School Handbook

The purpose of this booklet is to acquaint parents with the school, its staff, our programs, and our general procedures. Simply as a reminder to everyone, RWBB School operates on the Balanced School Day. Instead of two recesses and a noon hour we have two nutrition / activity breaks of thirty-five (35) and forty-five (45) minutes respectively. We will continue to have more time to eat and have longer durations to get fresh air and exercise. If you have any questions, concerns, or comments regarding the school or your child, please feel free to call us at 467-5537.

Mr. G. J. Ross, Principal

DAILY ROUTINE

8:40 a.m. - Entrance of students

8:50 a.m. - Morning Classes begin - Daily Assembly in Gym

10:30 - 11:05 a.m. - Nutrition / Activity Break

12:45 - 1:30 p.m. - Nutrition / Activity Break

3:10 p.m. - Afternoon Classes End

3:15 p.m. - Dismissal of Bus Students

3:20 p.m. - Dismissal of Town Students

If you are picking up your child after school, please wait outside the school as our halls are very congested at dismissal time.

If you MUST make alternate dismissal arrangements for your child, please try to do this in advance and send a note with your child. The Office has a difficult time dealing with daily phone calls on this issue due to the number of students enrolled in our school.

ABSENTEEISM AND LATENESS

If you know in advance that your child will be absent, please contact the school (by note or by telephone) to inform us. We have an answering machine that will respond to your calls before or after office hours, which are from 8:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. (467-5537)

It is very important that children regularly attend school and that they are on time. Chronic absenteeism and lateness are upsetting for the child and interfere with the learning process. Students who are late must report to the Office. Your help will be greatly appreciated in these two areas.

SCHOOL CALENDAR

Each month we will send out a school calendar with school events on it. We hope that you find it useful and that it helps to let you know what is happening in our school. Please also read the back of the calendar for important information. Our calendar is also posted on our website - www.isd21.mb.ca/rwbb .

Every second month we will be sending out a school newsletter, Bear Facts, with the youngest child in each family. The first edition will be out at the end of October and as with our calendar, it too will be available on our website.

DAILY CYCLE

Our school operates on a 6-day cycle and Wednesday, September 7th, 2011 is Day 1 on the school day cycle.

NUTRITION / ACTIVITY BREAKS

Nutrition and activity breaks are provided so that the students are able to have time to eat healthy snacks and lunches and get some fresh air and exercise during the school day. If it is absolutely necessary that a student must remain in for a day or two, please send a note regarding this with your child. A doctor’s certificate will be required if this must continue for a longer period of time. Generally, if children are healthy enough to be in school, then they are healthy enough to go outside.

During inclement weather conditions, all students will remain inside. Students are not permitted to leave the school grounds during nutrition / activity breaks unless they have written permission from their parents.

We encourage you to send a healthy snack with your child to eat at the first nutrition break as many students need this added nourishment (as do many of our staff). Please bear in mind our “Allergy Aware” initiative.

PARENTS IN THE SCHOOL

If you are in the school during school hours to deliver items to your child or to pick up your child, please enter the school through the main entrance and then please check in at the Office; we will call your child to the Office or deliver the items for you. It is very distracting to teachers and to students to have interruptions during teaching time. In addition, for the safety of all our students, we want to know who the individuals are that are in our school.

STUDENT EVALUATION

Reports will be sent out to parents in November, March, and June. Parent-Teacher Conferences will be held in November and March, and a Student-Led Conference will be held in April. Parents are encouraged to contact the school at any time should there be a concern or question regarding their child’s progress.

BUS POLICY

All transported students will be required to go on the bus unless both the teacher and the bus driver receive a note/telephone call stating otherwise.

STUDENTS WILL BE SENT HOME ON THE BUS UNLESS PARENTS NOTIFY BOTH THE SCHOOL AND THE BUS DRIVER (BY PHONE OR BY NOTE) IN ADVANCE.

If your child is not a bus student but must travel on the bus for a special occasion (birthday, sleep-over, etc.), he or she will not be allowed on the bus without written permission.

Parents are asked NOT TO DRIVE INTO THE BUS LOOP as this may cause safety problems for our students. Also, parents are not to park in the staff parking area to pick up / drop off their child/children.

At dismissal, we load four (4) buses that in some cases act only as shuttles to the high school. There, students may or may not have to change their buses for home. If you have any bussing questions, please contact the ISD Transportation Department at 467-8730.

FOOTWEAR

It is the school’s policy that students must remove their footwear when entering the school and put on their indoor shoes. Please make sure that your child has indoor footwear so that our school can be kept as clean as possible. Thank you for your co-operation in this matter.

VOLUNTEERS

Volunteers are very important to our school program. We hope that we can count on you for your help during the school year.

