Parent Handbook


ORICK ELEMENTARY SCHOOL DISTRICT

The Orick Elementary School District Board of Trustees who serve you are:

Regina Reeves-Barlow, President
Margie Logan, Clerk
Stacy Alexander, Member
Dennis Daisy, Member


DISTRICT/SCHOOL OFFICE
120918 HWY 101
P.O. Box 128
ORICK, CA 95555
(707) 488 2821
John Sutter...Superintendent/Principal





WELCOME TO ORICK SCHOOL!
This handbook is prepared to provide answers to some of your questions regarding policy and procedure at Orick School.  If you have questions during the year that are not answered in this handbook, please feel free to call the school office at 488-2821.

HOW CAN I HELP MY CHILD AT HOME?
We realize your time is limited, but your child’s success is a community effort.  If both parents have jobs, perhaps a brother, sister or friend could help.  Anything extra you do at home will show results in your child’s progress.  Try not to become discouraged.  For some of us, it takes much patient repetition before the skill of reading is mastered.  Perhaps you will able to try some of the following suggestions:

1.         Make sure your child arrives at school on time.  Once your child misses even a few minutes, an important                        lesson or direction may be missed.

2.Check the papers your child brings home.  Go over them together.  If the child has trouble, offer support                        and encouragement.
3.Quiz your child on the meaning of words.  Does he/she know what the word means? Can he/she use it in a                   sentence?

4.Take every opportunity to develop your child's vocabulary such as trips and vacations. Discuss areas, signs and              billboards as you travel.  Give children plenty of experiences.  Take them to the zoo, firehouse, historical spots,              etc.

5.Read together daily.  Let your children see you reading with enjoyment.


6.Encourage reading as a hobby to help him/her develop a favorable attitude towards the world of print.

7.Show your children that books aren't the only kind of reading.  Magazines, menus, letters, road signs, etc., are              other sources.

8.Help children to select a good balance of educational and recreational television programs, radio programs,                    movies and books.

9.Take your child to the library.  The Orick School Library is open to the public on Wednesday nights from 3:00 to             6:00PM. If possible, build a home library.

10.Engage in conversations with your children; asking them questions about their day and about what they think               about different topics.  Allow them to discuss their ideas.



To get specific California State Standards your child is working toward and book list leveled for you child we invite you to explore the California Department of Education Web site at: www.cde.ca.gov



ORICK SCHOOL STAFF
OFFICE STAFF   
John Sutter…................Superintendent/Principal
Melody Schroeder..........Secretary

TEACHING STAFF                                      
Shelly Ross                     Grades K-4  reading teacher,  Room 3
John Sutter              Grades K-4  teacher,  Room 4                
Matt Ross        Grades 5-8 Upper Grade Class - Room 5
Linnea Conway                Resource Teacher – Room 1


SUPPORT STAFF
Michael Myrick           Resource Center Coordinator
Joe Christian              Maintenance / Custodian/Bus Driver
Edie Baker                 Cook
Jeannie Daisy            Resource/Classroom Aide
Pam Goldsmith          Upper Grade Aide
                      
                            INSTRUCTIONAL TIME SCHEDULE
2008-2009
Grade Level                 Begin                   Lunch                      Dismiss
Kindergarten (Mon-Fri)       8:30a.am.           12:00 12:35                 12:45 p.m.
1ST – 4rd  (Mon.-Thurs.)   8:30a.m.            12:00 12:35                     2:45 p.m.
5th-8th  (Mon. – Thurs.)     8:30a.m.           12:00-12:35                     2:45 p.m.
1st – 8th   Friday              8:30 a.m.       Same as above                   1:45 p.m



* Fridays are minimum days.
Everyone is dismissed at 1:45 p.m.

THE CAMPUS   The Orick School District has a closed campus. This means that students should arrive on campus 20 minutes before school starts, and then may not leave the campus until regular class dismissal time in the afternoon.  Students may leave campus during the day only when accompanied by their parents, for reasons such as doctor and dental appointments and personal necessity.  In case of illness, the parent will be notified of the student's illness and then the student will be released from school when the parent comes to pick him/her up.  Students will not be allowed to leave campus unattended.

STATE AND FEDERALLY FUNDED PROGRAMS

Because we recognize the needs of our students and want them to have every educational opportunity available, Orick School has applied for and received additional state and federal funds.  These funds are used for the following special programs:

Title I, (NCLB) No Child Left Behind
This is a federally funded program.  We use these funds to provide staffing which results in smaller class sizes.  We are a school-wide Title I site, meaning all students can receive services.                                      


EIA-This is a state funded program.  We use these funds for staffing and to provide materials in grades K 8.

LEP-(Limited English Proficient)We are required to provide assistance and cognitive experiences to those whose primary language is not English.  Additionally, we work to bring these children to FES (Fluent English Speaking) status as quickly as possible.  At present time there are no students enrolled who are not English Speaking.

