Keystone Oaks School District Myrtle Avenue Elementary School

Parent/Student Handbook 2023-2024

Our Mission

Excellence in engaging, empowering, and enriching today for tomorrow’s expectations

Our Core Values

●	Communication: Expressing, receiving, and sharing information

●	Empathy: Acknowledging the perspective, emotions, and experiences of all stakeholders

●	Global Competence: Responding to and understanding diverse cultural practices and world viewpoints
●	Imagination: Envisioning creative and innovative ways to take risks and solve problems ●	Integrity: Making ethical choices and doing the right thing regardless of personal gain ●	Learning: Acquiring, processing, and retaining information for life-long use
●	Motivation: Achieving goals through personal drive

●	Ownership: Having pride and taking responsibility for one’s actions and their outcomes ●	Passion: Sparking the emotional connection that ignites one’s purpose
●	Work: Being accountable and persevering

Our Beliefs & Guiding Principles

Students….

*Learn when their instructional, social, emotional needs are addressed.

*Participate in relevant, rigorous, and authentic learning experiences.

*Respect themselves, adults, peers, and their school environment.

*Engage in future-focused and Interdisciplinary learning.

*Exhibit curiosity and explore individual learning interests.

*Demonstrate growth and/or mastery while advancing their learning.

*Experience learning through

diverse environments.

Teachers….

*Are life-long learners who prepare through continuous, meaningful professional development.

*Enhance instruction using students’ needs and interests

*Encourage self-reflection and questioning.

*Maintain high expectations

*Develop a positive rapport with all stakeholders.

*Embrace innovation, experimentation, and risk-taking.

*Support students’ academic practices. social, and emotional well-being.

*Build knowledge, skills,

community, and connections.

Learning Communities….

*Take risks and share successes.

*Invest in common goals

*Align policies and practices.

*Encourage new and diverse ideas

*Collaborate to support students’ academic, social, and emotional well-being.

*Embrace innovation, experimentation, and growth.

*Demonstrate patience and understanding while
implementing policies and

*Participate in challenging experiences.

Myrtle Avenue Elementary 3724 Myrtle Ave
Pittsburgh Pa 15234

Lauren D. Baughman, Principal 412 - 571- 6000 option 3 Fax 412 - 571- 6051

Dear Parents and Guardians:

This student and parent/guardian handbook is designed to provide parents, guardians, and students with information in regard to procedures, rules, and expectations at Myrtle Elementary School.

We believe this handbook can be revised to improve upon its quality and usefulness. Please share your suggestions, recommendations, and creativity with us. Feel free to edit directly in the book. Please return any suggestions to the office. Thank you for your assistance in this endeavor.

I wish everyone a successful and productive school year.

Yours in Education,

Laure D. Baughma 

Lauren D. Baughman

Principal

___________________________________________________________________________________

What did you enjoy about this handbook? __________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________________

How could we improve upon this handbook? ______________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________________

Additional comments: Please use back if necessary and return to the school office at any time during the school year.

Table of Contents

ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENT............................................................................................................6 ADDRESS/TELEPHONE/EMAIL CHANGES.......................................................................................6 ARRIVAL.......................................................................................................................................... 6 ASSEMBLY RULES.............................................................................................................................6 ATTENDANCE (POLICY 204: ATTENDANCE)..................................................................................7 BIRTHDAY TREATS (POLICY 209.1: FOOD ALLERGY MANAGEMENT)...........................................8 BULLYING (POLICY 256: ANTI-BULLYING)..................................................................................... 8 BUS REGULATIONS.......................................................................................................................... 9 CAFETERIA RULES AND PROCEDURES............................................................................................9 CANCELLATION OF SCHOOL OR DELAY NOTIFICATION...........................................................10 CELL PHONES AND OTHER ELECTRONIC DEVICES (POLICY 237: EDUCATIONAL USE OF STUDENT OWNED TECHNOLOGY DEVICES)................................................................................................10 CLASSROOM POLICY................................................................................................................... 11 CONFERENCES (PARENT – TEACHER).......................................................................................... 11 COUNSELOR.................................................................................................................................. 11 DISCIPLINE.....................................................................................................................................11 DISMISSAL..................................................................................................................................... 12 DOCTOR AND DENTIST APPOINTMENTS...................................................................................... 12 DRESS CODE (POLICY 221: DRESS AND GROOMING)...............................................................12 DROP-OFF AREA........................................................................................................................... 12 EARLY DISMISSALS AND STUDENT SAFETY...................................................................................13 EMERGENCY DRILLS......................................................................................................................13 EMERGENCY INFORMATION........................................................................................................13 FIELD TRIPS.....................................................................................................................................13 FOOD SERVICE..............................................................................................................................14 FREE AND REDUCED LUNCHES.....................................................................................................14 GUM.............................................................................................................................................. 14 GYM.............................................................................................................................................. 14 HALL BEHAVIOR............................................................................................................................ 14 HATS and HOODS.........................................................................................................................15 HOMEWORK..................................................................................................................................15 ILLNESS OR INJURY....................................................................................................................... 15 IMMUNIZATIONS........................................................................................................................... 15 INTERNET (POLICY 262: INTERNET/E-MAIL USE BY STUDENTS)....................................................17 INTERACTING WITH ADULTS......................................................................................................... 17 INVITATIONS................................................................................................................................. 17 LEAVING THE SCHOOL GROUNDS...............................................................................................18 LEGAL CUSTODY........................................................................................................................... 18 LIBRARY......................................................................................................................................... 18

