Jennings Elementary 44 E. Liberty St. Quincy, MI 49082 www.quincyschools.org Phone (517) 639 9885 - Student Handbook 2020-2021 "Jennings Where ...
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Jennings Elementary
44 E. Liberty St.
Quincy, MI 49082
www.quincyschools.org
Phone (517) 639 - 9885
Student Handbook 2020-2021
“Jennings…Where Kids Count!”2020-2021 SCHOOL CALENDAR Jennings Open House TBD First Day for Students August 24, 2020 Labor Day Weekend – NO SCHOOL September 4 – 7, 2020 Fall Parent/Teacher Conferences TBD Fall Parent/Teacher Conferences TBD Staff Development – No School October 16, 2020 Thanksgiving Break November 26 – 27, 2020 Records Day – NO SCHOOL December 18, 2020 Christmas Break December 21 – Jan. 1, 2021 Return from Christmas Break January 4, 2021 Staff Development Day – No School January 18, 2021 President/Agricultural Day - NO SCHOOL February 15, 2021 Spring Parent/Teacher Conferences TBD Spring Parent/Teacher Conferences TBD Good Friday – No School April 2, 2021 Spring Break April 5 – 9, 2021 Return From Spring Break April 12, 2020 Memorial Day - NO SCHOOL May 31, 2021 NO SCHOOL in P.M. June 3, 2021 Last Day of School for Children - No School in P.M. June 4, 2021 Commencement TBD
JES Faculty Listing/Email Addresses
Carol Briner Art brinerc@quincyschools.org
Alayna Brombach 1st Grade brombacha@quncyschools.org
Rebecca Brown Kindergarten brownr@quincyschools.org
Veronica Brown Resource Room brownv@branch-isd.org
Jennifer Clark EI Class clarkj@branch-isd.org
Mellissa Connin Science conninm@quincyschools.org
Aimee Fedore 4th Grade fedorea@quincyschools.org
Kendall Galloway Resource Room gallowayk@branch-isd.org
Juli Gary 3rd Grade garyj@quincyschools.org
Lisa Harrell 2nd Grade harrelll@quincyschools.org
Candice Helgesen 2nd Grade helgesencquincyschools.org
Kristine Higgins Kindergarten higginsk@quincyschools.org
Mary McConnell Kindergarten mcconnellm@quincyschools.org
Sean McCoy 4th Grade mccoys@quincyschools.org
Rebecca Taylor Music taylorr@quincyschools.org
Susan Mueller 4th Grade muellers@quincyschools.org
Marcy Newsome Developmental KG newsomem@quincyschools.org
Tim Pauley Physical Ed pauleyt@quincyschools.org
Darren Skirka 4th Grade skirkad@quincyschools.org
Amanda Smith Media Specialist smitham@quincyschools.org
Elizabeth Smith 1st Grade smithe@quincyschools.org
Maureen Suever 3rd Grade sueverm@quincyschools.org
Becky Swallow Speech swallowb@branch-isd.org
Kaitlyn Swick 3rd Grade swickk@quincyschools.org
Abby Szafranski 1st Grade szafranskiab@quincyschools.org
Lauren Szafranski 2nd Grade szafranskil@quincyschools.org
Michelle Tice Kindergarten ticem@quincyschools.org
Shannon Warren 1st Grade warrens@quincyschools.org
Lynda Wheaton 2nd Grade wheatonl@quincyschools.org
Secretarial Staff Listing/Email Addresses
Brooke Heckel Office Secretary heckelb@quincyschools.org
Christina Daniels Title One Secretary danielsc@quincyschools.org
Jennings Elementary Administration/Counseling/Support Services
Ron Olmsted Principal olmstedr@quincyschools.org
Shelley Evans School Support Specialist evansm@quincyschools.org
Darcy Roach Title One Director roachd@quincyschools.org
Jennifer Rufenacht Behavior Support Specialist rufenactj@quinscyschools.org
Service Departments
Andrew Craig Technology Director craiga@quincyschools.org
Brianne Krake Ass’t Technology Director krakeb@quincyschools.org
Doug Pawloski Transportation Supervisor pawloskid@quincyschools.org
Nicole Gray Food Service Director grayn@quincyschools.org
Josh Bowerman Maintenance Supervisor bowermanj@quincyschools.org
Quincy Community Schools Superintendent/Board of Education
Marc Kramer Superintendent kramerm@quincyschools.org
Alan McClellan Board President mcclellana@quincyschools.org
Donna Hines Board Vice President hinesd@quincyschools.org
Greg Richer Board Secretary richerg@quincyschools.org
Jason Shilling Board Treasurer shillingj@quincyschools.org
Tim Miner Board Trustee minert@quincyschools.org
Brian Preston Board Trustee prestonb@quincyschools.org
Erin Veysey Board Trustee veyseye@quincyschools.orgTABLE OF CONTENTS Mission and Vision of the School page 1 Equal Education Opportunity page 1 Parent Involvement page 1 School Day page 3 Student Rights and Responsibilities page 3 Student Well-Being page 3 Injury and Illness page 4 Student Personal ID Cards page 4 Guidance/Psychological Services page 5 Substitute Teachers and Guest Speakers page 5 Section I - General Information Enrolling in the School page 5 Student Placement into Classrooms page 6 Transfer Out of the District page 6 Withdrawal from School page 6 Immunizations page 6 Emergency Medical Authorization page 6 Use of Medications page 7 Control of Casual-Contact Communicable Disease and Pests page 8 Control of Non casual-Contact Communicable Diseases page 8 Individuals with Disabilities page 9 Student Records page 9 Student Fees, Fines, Supplies page 11 No Selling at School page 12 Student Valuables page 12 Review of Instructional Materials and Activities page 12 Meal Service page 13 Fire, Lock Down and Tornado Drills page 13 Emergency Closings and Delays page 13 Preparedness for Toxic and Asbestos Hazards page 13 Visitors page 14 Use of Facilities page 14 Lost and Found page 14 Use of Telephones page 14 Section II - Academics Field Trips page 15 Grades page 15 Computers Technology and Networks page 15 Personal Communication Devices page 15 Section III - Student Conduct Attendance page 17 School Rules page 18 Student Conduct page 19 Safety page 21 Dress Policy page 21 Student Discipline Code page 22 Student Rights of Expression page 37 Section V - Transportation Bus Transportation to School page 38 Bus Conduct page 38 Videotapes on School Buses page 39 Penalties for Infractions Section VI – FERPA page 41 Appendix A – COVID 19 Statement page 42
NOTE: This Student/Parent Handbook is based in significant part on policies adopted by the Board of
Education and Administrative Guidelines developed by the Superintendent. Those Board
Policies and Administrative Guidelines are incorporated by reference into the provisions of this
Handbook. The Policies and Administrative Guidelines are periodically updated in response to
changes in the law and other circumstances. Therefore, there may have been changes to the
documents reviewed in this Handbook since it was printed in 2017. If you have questions or
would like more information about a specific issue or document, contact your school principal
or Mr. Marc Kramer, Superintendent or access the document on the District's website:
www.quinyschools.org
© 2017 NEOLA, Inc.MISSION/VISION OF THE SCHOOL
Vision Statement: Jennings…Where Kids Count!