ECIA Title VI
This is a federally funded program, which helps us provide
additional instructional materials, library resources, and
equipment to support our other programs.


Resource Specialist Program
This is a state and local program for pupils who need an individual education plan and at times an alternative learning environment that includes individual instruction for the basic skills.

SIP (School Improvement Program)
This is a state funded program for all our pupils, grades K 8.  These monies are used to plan and fund improvement in our regular curriculum.  It funds classroom aides, equipment and materials.


SPEECH
This is a state and locally funded program providing speech therapy to identified pupils.

SBCP (School Based Coordinated Plan)
A recent change in accountability allows schools to coordinate and spend monies received through the above mentioned categorical funds in a class wide manner so that all students may benefit from their use.

Complaint Procedurs
Please follow the link below to lean more about the Willims Act
http://www.cde.ca.gov/re/cp/uc


ADDITIONAL LOCAL SCHOOL PROGRAMS

Orick Resource Center
The Resource Center’s services at Orick School are intended to improve the academic performance of students by providing support to families. If families basic needs are met, their children will be more comfortable at school and learning will be enhanced.  A variety of services are available in the Community Resource Center of the School.  Medical Services are provided by Open Door Community Health Center.  Counseling is available for students.  Our community liaison provides in-home support and connection to services for our families.  After-school activities include Open Library, and quilting class.  The Northern Humboldt Union High School District offers adult education classes here at the school site for parents, teens and community members.  Job skill development and placement is available through our CAlWORKS Coordinator and other programs. The Youth Services Bureau is initiating a mentor program for Orick Youth. Northcoast Children Services / Head Start is an important Partner in working with families through their preschool class.  The success of the Community Resource Center is due to the participation of the Orick Community and 22 different agencies.  Further information regarding Community Resource information can be received by calling Michael at 488-2403.

SCHOOL NURSE – Our County Schools Office provides the services of the nurse.  She reviews the health status of each student and may counsel parents and refer the child for further examination.  She also gives special instruction in the classrooms involving health and family life topics.  The School nurse is on site 6 times per year.

BREAKFAST/LUNCH PROGRAM   Breakfast, lunch and milk are available for students to purchase.  Students order lunch and/or milk each morning in their classrooms when the attendance is take. Parents who are eligible for free or reduced price lunch program may apply any time during the school year.  Breakfast is served each morning in the gym from 8:00 to 8:30 a.m.




LIBRARY – This year, Orick School expects to realize several technological improvements including a school wide computer network with “Accelerated Reader”.  Last year we had many new additions to our library such as new computers and a large world map. Fiction and nonfiction books may be checked out.  Fiction books, biographies, and nonfiction books are issued for one (1) week.  The date stamped in the book shows when the book must be returned or renewed. Additional books MAY NOT be checked out until previous books have been checked in. Reference books, pamphlets and magazines may not be removed from the library without the librarian's permission.  All materials must be checked out at the library desk before they are taken from the library.  Checking out materials properly and returning them promptly and in good condition is expected.  Pupils will be charged the full price for ALL books, including textbooks that are lost or damaged beyond repair.   Pupils are encouraged to ask for help whenever they cannot find what is needed in the library...whether it is information for a report or just a good book to read.




STUDENT STUDY TEAM – (SST) On an as needed basis, all affected staff, parents and, if deemed necessary, student meet to ascertain a student's areas of strength and difficulty and formulate an action plan to provide maximum assistance.  We have found these meetings to be positive and beneficial.  Parents and staff discover how to help students with academic and behavioral needs.  Students learn to help themselves.

RECOGNITION OF STUDENT ACCOMPLISHMENTS
Orick School is intent upon building students self-confidence, as well as academic, cultural, and physical skills of the individual.  By way of reinforcement we offer many opportunities for student recognition.  The criteria for recognition reflect achievement, participation, improvement, citizenship and/or effort.   Teachers use many forms of recognition in their classrooms.  School-level recognition also is present at special monthly assemblies. 


ORICK SCHOOL ACTIVITIES AND OPPORTUNITIES THROUGHOUT THE YEAR

ORICK OUTDOOR SCHOOL FOCUS:  The year-long outdoor focus at Orick School gives students ample opportunities to interact in the outdoors including:  Creek Studies, Weekly elk observations,  Surfing, Kayaking, Forestry and Earth Science trips.  

HISTORY DAY ACTIVITIES: Social Study students again will again participate in History Day activities at HSU.  Orick students place high at this competition and have advanced to participate at the state level in Sacramento.

GATE:  A gifted and talented education program has been established at Orick School.  Students are selected on the basis of nomination and evaluation by staff and parents.  Parents will be notified of their child's eligibility and the requirements for inclusion.  This is a state funded program.


BASKETBALL AND COMPETITIVE SPORTS: An excellent staff coaches Orick School’s sports program.  Eligibility for these activities is based on State and local school board policy.  We have hosted a very successful Basketball Tournament for the past six years and look forward to this year’s.

