PEACHLAND ELEMENTARY SCHOOL’S
PARENT HANDBOOK
2009-2010
The British Columbia System:
The Central Okanagan School District:
Peachland Elementary School:
Policies and Procedures:
Health and Safety:
Educational Programs:
Parent Involvement:
A MESSAGE FROM THE PRINCIPAL
Dear Parents/Guardians:
Welcome to the 2009-2010 school year at Peachland Elementary School. We hope that you have enjoyed your summer vacation. As a returning or a new student to the school, the information included will hopefully answer some of the commonly asked questions regarding school policy and procedures.
On behalf of the Peachland Elementary staff, I extend a warm welcome to our school. We hope that this school year will be a most rewarding, happy experience for you and your child. The school welcomes parent involvement and provides many opportunities for parents to learn about, and contribute to their children’s education.
If at any time you have concerns regarding your child’s educational program, please call the school and talk to your child’s teacher. By working together we can ensure the best educational opportunities for your child.
We look forward to working with you in the coming year.
Mr. Troy White
Principal
Peachland Elementary School
5486 Clements Crescent
Peachland, B.C. V0H 1X5
Phone (250) 767-2686 Fax (250) 870-5051
THE BRITISH COLUMBIA SCHOOL SYSTEM
STATEMENT OF MISSION
The purpose of the British Columbia School System is to enable learners to develop their potential and to acquire the knowledge, skills and attitudes needed to contribute to a healthy society and a prosperous and sustainable economy.
GOALS OF EDUCATION
Prime Goal of Public Schools- Supported by the Family and Community
Intellectual Development- to develop the ability of students to analyze critically, reason and think independently, and acquire basic learning skills and bodies of knowledge; to develop in students a lifelong appreciation of learning, a curiosity about the world around them and a capacity for creative thought and expression.
Goals that are shared among Schools, the Family and the Community
Human and Social Development--to develop in students a sense of self-worth and personal initiative; to develop an understanding of the importance of physical health and well-being; to develop a sense of social responsibility, and a tolerance and respect for the ideas and beliefs of others.
Career Development- to prepare students to attain their career and occupational objectives; to assist in the development of effective work habits and the flexibility to deal with change in the workplace.
* * * * * * * * * * *
THE CENTRAL OKANAGAN SCHOOL DISTRICT
(British Columbia School District No. 23)
STATEMENT OF MISSION
Our mission is to educate students in a safe, inspirational learning environment where every student develops the knowledge and skills to be a lifelong learner and a healthy productive member of global society.
STATEMENT OF VISION
Our vision is that School District #23 (Central Okanagan) is a progressive leader in education, which sets the standard for educational excellence and ensures that every student has opportunities to succeed
“Together We Learn”
BOARD OF SCHOOL TRUSTEES
Moyra Baxter (our representative)
Rollie Cacchion
Gail Given
Wayne Horning
Anna Hunt-Binkley
Gail Scanlan
Jeff Watson
BOARD MEETINGS
Board Meetings take place every 3rd Wednesday of the Month, at the School Board Office Board Room.
SENIOR DISTRICT STAFF
School Board Office (860-8888)
Educational Administration:
Superintendent of Schools Mr. Hugh Gloster
Assistant Superintendent Mrs. Tery-Lee Beaudry
Director of Instruction, Human Resources Mr. Ross Dumonte
Directors of Instruction:
Elementary - Area 1 Mrs. Clara Sulz
Elementary - Area 2 (Peachland) TBA
Elementary- Area 3 Mr. Norm Bradley
Director of Technology and Educational Services Mr. Jon Rever
Director of Special Services Dr. Peter Molloy
Business Administration:
Secretary-Treasurer Mr. Larry Paul
Director of Finance Ms. Eileen Sadlowski
Communications Officer Ms. Lisa Harrison
HISTORY OF PEACHLAND SCHOOL
‘Peachland Memories’ tell us that school was held in two homes until the little white schoolhouse (St. Margaret’s Anglican Church) was finished in 1898. It quickly grew too small, with some classes taking place in the Orange Hall (old Community Hall), before the new school (Beach Avenue) was built in 1908. This school started as a Primary/Elementary School but became a high school as well the following year. At the same time, the Trepanier area had their own school in two other sites, from 1911 until 1928, when the last students transferred to Peachland. Peachland, by itself, was known as the ‘Peachland School District’ until 1949, when it came under the jurisdiction of the newly formed School District No. 23. The Peachland High School students were transferred to
George Pringle Secondary School and thereafter bused to Westbank.
Soon after Brenda Mine opened, the present-day elementary school was built on the former J. Clements property. It opened on May 26th, 1971, housing grades 2 to 7, with the younger children still attending what has since been called the Primary School on Beach Avenue.