Mission Statement: Jennings Elementary and the Quincy Community School will
strive for learner excellence in an environment that is developmentally responsive and
socially equitable preparing each student for the challenge of tomorrow.
EQUAL EDUCATION OPPORTUNITY
It is the policy of this District to provide an equal education opportunity for all students.
Any person who believes that s/he has been discriminated against on the basis of
his/her race, color, disability, religion, gender, or national origin, while at school or a
school activity should immediately contact the School District's Compliance Officer
listed below:
Marc Kramer, Superintendent, QCS
517-639-7141
Complaints will be investigated in accordance with the procedures as described in
Board Policy 2260. Any student making a complaint or participating in a school
investigation will be protected from any threat or retaliation. The Compliance Officer
can provide additional information concerning equal access to educational opportunity.
PARENT INVOLVEMENT
The Board of Education recognizes and values parents and families as children's first
teachers and decision-makers in education. The Board believes that student learning is
more likely to occur when there is an effective partnership between the school and the
student's parents and family. Such a partnership between the home and school and
greater involvement of parents in the education of their children generally result in
higher academic achievement, improved student behavior, and reduced absenteeism.
The term "families" is used in order to include children's primary caregivers, who are
not their biological parents, such as foster caregivers, grandparents, and other family
members.
Through this policy, the Board directs the establishment of a Parental Involvement Plan
by which a school-partnership can be established and provided to the parent of each
child in the District. The plan must encompass parent participation, through meetings
and other forms of communication. The Parental Involvement Plan shall reflect the
Board's commitment to the following:
A. Relationships with Families
1. cultivating school environments that are welcoming, supportive and
student centered;
2. providing professional development for school staff that helps builds
partnerships between families and schools;
B. Effective Communication
1. providing information to families to support the proper health, safety and
well being of their children;
12. providing information to families about school policies, procedures,
programs and activities;
3. promoting regular and open communication between school personnel
and students’ family members;
4. communicating with families in a format and language that is
understandable, to the extent practicable;
5. providing information and involving families in monitoring student
progress;
6. providing families with timely and meaningful information regarding
Michigan’s academic standards, State and local assessments, and the
pertinent legal provisions.
C. Volunteer Opportunities
Providing volunteer opportunities for families to support their children’s school
activities.
D. Learning at Home
1. offering training and resources to help families learn strategies and skills
to support at-home learning and success in school;
2. working with families to establish learning goals and help their child
accomplish these goals.
E. Involving Families in Decision Making and Advocacy
1. involving families as partners in the process of school review and
continuous improvement planning;
2. involving families in the development of its District-wide parent
involvement policy and plan, and distributing the policy and plan to
families.
F. Collaborating with the Community
Building constructive partnerships and connecting families with community-based
programs and other community resources.
IMPLEMENTATION
The Superintendent will provide for a comprehensive plan to engage parents, families,
and community members in a partnership in support of each student's academic
achievement, the District's continuous improvement, and individual school
improvement plans. The plan will be distributed to all parents and students through
publication in the Student Handbook or other suitable means. The plan will provide for
annual evaluation, with the involvement of parents and families, of the plan's
effectiveness and identification of barriers to participation by parents and families.
Evaluation findings will be used in the annual review of the Parent and Family
Involvement policy and to improve the effectiveness of the District plan.
2SCHOOL HOURS/SCHEDULES
Start Time: 8:00 am – First Bell – 7:55 am
End Time: 3:00 pm – First Bell – 2:55 pm
Lunch Schedules
DK/Kdg: 11:45 – 12:15
Grade1: 10:55 – 11:25
Grade 2: 12:35 – 1:05
Grade 3: 12:10 - 12:40
Grade 4: 11:20 - 11:50
STUDENT MARKING PERIOD DATES
Marking Period – Term 1: December 18, 2020
Marking Period – Term 2: June 7, 2021
STUDENT RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES
The rules and procedures of the school are designed to allow each student to obtain a
safe, orderly, and appropriate education. Students can expect their rights to freedom of
expression and association and to fair treatment as long as they respect those rights for
their fellow students and the staff. Students will be expected to follow teachers'
directions and to observe all school rules. Disciplinary procedures are designed to
ensure due process (a fair hearing) before a student is removed because of his/her
behavior.