POLICIES AND PROCEDURES

ACCIDENTS AND ILLNESS:  If students are injured or do not feel well, they should ask the teacher for permission to go to the office.  Office personnel will assist them, contact parents, or give them first aid.  All serious injuries should be reported promptly to any staff member.  An accident report will be taken, and a note will be sent home.  In case of an accident requiring professional medical services, every attempt will be made to contact the parent/guardian or emergency contact before the child is taken to the hospital.  Please keep information on our emergency card current by informing the office of any changes.


PHYSICAL EDUCATION: Physical education will be provided for all students Tuesday through Thursday. Students may be excused from P.E. for a day for medical reasons with a note from home. If the length of time is longer than one day a medical excuse from a doctor may be required.

ASSEMBLIES: Assemblies are planned on an “as needed” basis throughout the school year.  If a Special Awards Assemblies is to occur, a letter will be mailed home to notify parents of the date and time.  We encourage parents to attend when possible.

ATTENDANCE PROCEDURES AND LAW: Regular attendance is a very important part of student's education.  Please try to have your child attend school unless he/she is ill.   For purposes of attendance awards, three tardies will be equal to one absence.  According to state law, a student must attend school until age eighteen or high school graduation and PARENTS are RESPONSIBLE for PUNCTUAL and REGULAR ATTENDANCE of their CHILDREN. 

1.  Students who are absent from school should have their parents call the School Office the morning of the absence or bring a parent/guardian signed note on the day they return to school.  Students returning after an absence should give their absence note to their teacher.  The note should state:

a. Student's First and Last Name
b. Reason for Absence
         c. Date(s) of Absence
         d. Parent/Guardian Signature


2.   Excused Absences:
a.  Illness
         b.  Doctor/Dentist Appointments
  c.  Court Appearance
         d.  Family Bereavement
         e.  Religious Observance
         f.  Exclusion (Must have Independent Study Packet)
         g.  Independent Study Contract (Minimum 5 Days)

3.   Communicable diseases
Students who have contacted lice, scabies or any other communicable disease shall be sent home for proper treatment. The student should be brought back to school by parent or guardian with evidence of treatment and be checked by school personnel to make sure there is no infestation at this time.  The school conducts regular head-checks for lice every two weeks.

Students are encouraged to make up work when they are absent.  Contact your child's classroom teacher for assistance.

4.   Unexcused Absences (all absences not covered above) such as the following:
    a. Truancy
    b. Suspension
    c. Unverified or No Note Absence
    d. Family Errand or Business
    e. Overslept
    f. Transportation Problems
    g. Working
h. Out of Town (Parents may request a study     contract for a four day minimum.)

i.  Missed the Bus (the student should walk or be properly transported and not miss the entire day)

Students are required to make up all missed work when they are absent.  Absences threaten student progress, and can seriously affect grades.  UNEXCUSED ABSENCES ARE A VIOLATION OF STATE LAW.  THE FOLLOWING ADMINISTRATIVE ACTIONS MAY BE TAKEN AS A RESULT OF THE UNEXCUSED ABSENCE DEPENDING ON THE NATURE OF THE ABSENCE:
    a.  Parent Conference
    b.  Other Corrective Measures
    c.  Student Study Team
    d.  School Attendance Review Board (SARB)   Referral (SARB referrals may be made after 3 unexcused absences in a year or 3 unexcused tardies of 30 minutes or more in a year).  IF EXCUSED ABSENCES ARE EXCESSIVE, A REFERRAL TO SARB WILL BE MADE.
        d. District Attorney or Probation Referral

It should be noted that board policy indicates that excessive absences, EXCUSED OR UNEXCUSED may be used as a factor in retention. Nine unexcused absences in a semester shall be cause for class or subject failure. (Policy 5112.400, 5113, & 5121.)

5.   TARDY   If a student is late to school, he/she must come to the office for an admit slip.  When possible, a note should be sent with the student listing the same information as for an absence.  Consequences for tardies may include detention, parent conference, and referral to SARB.  For purposes of attendance awards, three tardies will count as an absence. 




6.   INDEPENDENT STUDY CONTRACT   If a student is going to be absent for five or more days it is asked that the parent notify the school office 24 hours prior to the first day of absences so that an Independent Study Contract can be arranged.  At that time, the student will be given a form to be signed by all of his/her teachers.  The teacher will give assignments for the period of absence. The assignments must be completed and turned in within two days of return to school.  Only when a student completes the above procedure will the absence be excused.  Independent Study Contracts will not be given after the student has returned to school.

7.   HOMEWORK REQUESTS   If a student is ill for more than a day, or if a lengthy absence is anticipated, current assignments may be obtained from the office.  Please call the office the day before you wish the work so that it will be available by 3:30 p.m. of the following day.  Assignments for fewer than two days may be made up when the student returns or obtained from other students in that class.