Two long-time teachers in Peachland were Laura Lucier (33 years at the Primary School) and Gwen Bawden (27 years at both the Primary and Elementary Schools).
After the fire of February 1979, which damaged mainly the gym with extensive smoke and water damage to the rest of the school, students attended half-day classes in the old Community Hall during the cleanup. Renovations then commenced, and a full-sized gymnasium was finally built in 1980/81 with a lot of help from Mrs. Elizabeth Warrendorf, our School Trustee during those years. The second addition consisted of administration offices, the library, a classroom and a Learning Assistance room, with the old offices and library area becoming a multi-purpose room, an audio-visual room, custodian room, kitchen and storage. The revitalized Peachland Elementary School was dedicated at an Open House on June 13th, 1995. In September of 2001 a third renovation was completed with the addition of four more
classrooms.
Declining enrolment in Peachland saw the closure of the Primary School on Beach Avenue in June of 2002. Over seventy former teachers and students joined with the current staff and students to celebrate ninety years of education at this historic site.
At Peachland Elementary School our mission is to:
· Set high expectations, develop the whole child and provide support for all
students in their learning.
· Show commitment to education by continuing to improve and model the
skills and attitudes required for life long learning.
· Encourage and value input and involvement of all staff, parents, students
and the community at large.
SCHOOL GOALS FOR 2009-2010
GOAL ONE: To increase students’ skills at impromptu writing from one proficiency
level to the next proficiency level.
GOAL TWO: To improve students’ abilities to demonstrate Social Responsibility.
STAFF ASSIGNMENTS – 2009-2010
ASSIGNMENT NAME Division Room
Kindergarten Mrs. Gail Thiesmann 2001 152
Grade 1 Ms. Karen Reay 2002 147
Grade 1/2 Ms. Annie Kanda 2003 168
Grade 2/3 Ms. Loreen Legebokoff 2003 167
Grade 3/4 Mrs. Linda Judd 2004 169
Grade 4/5 Ms. Diddy Evans 2006 148
Grade 5/6 Mr. Gary Koop 2007 141
Grade 6 Mrs. Lynn Frey 2008 119
Principal Mr. Troy White
Principal Designate Mrs. Lynn Frey
T-Librarian /Prep Mrs. Kathy Shannon
Prep/Computers/L.A.T. Ms. Jody Bulatovich
L.A.T. Mr. Troy White
Elementary Counselor Ms. Wendy Groiss
Secretary Mrs. Yvonne Brown
Library Clerk Mrs. Maureen Reynolds
Day Custodian Mr. Jim Vander Lee
Night Custodian Mr. Ben Nichol
Aboriginal Advocate Ms. Crystal Prince
CEA Mrs. Joanne van den Born
CEA Ms. Katherine Lefebvre
CEA Ms. Kelly Watson
CEA Ms. Miranda Klassen
Lunch Hour Supervisor Mrs. Bonnie Browns
Lunch Hour Supervisor Ms. Denise Dussault-Huculiak
Lunch Hour Supervisor Mr. Ken Davies
Bus Driver Mr. Helmut Thiesmann
Bus Driver Mr. Ken Davies
Bus Driver Mr. Al Wiebe
2009-2010 BELL SCHEDULE
SCHOOL HOURS |
BELL SCHEDULE |
8:30 |
Classes Begin with Warning Bell at 8:25 AM |
8:30 – 11:15 |
Morning Session |
11:18 – 12:05 |
Lunch Time with Warning Bell at 12:05 PM |
12:10 – 1:25 |
1st Afternoon Session |
1:25 – 1:45 |
Afternoon Recess |
1:45 – 2:30 |
2nd Afternoon Session |
Kindergarten Session |
8:30 – 11:00 am 12:00 -2:30 pm |
YEARLY CALENDAR 2009- 2010
September 8 |
First Day of school - 11:15 a.m. Dismissal |
September 18 |
Ministerial Day No Classes |
September 24 |
Parent/Teacher Input Conf. Early Dismissal 12:45 pm/Regular Kindergarten |
September 25 |
Parent/Teacher Input Conf. Early Dismissal 12:45 pm/Regular Kindergarten |
October 12 |
Thanksgiving Day Holiday |
October 23 |
Pro-D Day—No School |
November 11 |
Remembrance Day Holiday |
Dec 5 |
Report Cards go Home |
December 19 – January 3 |
Winter Vacation |
January 4 |
Schools re-open after Winter Vacation |
February 4 |
Three-way Parent/Teacher Conf. Early Dismissal 12:45 pm/No Kindergarten |
February 5 |
Three Way Parent/Teacher Conf. Early Dismissal 12:45 pm/No Kindergarten |
February 19 |
Pro-D Day—No School |
March 5 |
Report Cards go Home |
March 6— March 21 |
Spring Break Vacation |
March 22 |
Schools re-open after Spring Vacation |
April 2 |
Good Friday |
April 5 |
Easter Monday |
May 24 |
Victoria Day Holiday |
June 29 |
Last day of classes - Report Cards go Home! |
June 30 |
Administrative Day - No school |
Sept 7 |
First Day of classes for 2010-2011 school year |
PEOPLE YOU SHOULD KNOW
PRINCIPAL – Mr. Troy White
Our school has been assigned a Principal and a Principal Designate. The Principal is responsible for assisting teachers, students, and parents to achieve the best possible learning environment as well as maintaining a part-time teaching assignment. The Principal Designate takes responsibility during the absences of the principal and reports directly to the principal upon his return. Our principal designate this year is Mrs. Lynn Frey. We have an “open door” policy with the view of maintaining cooperative relationships and seeking collaborative resolutions to problems. If you have concerns, your child’s teacher or the principal are interested in your comments.