Parents have the right to know how their child is succeeding in school and will be
provided information on a regular basis and as needed, when concerns arise. Many
times it will be the student’s responsibility to deliver that information. If necessary, the
mail, a phone/cell phone call or hand delivery may be used to ensure contact. Parents
are encouraged to build a two-way link with their child’s teachers and support staff by
informing the staff of suggestions or concerns that may help their child better
accomplish his/her educational goals. Parents also have access to staff emails and
Skyward’s Family Access in order to communicate and monitor progress. Scheduled
meetings with teachers are highly encouraged.
Students must arrive at school on time, prepared to learn and participate in the
educational program. If, for some reason, this is not possible, the student and parent
should seek help from the school support specialist.
STUDENT WELL-BEING
Student safety is a responsibility of the staff. All staff members are familiar with
emergency procedures such as fire, lock down and tornado drills and accident reporting
procedures. Should a student be aware of any dangerous situation or accident, s/he
must notify any staff person immediately.
State law requires that all students must have an emergency medical card completed,
signed by a parent or guardian, and filed in the School office. A student may be
excluded from school until this requirement has been fulfilled.
3Students with specific health care needs should deliver written notice about such needs
along with proper documentation by a physician, to the School Office.
INJURY AND ILLNESS
All injuries must be reported to a teacher or the office. If minor, the student will be
treated and may return to class. If medical attention is required, the office will follow
the School's emergency procedures.
A student who becomes ill during the school day should request permission to go to the
office. An appropriate adult in the office will determine whether or not the student
should remain in school or go home. No student will be released from school without
proper parental permission.
The school accepts responsibility only for immediate first aid to an injured student. The
Board of Education does not pay any medical or hospital bill incurred as a result of an
accident to the pupil at school. The parent or guardian is responsible for the payment
of such bills. In the case of an accident, no matter how minor, the student must report
that accident to the teacher immediately. In the case of severe accidents or acute
illness, emergency care will be given, and the parents will be notified. It is the
responsibility of the parents to provide transportation and further care of the student if
the student becomes ill or injured on school property. In emergency cases, when the
parent cannot be reached, the school reserves the right to seek professional medical aid
unless specifically directed not to do so by the parents in advance. Students may not
be sent home without parental approval, and no student may drive when excused for
medical reasons unless parental consent has been given. The school does not insure
students for athletic or accidental injuries. Voluntary insurance is made available for
purchase through an appointed agent.
HOMEBOUND INSTRUCTION
The District shall arrange for individual instruction to students of legal school age who
are not able to attend classes because of a physical or emotional disability.
Parents should contact the school administration regarding procedures for such
instruction. Applications must be approved by the Building Principal/Special
Education Supervisor. The District will provide homebound instruction only for those
confinements expected to last at least five (5) days.
Applications for individual instruction shall be made by a physician licensed to practice
in this State, parent, student, or other caregiver. A physician must: certify the nature
and existence of a medical condition; state the probable duration of the confinement;
request such instruction; present evidence of the student's ability to participate in an
educational program.
STUDENT PERSONAL IDENTIFICATION CARDS
Jennings Elementary students will be issued one free student ID card. The I.D. card
will be required in order for students to receive lunch and breakfast in the along with
obtaining library books. A $5.00 fee will be assessed if student lose or damage their
cards.
4GUIDANCE SERVICES
If you wish to make an appointment to see the school success specialist, please do so
by calling the school office directly and ask for the extension. The school support
specialist may work with individual or small groups of students as well as you to ensure
social and emotional support throughout your school year.
PSYCHOLOGICAL SERVICES
Branch Intermediate School District school psychologists provide in-depth diagnosis
and help in student placement and in individualization of the education program.
Counselors, teachers, administrators, and parents can request the assistance of a
psychologist. There is a referral procedure that must be followed to receive services.
SUBSTITUTE TEACHERS AND GUEST SPEAKERS
When you are in a class with a substitute teacher or a guest speaker you are
representing Jennings Elementary School. The substitute teacher/guest speaker is an
outsider and by your actions you make an impression on that person. We want people
to know what a great school we have and what nice students you are.
SECTION I - GENERAL INFORMATION
ENROLLING IN THE SCHOOL
In general, State law requires students to enroll in the school district in which their
parent or legal guardian resides unless enrolling under the District’s open enrollment
policy or enrolling and paying tuition.
New students under the age of eighteen (18) must be enrolled by their parent or legal
guardian. When enrolling, parents must provide copies of the following:
A. a certified birth certificate,
B. court papers allocating parental rights and responsibilities, or custody
(if appropriate),
C. proof of residency,
D. proof of immunizations.
Under certain circumstances, temporary enrollment may be permitted. In such cases,
parents will be notified about documentation required to establish permanent
enrollment.
Homeless students who meet the Federal definition of homeless may enroll and will be
under the direction of the District Liaison for Homeless Children with regard to
enrollment procedures.
A student who has been suspended or expelled by another public school in Michigan
may be temporarily denied admission to the District’s schools during the period of
suspension or expulsion even if that student would otherwise be entitled to attend
school in the District. Likewise, a student who has been expelled or otherwise removed
for disciplinary purposes from a public school in another state and the period of
expulsion or removal has not expired, may be temporarily denied admission to the
5District’s schools during the period of expulsion or removal or until the expiration of the
period of expulsion or removal which the student would have received in the District
had the student committed the offense while enrolled in the District. Prior to denying
admission, however, the Superintendent shall offer the student an opportunity for a
hearing to review the circumstances of the suspension or expulsion and any other
factors the Superintendent determines to be relevant.