8.   LEAVING SCHOOL DURING THE DAY   If a student becomes ill during the day, he/she should obtain a note from the teacher and report to the office.  If the student is too ill to stay in school, every effort will be made to notify the parent to pick up their child.  Students who are leaving during the school day whether it be for an illness, medical appointment, or other parent-requested reason, must report to the office first.  Parents must meet their children in the office and sign them out.  With prior written clearance, adults other than parents or guardians may sign out and pick up students.  Students who fail to clear with the office will be deemed truant, and parents will be notified.


BICYCLES:  Any pupil bringing a bicycle to school is responsible for placing it in the bicycle parking area and locking the bicycle.  The school will not assume responsibility for any bicycles, as it is impossible to provide supervision for this area.  Orick School has adopted a policy requiring all children to wear a helmet at all times while riding bicycles.

Bicycle riders should always walk their vehicles across the highway at the crosswalk only, and should observe the same laws that govern automobiles.  Bicycle riders are not allowed to ride off the campus using Dryden Road, which runs along the south side of the campus. DUE TO SAFETY FACTORS, SKATEBOARDS, ROLLER BLADES OR SKATES ARE NOT ALLOWED ON CAMPUS.

BUS ROUTE AND OPERATING POLICIES: The Board of Trustees provides three bus runs daily for students living ¾ of a mile from the school or farther.  The bus is scheduled to arrive at school at 8:10.The afternoon run will take students home at 3:00 p.m. on a regular day and 2:00 p.m. on Fridays.  The bus is kept clean and ready for travel by a licensed bus driver who has the responsibility not only of providing safe, convenient transportation, but also of supervising the many students who use the service.  There is NO AFTERNOON bus service for kindergarten. They will need to be picked up from school at 12:45 pm.  A complete bus schedule will be sent home on the first day of school. Bus routes and stops are planned by the Director of Transportation and approved by the California Highway Patrol.  Safety, economy, efficiency, and allocation of resources are some of the considerations that must be evaluated in determining operations and policies.


The following rules have been established to insure the safety of all students who ride buses:
1.  Use only the bus and bus stop assigned.
2.  Orderly behavior is required at the bus stop.
3.  Remain seated, facing front, when the bus is in motion.
4.  Talk quietly and make no unnecessary noise.
5.  Do not talk to the driver unless it is necessary.
6.  Keep head and arms inside the bus.
7.  Do not litter the inside of the bus or throw anything out the window.
8.  Be quiet when the bus is crossing railroad tracks.


Infractions of the above rules will be brought to the attention of parents.  The bus driver and administrator reserve the right to deny transportation to any student who is not following the rules.  If you have any questions concerning transportation, contact the office at 488 2821.

WALKERS:  Students who walk to and from school across the highway are to use the path under the bridge, or cross at the crosswalks.  Crossing Highway 101 is a dangerous practice.  Many drivers do not obey the speed limit as they pass through Orick.  They would not be able to stop in time especially if the students crossing the highway near the bridge where visibility is limited.  Please talk to your children to help them realize this danger and design a safe route to and from school.  Students walking from school are not allowed to walk off campus using Dryden Road on the south of the school. 

EMERGENCIES:  It is extremely important that all students remain quiet and follow the directions of the teachers during any emergency drill.


1.Fire Drill – During a fire drill, students must follow each teacher's directions.  Calmly leave the building and line up at the designated location.  Students are expected to stay in line and maintain silence so that directions may be given.  When the "all clear" bell rings, students are to return to class quietly and in an orderly fashion. 
In the event the fire drill rings before school, at lunch, or after school, students should report to their designated area for their class.

2.Earthquake Procedure or Civil Defense   In the event of an earthquake, students should drop under cover of the classroom furniture.  They should remain there until further directions from their teacher are received.  Students who are outside, should drop to the ground away from buildings or other structures and protect their head with their arms.

If there is an alert other than during class time, students in a building should drop under cover of furniture or stand in doorways with their heads covered.  If the student is outside, he/she should drop to the ground away from buildings and other structures and protect his/her head.

3.Dismissal in Case of a Major Emergency.  If a severe earthquake or other civil defense emergency occurs, the student will be kept at school until picked up by the parents, transported home, or released to appropriate officials.

4.Civil Disturbance.  If an intruder interferes with the running of the school creating unsafe conditions, or if an unauthorized suspicious person is on the school grounds The police will be called and our lock down procedure will be followed.  




OTHER POLICIES

FUND RAISING: Our school holds various fund raising activities that provide additional support to the instructional program.  Game booths at the Fund Fair, popcorn sales, read a thons, spell a thons, and bike a thons are but a few of the many endeavors undertaken by our students. 