LEARNING ASSISTANCE TEACHERS – Ms. Jody Bulatovich and Mr. Troy White
We have two teachers who have part time responsibilities in the area of Learning Assistance at Peachland Elementary. The Learning Assistance Teacher is involved in the evaluation of students, working with students in the regular classroom setting, providing individual and small group instruction and chairing the School-Based Team meetings that lead to the preparation of Individualized Educational Programs for children who have special educational needs.
The main goals of the Learning Assistance Program are to provide ideas teachers can use in their classrooms to assist students who are experiencing difficulty learning and to provide direct instruction to assist students with skill development so they can achieve more in class.
SCHOOL COUNSELLOR – Ms. Wendy Groiss
Our part-time School Counsellor provides a service, which is designed to assist students in overcoming academic, social, emotional, and behavioural problems which may inhibit growth and development. This service often involves working collaboratively with parents, teachers, students and community service agencies.
TEACHER/LIBRARIAN – Mrs. Kathy Shannon
We have one part-time teacher/librarian who is responsible for the operation of our school Library Resource Centre. Our teacher/librarian provides direct instruction to students, works cooperatively with classroom teachers in planning and implementing units of instruction, supports school based curricular initiatives in the areas of research and literature and manages the resources of the Library.
We have a part-time Library Assistant, Mrs. Maureen Reynolds, who assists with the daily operation of the Library.
SCHOOL SECRETARY – Mrs. Yvonne Brown
Peachland Elementary has one full time secretary. She receives all public inquiries, administers first aid, and manages the business of the office and assists staff with day-to-day responsibilities. Office hours are 8:00 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. (Lunch Break from 11:10-12:00 p.m. Student secretaries answer the phone and take messages during this time.
LUNCH HOUR SUPERVISORS (Ms. Denise Dussault-Huculiak, Mrs. Bonnie Hinds, and Mr. Ken Davies)
Our school employs three adult supervisors during the lunch hour. These staff members monitor the students during the eating portion of the lunch hour and provide supervision on the playground. Students are expected to follow the guidance of the supervisors in the same manner that they are expected to follow instructions from any other staff member. These supervisors are trained in dealing with minor first aid injuries and are expected to deal with low-level discipline problems. Serious discipline problems are referred to the teacher and/or the principal.
CUSTODIANS (Mr. Jim van der Lee, Mr. Ben Nichol)
We have one-day custodian assigned to Peachland Elementary. He is primarily involved in maintaining our facilities and those of George Pringle Elementary. In the evening, he is joined by our night custodian who works through the evening to ensure that the school is clean and ready to go for staff and students the next morning. Additional Operations support staff are also available upon request.
CERTIFIED EDUCATIONAL ASSISTANTS
These Para-professionals are assigned to the school on the basis of identified special education students in the school.. All are assigned to the school and are placed in classrooms to assist teachers in meeting the needs of the designated students in the room. Some C.E.A.s have special training so that they can assist students with unique medical needs.
SCHOOL BASED TEAM
The School Based Team is a group of Peachland educators who meet with parents to discuss the needs of any child who appears to have special educational, social or emotional problems. The permanent members of the team are the Learning Assistance Teacher and the Principal. The classroom teacher of the child will also attend a meeting called to consider one of his/her pupils. (Other professionals such as the School District Psychologist, Behaviour Intervention Teacher, and Speech and Language Pathologist are included in the team when needed.)
If a child appears to have a learning, social or emotional problem, a referral may be made to have the School Based Team review the child’s needs and recommend a suitable program or course of action called an Individual Educational Program.
INDIVIDUAL EDUCATIONAL PLAN (I.E.P.):
An I.E.P. is a special program designed to address the specific needs of one child. If a child is unable to cope with the regular program in the classroom, a modified or adapted set of objectives may be drawn up to best meet the child’s needs and abilities.