STUDENT PLACEMENT INTO CLASSROOM
Students are placed into classrooms following an in-depth, process which that
considers several components. These components include grade level class size, boy to
girl ratios, and clustering students within ability levels in order to provide academic
balance and common peer ability groups. Grade level teams comprised of classroom
teachers, school support staff, and special education professionals meet to determine
the best placement of children. Parents are given the opportunity for input into
classroom placements by completing a detailed form provided in the spring. The
request forms are used to gather parent information and do not guarantee a placement.
A request form is necessary when requesting a classroom placement.
TRANSFER OUT OF THE DISTRICT
If a student plans to transfer from Jennings Elementary, the parent must notify the
principal. Transfer will be authorized only after the student has completed the
arrangements, returned all school materials, and paid any fees or fines that are due.
School records, may not be released if the transfer is not properly completed. Parents
are encouraged to contact the building principal for specific details.
School officials, when transferring student records, are required to transmit disciplinary
records including suspension and expulsion actions against the student.
WITHDRAWAL FROM SCHOOL
No student under the age of eighteen (18) will be allowed to withdraw from school
without the written consent of his/her parents.
IMMUNIZATIONS
Students must be current with all immunizations required by law or have an authorized
waiver from State immunization requirements. If a student does not have the necessary
shots or waivers, the principal may remove the student or require compliance with a set
deadline. This is for the safety of all students and in accordance with State law. Any
questions about immunizations or waivers should be directed to the high school
guidance secretary.
EMERGENCY MEDICAL AUTHORIZATION
The Board has established a policy that every student must have an Emergency Medical
Authorization Form completed and signed by his/her parent in order to participate in
any activity off school grounds. This includes field trips, spectator trips, athletic and
other extra-curricular activities, and co-curricular activities.
The Emergency Medical Authorization Form is provided at the time of enrollment and at
the beginning of each year. Failure to return the completed form to the school will
jeopardize a student's educational program.
6USE OF MEDICATIONS
In those circumstances where a student must take prescribed medication during the
school day, the following guidelines are to be observed:
A. Parents should, with their physician's counsel, determine whether the
medication schedule can be adjusted to avoid administering medication
during school hours.
B. The Medication Request and Authorization Form 5330 F1, F1a, F1b,
and F1c must be filed with the respective building principal before the
student will be allowed to begin taking any medication during school
hours.
C. All medications must be registered with the principal's office.
D. Medication that is brought to the office will be properly secured.
E. Any unused medication unclaimed by the parent will be destroyed by
school personnel when a prescription is no longer to be administered or
at the end of a school year.
F. The parents shall have sole responsibility to instruct their child to take
the medication at the scheduled time, and the child has the
responsibility for both presenting himself/herself on time and for taking
the prescribed medication.
G. A log for each prescribed medication shall be maintained which will
note the personnel giving the medication, the date, and the time of day.
This log will be maintained along with the physician's written
instructions and the parent's written permission release.
ASTMA INHALERS AND EPI-PENS
Students, with appropriate written permission from the physician and parent, may
possess and use a metered dose inhaler or dry powder inhaler to alleviate asthmatic
symptoms. In addition, there is a written emergency care plan prepared by a licensed
physician in collaboration with the student and his/her parent/legal guardian. The
plan shall contain specific instructions on the student’s needs including what to do in
the event of an emergency. Epinephrine (Epi-pen) is administered only in accordance
with a written medication administration plan developed by the school principal and
updated annually.
NONPRESCIBED (OVER THE COUNTER) MEDICATIONS
Parents may authorize the school office to administer a nonprescribed medication using
a form which is available at the school office. No other staff member will be permitted
to dispense non-prescribed, over the counter medication to any student. A physician
does not have to authorize such medication but all of the other conditions described
above under prescribed medications will also apply to nonprescribed medications. The
student may be authorized on the request form by his/her parent to self-administer the
7medication in the presence of a school staff member. No other exceptions will be made
to these requirements.
If a student is found using or possessing a nonprescribed medication without parent
authorization, s/he will be brought to the school office and the parents will be
contacted for authorization. The medication will be confiscated until written
authorization is received.
Any student who distributes a medication of any kind to another student or is found to
possess a medication other than the one authorized is in violation of the school's Code
of Conduct and will be disciplined in accordance with the drug-use provision of the
Code.
CONTROL OF CASUAL-CONTACT COMMUNICABLE DISEASES AND PESTS
Because a school has a high concentration of people, it is necessary to take specific
measures when the health or safety of the group is at risk. The school's professional
staff has the authority to remove or isolate a student who has been ill or has been
exposed to a communicable disease or highly-transient pest, such as lice. Jennings
Elementary has a no nit (lice) policy.
Specific diseases include; diphtheria, scarlet fever, strep infections, whooping cough,
mumps, measles, rubella, and other conditions indicated by the Local and State Health
Departments.
Any removal will only be for the contagious period as specified in the school's
administrative guidelines.
CONTROL OF NONCASUAL-CONTACT COMMUNICABLE DISEASES
In the case of noncasual-contact, communicable-diseases, the school still has the
obligation to protect the safety of the staff and students. In these cases, the person in
question will have his/her status reviewed by a panel of resource people, including the
County Health Department, to ensure that the rights of the person affected and those in
contact with that person are respected. The school will seek to keep students and staff
persons in school unless there is definitive evidence to warrant exclusion.
Noncasual-contact communicable diseases include sexually transmitted diseases, AIDS
(Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome), ARC-AIDS Related Complex (condition), HIV
(Human-immunodeficiency), HAV, HBV, HCV (Hepatitis A, B, C); and other diseases
that may be specified by the State Board of Health.
As required by Federal law, parents will be requested to have their child's blood checked
for HIV, HBV, and other blood-borne pathogens when the child has bled at school and
students or staff members have been exposed to the blood. Any testing is subject to
laws protecting confidentiality.