SPEECH/LANGUAGE SCREENING

The Speech Pathologist will observe students within the classroom upon the Resource Teacher’s request. If it is determined that a referral is necessary, parents will be contacted.

OPEN HOUSE

We hope that you will be able to come to the school on Thursday, September 22nd / 2011 from 7:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. to meet your child’s teacher, learn about programs, find out how the school operates, and tour our building. Please watch for updates on the Open House.

MEDICATION POLICY

The following is the School Board policy regarding the administration of medication:

Non-prescription drugs are considered to be medication and should not be administered by school staff.

If, under exceptional circumstances, a child is required to take prescribed medication during school hours and the parents cannot be at school to administer the medication, the principal or his/her designate only will administer the medicine in compliance with the procedures that follow:

1. A written authorization by the parent or guardian is required before prescribed medicine can be given during the school day. A form is available in the school Office.

2. The medicine bottle must carry the official label from the pharmacist stating the child’s name, physician’s name, the name of the drug, the dosage to be administered and if possible, the time of day it is to be given.

3. It is the responsibility of the parent or guardian to see that the medication is delivered safely to the school Office.

4. The medication must be kept in a safe place in the school and administered by the principal or his/her designate.

5. We encourage asthmatic students to keep and be responsible for their own inhalers.

FRENCH INSTRUCTION

Exposure French is taught to all students from Kindergarten to Grade 3. The Basic French Program is taught to Grade 4 students. The French Immersion Program is offered at the Kindergarten, Grade 1, Grade 2 levels, and new to R.W. Bobby Bend School this year is Grade 3 French Immersion – Bienvenue!

SCHOOL LIBRARY

All students will be given the opportunity to borrow books from the school library. Kindergarten students may sign out one book, and Grades 1, 2, 3, and 4 students will be allowed to sign out 2 books. The loan period for books is one school cycle, so if your child’s library day is Day 4, their books will always be due on Day 4. Those students who have overdue books will not be allowed to check out another book on library day. Please help them to remember their library day.

The library expects to be reimbursed for lost or badly damaged books. This is the only way that we can maintain the size of the collection. Wherever possible, the cost of the new books has been entered into the computer, so we will charge accordingly. For older books, the charge will be $5.00 for fiction and $10.00 for non-fiction books. If you have books that you prefer your child not borrow, please contact Mrs. Debeuckelaere in the library. We hope that you will support us as we try to encourage students to read for fun as well as for information, and to be responsible users of the library.

STUDENT PLANNERS

Each Gr. 2, 3, & 4 student has purchased the student planner (agenda) to help him/her at school.

Purpose of the Planners:
- to teach students the basics of organizational and study skills
- to keep a written record of homework assignments and things to be returned to the school
- students to record and share memorable classroom events with parents
- to note special days
- to eliminate the “I forgot” and “I don’t know”

Our Expectations:
- teachers will initial each night
- parents read and initial each night, even if there is no homework
- both teachers and parents may write in comments
- students must bring the planner to and from school each day
- students will pay an $9.00 replacement cost if the planner is lost (Cost will be pro-rated over the year.)

LUNCH and MILK PROGRAMS

The last Wednesday of each month will be a special lunch day, although we may also offer this service on some other days. Notices will be sent home to inform you of the menu for these days.

Starting on Tuesday, September 13th, for both of their nutrition breaks, students will be able to purchase white or chocolate milk (250 ml size). Each student has the option of purchasing a milk card good for twenty (20) milk at a cost of $14.00; we have offered this service in the past and parents have found it to be a much more convenient way to purchase milk. We would prefer that students purchase a milk card, however, if this is a problem, please contact the Office.

PATROLS

You will notice that our school patrols will be out in full force at the beginning of the school year. Please obey these students and encourage your children to do the same. For safety, both parents and students must cross at patrol corridors.

During severe weather (heavy rain or extreme cold) we will NOT be sending out patrols. We ask that you exhibit extreme caution particularly during these times.

We also ask that if your child cycles to school that he/she walk his/her bicycle to the rack once having reached the sidewalks bordering the school. We also request that parents follow the same rule, as this is a safety issue during the very busy arrival and dismissal times.

For the safety of all of our students, please be aware and respectful of the parking / stopping by-laws and signs which have been established on the streets surrounding the school. Parking and/or stopping in unauthorized areas, creates blind spots for our children crossing the streets, and poses a very serious risk to their safety. We trust that we will have your full support in this matter.

CODE OF CONDUCT - R. W. BOBBY BEND SCHOOL

It is our responsibility to foster and maintain a safe learning environment for our students and staff. To make this possible, discipline, especially self-discipline, is regarded as an integral part of every student’s education.

This school Code of Conduct falls within the framework of Policy D-4(R3) (Student Code of Conduct) of the Interlake School Division.