LITTER POLICY................................................................................................................................18 LOST AND FOUND.........................................................................................................................18 MEDICAL/DENTAL EXAMINATIONS/SCREENINGS (POLICY 209: HEALTH EXAMINATIONS/SCREENINGS)....................................................................................................18 MEDICATION (POLICY 210: MEDICATIONS)...............................................................................19 PARENT FACULTY ORGANIZATION (PFO)....................................................................................19 PETS................................................................................................................................................19 PARTIES.......................................................................................................................................... 20 RECESS...........................................................................................................................................20 REPORT CARDS............................................................................................................................. 21 RETURN TO SCHOOL AFTER ILLNESS.............................................................................................21 SCHOOL SECURITY....................................................................................................................... 21 STUDENT PLACEMENT PROCEDURES............................................................................................22 STUDENT RECORDS (POLICY 216: STUDENT RECORDS).............................................................. 22 STUDENT VACATIONS...................................................................................................................22 SUBSTITUTE TEACHERS...................................................................................................................23 VALUABLES....................................................................................................................................23 VISITORS........................................................................................................................................ 23 WEAPONS POLICY (POLICY 250: WEAPONS)............................................................................. 23 SUPPORT SERVICES....................................................................................................................... 24
CHILD FIND AND ANNUAL NOTICE TO PARENTS	…………..……	25 HOMELESS AND THE MCKINNEY VENTO ACT …………………………………………………..28 Appendix......................................................................................................................................30

ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENT

Grade K

Explanations of Grades: S	Strong skills
D	Developing skills

N	Not making appropriate progress

Grades 1-5 Grading Scale:
A	90-100 B	80-89 C	70-79 D	60-69
E	59 and below

ADDRESS/TELEPHONE/EMAIL CHANGES

It is very important that every student maintain an up-to-date address, telephone number(s) and email address in the school office. Notify the school immediately if you have a change of address, telephone number(s), or email addresses during the school year.

ANTI-DISCRIMINATION

More information regarding the District’s anti-discrimination policies can be found within Policy 103 and Policy 104. The District’s Title IX Coordinator is Ms. Suzanne Lochie, lochie@kosd.org 412-571-6013. Ms. Lochie also serves as the Section 504 Coordinator.

ARRIVAL

The elementary schools will operate on the following schedule for the 2023-2024 school year: ● Doors Open - 8:20 AM- for students utilizing the breakfast program
● Breakfast Served 8:20-8:45am ● Homeroom – 8:30-8:45am
● Students marked tardy - 8:40am ● Instruction begins - 8:45am
● Instruction ends - 3:15pm ● Student Dismissal - 3:20pm

ASSEMBLY RULES

The PFO plans assemblies during the school year. Assemblies are intended to reinforce and/or enhance the curriculum. Special attention to etiquette and good citizenships is expected of all students.

The following is a list of school expectations for ASSEMBLIES: ●	We show SELF-CONTROL:
●	By not interrupting the presenter ●	We are ON-TASK:
●	Participate when told to do so ●	We are ALWAYS KIND:
●	Respond when appropriate ●	We are RESPONSIBLE
●	Keep body to yourself ●	We are RESPECTFUL
●	Voices off

OTHER CONSIDERATIONS FOR ASSEMBLIES:

1. Enter the assembly area by walking and then sitting on the bleachers as directed by the teacher or administrator.
2. Become silent when someone stands ready to speak.

3. Except for those times when you are asked to participate, there is no talking during the entire performance.
4. When asked to join in, do so as directed.

5. Clapping is the only way to show appreciation.

6. When volunteers are requested, stay seated and quietly raise your hand. When others are chosen, clap for them when it is time to do so.
7. There will be no booing at Myrtle Elementary School. 8. Remain seated until dismissed from the assembly.