Noncasual-contact communicable diseases include sexually transmitted diseases, AIDS
(Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome), ARC-AIDS Related Complex (condition), HIV
(Human-immunodeficiency), HAV, HBV, HCV (Hepatitis A, B, C); and other diseases
that may be specified by the State Board of Health.
8As required by Federal law, parents will be requested to have their child's blood checked
for HIV, HBV, and other blood-borne pathogens when the child has bled at school and
students or staff members have been exposed to the blood. Any testing is subject to
laws protecting confidentiality.
INDIVIDUALS WITH DISABILITIES
The American’s with Disabilities Act (ADA) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act
provide that no individual will be discriminated against on the basis of a disability.
This protection applies not just to the student, but to all individuals who have access to
the District’s programs and facilities.
A student can access special education services through the proper evaluation
procedures. Parent involvement in this procedure is important and required by Federal
(IDEA) and State law. Contact the guidance/school support specialist office to inquire
about evaluation procedures and programs.
LIMITED ENGLISH PROFICIENCY
Limited proficiency in the English language should not be a barrier to equal
participation in the instructional or extra-curricular programs of the District. It is,
therefore the policy of this District that those students identified as having limited
English proficiency will be provided additional support and instruction to assist them in
gaining English proficiency and in accessing the educational and extra-curricular
program offered by the District. Parents should contact the guidance/school support
specialist office to inquire about evaluation procedures and programs offered by the
District.
STUDENT RECORDS
The School District maintains many student records including both directory
information and confidential information.
Neither the Board nor its employee's shall permit the release of the social security
number of a student, or other individual except as authorized by law (see AG 8350).
Documents containing social security numbers shall be restricted to those employees
who have a need to know that information or a need to access those documents. When
documents containing social security numbers are no longer needed, they shall be
shredded by an employee who has authorized access to such records.
Directory information includes: a student’s name, address, telephone number, height (if
a member of an athletic team), weight (if a member of an athletic team which requires
disclosure to participate), and school photographs or videos of students participating in
school activities, events or programs.
Directory information can be provided upon request to any individual, other than a
for-profit organization, even without the written consent of a parent. Parents may
refuse to allow the Board to disclose any or all of such “directory information” upon
written notification to the Board. For further information about the items included
within the category of directory information and instructions on how to prohibit its
release you may wish to consult the Board’s annual Family Education Rights and
Privacy Act (FERPA) notice which can be found under Board Policy 8330.
9Other than directory information, access to all other student records is protected by
(FERPA) and Michigan law. Except in limited circumstances as specifically defined in
State and Federal law, the School District is prohibited from releasing confidential
education records to any outside individual or organization without the prior written
consent of the parents, or the adult student, as well as those individuals who have
matriculated and entered a postsecondary educational institution at any age.
Confidential records include test scores, psychological reports, behavioral data,
disciplinary records, and communications with family and outside service providers.
Students and parents have the right to review and receive copies of all educational
records. Costs for copies of records may be charged to the parent. To review student
records please provide a written notice identifying requested student records to the
building principal. You will be given an appointment with the appropriate person to
answer any questions and to review the requested student records.
Parents and adult students have the right to amend a student record when they believe
that any of the information contained in the record is inaccurate, misleading or violates
the student’s privacy. A parent or adult student must request the amendment of a
student record in writing and if the request is denied, the parent or adult student will
be informed of their right to a hearing on the matter.
Individuals have a right to file a complaint with the United States Department of
Education if they believe that the District has violated FERPA.
Consistent with the Protection of Pupil Rights Amendment (PPRA), no student shall be
required, as a part of the school program or the District’s curriculum, without prior
written consent of the student (if an adult, or an emancipated minor) or, if an
unemancipated minor, his/her parents, to submit to or participate in any survey,
analysis, or evaluation that reveals information concerning:
A. political affiliations or beliefs of the student or his/her parents;
B. mental or psychological problems of the student or his/her family;
C. sex behavior or attitudes;
D. illegal, anti-social, self-incriminating or demeaning behavior;
E. critical appraisals of other individuals with whom respondents have
close family relationships;
F. legally recognized privileged and analogous relationships, such as those
of lawyers, physicians, and ministers;
G. religious practices, affiliations, or beliefs of the student or his/her
parents; or
H. income (other than that required by law to determine eligibility for
participation in a program or for receiving financial assistance under
such a program).
Consistent with the PPRA and Board policy, the Superintendent shall ensure that
procedures are established whereby parents may inspect any materials used in
conjunction with any such survey, analysis, or evaluation.
10Further, parents have the right to inspect, upon request, a survey or evaluation created
by a third party before the survey/evaluation is administered or distributed by the
school to the student. The parent will have access to the survey/evaluation within a
reasonable period of time after the request is received by the building principal.
The Superintendent will provide notice directly to parents of students enrolled in the
District of the substantive content of this policy at least annually at the beginning of the
school year, and within a reasonable period of time after any substantive change in this
policy. In addition, the Superintendent is directed to notify parents of students in the
District, at least annually at the beginning of the school year, of the specific or
approximate dates during the school year when the following activities are scheduled or
expected to be scheduled:
A. activities involving the collection, disclosure, or use of personal
information collected from students for the purpose of marketing or for
selling that information for otherwise providing that information to
others for that purpose); and
B. the administration of any survey by a third party that contains one or
more of the items described in A through H above.
The Family Policy Compliance Office in the U.S. Department of Education administers
both FERPA and PPRA. Parents and/or eligible students who believe their rights have
been violated may file a complaint with:
Family Policy Compliance Office
U.S. Department of Education
400 Maryland Avenue, SW 20202-4605
Washington, D.C.
www.ed.gov/offices/OM/fpco
Informal inquiries may be sent to the Family Policy Compliance Office via the following
email addresses:
FERPA@ED.Gov; and
PPRA@ED.Gov.