1. Student Responsibility
- Students shall be expected to support a positive school climate and a safe place in which to learn.
- Students shall be expected to respect themselves, other people, and school property.
- Students shall be expected to demonstrate behaviour which does not interfere with the learning of others.
- Students are expected to dress appropriately. A neat and tidy appearance is required (clothing and hair).
- Students are expected to prepare for and participate in classroom activities. This includes having assignments completed and the appropriate supplies available.
- Students shall be responsible for their conduct at school, on the way to and from school, at out-of-school activities that are part of the school program, and while traveling on a school bus or in a vehicle being used as part of a school program.

2. Parent/Guardian Responsibility
- Parents/guardians are recognized as partners with schools in promoting appropriate student conduct.
- Parents/guardians shall ensure that their children attend school regularly and punctually and provide adequate school supplies throughout the year.
- Parents/Guardians should monitor their child’s homework to ensure completion.

3. Staff Responsibility
- Staff will promote a positive atmosphere and pride in this school.
- Staff will foster a learning environment which is safe, wholesome, and healthy.
- Staff will recognize themselves as role models and will reinforce socially acceptable attitudes and good social habits among students by encouraging proper language, appropriate dress, and regard for authority.
- Staff will be fair, consistent, honest and will endeavour to instill these qualities in all students.
- Staff will be responsible to enforce the school and divisional codes of conduct.

Discipline Procedure
1. All discipline is handled by the classroom teacher and/or Principal/Vice-Principal.
2. Severe or recurring classroom problems and all bus problems are referred to the Principal/Vice-Principal.
3. Any damaged or lost property (either school or personal) is also dealt with by the Principal/Vice-Principal. Usually, students are required to pay for any damages which are a result of their negligence.

Consequences:
- discussion with students
- loss of recess or activity break privileges or extra-curricular privileges
- payment of fines for lost or damaged articles
- removal of students from a classroom
- suspension from school
- Depending on the severity and frequency of the problem, parents may be contacted and one or more of the above actions may occur.

SCHOOL CLIMATE

At school, we will endeavour to be fair, consistent, and honest at all times. We will try to instill this in our students and we encourage you, as parents, to do the same at home. Our responsibility as teachers will be to foster a learning environment which is wholesome and healthy for each student. We hope that we can count on your support in enforcing these ideas.

STUDENT TIMETABLES

All students will receive a copy of their class timetables as soon as they are typed. This usually takes us about one week.

GUIDANCE PROGRAM

We are again fortunate this year to be able to continue with our Guidance Program, and it has been increased from a one-half time to a three-quarter time position. Mrs. Sanche is our Guidance Counsellor and she will be conducting class programs as well as doing individual counselling. If you have any questions or concerns regarding these programs, please call Mrs. Sanche at 467-5537.

ALLERGY AWARE

Just a reminder that we have approximately nine (9) students at RWBB who have a life threatening allergy to nuts and nut products. In trying to make our school a safe environment for them, we are once again asking for your cooperation in being aware of the food products that you send to school with your child/children. We realize that this will be inconvenient for many of you; however, given the consequence for those students with the allergy, we trust you will be considerate of our request.

In addition, we will be teaching students about allergies in general and that not all people can eat the same foods; we want our students to understand why we are doing what we are doing and how they can help to make the school a safer place. Please watch for pertinent information about food and allergies which will be sent home from the “Allergy Aware” committee.

Also, should a student have an allergy that necessitates the use of an Epi-Pen, he/she will be required to wear an RWBB School Fanny Pack which contains the Epi-Pen. This will help identify the student to all staff members and will ensure that the medication is readily available if needed.

ELECTRONIC DEVICES

The schools in the Interlake School Division recognize that it may be necessary for students to be in possession of electronic devices for personal use or for communication with family. However, the educational integrity of the school and privacy of others must be protected at all times; therefore, the following conditions will apply:

1.1) All electronic devices must be turned off during class time unless otherwise directed by a teacher.

1.2) Inappropriate use of electronic devices in the classroom and/or common areas will result in the electronic device being confiscated by the teacher/administrator. Should an electronic device be confiscated, a parent/guardian will have to come to school to pick it up.

1.3) The school assumes no responsibility, in any circumstances for the loss, destruction, or theft of an electronic device brought to school or to any school-related activity.

The intent of this reference is to foster responsible, appropriate use of electronic devices.

IF WE ALL WORK TOGETHER, YOUR CHILD WILL HAVE A SUCCESSFUL, REWARDING YEAR. CO-OPERATION, SUPPORT, AND COMMUNICATION ARE THE KEYS.

Dear Parents/Guardians:

The Physical Education/Health Curriculum has been developed to provide students with the knowledge and skills to make healthy lifestyle decisions and choices. It also replaces the former Family Life Optional Program. The curriculum has been developed by teams of educators and medical practitioners, and has been approved by the Minister of Manitoba Education Citizenship and Youth, for use in Manitoba schools.