Parents are invited to take part in the meeting at which the I.E.P. goals are set.
The I.E.P. is reviewed on a regular basis to decide if it should be continued, modified or discontinued. Parents are always invited to take part in the review process.
Special Support Services available include access to:
Resource Teacher
Hearing Resource Teacher
Physiotherapy/Occupational Therapy
Vision Resource Teacher
Speech and Language Pathologist
School Psychologist
District Behaviour Intervention Teacher
HOSPITAL/HOMEBOUND TEACHER:
The placeSchool District employs a Hospital/Homebound Teacher to assist students who are absent from school for extended periods of time due to hospitalization or critical illness.
SCHOOL MASCOT:
 Sir Beaky
SCHOOL COLOURS Green and Gold
SCHOOL LEADERS
Sir Beaky says : “You can be a Leader by:
1. Being an expert at something.
2. Being kind and helpful.
3. Working well with others.
4. Leaving a situation better than when you found it.”
WHERE EVERYTHING IS…
POLICIES AND PROCEDURES
PARENT ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
To ensure that their child attends school on time and on a regular basis.
To ensure that their child comes to school dressed appropriately for the weather and according to the school’s dress code.
To ensure that their child is properly nourished and is well rested.
To support the school’s endeavours to provide a sound education.
Teacher Roles and Responsibilities
To provide learning opportunities appropriate for the ability of the students.
To provide a safe learning environment for the students.
To provide learning opportunities that promote growth of the child emotionally, socially, academically, and physically.
To inform parents of the success and progress of their child.
To show care, concern and respect for all children.
STUDENT RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES
As a student….
I have a RIGHT to learn.
It is my RESPONSIBILITY to listen to instructions, work quietly in my desk and to raise my hand if I have a question, concern, or need to leave.
I have a RIGHT to hear and be heard.
It is my RESPONSIBILITY not to talk, shout, or make loud noises when others are speaking.
I have a RIGHT to be respected.
It is my RESPONSIBILITY to be sensitive to the feelings of others. I will not tease, bully, or bug other people or hurt their feelings. I will use appropriate language.
I have a RIGHT to be safe.
It is my RESPONSIBILITY not to threaten, kick, punch, or physically harm anyone else. The only appropriate touch is a ‘soft tag’ or a gesture of friendship.
I have a RIGHT to privacy and to my own personal space.
It is my RESPONSIBILITY to respect the personal property of others and to accept their right to privacy.
School Wide Expectations
All students are expected to conduct themselves as responsible members of a school community both at the school and in the neighbourhood within which the school is located. Students must be courteous to the members of the school community and the families living in the school neighbourhood. Students are expected to be respectful of others’ property. All behaviour which disturbs, disrupts or damages the persons or property of the school neighbourhood will be addressed.
As well, all students are expected to conduct themselves in accordance with the Students’ Rights and Responsibilities code of conduct while travelling to and from school. Students who contravene this code of conduct while travelling to and from school in circumstances , which adversely impact, on the welfare of other students or the learning atmosphere of the school may be subject to discipline.
In easy terms to remember, we expect our students to be:
Respectful
Responsible
Safe
Learners
During the first week of school, each class will spend some time becoming familiar with the school-wide expectations as they apply to all areas of the school. Teachers will demonstrate and students will participate in role-plays to ensure that everyone understands the expectations.
Most students have no difficulty following school-wide expectations most of the time. However, from time to time some students have difficulty meeting these expectations Behavioural infractions will be addressed on a case by case basis using the following guidelines: Students will first receive a gentle verbal reminder or redirection; following several reminders or redirections, a record of the misbehaviour will be made on a “green slip” and the parent will be contacted. When necessary, further consequences will be developed in consultation with the student, the teacher, the parent, and if necessary, the principal.
Student Code of Conduct
Within the Peachland community, students are expected to exhibit a commitment to learning and achieving success. Guidelines for appropriate behaviour reflect the school’s philosophy of openness and mutual respect. Conduct guidelines focus on the expectation that students will take personal responsibility for their behaviour. This responsibility applies not only to academic studies, but also to the treatment of other people and the use and care of school facilities, equipment, textbooks and supplies.
Our behaviour guidelines are based on the “3 R’s:. Students are expected to monitor their behaviour using the following guidelines.
RESPECT RESPECT RESPECT
Yourself Others Property
If a student fails to exhibit their best behaviour in these areas a sequential, consistent, and fair discipline process will be put into effect. Consequences applied for inappropriate conduct will be communicated to parents/guardians. In addition to our school based guidelines and expectations, students at Peachland are expected to be aware that more serious violations of the Code of Conduct will be dealt with in accordance with S.D. #23 discipline regulations (Policy Reg. 5600).