STUDENT FEES, FINES, AND SUPPLIES
Jennings Elementary may charge specific fees for non-curricular activities and
programs. Such fees or charges are determined by the cost of materials,
freight/handling fees, and add-on fees for loss or damage to school property. The
school and staff do not make a profit.
The District will provide all basic supplies needed to complete the required course
curriculum. The student and/or his/her family may choose to purchase their own
supplies if they desire to have a greater quantity or quality of supplies, or desire to help
conserve the limited resources for use by others. The teacher or appropriate
administrator may recommend useful supplies for these purposes. (See Policy 6152)
Fees may be waived in situations where there is financial hardship.
11Students using school property and equipment can be fined for excessive wear and
abuse of the property and equipment. The fine will be used to pay for the damage, not
to make a profit.
Fines will be assessed for any lost or damaged library and or text books. Fines can be
avoided when students return borrowed materials promptly. Their use may be needed
by others.
Failure to pay fines, fees, or charges may result in the loss of privileges.
SELLING AT SCHOOL
No student is permitted to sell any item or service from an outside organization in
school without the approval of the principal. Violation of this may lead to disciplinary
action.
• Students involved in the fund-raiser must not interfere with students
participating in other activities when soliciting funds.
• Students must not participate in a fund-raising activity for a group in which they
are not members without the approval of the student's counselor.
• Students may not participate in fund-raising activities off school property
without proper supervision by approved staff or other adults.
• Students who engage in fund raisers that require them to exert themselves
physically beyond their normal pattern of activity, such as "runs for .....", will
be monitored by a staff member in order to prevent a student from over-
extending himself/herself to the point of potential harm.
• Students may not participate in a fund-raising activity conducted by a parent
group, booster club, or community organization on school property without the
approval of the Principal
STUDENT VALUABLES
Students are encouraged not to bring items of value to school. Items such as jewelry,
expensive clothing, electronic equipment, and the like, are tempting targets for theft
and extortion. The School cannot be responsible for their safe-keeping and will not be
liable for loss or damage to personal valuables. Students who have material or
merchandise stolen are asked to notify principal. If warranted the matter will be
referred to the local police.
REVIEW OF INSTRUCTIONAL MATERIALS AND ACTIVITIES
Parents have the right to review any instructional materials being used in the school.
They also may observe instruction in any class, particularly those dealing with
instruction in health and sex education. Any parent who wishes to review materials or
observe instruction must contact the principal prior to coming to the School. Parents’
rights to review teaching materials and instructional activities are subject to reasonable
restrictions and limits.
12MEAL SERVICE
The school participates in the National School Lunch Program and makes lunches
available to students for a fee of $2.20. Students may also bring their own lunch to
school to be eaten in the school's cafeteria. Breakfast at Jennings is free to all
students.
Applications for the school's Free and Reduced-Priced Meal program are distributed to
all students. If a student does not receive one and believes that s/he is eligible, contact
the building secretary.
All lunches must be consumed in the cafeteria or in designated areas. Students are
expected to:
1. Stand quietly in lunch line.
2. Sit down in designated area to eat lunch.
3. Take care of personal food items and clean up after themselves.
4. Remain in cafeteria for at least 20 minutes or until dismissed.
5. Dispose of left-over food and utensils appropriately - pour left-over beverages in
bucket, empty food trays in barrels and place lunch trays at the kitchen window.
FIRE, LOCK DOWN AND TORNADO DRILLS
The school complies with all fire safety laws and will conduct fire drills in accordance
with State law. Specific instructions on how to proceed will be provided to students by
their teachers who will be responsible for safe, prompt, and orderly evacuation of the
building. The alarm signal for fire drills consists of a loud buzzer.
Severe weather drills will be conducted during the tornado season using the procedures
provided by the State (2 times per year). The alarm signal for severe weather is different
from the alarm signal for fires and announced through the emergency call system.
Lock down drills in which the students are restricted to the interior of the school
building and the building secured will occur a minimum of three (3) times each school
year. The alarm system for a school lock down is different from the alarm system for
fires and severe weather. Lock down notification consists of an announcement made by
the office.
EMERGENCY CLOSINGS AND DELAYS
If the school must be closed or the opening delayed because of inclement weather or
other conditions, the school will send a message using School Messenger to the primary
contact number listed in the student information system. In addition, information
related to closings and delays will be posted on the districts’ Facebook page and official
website. The School will also notify the following radio and television stations: WTVB
(1590 AM), WNWN (98.5 FM), and WWMT Channel 3 News.
Parents and students are responsible for knowing about emergency closings and delays.
PREPAREDNESS FOR TOXIC AND ASBESTOS HAZARDS
The School is concerned for the safety of students and attempts to comply with all
Federal and State Laws and Regulations to protect students from hazards that may
result from industrial accidents beyond the control of school officials or from the
presence of asbestos materials used in previous construction. A copy of the School
13District’s Preparedness for Toxic Hazard and Asbestos Hazard Policy and asbestos
management plan will be made available for inspection at the Board offices upon
request.
VISITORS
Visitors, particularly parents, are welcome at the school. All individuals must enter our
school through the main entrance. A sign-in procedure has been established for
Jennings Elementary School. Request to enter the building is done through the main
entrance. Parents/Guests must ring the buzzer to request entry. Parents/Guests must
stop at the front window, sign into the Ident-a-Kid system. A visitor pass will be issued.
If it is necessary to go into the building, the visitor pass must be visibly worn.
Parents/Guests must sign-out of the Ident-a-Kid system before leaving the building.
