Elementary School Handbooks - Voorheesville Central School

Kindergarten Handbook | Elementary School Handbook

Kindergarten Handbook

School Personnel Your Child Will Meet

Mr. Jeffrey Vivenzio – Principal
Mrs. Karen Jones – Director of Pupil Personnel Services
Ms. Toomey- Kindergarten Teacher
Mrs. France- Kindergarten Teacher
Mrs. Gray- Kindergarten Teacher
Ms. King- Kindergarten Teacher
Ms. Sherwin- Kindergarten Teacher
Mrs. Terry- Special Education Teacher
Mrs. Marks- Kindergarten Teaching Assistant
Mrs. Tanner- Kindergarten Teaching Assistant
Mrs. Rappoccio – Librarian
Mrs. DiCarlo – Library Assistant
Mrs. Scoons – Library Assistant
Dr. McCormick, Ms. Koralus – Physical Education Teachers
Mrs. Beauregard, Mrs. Gleason – Music Teachers
Mrs. Vitelli – Art Teacher
Mrs. Sarah O’Leary– School Nurse
Mrs. Murphy – Main Office Secretary
Ms. Waters – Speech Therapist
Mrs. Fluman – Speech Therapist
Ms. Carroll– Speech Therapist
Mrs. Kirgan- Physical Therapist
Mrs. Matrian- Occupational Therapist

How to Help Your Child Prepare for School

Talk about school with your child. Discuss happy experiences that are waiting for him or her.
Listen to your child. Discuss concerns that he or she expresses. Encourage your child and be reassuring.
Establish good routines for eating and sleeping and doing school work. Agree upon a school bedtime.
Provide a work and study area for your child. This area should be a private place away from distractions and siblings.
Establish a communication link with the teacher so that you are always informed about your child’s progress.
Become an active member of the Parent/Teacher Association and help it to work for all the children.

What Your Child Should Know

Independence and self-reliance are important qualities for school-aged children. Your child should be able to:

State his/her name and address.
Take off and put on his/her own clothing; boots should be large enough to slip on and off easily; shoelaces should be securely tied, buttons and zippers should be easy to use; and clothing should be comfortable and appropriate for school and the weather.
Recognize his/her own clothing; it is helpful if everything that will be removed (hats, gloves, coats, etc.) are labeled with the child’s name.
Carry a tissue and be able to use it.
Go to the toilet without help.
Handle objects and return them properly.
Follow instructions given by an adult.
Stay with a group of children without Mommy or Daddy.

Aims of the Kindergarten Program

Kindergarten plays an important role in the educational experience of our children. In kindergarten, the child will build habits and share experiences which will be used throughout life.

During the kindergarten year, we are building a background of readiness for future learning. The kindergarten child is encouraged to work both as an individual and in group situations. Some of the specific aims of kindergarten are as follows:

To accept and share responsibilities.
To provide varied experiences with music, art materials, books and in creative play.
To teach the child more about the world outside his/her family.
To develop concepts of size, shape, and numbers.
To establish a foundation of letters, letter sound correspondence, print concepts, and sight word knowledge as well as a mathematical foundation.
To help strengthen and coordinate both the large and small muscles of the body.
To emphasize health through proper rest, food, and safety.

The Needs of Your Kindergarten Child

Clothing: The kindergarten pupils will be outdoors part of the time while the weather permits. Let your child wear play clothes to school, and as the weather gets cooler, dress him/her as you would for outdoor play at home. The teacher will inform your child when snow pants are needed for outdoor play.

Work Supplies: Please refer to the supply list that can be found on the District website.

Painting: We use washable paints. However, it is advisable for each child to have a oversized white t-shirt to cover his/her clothing. Please label the garment.

Boots: Have them large enough for your child to put on his/her own feet. It is discouraging to him/her trying to learn to dress himself/herself if they are too tight. See that boots are marked with his/her name.

Book Bag: Your child is expected to carry a bag or backpack to school every day. This bag should be large enough to hold art projects, a folder and be easy for your child to use. Please keep in mind that shoes will have to fit in the bag during the winter. All items should be labeled with the child’s full name.

Attendance

The kindergarten day begins at 8:30 a.m. and ends at 3:00 p.m. If your child misses the bus, and it is necessary to bring him/her to school, please make sure he/she does not arrive at the classroom before the starting time, 8:30 a.m. Your child is now a member of the Voorheesville Central School system. His/her attendance is recorded daily. Attendance at school is one of the first learning habits or attitudes acquired by your children. You are the teacher in this matter. Your attitude will usually determine that of your child. School attendance is a responsibility which you and your child must accept. Your child’s attitudes about this responsibility may influence their attitude toward other responsibilities throughout their lives.

Absentee Call In Procedure

On any day your child is not attending school or will be late to school, parents must call the elementary school office, 518-765-2382 ext. 514 no later than 8:40 a.m., to report the absence. You may leave a message on the voice mail. If we have not received notification from home, parent(s) of absent children will be contacted by the school for verification.

Excuses

Teachers should receive a written excuse for each child’s absence or tardiness. This will be kept on file the entire school year. It should be sent in with the child immediately upon his/her return to school. It should include: the date(s) of absence/tardiness, the reason for absence/tardiness, and the parent’s signature. Please do not include any other messages to the teacher on the excuse.

Reporting the Child’s Progress

Kindergarten children receive report cards three times a year. A parent conference serves as the first report card. Parents may visit the class during the year and may have additional conferences with the teachers after school upon request. Each September, “Parents’ Night” is held for kindergarten parents. This provides an opportunity for the parents to meet the teachers and to learn about the kindergarten program.

Snack Time

Each day, the children have snack time. The classroom teacher will provide specific information when school begins. Please be aware that all classrooms are now allergen safe classrooms.

Lunch/Recess

Kindergarten students will have recess at approximately 10:59 and will eat at approximately 11:22. Lunch is available for purchase. We suggest that, for the first day, you pack your child’s lunch so that we may go over the procedures of how to move through the line. Information regarding our online lunch payment program will be provided as the school year begins, and can also be found on our website. We prefer to take students outside as often and as much as possible. Please make sure your child is appropriately dressed for the northeast weather (particularly in the winter).