Intervention Practices
When students are reported for contravening the Code of Conduct, the situation will be dealt with in the following manner. Action plans for remediation and/or restitution (consequences) will be put into place at all levels.
Serious violations that contravene the school and district codes of conduct…. i.e. those that repeatedly occur, are dangerous to the safety of other students, teachers, and support staff, may cause health hazards, or may constitute criminal acts, could lead to the following consequences.
- Definite Suspension (1-10 days) In-school or at home
- Indefinite Suspension (in excess of 10 days) At home with no return to school until heard by the School District Discipline Committee
Please note: School District #23 Discipline Regulations requires that the Principal must use discretion in determining the seriousness of the situation and that issuing of appropriate consequences may include, or be precluded by, counselor intervention. A further requirement of policy is that the Principal shall ensure that students with unique needs are referred to school personnel for consideration where school or community based counseling services is required.
Important steps parents can take to assist the administration and school staff in their efforts to change negative conduct through positive intervention.
- Communicate directly with the Principal, classroom teachers, or counselors when you have questions or concerns relative to student conduct.
- Our goal in this regard is to keep you informed and apprised of disciplinary actions being taken at the school level. You are encouraged to phone the school office and set up appointment time with the Principal when situations arise that you need to discuss.
Parental Concerns
What is the process of appeal for parents who want to raise a concern?
Step 1.
Concerns regarding classroom practice, policy or discipline should first be brought to the attention of the teacher.
Step 2.
If the matter is not resolved satisfactorily, it should be brought to the attention of the school principal.
Step 3.
If the issue is not settled after consultation with the school principal, contact the appropriate Director of Instruction at 860-8888.
Can I appeal directly to the superintendent of Schools?
Step 4.
Should the issue not be resolved after discussion with the appropriate director, the next step is to contact the Superintendent of Schools at 860-8888.
Can I appeal directly to the Board of School Trustees?
Step 5.
A student or a parent/guardian of a student who is entitled to an educational program in school District No. 23 may appeal to the Board regarding a decision or non-decision , which significantly affects the education, health or safety of the student. For information regarding the process for appeal to the Board, please contact the office at 860-8888.
Student Appearance
Students are expected to be well-groomed at all times and wear clothing that reflects purpose and propriety and is appropriate for the activities for the day.
The following guidelines must be followed:
· Clothing and appearance must not create a distraction in the classroom or present a hazard to the student or to others.
· Clothing with bare midriffs or low-cut fronts or beachwear is not appropriate.
· Inappropriate slogans/badges/pictures are not permitted (e.g. those advertising alcohol, drugs, profanity, etc.)
· Footwear must be worn at all times for the student’s health and safety. (No flip Flops)
· Hats or headgear are not permitted in the School
· Spaghetti straps, belly t-shirts or any clothing that reveal undergarments are not appropriate for school.
ATTENDANCE AND ABSENCE
Every student is required to attend school daily and to not depart without the teacher’s consent. Students should not be absent from school unless they are ill or an emergency situation arises. Regular attendance and punctuality contribute greatly to the student’s progress at school.
When a student must be absent from school, it is important that the parent send a note or phone the school prior to 8:30 a.m. to give the reason and expected length of absence. If a student must be excused from school before the usual dismissal time, a note from a parent or guardian should be given to the teacher in advance. Please sign your child out from the school office before leaving.
In cases of extended or extreme illness, the School District makes available the services of a Hospital/Homebound Teacher to assist the student with schoolwork.
GYM CLOTHING
For Physical Education, pupils in Grades 4 – 6 should have a drawstring bag (tote bag) to hold the shorts, T-shirt and running shoes that are required for class. All articles should be suitably marked for identification.
INSIDE DAYS
When the weather is inclement, the pupils will be informed of “inside days”. When inside, students are to be involved in quiet activities seated on either a chair or the carpet. The teacher on supervision or the Lunch Hour Supervisors will monitor activities. At all other times we encourage the children to be outside before school, at lunch and at recess. School ground supervision begins at 8:00 a.m. and lasts until 8:25 am bell. After school supervision is from 2:30 pm – 2:45 pm. Please dress your children for the weather, including appropriate footwear. Indoor shoes are required during the ‘wet’ months.
LOST AND FOUND
Items that are found are brought to the Lost and Found Box in the mural hallway. These items are displayed during Parent-Teacher Conference times in the hopes of returning the items or they can be picked up at any time throughout the year by pupils or parents. Articles are kept for several months and if they remain unclaimed, they are donated to a Thrift Shop or the Salvation Army a couple of times per year. We encourage pupils and parents to label all clothing and personal items to assist us in returning them.
LUNCH HOUR BEHAVIOUR
Students are strongly encouraged to go home for lunch where and when it is possible.