  FUND RAISING/CHILD LABOR LAW: Minors under the age of sixteen (16) years of age are prohibited from working in dangerous activities and occupations.  The definition of dangerous activities and occupations for minors has been amended to include "Door to door selling of newspaper or magazine subscriptions, or of candy, cookies, flowers or other merchandise or commodities" unless certain conditions are met.  These conditions are:
1.  The minors must work in pairs, as a team on the same or  opposite side of the street.
2.  These minors shall be supervised by an adult supervisor for each crew of ten or fewer minors.
3.  These minors must be within the sight or sound of the adult supervisor at least once every fifteen minutes.
4.  These minors must be returned to their homes or places of rendezvous daily after each day's work.

The selling of newspapers, candy, flowers or other merchandise or commodities to passing motorists from a fixed location on the street is also considered to be a dangerous activity and is precluded.

LOST AND FOUND ARTICLES: We would appreciate it if and when your child loses anything of value (clothing, lunch boxes, jewelry, school books, etc.) that you check the lost and found area in the school office.  Items not claimed are donated to a local charity twice a year (January and June).  Orick School is not responsible for lost or stolen items such as Game Boys, radios or Walkmans.  These items should be left at home.

MEDICATIONS:  Children are asked not to bring medication to school for themselves.  If your child is required to take some form of medication, such as cough drops, pain reliever or prescription medication it must be left in the school office and an Authorization For Dispensing Medication At School form must be filled out.  This form must be on file in the school office before any medication can be given.   This form is to be filled out by the proscribing physician, dated and signed.  The medication must be in it’s original package.  The label should include the following:  name, date, type of medication and dosage.  The proscriptions must be current and the form must be updated yearly.  No more than a week of medication should be sent to school at a time.  A refrigerator is available.  If you have any questions regarding this matter please fill free to call the school office at 488-2821.

NUISANCE ITEMS: Students will not be in possession of and/or use nuisance items (such as firecrackers, squirt guns, water balloons, skateboards, or radios) on campus.  These items will be confiscated and discipline consequences may result. All personal "toy" items are held in the office until the end of the school day, if turned in by the student at the beginning of the day. 

PICTURES:  Individual student pictures will be taken during the early portion of the school year.  Individual pictures as well as a class composite will be available for purchase.


PROMOTIONS/RETENTION: Student placement decisions shall be made by the staff in accordance with considerations of the following factors:  Academic achievement, physical, social and emotional maturity, attendance history, previous retention, and factors associated with the individual family and student.  Eighteen (18) days of absence, EXCUSED OR UNEXCUSED, may constitute retention.  Parents can assume their child will be promoted unless the alternative of retention has been discussed during the school year.  Parents will be involved in any retention decision.

PROPER DRESS AND CLOTHING: School is your very important place of work.  Students should come to school with neat, clean, adequate clothing.  All students will wear clothing that is conducive to an educational atmosphere and safe for playing in.  Thongs and strapless sandals are not to be worn for safety reasons.  Clothes which show excessive amounts of skin or are flimsy, sheer and distracting are not permitted. P.E. Clothes are not to be worn.  Pants must be of modest and appropriate length. (BP  5132(a)

STUDENT RECORDS: The classroom teacher and office keep specific records on each student.  There are four different types of records that are kept on each student that parents may need to refer to during the school year.  Parents should simply call the school and request the information or ask for an appointment with the teacher.  The records include the student's permanent academic record, grade report cards, record of lunch and miscellaneous fees owed, and a daily attendance record.


RELEASE OF RECORDS:  The school will maintain records on all students.  Information included in these records may not be released without written parental consent.

STUDY TRIPS: Study trips within our town and to nearby points of interest are scheduled by various classroom teachers throughout the school year.  These trips are designed to supplement different aspects of the classroom curriculum and to introduce students to the resources of the community.  Parents will receive notices of study trips well in advance of the scheduled trip date and will usually be asked to sign study trip permission forms.  Sometimes a small amount of money may be requested from each student to help defray transportation or facility use costs.  Parents are encouraged to attend study trip outings with their children.

SUBSTITUTE TEACHERS: A substitute teacher will periodically teach in each classroom throughout the year.  The most common reason for using substitute teachers occurs when the regular teacher is ill.  However, substitutes are also used when regular teachers are on leave for personal business, professional training, or out of the room for Parent Conferences.  Students are expected to be extra courteous to substitute teachers.  Any misconduct in the classroom will be dealt with immediately.

VACATIONS DURING THE YEAR: If vacations or an emergency require you to remove your child from school for any given period of time, please notify the teacher a week in advance or as soon as possible in an emergency.  A "Independent Study Contract"(minimum of 5 days) will be provided your child so they may KEEP UP WITH THEIR STUDIES.   It also enables the district to receive the funding for the student just as if they were in attendance.   It is important that students attend school; a learning contract should be used for emergencies when it is impossible for you child to attend school.


VALUABLES:  Students should not bring large sums of money or valuable items such as radios, Walkmans, stereos or cameras to school.  Items such as those listed will be held in the office during the school day.


VISITORS: ADULT VISITORS TO THE SCHOOL ARE WELCOME.  PLEASE SIGN IN AT THE OFFICE.  If you are visiting your child's classroom, please discuss the best time(s) with the teacher ahead of time.  Student visitors are not permitted except for some after school activities, such as sports.