Expenses

At times during the year, it MAY be necessary to ask you to help cover the cost of some kindergarten expenses. This might include: 1) school pictures, 2) field trips, etc. If extra money is needed, a note will be sent home.

Safety and Health

School Bus

The children should be taught to respect his/her school bus driver.
The children should sit quietly on the bus. They must not stand while the bus is in motion.
When crossing in front of the bus, the child should be out ahead far enough so the bus driver can see him/her.
Teach your child his/her bus route numbers -both the bus that takes him/her to school and the one that brings him/her home.

We will stress the above points at school, but it will help if the parents stress the same points.

Health

The children should be taught to care for his/her own toilet needs.
The children should know the proper use of a handkerchief.
Covering the nose and mouth when sneezing or coughing.
Good eating habits.
The ability to dress oneself. Coats should have buttons or zippers, and the child learned to manipulate them.
Brushing teeth regularly.
Washing hands before meals and after using the lavatory.

If your child shows symptoms of illness, keep the child home for his/her own protection and for the protection of other children. We ask parents to notify the school nurse as soon as you know your child has a communicable disease (ie., strep, pink eye, COVID). The school nurse can then take the proper precautions.

Bus Permits

No child attending Voorheesville Elementary School is permitted to leave school on a bus other than his/her regular bus unless a note from a parent is received. The note should be addressed to the teacher with complete and specific information such as the bus number and the address where the child should be dropped off. No other messages should be written to the teacher on this note. The teacher will fill out a bus permit, which the child will hand to the driver of the bus on which he/she is to leave school.

A child who is excused from school prior to dismissal time must have a written request from a parent, and the child must be picked up and signed out in the main office. A child who will be picked up at dismissal time also needs to have a written request from the parent.

Classroom Representatives/Room Parents

Classroom representative(s)/room parents are selected from the parents in each class in the elementary school. The classroom representative has the following duties:

Assists the teacher with classroom parties and field trips.
Represents the class at meetings of the classroom representative organization. This organization is a PTA function.
Assists with class projects.
Coordinates parent volunteers in the classroom.

Parent-Teacher Association

The PTA affords the opportunity for parents and teachers to meet socially and to discuss the school program and education in general. The PTA provides many useful services to the school. We urge all parents to join this worthwhile organization.

Birthdays – Please contact the teacher to arrange your child’s birthday celebration. Since we are promoting healthy habits, our celebrations will be food-free. Parents are encouraged to donate a book in the child’s name to the classroom to share with classmates or plan an activity based celebration. More information will be given by your child’s teacher during parent’s night. The birthday child’s parent(s) and younger siblings are invited to attend the celebration.

At sometime during the year, your child may have the opportunity to provide a snack for another occasion. This will be discussed at Parents’ Night in the fall.

First Week of School

A tag was included with the letter from your child’s teacher which the child should wear through the first full week of school. Printed on the tag should be child’s name, address, teacher’s name, and their bus route numbers.

Please pin this tag to the child’s book bag to be visible during dismissal time.

Kindergartners are expected to come to school alone after their orientation visit. They will be met at the bus and shown to their rooms where their teachers will greet them and have many things planned. Our teachers will greet the students outside for the first few days of school to assist them with their transition into the classroom.

EACH CHILD SHOULD BRING THESE THINGS TO SCHOOL:

Bookbag
White oversized T-shirt for art
Wear name tag
School Supplies (if not brought on orientation day)

Parking

Parents visiting the school are to use the parking lot across Vly Creek and use the foot bridge leading from the parking lot to the elementary school. Please do not park next to the school building or along the roadways! Parents can always park at St. Matthew’s Church on Mountainview Street if the school lot is full. Please sign in at the main office upon entering the school.

Health

Provisions of New York State Education Law Regarding Administration of Medication during School Hours:

Precise procedures must be established to protect the individual concerned and all other pupils. Any medication left in the classroom or carried by an individual is a potential source of danger to the entire school population.

There are distinctly different circumstances when, under specified regulations, a medication prescribed by a private physician, may be administered to a pupil during school hours. Requirements for administration of internal medication are as follows:

The school nurse must have, on file, a written request from a physician in which (s)he indicates the frequency and dosage of prescribed medication,as well as the reason for giving it.
The school nurse must have, on file, a written request from the parent to administer the medication as specified by the physician.
The medication should be delivered directly to the school nurse by the parent. No medication should be sent to the school nurse by a child. The temptation to share a single dose or multiple doses is a real danger.
Medication should be brought to school in a labeled container. The medication will be kept in the school nurse’s office in a locked cabinet.
New York State Education Law applies to over the counter medications as well as prescription drugs. Cough drops, Tylenol, cold remedies cannot be given without the proper documentation.

When any member of the school staff observes a pupil carrying or taking a medication, that individual has a responsibility to refer the pupil to the school nurse. The school nurse will contact the parent and set up the proper procedure for administration of medicine.

Health Appraisal

Education Law requires that each child furnish a health examination prior to entrance to kindergarten, first, third, seventh, and tenth grades, and if the child is new to the district, upon registration. If your family physician cannot make this appraisal, the school physician will perform this service.

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Voorheesville Elementary School Handbook

Voorheesville Elementary School Bill of Rights

We the students of the Voorheesville Elementary School, as responsible school citizens, are entitled to the following rights:

The right to a school system where learning occurs and every student is important
The right to respectfully express our opinions
The right to a clean environment
The right to be treated in a fair and impartial manner and have an opportunity to explain our actions
The right to be free from all types of abuse

Absences/Excuses

On any day your child is not attending school or will be late, parents are to call the elementary school office at 518-765-2382, ext. 514 before 8:40 a.m or email: JMurphy@voorheesville.org. Your phone call will assure us that your child is safe at home. If we have not received notification from home, parent(s) of absent children will be contacted by the school for verification.

If a student needs to be absent from school, a written excuse is also required. Please provide the following information on a note and send to school on the day the student returns:

Student name
Date(s) of absence
Reason for absence (be specific)
Parents’ or guardian’s signature

The absences noted below are considered legal and will be excused by school authorities:

Illness or injury
Medical or dental appointment
Death in the immediate family
Religious observance
Court appearance

All other absences are considered illegal.