Those who remain at school for the entire lunch hour, including the eating period, are expected to:
maintain common sense behaviour.
remain seated during the period.
place garbage in the cans provided when dismissed by Lunch Supervisor.
seek permission from a Lunch Supervisor to leave the room.
listen and show respect to the Lunch Supervisors.
For those students who choose not to comply with these expectations, their parents will be asked to make alternate lunch hour arrangements for a period of time.
NEWSLETTERS
We send home a school newsletter monthly in an attempt to keep our community informed of activities and events happening at the school. When necessary, additional newsletters will be sent home (e.g. First day of school). Monthly newsletters include a calendar of events for your convenience and reference. Please ask your child for your copy if you have not received a newsletter or check the school’s website at www.ple.sd23.bc.ca. Extra copies are available from the office.
PERSONAL BELONGINGS
The school cannot assume responsibility for loss of and/or damage to personal property brought to school. Items like portable discmen, game boys, and expensive jewelry should be left at home. If students choose to bring such items to school they do so at their own risk. Lockers are provided to students to hold their personal belongings. There is no obligation to use a locker (which is school district property). If students choose to use a locker, they do so on certain conditions, including that the locker may only be used for school purposes, and that the locker is at all times subject to search by school officials.
If children ride a bike to school, the use of a good quality bicycle lock is also recommended.
ACCIDENT INSURANCE
At the beginning of each school year parents have the option of purchasing student accident insurance. There is no School Board Insurance suitable to cover injuries that may result from accidents at school.
SCHOOL TELEPHONE
The use of the school office telephone is intended for school business. The pupils have supervised access to a student telephone outside the office if it is necessary to inform parents of illness, special extra-curricular functions or any other urgent matter. Social calls, such as asking permission to go and play somewhere before going home, are discouraged.
If parents find it necessary to inform their children of an urgent matter, they may phone the school office and leave a message.
EMERGENCY CONTACTS
At time of registration, we request emergency contact information. It is vital that we keep this record up-to-date. Please contact the school as soon as possible if there are any changes to your registration information, including changes in contact and family doctor’s name.
FEES AND CHARGES
School Supply Program
We offer an optional school supply program as a convenience to families. For a reasonable fee, students are issued with supplies (i.e., notebooks, writing tools, glue, paints, etc.) as they are required for their class work during the year.
These fees are pro-rated for students who transfer in to our District mid-year.
Supplies Cultural Fees Total
Kindergarten $19.00 $10.00 $29.00
Grade 1-6 $30.00 $10.00 $40.00
Cultural Program
Every year the placeSchool District books a variety of performing artists to present plays and concerts for students. Instead of collecting a fee for each performance, one fee is set in September to cover the costs of all performances. All students must pay this fee.
Other Sales
During the year money may be collected at the school for special lunches, book and bake sales, school shirts, school photos, special trips, etc. News of such sales will be advertised in school and/or classroom newsletters and participation is optional.
HEALTH AND SAFETY
FIRE DRILLS
Fire drills are conducted on a regular basis with at least three during September and an average of one per month for the remainder of the year. When the alarm sounds, students leave the classroom in a silent, single line at the direction of their teacher. Once outside, students report to designated meeting places so that each student may be accounted for.
LOCK DOWN PROCEDURES
A special announcement is made. Teachers will have all their students seated at their desks or tables. The teacher will then secure the doors and close the blinds/curtains. Student attendance will be checked. No one will leave the room for any reason. Classes will exit as per Safety Drill protocol if directed to by an announcement or a fire drill bell. A second announcement will indicate that the drill is complete.
EARTHQUAKE DRILLS
At the “Take Cover” command from the classroom teacher or the office, students assume the “Crash” position under their desks or tables. They face away from windows on their knees with their heads down and their hands clasped on the backs of their necks or heads. Students count aloud to 60 (earthquakes rarely last longer than 60 seconds and counting is calming) before being led out of the building by their teachers.
NATURAL DISASTERS
Should a natural disaster such as an earthquake or fire occur in our immediate area, and if staff need to evacuate the building we will take our students to the Peachland Community Center. If there is a possibility of a flood we will evacuate to the Ponderosa Golf Club. Class lists with home and work phone numbers are available at both of these sites. There, parents would be contacted and made aware of the situation and asked to pick up their children.
FIRST AID ROOM
We have a basic first aid room at the school. Minor cuts and scrapes are cleaned and bandaged. More serious injuries are assessed and given first aid by staff members with emergency first aid certificates. Parents will be consulted when it appears advisable that the student should go home or see a doctor. It is the school policy to contact parents of students who feel sick at school so that they may decide if the student is to go home or to be picked up.
SAFETY CHECK PROGRAM
It is our policy to phone home when a student is absent from class without explanation. We want to ensure that no mishap has occurred on the way to school. Reaching parents and guardians can be a very time-consuming task so please give us a call by 8:45 a.m. if your child is to be absent. We have an answering machine for your convenience.