HOME SCHOOL COMMUNICATION

COMMUNICATIONS
Answering Questions/Resolving Concerns/Solving Problems

Cooperation between home and school is very important at any stage of your child's development.  An unanswered question can often lead to a serious concern.    It is best to ask questions as soon as a concern arises.  The place to start is with your child's teacher, and if the concern is not met with your satisfaction then by all means see the principal.   A uniform complaint procedure form is bound in the back  of this document. 
CHANGE OF ADDRESS, PHONE, OR EMERGENCY INFORMATION: It is very important that every student maintain an up to date address, telephone and emergency information record at the school office.  Notify the school immediately if you have a change of address, telephone number or emergency information during the school year.  Emergencies may occur and this information is needed.


HOMEWORK
(Policy 6154.150)
All students of the district shall expect regular homework assignments.  Such assignments shall be educationally beneficial to the student, and shall be appropriate in content, and length.

Generally students in grades K-1 may expect three assignments averaging twenty minutes extent, for the average student.  Students in grades 2-3 may expect homework three days a week, averaging 30 minutes in length for the average student.  Students in grades f 4-6 may expect homework three days per week, averaging forty minutes in length for the average student.  Students in grades 7-8 may expect homework four days per week, averaging sixty minutes in length, for the average student.

Teachers shall return all homework assignments to the student, with appropriate grade and comment.  Parents shall be notified when any student is consistently having difficulty with homework assignments.

If homework entails free reading, then the student must demonstrate compliance through an oral or written report.

A homework category shall be a part of the report card, and a grade shall be assigned quarterly.

PROGRESS REPORTS: At the midpoint of each grading period, teachers in grades 3 through 8 will issue progress reports to students who are failing and /or achieving below apparent ability.


REPORT CARDS: Report cards will be available for parents three times a year.  They will be mailed home at the end of each Trimester.

PERMISSION NOTES: Field trip permission slips are sent home before each field trip. A child must have a signed slip before they will be allowed to go on the trip.  Phone verification will not be accepted.  

If a child is to get off the bus at a stop other than their regular stop they must have a written note signed and dated by the parent/guardian stating were they are to go.   No child will be let off at a stop that is not their regular stop without a note.  Please instruct your child to turn the note into the office as early in the day as possible.   A parent/guardian can also call the school and leave a message with the school secretary if they want their child to get off the bus at a different stop.  Please try and call as early as possible to allow the Secretary time to get the message to the bus driver and student.

PARENT CONFERENCES: Regular conferences are scheduled in the fall and spring of each school year.  Other conferences may be scheduled at any time during the school year at the request of either parent or teacher. You may call the school office (488 2821) to arrange for a conference.



TELEPHONE:    Students may use the phones in the classes and office for emergencies only. 


WEEKLY REPORT OF STUDENT PROGRESS: Some of our staff members at Orick may utilize weekly reports as a means of communication from school to parents.  It is important for you as a parent to review these reports with your child.  In most cases, staff members ask that the report be returned to school with the parent's signature to confirm that it arrived home.  Our students need to understand that parents and staff members work together to insure maximum learning.  If you have questions, don't hesitate to call your child's teacher.


PARENT INVOLVEMENT OPPORTUNITIES

PARENT CLUB:
We need you! Orick School Parent Club meets periodically throughout the school year to organize events and fundraiser.   You add richness and much needed help for our programs.  This is a super way to get involved.  We can always use you in as a room-mother, in the library, on field trips, etc.!  If you are interested, please call your child's teacher or talk to Jeanie Daisy, our Parent Club President at 488 2821.


SCHOOL SITE COUNCIL
The Site Council is a parent, teacher, community council that provides input to our school programs in general and our special education programs in particular. If you are interested in being a member of this Council, please call the office at 488 2821.


YOU ARE ALWAYS WELCOME AT ORICK SCHOOL  THE BEST PLACE FOR YOUR CHILD TO LEARN.


STUDENT CONDUCT

GENERAL OVERVIEW

Students and staff have the right to learn, to be respected and to be safe at Orick School;

1.Students have the right to learn.  We believe appropriate student conduct is essential in order to assure a positive learning environment for everyone.  All students at Orick School have the right to learn. Teachers have the right to teach. No person will be allowed to interfere with those exchanges.


2.Students and staff have the right of respect and common decency.  We must ask students to be respectful and courteous to each other and the staff.

3.Finally, we must insure that your child is safe from injury at school, while going to or coming from school, at school-sponsored events, whether the injury is physical or emotional.

RECOGNITION OF POSITIVE BEHAVIOR
Orick School Students are rewarded for good behavior in a number of ways.  Students who have no unexcused tardies will be eligible for a monthly  raffle prize at our special assembly.  The Teachers also give out “Cougar Bucks” for good behavior and qualifying work.  Students can spend their Cougar Bucks in the student store once a week. Citizenship/Student of the Year awards are presented at the end of the school year.