If a student is absent for two or more days, and is able to work at home, parents should make arrangements for work to be brought to them or picked up at school. Work can be provided for excused absences only, unexcused absences or vacation do not warrant work to be provided by a teacher. Completing this work will enable the student to feel more successful and not as overwhelmed upon his/her return.

Late arrivals and early dismissals must be signed in or out at the office. No student will be dismissed directly from a classroom. Students arriving after 10 a.m. or leaving before 2 p.m. will be noted as a half day absent.

Attendance

Regular attendance is extremely important to the success of each child in school and the parents’ role in attendance is vital. Whenever possible, outside appointments for children should be made during hours when school is not in session. We particularly discourage taking children on vacation during regular school days. Parents teach responsibility by insisting that children attend school when classes are in session. Although work can be made up, the classroom time itself can never be substituted.

Assemblies

Assemblies are an integral part of each student’s educational program. The Building Leadership Team presents a number of assemblies throughout the year. On occasion, individual classes also prepare and present performances that are viewed by appropriate grade levels and parents/guardians(if applicable). Due to space and trying to accommodate all of our families, school age siblings of performers will not be permitted to attend family performances unless their particular class is attending. Our students will all be given an opportunity to see these performances at a different time.

Please park only in the parking lot across the creek. Overflow parking is located at St. Matthew’s Church.

Behavior

Philosophy

Most students attend school with the purpose of improving themselves academically and emotionally, while fulfilling their responsibility as students. The majority of students have a positive attitude toward their school, an understanding that they have a responsibility to behave in an orderly and respectful manner, and seldom have problems with school rules as indicated by demonstrating appropriate behavior.

The principal, teachers, counseling personnel, parents and students will work together in an effort to identify potential discipline problems as early as possible and seek solutions. It is our role to model appropriate behavior and use any student behavior difficulties as teachable moments. It is important that all students know and understand our school rules because this will give them a reason to support those rules.

Unfortunately there are times when there must be consequences for actions. Consequences will be applied in a firm, fair and consistent manner. The purpose of such actions is not necessarily meant to punish, but to redirect students so that their future behavior may improve.

These guidelines for behavior apply to all school programs before, during and after the school day. Students should become familiar with these guidelines. Those who understand and follow these rules will help create a school that has an academically and socially safe atmosphere.

General Rules

Students are expected:

to be responsible for each other’s safety by not pushing, shoving, fighting or throwing objects
to have respect for the personal property of others and for school property
to avoid bad language and verbal abuse (teasing, name calling etc.)
to keep our classrooms, hallways, restrooms, cafeteria and playground free of litter,markings, etc.
to not chew gum while in school, unless to be utilized as a sensory tool and approved by school personnel.
to behave in a polite manner
to not bring anything to school that could result in an injury (to oneself or others), or anything that serves as a weapon of any kind (including but not limited to: knives, firearms, sharp objects, dangerous substances)

In the Classroom

Students are expected:

to obey teachers, aides and other adult supervisors.
to behave in a way that does not interfere with the learning of others.
to follow individual classroom rules.
Students are not allowed to wear hats or hoods unless for medical or religious reasons and/or specified spirit days.
Personal items including – toys, purses, hair brushes will be left in their cubby/locker.

In the Cafeteria

Students are expected:

to eat with good table manners.
to not throw food.
to remain seated until given permission to leave their seat.
to move through the lunch line in an orderly fashion.
to clean up their table area when finished eating.
to keep all lunch foods in the cafeteria.
to talk quietly.
to avoid bringing beverages in glass bottles as part of lunch.

In the Hallways and Stairwells

Students are expected:

to respect the displays and hallway bulletin boards.
to walk, not run, and to stay to the right while walking through the hallways.
to move from place to place in an orderly, quiet manner.

At Assemblies

Students are expected:

to listen and watch attentively to the programs presented.
to show their appreciation in a polite manner.

At Recess

Students are expected:

to include others in their games.
to share playground equipment and use it properly and safely.
to not interfere in the games of others.
Students respect their personal space as well as others (Refer to general school rules for examples)

Disciplinary Action

Penalties for misbehavior depend upon the severity and frequency of the action. The range of penalties is:

verbal reprimand;
loss of privileges (i.e. recess, attendance /participating in special programs);
detention;
removal from the classroom by the teacher; or
in-school or out-of-school suspension.

Parents will be notified of serious infractions and the consequences, and provided an opportunity for a conference. Teachers may remove students from their classrooms who are substantially disruptive to the educational process. A student identified as having a disability shall not be disciplined for behavior related to his or her disability. In all discipline matters students are entitled to due process. Serious infractions that violate the law will be referred to the appropriate law enforcement agency.

If a disciplinary problem does occur, it may be followed up by one or more of the following:

Teacher/Student Conference

The teacher and the student will meet at a time designated by the teacher in a private manner. The student will be informed of the penalties for present and future infractions.

Parent/Teacher Conference

The parent(s)/guardian(s) will be contacted by telephone and /or letter. The conference may/may not include the student. Any time the safety of a student or others is at risk, a teacher will notify parents/guardians of such incidents.

Detention

Detention may be assigned by the teacher or administrator. Detention is from 3:05-3:45 p.m. or during recess. This will be assigned at the administrator and/or teacher’s discretion.

Meet with the Administrator

The administrator will speak with the student, record the infraction and inform the student of the penalties involved for present and future infractions. Parents may be contacted.

Administrator/Parent Conference

The parent(s) or guardian(s) will be contacted by telephone and /or letter. The conference may include: the student, his/her parent(s), appropriate school personnel, and any other necessary person(s).

Suspension

The principal may suspend a student from attendance at school for a maximum of five school days, in accordance with Section 3214 of the Education Law. Parent(s) or guardian(s) will be notified by telephone and/or letter. Some examples of violations are: use of obscene and threatening language to a staff member, violent, disruptive behavior that puts students at risk to themselves and others, obscene gestures, major destruction of property, and continued violations of previously addressed issues.