PRESCRIPTION AND NON-PRESCRIPTION MEDICATIONS
If medications are to be given to a student or supervised by staff at school, parents must have the physician complete a “Request for Administration of Medication at School” form BEFORE bringing the medication to school. These forms are available from the office. Many doctor’s offices also have a copy.
Medication must be provided in the original bottle with a prescription label provided by the pharmacist. The school office maintains a log of prescribed medications taken by students at school.
The school maintains a Medical Alert File for students with potentially life-threatening conditions or allergies. We have a number of students with life threatening allergies to all nuts. We ask your cooperation in not sending items containing nuts or nut products to school.
BUS TRANSPORTATION
Many pupils who live within our school area are eligible for bus transportation to and from school. Please contact the Transportation Department at 491-4040 for route and pick-up information. School District buses are sometimes used for field trips.
Students are eligible for bus transportation if they live 4.8 km from the nearest school at which they could be registered for an educational program (4.0 for Kindergarten through Gr. 3). Students must also be registered as a rider with the transportation office prior to using the bus service. If there is space available on the bus, students living closer to the school may also be able to ride the bus as courtesy riders. If the number of eligible riders increases and extra seats are needed, courtesy riders will receive a week's notification.
Friends and clients of afterschool care providers are not eligible for school bus service at any time during the year unless they are registered as eligible or courtesy riders. Alternate forms of transportation need to be arranged for after school social plans and daycare arrangements.~
For bus safety rules and other information about school buses, please visit the transportation website.~ Parents are encouraged to review the bus safety rules with students at the beginning of the year and from time to time during the school year. If you have questions regarding bus service, please call the transportation office at 491-4040. Phone lines are open between 9:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. Monday through Friday.
For September 2009, payment of a Student Transportation charge will be required before a SD23 School Bus Pass will be issued. The yearly pass costs $200 per student for the entire 2009/2010 school year.
BUS RULES
All aspects of the School Code of Conduct apply to students riding placeSchool District buses. In addition, the following rules pertaining specifically to busing are to be followed.
Pupils shall:
remain in the area designated as the bus-loading zone.
board or disembark a bus in an orderly manner.
remain seated in an assigned, or assumed, seat from the time they board a bus until the time they arrive at their destination (refrain from putting their heads or arms out of windows).
be courteous to the other passengers.
maintain a noise level acceptable to the bus driver (refrain from talking to the bus driver while the bus is in motion).
do everything possible to keep the bus clean, tidy and neat.
not smoke on a school bus.
not eat or drink on a school bus without the driver’s permission.
abide by instructions given by the bus driver.
Disciplinary Action:
Travelling on a school bus is a privilege which may be suspended or revoked for a pupil who does not observe the provisions of the policy.
A pupil who damages a school bus shall be responsible for the restitution of damages.
The administration may notify the parents in writing and/or by phone about a pupil’s misbehaviour on the bus.
Prior to restoration of riding privileges, a pupil whose riding privileges are suspended shall be required to meet with the administration, and if necessary, with the Superintendent of Schools or his designate, to determine the terms and conditions of restoring the privileges (the pupil must be accompanied by the parents or legal guardians).
BLOCK PARENTS
We support the BLOCK PARENT PLAN. This plan tries to provide help for children who are injured, sick or in difficulty on their way to or from school. Parents who wish to become involved in this program submit an application, are screened by the R.C.M.P., and if accepted, are given a distinctive red and white sign designating their house as a BLOCK PARENT home. Applications and further information are available from the Peachland Community Policing Station at 4431 Sixth Street.
HEAD LICE
Head Lice are commonly found wherever children get together and schools are no exception. Please advise your children to refrain from using combs or brushes that belong to others or from sharing hats, scarves and other headgear. If your child has head lice, please notify the school. Students with live head lice should be treated before returning to school. Information about treatment for head lice is available at the office or on the Peachland Elementary School website at www.ple.sd23.bc.ca
EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMS
REPORTING TO PARENTS
During the school year, parents will receive three formal written reports that tell them how well their child has achieved the term curriculum goals, how they can improve their work, and how the teacher, along with the student and parent, plans to help the child achieve goals for the following term. The reporting schedule for the upcoming year is as follows:
- Parent-Input Sessions September 24th and 25th, 2009
- 1st Term Report Period December 4 th , 2009
- Three Way Parent/Teacher/Student Conferences February 4th and 5th, 2010
- 2nd Term Report Period March 5th, 2010
- 3rd Term Report June 29th, 2010
HOMEWORK
Students in the late Primary and Intermediate years will bring home assignments that need to be completed. When students are assigned homework, it is expected that the children know how to do the work and that they will return to school the following day with the assignment completed.