This mandatory curriculum deals with movement, fitness management, personal safety, personal and social management, and healthy lifestyle practices. The integration of the healthy learning outcomes with core subjects such as Language Arts, Social Studies and Science is a focus of the new curriculum. Units that may be of particular interest to Early Years parents are those dealing with Personal Safety, Substance Use and Abuse Prevention, and Human Sexuality.

Parents can find further information on the Physical Education/Health Curriculum through the Manitoba Education Citizenship and Youth website at www.edu.gov.mb.ca/ks4/cur/physhlth , or by requesting the opportunity to view the curriculum guide from your student’s teacher.

Parents may, if they wish, provide for alternative delivery of the units: Personal Safety, Substance Use and Abuse Prevention, and Human Sexuality. However, a letter of explanation outlining the alternative programming must be provided to the school, and students will still be expected to undertake testing similar to all other students. If you wish to provide the delivery of any of the aforementioned units yourself, or have any questions pertaining to the curriculum, please contact your student’s school.

Sincerely, Gail Peterkin

Mrs. G. Peterkin Program Support / Curriculum Coordinator

Notice to All Parents & Guardians

The Interlake School Division Transportation Department welcomes you back for the 2011-2012 school year!

To ensure a safe and enjoyable ride this year for your child, please review the following:
- Take the time to go over the bus ridership rules with your child, and make certain your child understands them.
- Be sure your child is at their bus stop five (5) minutes prior to the assigned pick up time. (There is no waiting time built into the pick up schedule.)
- You must provide the driver with a written note if your child will be riding a different bus on occasion, or disembarking at a different stop on his/her regular route. As well, you must make prior arrangements with the driver if your child is bringing a friend home on the bus. The friend must have a written note from his/her parent to give to your bus driver, authorizing him/her to ride the bus.

Frequently asked questions:

What happens if my child misses the bus?… Have a plan in place for your child to follow in case he/she misses the bus, and make sure your child understands what to do. The bus will not return to pickup a child who has missed the bus.

What should I do if my child is late getting home?… If your child fails to return home at his/her expected time, contact the Transportation Office at 467-8730 or the Bus Garage at 467-2277. Please keep in mind there may be many reasons for a bus to be late (ie. mechanical problems, inclement weather or poor road conditions).

What is a bus discipline slip (write-up)?... Interlake School Division maintains a discipline procedure to ensure students follow the student conduct and safety rules while using the transportation system. The bus driver’s responsibility is to report students who do not obey the rules for transported students. Discipline of students on buses is the responsibility of school administration. Parental support is essential in correcting student misbehavior on the bus.

During inclement weather, how will I know if schools will be open or buses running?… We ask that you listen to any local AM or FM radio station. The decision to cancel school/bussing is made by 6:30 a.m. and all radio stations are advised by 6:45 a.m. Radio stations are your best source of information because phone lines may be busy.

Manitoba law requires all vehicles to stop for school buses when the loading/unloading lights are activated (these are the red and amber flashing lights at the top of both the front and back of all Manitoba school buses). Motorists cannot pass a school bus when the school bus stop sign is extended!

The flashing amber lights warn motorists that the bus is about to stop to load or unload students. When the red lights begin to flash, drivers meeting or overtaking the bus from either direction must stop before reaching the bus (unless there is a physical barrier such as a ditch or concrete barrier or median between the motorist and the bus). The motorist must remain stopped until the flashing red lights are turned off.

Remember, our students’ safety is the highest priority and we all must be part of the safety team – parents, students, motorists, bus mechanics, instructors, and administrators.

Should you have any questions about school bus service please contact the Transportation Office at 467-8730.

RULES FOR TRANSPORTED STUDENTS

1. Students shall obey the driver promptly and respectfully. The driver is in full charge of the conduct of students on the school bus.

2. Students shall be held responsible for the condition of their seats. The driver has the authority to assign seats.

3. Students shall be at their designated stop five minutes prior to scheduled bus arrival time. (The bus shall wait if ahead of schedule.) Students shall follow all road safety rules.

4. Classroom conduct is to be observed. Students shall sit facing forward, and shall not stand or move about the bus while the vehicle is in motion. Ordinary conversation is appropriate. Loud or vulgar language will not be tolerated.

5. Students shall not throw garbage on the floor of the bus or out of the bus windows.

6. a. Students shall not get on or off the bus except at designated points unless a note signed by their parent(s)/guardian or school office requesting a different stop has been given to the driver.

b. Extra students may only be transported at the discretion of the bus driver and will be transported only with prior approval of the driver.

7. Students shall not eat or drink on the bus unless permission has been granted by the driver and/or the supervising teacher.

8. Carry on items for regular school programs must be transported safely and shall ONLY be carried with the permission of the bus driver.