Superintendent’s Hearing

If none of the above helps to solve the problem, a hearing may be held by the Superintendent of Schools. At that hearing, the future status of the student will be decided. This may include suspension from school.

Board of Education

In extreme cases, upon recommendation of the Superintendent, the Board of Education may become involved in a disciplinary matter as a result of a violation of the code.

Alternative Education Program

In the event a student cannot benefit from regular instruction due to violations of the discipline code, it may be necessary to provide for an alternative education program. This could include: at home tutoring, education with cooperation with outside agencies, or out of class lessons.

Bullying Policy

To view the Voorheesville Central District’s policy on Student Harassment, Hazing, or Bullying Prevention and Intervention please click on this link.

Dignity for All Students Act

Voorheesville Central School District complies with the Dignity for All Students Act (DASA) passed into law effective July 1, 2012. Student harassment is prohibited on school property or at school functions. Harassment is defined as conduct, or verbal threats, intimidation or abuse that interferes with a student’s educational performance, benefits or opportunities, emotional or physical well-being of which causes a student to fear for his or her safety. This extends to cyber bullying that occurs on or off school property. Also prohibited is student discrimination based on a person’s actual or perceived race, color, weight, national origin, ethnic group, religion, religious practice, disability, sexual orientations, gender, or sex. Any person having reasonable cause to suspect that a student is being subjected to discrimination or harassment should report the suspicions to the building principal. People who report such incidents in good faith are immune from civil liability and from retaliation. Please refer to the Code of Conduct for more information.

Bus Notes

Students may only ride another bus route for scheduled day care purposes. No day bus passes are allowed. The alternate transportation form may be found on the Transportation page on our website. If you have any questions contact us at transportation@voorheesville.org or 518-765-2382, ext. 521.

Bus Permits

No child attending Voorheesville Elementary School is permitted to leave school on a bus other than his/her regular assigned bus. Only recurring schedules for daycare/ alternative family care are permitted.

Bus Safety

Bus safety is the responsibility of the student as well as the driver. Proper behavior is expected from all students riding school buses.

Students are expected:

To be at their assigned bus stop and ready to board at least 5 minutes prior to their scheduled pick up time
to remain seated while the bus is in motion
to speak without being rowdy or boisterous
to act respectfully to the driver and fellow students
to keep the aisles clear
to listen and follow the driver’s directions

In addition, please be sure that:

No food or beverages be consumed on a bus
Children bring no items larger than those they can place on their laps
No glass, sharp or breakable items are brought on the bus
Valuable items are left home

Consequences

First offense: A warning from the driver.
Second offense: A bus referral is sent home to make parents aware of the situation.
Third offense: A second referral is sent home and the principal calls home to discuss the situation.
Fourth offense: Bus privileges are suspended for three days and a meeting is set up with the parents, the child, the principal and the driver.
Fifth offense: Bus privileges are suspended for five days and another meeting is held with all parties.

During a period of lost bus privileges, it will be the responsibility of the parent to transport the child.

While we strive for consistency and fairness, each driver must use their own discretion in dealing with offenses. In all cases the driver should investigate the matter with all students involved. If no resolution can be found, the matter will come to the principal’s attention.Any case that involves physical action will be brought to the principal’s attention and documented.

Closing School

Please sign up for our SchoolMessenger system to receive instant updates to your phone or email.

School closings will be announced as early as possible once a decision has been made. The best form of notification of this information would be to sign up for SchoolMessenger. You can do this by visiting the school district website. By signing up you will receive this information by an email or it can even be sent to your cell phone. Closings may also be found on some local news stations/websites, such as; New Channel 13, Times Union and WTEN. During the school day, if you think the weather may cause an early dismissal, please listen for reports. With well over 500 students we need your help and cooperation to run the buses on schedule. Please work with your child to make sure he/she knows what to do if no one is at home or a door is locked. Making alternate arrangements early in the school year will enable your child to be aware of a safe place to go.

If the school is opening late or closing early, keep in mind that Kids Club will also be closed.

Computer Policy

The computer is a tool that is used daily in instruction. Students in all grades are given email accounts since some of the instruction does involve the internet. The access to sites is strictly controlled in the primary grades. There is a bit more leeway in grades three through five, but student work is closely monitored and the district does employ a filtering system.

Disciplinary Action of Students with Handicapping Conditions

All students classified by the Committee on Special Education (CSE) are in general expected to follow the school’s rules and regulations. However, students manifesting special and particular problems requiring particular treatment may have the treatment specified in his/her Individual Education Plan. In the event a special education pupil violates the rules, the principal, along with the pupil’s teacher, the special education teacher and/or the CSE chairperson shall determine if the behavior is:

the result of the pupil’s inability to understand the rules for behavior, or
the result of the pupil’s inability to control his/her inappropriate behavior

If it is determined that the student is capable of understanding and following the school’s rules, then he/she will be disciplined as is stated in the school’s rules and regulations.

If it is determined that the student is unable to understand the rules or is incapable of controlling his/her behavior because of the handicapping condition, the student will be referred to the CSE.

The CSE can revise, modify, and determine alternatives for dealing with inappropriate behavior on the student’s Individual Educational Plan. These modifications will be conveyed to the principal, teacher and any other school personnel who are involved with the student’s educational plan.

Early Dismissal Requests

Parent(s)/Guardian(s) are encouraged not to pick up their children prior to dismissal unless an emergency arises or appointments (dentist, doctor) could not be arranged for after school hours. In such instances, parents must come to the main office to sign their child out and meet their child.

The following conditions will be in effect:

Students may not have radios, tablets, cell phones, smart watches or other electronic media in their possession during school hours (8:30 –3:00). If brought to school, these items should be left in backpacks and turned off.
If electronic devices that are visible and/or in use by students during school hours:
- 1st offense: Verbal warning
- 2nd offense: Teacher will take the device away and will be returned at the end of the school day.
- 3rd offense: Device will be handed in to the main office where a parent will have to come and pick it up.