All students entering after the start of school or leaving during school hours (8:00 am –
3:00 pm) must be signed in and out by their parent/guardian through the Ident-a-Kid
system. Students coming into the school late must be signed into the Ident-a-Kid
system by a parent or guardian and have a tardy slip that is taken to the teacher.
Children will be called from their rooms when parents arrive. Special requests for a
student to be at the office at a certain time will not be upheld. This procedure is for
building control and student safety. Your cooperation is essential.
End of the day – All doors will remain locked. Jennings Elementary releases students
to the gym for parent pick up. Parents/Guardians or designated contacts will be
released to the gym, make contact with a JES employee who will require a check off
signature. School age contacts/siblings are prohibited from taking or signing out a
student unless special circumstance have been arranged with office staff or the
principal.
If a person wishes to confer with a member of the staff, s/he should call or email for an
appointment prior to coming to the school, in order to schedule a mutually convenient
time.
USE OF FACILITIES
Outside the school day, school facilities may be scheduled for use by completing a
facility use form. The gym is a teaching classroom and may only be used under the
supervision of a school employee. Supervision will be the responsibly of the group or
organization requesting it use (see Board Policy 7510).
LOST AND FOUND
The lost and found area is located near the main office. Students who have lost items
should check there and may retrieve their items if they give a proper description.
Unclaimed items will be given to charity at the close of each marking period.
USE OF PHONES
Office telephones are not to be used for personal calls. Except in an emergency,
students will not be called to the office to receive a telephone call. If a student requests
to use the phone a teacher may provide its use in emergencies only.
14SECTION II - ACADEMICS
FIELD TRIPS
A general field trip permission form is required through Skywards’ Family Access. A
special permission slip must be used when transporting a child in private cars (see
office for copies). Parents/guardians who attend field trips as chaperones and wish to
take their child home with them may do so after providing their child’s teacher with a
written note, or have signed out their child on a form provided by the teacher. If a
chaperone is not the child’s parent/guardian, a signed written note from the
parent/guardian must be given to the child’s teacher prior to leaving for the trip.
Parents/guardians, or designee may only take their child home with them. All other
students must ride the bus back to the school for dismissal. All school rules apply on
field trips and students are expected to conduct themselves in a manner consistent with
proper classroom behavior. Parents that are considered chaperones, must have
completed a background check at least ten school days in advance of the trip.
Chaperones should not bring guests or be in the care of other children not affiliated
with the trip.
GRADES
Student standards and progress will be provided in two marking period report cards.
Student data sheets will be issued during PT conference periods, as well as at the end of
the school year. Individual teachers may provide progress reports. All
grades/standards are available to parents through Family Access
(www.quincyschools.org)
COMMON GRADING
1 – Meets Standard
2 – Progressing/Needs More Time
3 – Has Not Met Standard
COMPUTER TECHNOLOGY AND NETWORKS
Before any student may take advantage of the school’s computer network and the
internet, s/he and his/her parents must sign an agreement which defines the
conditions under which the student may participate. Failure to abide by all of the terms
of the agreement may lead to termination of the student’s computer account and
possible disciplinary action as outlined in the student code of conduct or referral to law
enforcement authorities. Copies of the school district’s student network and internet
acceptable use and safety policy and the requisite student and parent agreement will be
placed on the school website. If a parent does not have internet access, a copy can be
picked up in the building office.
PERSONAL COMMUNICATION DEVICES
Students may use personal communication devices (PCDs) before and after school
As long as they do not create a distraction, disruption or otherwise interfere with the
educational environment. Use of PCDs, except those approved by a teacher or
administrator, at any other time is prohibited and they must be powered completely off
(i.e., not just placed into vibrate or silent mode) and stored out of sight.
15For purposes of this policy, “personal communication device” includes computers,
tablets (e.g., iPads and similar devices), electronic readers (“e-readers”; e.g., Kindles and
similar devices), cell phones (e.g., mobile/cellular telephones, smartphones (e.g.,
BlackBerry, iPhone, Android devices, Windows Mobile devices, etc.)), and/or other web-
enabled devices of any type. Students may not use PCDs on school property or at a
school-sponsored activity to access and/or view Internet web sites that are otherwise
blocked to students at school. Students may use PCDs while riding to and from school
on a school bus or other Board-provided vehicles during school-sponsored activities, at
the discretion of the bus driver, classroom teacher sponsor/advisor/coach. Distracting
behavior that creates an unsafe environment will not be tolerated.
Also, during after school activities, PCDs shall be powered completely off (not just
placed into vibrate or silent mode) and stored out of sight when directed by the
administrator or sponsor.
Under certain circumstances, a student may keep his/her PCD “On” with prior approval
from the building principal.
Except as authorized by a teacher, administrator or IEP team, students are prohibited
from using PCDs during the school day, including while off-campus on a field trip, to
capture, record and/or transmit the words or sounds (i.e., audio) and/or images (i.e.,
pictures/video) of any student, staff member or other person. Using a PCD to capture,
record and/or transmit audio and/or pictures/video of an individual without proper
consent is considered an invasion of privacy and is not permitted. Students who
violate this provision and/or use a PCD to violate the privacy rights of another person,
(will be held until a parent/guardian picks it up) and may be directed to delete the
audio and/or picture/video file while the parent/guardian is present. If the violation
involves potentially illegal activity the confiscated-PCD may be turned-over to law
enforcement.
PCDs, including but not limited to those with cameras, may not be activated or utilized
at any time in any school situation where a reasonable expectation of personal privacy
exists. These locations and circumstances include, but are not limited to, gymnasiums,
locker rooms, shower facilities, rest/bathrooms, and any other areas where students or
others may change clothes or be in any stage or degree of disrobing or changing clothes.