ORICK SCHOOL RULES

The Rules are as follows and apply from the moment your child is entrusted to us until he or she is again in your care; this includes field trips and overnight events.

1.Students are expected to arrive at school on time.

Infractions of rules 2 - 9 MAY result in a recess or after school detention.

2. To avoid injury, students will use school equipment in the correct manner.
3.Students will keep hands, feet, and foreign objects that might result in injury to themselves and others.
4.Profane, obscene, or abusive language is forbidden.
5.Students may not willfully defy the authority of the staff.
6.Fighting is forbidden.
7.Students are expected to respect all staff members and fellow students.
8.Gum is not allowed on the school grounds.  Soft drinks and candy are allowed only during pre-approved events or as student rewards.  (Unapproved candy, gum, and sodas will be taken and not returned).
9.Gambling is not permitted.


CONSEQUENCES OF UNACCEPTABLE BEHAVIOR
If a student chooses to act in an unacceptable way, they have also chosen to risk the consequences of that act.  The following is a list of consequences the student risks by choosing to break the rules.


1.Frequent tardies for Intermediate and Upper Grade Students may result in detention time, Student Study Team, parent conference or referral to SARB.
2.Frequent tardies for Primary Students may result in a parent conference, Student Study Team or referral to SARB.
3.Students may have to spend their recess time in detention and their parents will be notified.
4.Students may have to spend one half hour in after school detention. (See detention regulations)
5.Students may be suspended from school.  After twenty days of suspension the school may seek expulsion.
6.Students with special needs, including those enrolled in Special Education classes, may be suspended or expelled from classes of the district in a manner provided by statute.

If a child receives three detentions in 30 days time, he/she may be suspended and a parent conference will be necessary for readmission. 

When a student has been suspended from a classroom by a teacher, that teacher may require the parent/guardian to attend a class for a portion of the day, to observe the conduct and behavior of the student.


SUSPENSION OR EXPULSION ED CODE 48900
A pupil shall not be suspended from school or recommended for expulsion unless superintendent or the principal of the school in which the pupil is enrolled determines that the pupil has:

(a)  Caused, attempted to cause, or threatened to cause physical injury to another person.
(b)  Possessed, sold, or otherwise furnished any firearm, knife, explosive, or other dangerous object unless, in the case of possession of any such object, the pupil had obtained written permission to possess the item from a certificated school employee, which is concurred by the principal or the designee of the principal.
(c)  Unlawfully possessed, used, sold, or otherwise furnished, or been under the influence of, any controlled substance listed in Chapter 2 (commencing with Section 11053) of Division 10 of Health and Safety Code, an alcoholic beverage, or an intoxicant of any kind.
(d)  Unlawfully offered, arranged or negotiated to sell any controlled substance listed in an alcoholic beverage, or an intoxicant of any kind, and then either sold, delivered, or otherwise furnished to any person another liquid substance, or material as a controlled substance, alcoholic beverage, or intoxicant.
(e)  Committed robbery of extortion.
(f)  Causes or attempted to cause damage to school property or private property.
(g)  Stolen or attempted to steal school property or private property.

(h) Possessed or used tobacco, or nicotine products, including, but not limited to, cigarettes, cigars, miniature cigars, clove cigarettes, smokeless tobacco, snuff, chew packets, and betel.  However, this section does not prohibit use of possession by a pupil of his or her own prescription products.
(i)  Committed an obscene act or engaged in habitual profanity or vulgarity.
(j)  Had unlawful possession of, or unlawfully offered, arranged, or negotiated to steal any drug paraphernalia, as defined in Section 11014.5 of the Health and Safety Code. 
(k)  Disrupted school activities or otherwise willfully defied the valid authority of supervisors, teachers, administrators, school officials, or other personnel engaged in the performance of their duties.
(l)  Knowingly received stolen school property of private property.
(m)Possessed an imitation firearm.  As used in this section "imitation firearm" means a replica of a firearm that is so substantially similar in physical properties to an existing firearm as to lead a reasonable person to concluded that the replica is a firearm.
(n)Committed or attempted to commit a sexual assault as defined in section 261,266c, 286,288,288a or 289 of  the Penal Code or committed a sexual battery as defined in Section 243.4 of the Penal Code.
(o)Harassed, threatened, or intimidated a pupil who is a complaining witness or witness in a school disciplinary proceeding for the purpose of either preventing that pupil from being a witness or retaliating against that pupil form being a for being a witness, or both.
(p)Possessed or used any electronic signaling equipment while on campus, while attending any school-sponsored activity, or while under the supervision and control of any district employee, without the prior consent of the principal or the principal’s designee. ( Education Code Section 48901.5)
(q)Committed sexual harassment as defined in Education Code Section 212.5. this conduct must be considered by a reasonable person of the same gender as the victim to be sufficiently severe or pervasive to have a negative impact upon the individual’s academic performance or to create an intimidating, hostile, or offensive educational environment.  This sub-section shall not apply to pupils enrolled in kindergarten and grades 1 to 3, inclusive. (Education Code Section 48900.2)