If your child is experiencing difficulty with the homework, please get in touch with the teacher and explain the situation before it becomes a problem for your child. If you are wanting to help your child at home and you are not clear on what is expected of your child, feel free to phone the teacher or write a note seeking clarification.
Research tells us that the more involved you become with your child’s work, the more likely he/she is to enjoy success.
STUDENT AGENDAS/REMINDER BINDERS
Every student in Grades 1-6 will receive a monthly agenda/reminder binder. Teachers will be teaching students how to use this tool. At the Primary grades there is less emphasis on homework, so the planner is used to communicate with the home about the day’s events or about specific programs such as spelling. In the Intermediate grades students are expected to make note of all homework assignments and due dates. Students have an opportunity in the Reminder Binder to document their 30 minutes of Daily Physical Activity (DPA). (Kindergarten – 15 minutes)
FIELD TRIPS
Field trips are considered an integral part of classroom instruction and give students an opportunity to enhance their learning. They are arranged by the teacher with the approval of the Principal. In planning for instruction, each teacher evaluates many possible sites for field trips in our valley before selecting the trips for the class. Transportation for field trips is provided by volunteer drivers and/or school buses. To transport students as a volunteer, a driver must have provided the school with the following applications and statements prior to the event. All forms are available at the school office.
1. A criminal record check application (2 pieces of identification including one with a photo are required at the time of the application.)
2. A vehicle use statement signed by the registered owner, lessee or renter of the vehicle being used to transport students (the certificate of insurance confirming ownership and minimum $2,000,000 third party coverage is required at time of application).
3. A driver statement (current driver’s license required at time of application)
Many of the field trips at our school are funded by our Parent Advisory Council.
OUTDOOR EDUCATION TRIPS AND EXTENDED FIELD TRIPS
Many of our classes participate in a variety of outdoor education experiences and field trips that go beyond the requirements of the curriculum. These may range from activity based field trips to overnight trips. The decision to participate in these experiences is made by the classroom teacher in consultation with the Principal. Although many trips occur year after year, parents should be aware that some years, for any number of reasons, a certain trip may not occur.
EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES
Throughout the year, students have many opportunities to become involved in activities outside their classroom. In the past, students have participated in the following teacher sponsored activities, although not every activity is offered every year.
Student Council
Choir
Intramurals
Lunch Monitors
Equipment Monitors
Juice Monitors
Milk Program
Volleyball
Basketball
Cross Country Running
Gymnastics
Track and Field
Library Monitors
Computer Monitors
Referees
Kindergarten Monitors
Office Monitors
PARENT INVOLVEMENT
SCHOOL PLANNING COUNCIL
Each June, three parent representatives are elected to join with the Principal and a staff representative to form the School Planning Council. This group works with the school community to build an action plan to ensure the best possible educational environment for our students. Each year the School Accountability Contract is presented to the Superintendent of Schools and the Board of School Trustees.
THE PARENT ADVISORY COUNCIL (P.A.C.)
The Parent Advisory Council (P.A.C.) is composed of all parents and guardians of students at Peachland Elementary. The P.A.C.’s primary function is to ensure that parents are kept abreast of educational issues which affect children within the school and at the District or Provincial levels. To facilitate parents’ involvement, general meetings with free childcare are held monthly at the school, information is distributed for students to bring home in the school’s monthly newsletter, and the P.A.C. bulletin board posts notices, meeting agendas and meeting minutes.
The Peachland P.A.C. has, among other activities, participated in successfully lobbying School District No. 23 for the maintenance of necessary Peachland school bus routes, and sponsors parent education nights/workshops for parents of school-aged children. As well, the Peachland P.A.C. has held a variety of highly successful events such as Family Fun Night, the school lunch program and sales. The money raised from these activities has been used for purchases such as computer lab, special school-wide presentations, and sports equipment.
All parents and guardians from Peachland Elementary are encouraged to participate in the P.A.C. this year!
P.A.C. Executive for 2009-2010:
Presidents: Cheryll Smith Vice President: Bonnie Hinds
Secretary: Maurita Graham Treasurer: Marlyce Chaput
COPAC Rep.: Maureen Barkley
Past President: Sharon Mcintosh
School Planning Council: Cheryll Smith, Maurita Graham, Bonnie Hinds and Amber Hill
1-1 Coordinator: Maureen Barkley
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES:
There are many ways in which parents may become involved in the school throughout the year. Examples include helping in our Computer Lab, accompanying field trips, lending a hand in a classroom, driving student athletes to games, making a presentation, and supporting the Hot Lunch Program to name but a few. Please contact your child’s teacher. Please be aware that volunteers also need to fill out Criminal Record checks. Forms are at the school office.
| 
