hours of unpaid leave
The Elizabeth City-Pasquotank Board of Education (the from their jobs every year in order to volunteer in their child’s
“board”) will hold student fees to a minimum. No fee will school as stated in G.S. 95-28.3. Please see ECPPS Policy 5015
be charged for required courses or activities. - School Volunteers for more information.
Each principal is required to submit a list of any fees to Business Partnerships
the superintendent prior to the August board meeting.
The superintendent shall adopt procedures providing that Business partnerships are extremely valuable to our students
student fees, including those for graduation, the school by offering tours, speakers, donations, job shadowing
yearbook, or supplies for elective classes, are consistent opportunities, and much more. The school district recognizes
among the different levels and schools. The board must that we are preparing our students for the world of work with
approve all fees. parents, businesses, and schools working together. Anyone
interested in creating a business partnership with a specific
Any fees imposed will be waived or reduced for students campus or with the entire district should contact the coordinator
who demonstrate economic hardship. of business partnerships at 252-335-2981, ext. 142.
As provided in policy 1310/4002, Parental Involvement,
each principal shall publish or post the schedule of fees and DISTRICT WEBSITE
notify students and parents of the availability of and the
The Elizabeth City-Pasquotank Public School District
process for requesting a fee waiver or reduction.
website is a valuable source of current information for
parents, students and staff. Please visit us at:
www.ecpps.k12.nc.us. Parents will find school menus,
kindergarten registration information, attendance
zones, bus routes, newsletters, and more on our site.
Web pages for each of the thirteen schools within the
district may be accessed through the district home page.
Di s tr i c t H a n d b o o k
2 0 1 9 - 2 0 2 0 Delays & Closings • Fees • Partnerships • Website PAGE 14You can also read