The Superintendent and building principals are authorized to determine other specific
locations and situations where use of a PCD is absolutely prohibited.
Students shall have no expectation of confidentiality with respect to their use of PCDs
on school premises/property.
Students may not use a PCD in any way that might reasonably create in the mind of
another person an impression of being threatened, humiliated, harassed, embarrassed
or intimidated. See Policy 5517.01 – Bullying and Other Forms of Aggressive Behavior.
In particular, students are prohibited from using PCDs to: (1) transmit material that is
threatening, obscene, disruptive, or sexually explicit or that can be construed as
harassment or disparagement of others based upon their race, color, national origin,
sex, sexual orientation, disability, age, religion, ancestry, or political beliefs; and (2)
engage in "sexting" - i.e., sending, receiving, sharing, viewing, or possessing pictures,
text messages, e-mails or other materials of a sexual nature in electronic or any other
form. Violation of these prohibitions shall result in disciplinary action. Furthermore,
such actions will be reported to local law enforcement and child services as required by
law.
16Students are also prohibited from using a PCD to capture, record, and/or transmit test
information or any other information in a manner constituting fraud, theft, cheating, or
academic dishonesty. Likewise, students are prohibited from using PCDs to receive
such information.
Possession of a PCD by a student at school during school hours and/or during extra-
curricular activities is a privilege that may be forfeited by any student who fails to abide
by the terms of this policy, or otherwise abuses this privilege.
Violations of this policy may result in disciplinary action and/or confiscation of the
PCD. The building principal will also refer the matter to law enforcement or child
services if the violation involves an illegal activity (e.g., child pornography, sexting).
Discipline will be imposed on an escalating scale ranging from a warning to an
expulsion based on the number of previous violations and/or the nature of or
circumstances surrounding a particular violation. If the PCD is confiscated, it will be
released/returned to the student's parent/guardian after the student complies with any
other disciplinary consequences that are imposed, unless the violation involves
potentially illegal activity in which case the PCD may be turned-over to law
enforcement. A confiscated device will be marked in a removable manner with the
student's name and held in a secure location in the building's central office until it is
retrieved by the parent/guardian or turned-over to law enforcement. School officials
will not search or otherwise tamper with PCDs in District custody unless they
reasonably suspect that the search is required to discover evidence of a violation of the
law or other school rules. Any search will be conducted in accordance with Policy 5771
– Search and Seizure. If multiple offenses occur, a student may lose his/her privilege to
bring a PCD to school for a designated length of time or on a permanent basis.
A person who discovers a student using a PCD in violation of this policy is required to
report the violation to the building principal.
Students are personally and solely responsible for the care and security of their PCDs.
The Board assumes no responsibility for theft, loss, or damage to, or misuse or
unauthorized use of, PCDs brought onto its property.
Parents/Guardians are advised that the best way to get in touch with their child during
the school day is by calling the school office.
SECTION III - STUDENT CONDUCT
ATTENDANCE
JENNING ELEMENTARY SCHOOL ATTENDANCE POLICY
There is a positive relationship between attendance and success at school. Therefore,
the staff of Jennings Elementary has a responsibility to encourage and positively regard
regular and punctual attendance. Students are expected to attend all scheduled days
of instructions, including field trips. Accurate records of daily absences will be kept.
Basic responsibility for attendance rests with the students and parents. Parents will be
informed when problems arise because parents are an important part of our
educational team.
Jennings Elementary, in compliance with Michigan school law, offers 180 days of
student instruction each year. It is our belief that students who have the best
attendance records receive the best education. It is also our belief that students need
17good attendance in order to ready themselves for the strict requirements of Jennings
Elementary and to establish a solid foundation for life skills.
Because students need to be in class in order to participate fully and to successfully
learn material required for promotion, we have set procedures that were developed and
supported through the Branch Intermediate School District (see the following):
Step 1 – Child has missed 8 days or more – A letter is sent to
parent/guardian notifying of concern.
Step 2 – Child has missed 17 days or more – A letter is sent to
parent/guardian to inform of concern. A school representative will meet
with the parent/guardian either by home visit or scheduled meeting at the
school. Contact from Branch Intermediate School District’s truancy
official will be made. Also, a school official will meet with the child at this
point.
Step 3 – Child has missed 25 days or more – A letter is sent to
parent/guardian to inform of potential truancy. Contact from Branch
Intermediate School District’s truancy official will be made. A copy of the
letter is sent to juvenile court. Local law enforcement/truancy officer may
be contacted and a report filled
Step 4 – Child has missed 30 days or more – Charges are filed with
juvenile court
Absences will be carefully documented for each student. Attendance can be viewed
through Skyward Family Access.
IMPORTANT PROCEDURES REGARDING ATTENDANCE
For an absence to be excused the parent/guardian must provide the teacher with a
written note indicating the reason for absence, the date of absence and a signature.
Also, a phone call to the teacher or office would be allowable and will be logged by the
teacher/office. If a child is absent due to illness, and under a doctor’s care, written
notification from the physician’s office is recommended.
Excused Absences:
The following examples of absences will be excused:
Illnesses: Any illness lasting more than three days may require a note from the
physician involved Illness in the family
Death of a relative
Medical Appointments (please attempt to schedule outside of school hours)
Funeral
Religious Obligations
Quarantine of the Home – as determined by proper health officials
Unexcused Absences:
The following examples of absences will be defined as unexcused:
Missed the bus
Oversleeping
Excessive absences without a doctor’s note
Family Vacation (see Board Policy 5200) – Parents are encouraged not to take their
child out of school for vacations. When a family vacation must be scheduled during the
school year, the parents should discuss the matter with the principal and the student’s
teacher(s) to make necessary arrangements. It may be possible for the student to
receive certain assignments that are to be completed during the trip.
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