Emergencies

The school should have a record for each child with the following information:

The parent’s or guardian’s phone numbers,both at home and place(s) of employment
The name and phone number of a person to be called in an emergency if the parent(s)/ guardian(s) cannot be reached. Should the child become injured or ill at school, the nurse will first call the parent. If no response can be obtained, the emergency designate will then be called.

Emergency Drills

Students will practice a number of safety drills throughout the year. Our school is required by law to have twelve fire drills during each school year. Students are informed on the opening day of school of exit plans and proper behavior.

Other drills include bus drills, sheltering drills, evacuation drills, lock out drills and lockdown drills. Every attempt is made to treat these drills as a learning experience and is done in a non-threatening way. Notification will go out to families prior to such drills.

Field Trips

Field trips provide an alternative possible means of instruction for children. Whenever field trips are within a reasonable distance and are correlated with courses of study, arrangements are made to include them in instruction.

Prior to the trip, a permission slip will be sent home. This must be signed by the parent if the child is to be allowed to accompany the class on the trip. At times, parents are asked to accompany groups to ensure adequate supervision.

Health Services/Requirements

The school nurse works with the school physician, parents, teachers and pupils in the prevention of health problems and in their correction where they already exist.

General duties:

First aid
Consultation of long term illnesses
Vision and hearing screening
Assistance of school physician
Emergency health care
Health liaison to home

If the child is required by his/her physician to take medicine during the day, the parent should present a written request from the physician to the nurse. Students may not carry over-the-counter (OTC) medicine to or from school, or with them while they are in school. A note from the parent must accompany any OTC medicine, and the parent must transport the medicine.

If a child is not allowed to go outside due to illness for more than one day, a physician’s note is required.

New York State requires scoliosis screening and verification of updated immunization. Specific information will be sent home from the nurse’s office.

Home/School Communications

The home and school have a joint responsibility for a child’s personal, social and educational development. Individual parent/teacher conferences can be one of the most productive means of assuring home/school planning. Opportunities for conferences are offered during the year as a regular procedure. Both parents and teachers are encouraged to maintain contact with each other in order to assess student progress.

Homework

Homework is designed to give students an opportunity to practice the skills they have been learning in class, to develop the habit of organizing and using time efficiently, to apply knowledge learned in school, and to prepare for further learning. Homework should help develop the student’s sense of responsibility by providing an opportunity for the exercise of independent work and judgment.

Homework important enough to be assigned should be evaluated or used to support classroom instruction.

Grade level teachers are expected to have consistent expectations when it comes to homework assignments.

Parents are encouraged to monitor homework assignments and, to the extent possible, provide conditions that are conducive to their successful completion.

Reading– Students in grades K-2 are expected to read or be read to for a minimum of 15 minutes each night. Students in grades 3-5 are expected to read or be read to for a minimum of 20 minutes each night.

Mathematics – Fact fluency is an essential skill for the academic success of students in mathematics. Students in grades K-5 will be expected to practice their math facts regularly.

Teachers may assign homework in other content areas as necessary.

The estimated time for homework, in addition to nightly reading homework, is as follows:

1st Grade – 20 minutes/week
2nd Grade – 30 minutes/week
3rd Grade – 40 minutes/week
4th/5th Grade – 50-60 minutes/week

Lunch Program

Voorheesville Elementary School students use four-digit pin numbers to make purchases from the cafeteria. The students will enter their numbers on a key pad at the cash register; which will bring up their photo, confirming that the right account is being charged. This process helps lessen the time students wait in line for their meals. This system is also used in the middle/high school building.

The students will be given their lunch cards -with pin number -to bring to the cafeteria until they have the number memorized. The teacher will collect the cards back for safe keeping each day. Once the pin number is memorized, the card will not have to be brought to lunch. The teacher will have the cards should the student need a reminder.

The accepted means of paying for school lunches are cash, check, or MySchoolBucks payment. Cash and checks are accepted and processed with no fee. MySchoolBucks includes convenience fees depending on the type of payment. These fees all go to Heartland Payment Systems (owner of MySchoolBucks). None of it is kept by the school. Paying by credit card through MySchoolBucks incurs a fixed $3.25 per transaction with a credit card for school lunch and 4.95% for school store payments. Paying by e-check incurs a fixed fee of $2.75 per transaction. To minimize this fixed fee, there is an annual option for e-check transactions that can be accessed through MySchoolBucks. The annual fee is $12.95 per child or $26.95 per family (more than 2 children) and allows unlimited e-check transactions with no additional fee.

To access the annual option from a computer:

Go to the MySchoolBucks website and sign in
In the upper right hand corner, click on person icon
Scroll down to membership
Follow steps from there

The district uses My School Bucks as a means for parents to create and monitor food service accounts for their children. This web-based program can be used to put money on the account (using a debit or credit card), and track purchases. Please visit the myschoolbucks tab on the Voorheesville Central School webpage or visit https://www.myschoolbucks.com/

Borrowing of money is a difficult situation for the school and your child, and is strictly discouraged. Please write the student’s full name and homeroom number on all bag lunches. There is a free lunch and reduced lunch program available. Eligibility is dependent upon family income. Interested families may call the main office or our Food Services Director (Paul Franchini) at 518-765-3314, ext. 120 for more information.

The current price for breakfast is $1.75 and lunch is $3.00. Milk purchased separately is $.50

Lunch/Recess

Students have a 60 minute lunch and recess period, of which about 30 minutes is used for eating. On the vast majority of days students go outdoors for recess. Children should dress accordingly. When weather does not permit going outdoors, recreational play will be in the gyms or classroom

Parent Nights

Each fall, parents are invited to participate in a parents’ night. Meetings are scheduled by class and grade level in order for parents to have the opportunity to meet with the children’s teachers, more clearly understand the curriculum, and receive a general overview of the programs. Specific conferences are encouraged but should be scheduled for another time.

Parents Driving Students To and From School

Bringing to school: Students should be dropped off by the bridge in the parking lot. An adult is on duty from 8:30-8:45 to walk students safely to the building.

Except for specifically arranged circumstances, children cannot enter school before 8:30. Students arriving past 8:45 are considered tardy and must report to the office with their parents to be signed in.