(r)Caused, attempted to cause, threatened to cause, or participated in an act of hate violence as defined in subdivision (e) of Education Code Section 233.  This sub-section applies to pupils enrolled in any of grades 4 to 12, inclusive.  (Education Code  Section 48900.3) 

No pupil shall be suspended or expelled for any of the acts enumerated unless that act is related to school activity or school attendance.  A pupil may be suspended or expelled for acts which are enumerated in this section and related to school activity or attendance which occur at any time, including, but not limited to, any of the following:
(1)While on school grounds.
(2)While going to or coming from school.
(3)During the lunch period whether on or off the campus.
(4)During, or while going to or coming from, a school sponsored activity.
It is the intent of the Legislature that alternatives to suspension of expulsion be imposed against any pupil who is truant, tardy, or otherwise absent from school activities.


DETENTION REGULATIONS

If a child is cited for after school detention they will be required to spend one half hour in detention after school.  The school is required to notify parents if a child is to serve detention.  Parents will be notified one of two ways:
1.A staff member may call home and notify the parent so the student may serve detention that same afternoon.
2.More likely, a letter informing parents of the nature of the infraction and the consequence will be mailed.  If a student chooses not to attend detention on the designated day, an additional 30 minutes will be added to the existing time.

THERE ARE THREE BASIC RULES AT ORICK SCHOOL THAT GUIDE STUDENTS IN MAKING THE RIGHT BEHAVIORAL CHOICES:

1.Keeping your hands, feet and other objects to yourself.
2.No inappropriate language whether verbal, written or gestured.
3.Show respect for all adults.


EXTRA--CURRICULAR / CO--CURRICULAR
ACTIVITIES CONTRACT

Students who participate in extra curricular/co curricular activities enjoy experiences that are not usually available to other students of the school.  They are provided such opportunities as travel experiences, specialized instruction and training and are giving special recognition.



Being a member of an Orick School extra curricular activity means assuming certain responsibilities and adhering to regulations set for such activities.  These rules govern participating members from the first day of the scheduled activity until the activity is completed.  These rules are as follows:

BOARD POLICY 6145.100 states: Students in grades five through eight who participate in any co-curricular of extra-curricular activity must maintain a 70% grade average, or a mark of "3" in all subjects during the previous grading period, or must be on an approved probationary status by the direction of the Principal.


If a student is suspended from Orick School, he/she will be ineligible for extra-curricular activities for 30-45 days.  After the 30th day, there will be a behavioral review to decide if eligibility should be restored at that time.

STUDENTS ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR LOSS OR DAMAGE TO UNIFORMS AND EQUIPMENT AND WILL PAY FOR REPLACEMENT IF THIS SHOULD HAPPEN.

PLAYGROUND RULSE
Playground Staff:

1.The Playground staff is not always the same people everyday.  The whole staff takes duties on the playground and should be vigilant while looking after children on the playground. 
2.Staff must be respectful of the children at all times modeling the values from our character building program.
3.The yard supervisor must log all injuries on the Recess Clipboard, which will be kept in the staff room.  This clipboard is also a good place to record any ongoing difficulties between students on the playground.
4.The yard supervisor and PE teachers must have a radio, school key and whistle at all times.
5.The yard supervisor may put a child on the wall as a warning or cool-down period for a maximum of the ½ the recess.  (This should be noted on the clipboard).




Students:
1.No restroom stops after the whistle.
2.Primary uses the hallway by the office.  Intermediate and Upper grades use back entrance hallway.
3.Report all injuries and or fights to the yard supervisor.  (Adult supervisor report serious injuries to the office).

4.No playing in the bathrooms.
5.No playing or running on the ramp.
6.Remain in play area and in sight of the yard supervisor.
7.No hands on other people.
8.Use Big Toy appropriately.  No dangerous running or tag on the Big Toy or chips.
9.No walking on top of the Big Toy or Parallel Bars.
10.No bailing out of the swings; stop swings before leaving.
11.Take turns, go one direction only on overhead bars, no feet tag, at least 4 bars between students.
12.No climbing up the slide.  Must be feet first, facing forward on your bottom.
13.No rock or chip throwing, no picking up rocks or chips.
14.No falling stars off the bars. (Flipping without hands, landing on feet). 
15.Students must respect the requests of the yard duty supervisor.  Any refusal to do as a staff member asks will result in an immediate trip to the Principal’s office.
16.No teasing of harassing other students
17.No course language.
18.No fighting.
19.“Ball Tag” is only permitted in the field, with a forma ball, were all of the players agree in advance to play.






rick Elementary School
Complaint Form
Click on this form to download and submit to the office if you would like to file a complaint.