Picking up from school: When picking up a student, parents should park in the parking lot across the creek and report to the main office. The secretary will contact the student who will meet the parent in the office. If a note has been sent with the student we will make every effort to have the child in the office at the prearranged time. No students may be dismissed from the classroom. For end-of-the-day dismissal, parents should wait to enter the school lot until all buses have left. Once the buses have departed, parents can drive in and circle the lot until they reach the curb. Parents should stay in their cars, and students will be released to them as they are called.

Parking

All visitors, parents and teachers should park in the parking lot across the creek. The blacktop area in front of the school is a fire lane and must be kept clear in case of emergency situations. For safety reasons, it is imperative that no cars be parked in this area. There is very limited parking on the side of the building and during the school day. This should be used for short-term visits.

On days when there are a lot of visitors in the building, overflow parking is on Mountainview Street at St. Matthew’s Church. Park in the lot across the street from the church, do not use the lot next to the church entrance.

Please do not park along roadways, as you will be ticketed.

Personal Data

The accuracy of your child’s personal data is very important. For example, it may be necessary to reach the parent during the school day in an emergency. Please notify the office of any changes in your phone number, address, place of employment, physician and person to call in an emergency if you are not available.

Photo Policy

There are a number of instances throughout the school year where there are opportunities for photographs of school events. They may be taken by a student teacher who is working on a portfolio or a classroom teacher documenting projects or field trips. Photos may be children working through a process with a visiting artist or children participating in a school day activity.

At times we may use these photos for educational purposes to highlight the many wonderful things that go on in our school. We will not specifically identify students in the photographs (e.g. Bugler) or on the district website. On occasion a photographer from a newspaper may be here for an event. Where they would like to identify students for the newspaper, we will ask for permission specific to the instance.
If you have objections to having your child’s picture in publications or on the web site, please submit the No Picture Request form that can be found on our website.

Program Descriptions

The following is designed to give a brief description of the many programs offered at school. If you are interested in greater detail in any of the areas please contact the appropriate teacher or the principal. More in depth information is also available at Parents’ Night.

After School

On Tuesdays through Thursdays there are after school late buses that leave the building between 3:40 and 3:45. This additional afternoon time provides students with opportunities to stay for such things as Drama Club, intramurals, Art Club, Student Council, and homework assistance.

Art

The elementary art program is a comprehensive sequential art curriculum, and is based on the New York State Visual Art Standards.. The program encourages students to experience and explore a variety of art forms and media. Its objectives are:

to design skills and concepts through various 2-D and 3-D mediums
to advance creative and critical thinking through personal expression
to promote esthetic awareness through the elements of art
to further students’ knowledge of individual artists, past and present, through their study of their works.

Students meet once every 6 day cycle for 45 minutes. Students are encouraged to wear a smock of some type to protect their clothing from being damaged.

Community Resources

New Scotland Kiwanis offers baseball and soccer
CYO offers basketball
There is an active scouts program for both boys and girls
Food pantries: New Scotland Food Pantry & the Elementary School Community Shop
Any questions on outside health services can be directed to the school nurse, and questions on counseling services can be directed to the school counselor

Computers/Technology

Students in grades kindergarten through grade five are given opportunities to work with computers in the classrooms. A laptop cart has been added to the available computers.

Extra-curricular

Art Club – grades 4 and 5
Drama Club – grade 5
Writers Club – grade 5
Science Fair – grades K-5
Blackbird Helpers- grade 4
Student Council – grade 5
Go Beyond Programs – grades K-5
Hand Chime Choir – grades 4 and 5
Builders Club- grades 3-5
Game Club- grades 3-5
Chess Club- grades K-5
Odyssey of the Mind – grades K-5

Counseling

The elementary school has full time counselors on staff who work with the children in a variety of ways. Teaching is done within all classrooms and small group meetings (Anxiety Group, Social Skills Group and Friendship Club) and individual counseling is also done addressing a variety of needs.

Hygiene Education

Each year the school nurse addresses hygiene with the fifth grade students. Topics include physical, dental and mental health hygiene. If you have any questions about what may be covered, please contact the school nurse.

Instrumental Program/Band

The band program is available to all fifth grade students. Instrumental lessons begin in mid-September and continue through the middle of May. Fifth grade band meets twice per six-day cycle an hour before school, beginning in mid-November. Performances consist of a winter concert and spring Fine Arts Night, which are both held at the Lydia A. Tobler Performing Arts Center at the middle/high school campus.

Kids Club

Kids Club is a before/after school program that is housed in the building, but is owned and operated independently from the district. For information, please call 518-765-2043 or email thekidsclubinc295@gmail.com.

Late Buses

Library Media Center

The Voorheesville Elementary School Library Media Center program supports 21st Century learners through encouraging each and every student to use our electronic and print resources to:

Investigate research projects that support classroom learning
Cultivate curiosity and discover interesting things about our world
Create new ideas and products and…
Develop a lifetime love of literature!

Students, staff, faculty and parents are all encouraged to come to the media center to use our resources, check out books, seek research and media and assistance, or simply … READ!

Library Hours and Staff

Our library staff consists of Mrs. Rappoccio, the Library Media Specialist and two library assistants.

Regularly scheduled classes are taught by the Library Media Specialist during the majority of each school day. However, students may come to the library individually during the school day for research or book selection if arrangements have been made between the library staff and classroom teacher in advance.

Please feel free to contact us by phone at 518-765-2382, ext. 520 or by email at arappoccio@voorheesville.org. We will make sure to get back to you in a timely manner. We look forward to seeing your student in the library!

Loan Policy

Students are allotted 10 minutes at the end of each library class to browse books and check-out.

Students in Kindergarten may check out one book each week.

Students in First through Fourth Grade may check out two books each week.

Students in Fifth Grade may check out up to three books each week.

Mathematics

Our mathematics program follows the scope and sequence of the skills recommended by New York State and the common core. A variety of other materials are used to introduce, supplement, reinforce and enrich concepts, using small group guided instruction.

Music

At each level, the music program meets the four national music standards: creating music, performing music, responding to, and connecting to music. During classes, we sing, listen to music from a variety of cultures and styles, play instruments, dance, and read and compose music. Each year we build on the following concepts: rhythm, melody, form, expression (dynamics), and harmony. There are performances in the following grades: kindergarten (winter and spring choral concert), third grade (musical), fourth grade (Spring Fine Arts Day), fifth grade (winter band and chorus concert, spring musical, and Spring Fine Arts Night). In fifth grade, all students sing in chorus, as part of the fifth grade music curriculum.

Health/Safety Program

The goals of our health program are to develop an appreciation for mental, physical, social and emotional health, to develop an understanding of the human body and to promote an understanding of personality development and the influence this development has on behavior. We use the Second Step curriculum to address age appropriate topics with each grade level Topics presented at K-5 include: development and maintenance of a healthy body, development of a healthy personality, bullying (and effective anti-bullying strategies), the human body and its systems, dental health, personal safety, nutrition, substance abuse, and first aid.

Physical Education

The physical education department offers a much diversified program. Each student develops wide and varied interests. Competitive, lifetime and team building activities are incorporated into the program. The focus is based not only on skills and fitness but attitude, preparation, cooperation, leadership, conflict resolution and sportsmanship. Some of the activities included are: the mile run, beep test, fitness building games; variations of dodge ball and capture the flag activities, circus arts, obstacle course, Project Adventure and rhythms and dance. Traditional competitive sports are also included. To be excused from physical education for medical reasons for any extended period, the student must supply a signed note from the physicians to be given to the school nurse. This note should include the reason and length of time the child will be excused and when he/she can return to full activity. A parental request for excuse from physical education class for up to one week will be honored.

OT/PT

The occupational and physical therapists identify those children with fine and gross motor needs in order to provide therapy for them. The therapists will contact parents of those students. Periodic communications with parents are made to apprise them of their child’s progress in the program.

Reading/Writing

The Voorheesville Elementary School’s literacy program is based upon Wonders, a McGraw Hill reading and writing program. Wonders is an evidence-based program with explicit lessons in the five pillars of the science of reading: Phonemic Awareness, Phonics, Text Fluency, Vocabulary, and Comprehension. This resource provides alignment between each of these components, creating a robust learning experience. Students will be reading and writing analytically, and practicing foundational skills.Instruction occurs in whole class, small group, and one-on-one settings. Instruction is based upon continual assessments throughout the year.Such assessments include but are not limited to: New York State Assessments, Reading Running Records, and DIBELS (Dynamic Indicators of Basic Early Literacy Skills).

Speech and Language

The speech and language pathologist identifies those children with speech and hearing needs in order to provide therapy. The speech pathologist will contact parents of those students. Periodic communications with parents are made to apprise them of their child’s progress in the program.

Remediation

Additional instruction in all subject areas is available for students who need help mastering the material. These needs may be determined through assessments or through teacher recommendation. If your child is selected for one of these programs,you will be given detailed information.

Resource Room

The resource room provides services for students with specific learning disabilities. Students who attend the resource room have been identified by the CSE (Committee on Special Education). The resource room concept allows children to receive the major part of their education in the regular classroom, yet spend some instructional time in a setting where specialized individualized help can be provided. Curriculum modifications and alternative testing strategies are available to assist each student in reaching his/her potential. The resource room teacher is trained and certified in special education.

School Psychologist

The school psychologist provides psychological and testing services to students. Services include:

Assessment of individual children who are thought to be experiencing learning, behavioral, social, and/or emotional difficulties that interfere with school success.
Counseling, behavioral consultation with teachers and parents, interviewing, etc.
Consultation with school personnel and parents through conferences and committee involvement.A child can be referred to the school psychologist by a parent, teacher, school counselor, social worker or administrator. Parental permission is obtained before formal services are begun. If parents wish to refer their child, they can contact the school psychologist directly. Informal discussions are often helpful in determining the nature of the referral.If significant concerns exist about the development of a pre-school child, the school psychologist can serve as a resource in securing appropriate services.

Science

The goals of our science program are to develop an awareness of science in our society, foster scientific literacy and curiosity, provide awareness of career opportunities in science related areas, and to foster an appreciation for the qualities of nature. Topics explored during the elementary school experience include: weather, solar system, rocks and minerals, electricity, our five senses, magnetism, and ecology. Our science curriculum is aligned to the next generation learning standards. This experience further reinforces concepts taught in class.

Social Studies

The content of our social studies program at Voorheesville is based upon the scope and sequence of the K-12 social studies program in New York State, and Common Core recommendations. Ten key concept goals are stressed throughout the K-5 curriculum. The standards include: change, citizenship, culture, empathy, environment, identity, interdependence, nation, state, scarcity, and technology.

As each child progresses through the grade levels, the curriculum presented begins with the development of the child as an individual and spirals to encompass global understanding of all cultures.

**More information about state standards can be found at www.nysed.gov.*

Safety and Community Resources

Safe Gun Storage

Unsecured guns in the home pose a risk to students beyond gun violence in schools. These risks involve unintentionally shooting themselves or someone else and suicide through the use of a firearm. New York State laws require that guns remain safely secured and inaccessible to those not permitted to possess them. While parents and guardians may believe their child(ren) cannot access the gun(s) in their home, history has proven that, too often, this is not the case. While many factors are involved in the tragedy of gun violence involving students, securing firearms is one easy step for prevention. An additional resource is available to any family in crisis in Albany County. The Albany County Sheriff’s Office will hold onto firearms for safekeeping during emergencies, such as domestic violence incidents or mental health struggles. Contact the sheriff’s office for more information.

Student Progress Reporting

All students in grades K-5 will receive three (3 )written report cards. Parents will have the opportunity for one scheduled parent conference in December. Other conference opportunities can be made available directly through your student’s teacher.

PTA

The Voorheesville Parent Teacher Association is a local unit affiliated with the New York State and National PTA. It has focused on the areas of advocacy, service, and education. Along with numerous other special programs and activities, PTA regularly sponsors Parents as Reading Partners Program, homeroom parent services, school photographs, book fairs, hospitality committees, and scholarship awards. Please contact the PTA Co-Presidents for more information.

Because public education is a joint effort of teachers, students, school board members, parents, and school administrators, there is great value in this organization which brings these people together regularly. Your participation is encouraged.

Registration

All new resident school-aged children and kindergarten children must be registered for school. A new pupil’s immunization records must be submitted and students entering grades 1-5 should have their records from the previous school forwarded.Students coming from out of state, must have a physical from a New York State physician.

Roles

Voorheesville Elementary School aims to develop the curiosity, the desire, and the skills necessary for learning in an atmosphere which reflects and fosters a belief in the worth of each individual. We believe that all students, regardless of race, color, creed, national origin, sex, handicapping condition or economic and social circumstances, have the right to a quality education. We strive to provide a setting that is positive and challenging and that takes into consideration each individual’s interest, goals, present abilities, and future needs.

It is our hope that each individual student experiences a successful school career where he/she can develop to his/her fullest. However, the school cannot reach this goal alone. Students, parents, teachers and other school personnel have a joint responsibility for educating our students and have specific roles to play in this development.

The Role of the Students

Accept responsibility for their actions.
Respect the rights of others, including the right to an education in a place that is orderly and disciplined.
Attend school regularly and punctually.
Take advantage of the academic opportunities offered at school.
Support and participate in school activities.
Maintain habits of personal cleanliness.
Respect school property.
Maintain respectful relationships with teachers and administrators.
Contribute to keeping an atmosphere that creates mutual respect for all.
Be informed about their rights and responsibilities, follow all rules and regulations of this policy, and report any infractions to the proper authorities.

The Role of the Parent or Guardian

Send their child to school as required by New York State law.
Insist on prompt and regular attendance.
Make certain that all absences are properly excused.
Provide for their child’s health, personal cleanliness, acceptable grooming, and suitable dress.
Guide their child from the earliest years to develop socially acceptable standards of behavior, to exercise self-control and to be responsible for his/her actions.
Teach their child respect for law, for the authority of school, and for the rights and property of others.
Know and understand the rules their child is expected to follow at school.
Instill in their child a desire to learn. Provide a good place for study and ensure the completion of homework assignments.
Convey an enthusiastic and supportive attitude toward school and education. Become familiar with their child’s school, its staff, curriculum and activities, and attend parent/teacher conferences and school functions when possible.

The Role of Teachers, Administrators and other School Personnel

Have and display a personal enthusiasm for teaching and learning and a genuine concern for the individual student.
Provide varied learning activities so students learn to think and reason.
Guide each student to assume responsibility for their actions and respect the rights of others.
Be fair, firm and consistent in enforcing rules in the classrooms, hallways, restrooms, school buses, on the school grounds and at all school sponsored activities.
Create a meaningful teaching/learning situation, giving positive reinforcement for acceptable behavior.
Demonstrate, by word and personal example, respect for law and order and self-discipline.
Confer with a school counselor or administrator regarding any student whose behavior requires special attention.
Seek to develop close co-operative relationships with parents for the educational benefit of the student by keeping open communication with parents and by sending communications home promptly.

Telephone

The office telephone is to be used by students only in an emergency. Using this telephone for forgotten items, reminders to parents of an after school activity or change in plans to visit friends is discouraged.It is important that school and home work together to teach the children responsibility in this regard. Parental assistance in this matter will not only help the child but is greatly appreciated by the school. Students are not to use classroom phones.

Testing

Developmental Indicators for the Assessment of Learning (DIAL-4) – This profile is given to all incoming Kindergarten students to better understand their learning skills and experiences. Areas screened include language skills, visual-perceptual motor skills, speaking and hearing skills, and general physical development. The tests enable us to work better with the children when they enter kindergarten. In some instances, suggestions will be made to parents for work in the summer.

Current State Testing includes:

Grades 3 -5 English Language Arts (March)
Grades 3 -5 Mathematics (April)
Grade 4 Science (May/June)

Questions regarding the tests or results can be directed to the classroom teacher or principal. More information on NYS testing can be found at www.nysed.gov.

Textbooks/Supplies

All textbooks, workbooks and supplies directly related to instruction are furnished by the school. Pupils are expected to supply their own paper, pencils and crayons. Families in need should contact the principal. Replacement costs will be charged for textbooks that are damaged, excessively worn, or lost.

Transfers

Parents moving from the Voorheesville area should notify both the school secretary and the teacher as soon as possible. The school needs to prepare information for the new school. This information will be mailed to the child’s new school upon written request by the parents and request from the new school.

Transportation

Each student is expected to ride his/her assigned bus each day.

Late buses run from the elementary school each Tuesday through Thursday, typically for students in grades 3, 4 and 5. These buses leave the school at 3:50pm. These are provided for those students participating in extracurricular activities or clubs, or for students meeting with teachers for academic assistance. Parental permission must be given for students remaining for late buses.There are limited late buses, stops are at general locations along major roads. Generally, door-to-door stops are not available. Please contact the transportation office for stop locations at transportation@voorheesville.org or 518-765-2381, x 521.

Bus safety is the responsibility of the driver as well as the student. Proper behavior is expected from all students riding school buses. Students are to remain seated without rowdiness or boisterous talking while the bus is in motion and are expected to show respect to the bus driver as well as to their fellow students. In addition, please be sure that:

No food or beverage be consumed on a bus.
Children bring no items larger than they can place on their laps.
Glass, breakable or valuable items as well as phones, tablets and other potential distractions should not be carried on the bus.

Bus routes are posted on the parent portal at the end of August. A school message notification will be emailed when routes are available.

Visitors

Parents coming to call for a child, delivering a child or bringing articles to their children during the school day must report to the office, not the classroom. Visitors must bring their license to the main office so it can be put on file and you will be given a visitors badge. If you do not have a visitor’s badge or sticker, staff will ask you to return to the main office. The office staff will ensure any items or messages get to the children. Parents should only go to the room in which they were given prior authorization, not to other classrooms or areas of the building. A parent reporting to a room without prior notice is not only a “breach” in our security program, but a distraction and takes away from our work with all the children.

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