*Remember, unlike movies, television shows and tapes, which you watch at home, assemblies are live performances, and the performers can hear and see you.

ATTENDANCE (POLICY 204: ATTENDANCE)

A strong relationship exists between good school attendance and academic achievement. The school laws of Pennsylvania state that students must attend school regularly. The

attendance procedures are one of the most important aspects of the school’s operation. When possible, parents are asked to schedule doctor appointments and vacations outside of the school day/year to assure that students are present and learning at school each day.

We would like your cooperation in the following areas:

1. Legal absences include illness, death in family, weather conditions preventing bus arrival, authorized religious holidays, and pre-approved family vacations up to 5 days.
2. Approval for family trips should be requested at least 2 weeks prior to the date of departure.
3. Call the school office on the second day of any absence.

4. Send one of the excuse forms, completed, to school with your child within three days of their return. Failure to do so will result in an unexcused or illegal absence.
5. Make every effort to see that your son or daughter is at the bus stop or in school on time.  A student is late after 8:40am. Students that arrive AFTER 8:40am MUST report to the main office for a tardy slip.
6. Written requests are required for early dismissals. Students are not permitted to wait outside the office/building for pick-ups. Anyone calling for a student dismissal must meet the child in the school office. No pickup requests AFTER 2:30pm.
7. A maximum of 10 cumulative lawful absences verified by parental notification may be permitted in a school year. All absences beyond 10 days shall require an excuse from a physician or medical provider.

BIRTHDAY TREATS (POLICY 209.1: FOOD ALLERGY MANAGEMENT)

On their birthdays, children often want to share a treat with their classmates. Non-edible treats are highly recommended (pencils, erasers, stickers, etc.) Due to the number of
life-threatening food allergies, please check with your child’s teacher for acceptable treats. As per School Board Policy 209.1, if a parent would like to send in a birthday treat, parents/guardians must submit the type of food and complete ingredient list to the main office in each building 72 hours prior to that food being served to allow time for school personnel to review and approve, and provide a reasonable and similar substitution for the affected student. Food that is not pre-approved cannot be served and will be sent home.

BULLYING (POLICY 256: ANTI-BULLYING)

The school district will not tolerate any acts of bullying occurring on school district property, at school-sponsored activities scheduled on or off school grounds, or during the time students necessarily spend traveling to and from school or school-sponsored activities, or transmitted in any way through school computers, networks or equipment.

Bullying shall mean unwelcome repeated and systematic harassment and attacks on others by means of verbal, written, electronic, or physical conduct. Bullying can take many forms and can include many different behaviors such as:

● Physical violence and attacks

● Verbal taunts, name-calling and put-downs

● Emotional bullying, i.e., spreading rumors, ridiculing, manipulating social relationships ● Threats and intimidation
● Extortion or stealing

● Racially or ethnically-based, or gender-based verbal abuse ● Spreading false information about a person
● Cyber bullying

BUS REGULATIONS

Proper behavior is an absolute necessity while riding on the school bus. In the interest of a safe and orderly ride on the bus, students are expected to be courteous and cooperative. Students involved in bus misconduct, showing disrespect for the driver, or causing damage to the bus may lose their bus riding privileges. The bus driver is responsible for the bus and the safety of its occupants. The driver’s direction shall be followed at all times. Student responsibilities are as follows:

1. Report to your bus stop at least five (5) minutes before the bus is scheduled to arrive. 2. While waiting for the bus, stay a safe distance from the roadway. Shoving, tripping,
fighting, snowballing, etc. are strictly prohibited.

3. Board the bus in an orderly, safe manner and go directly to the seat assigned to you by the driver. Remain seated until the bus comes to a complete stop at the school or at your bus stop.
4. Students must remain seated while the bus is in motion.

5. Students should talk in a quiet and polite manner, refraining from loud talking or shouting that might distract the driver’s attention.
6. Ask the driver permission to open windows. Students must keep arms, hands, and head inside the bus at all times.
7. Eating and drinking on the bus is not permitted.

8. Throwing objects inside or out of the bus is prohibited.

9. When the bus arrives at school, students are to exit in an orderly fashion, and go directly to homeroom. Students in grades k-2 will exit the bus and enter using Door A. Students in grades 3-5 will exit the bus and enter using Door D.

If you drive your child to school, do not drop them off any earlier than 8:20am for breakfast and 8:30am for regular drop off. No supervision will be provided prior to this time.

CAFETERIA RULES AND PROCEDURES

The following is a list of school expectations in the CAFETERIA: ●	We show SELF CONTROL:
●	Sit flat on the seat ●	We are ON TASK
●	Eat YOUR OWN lunch in a timely manner ●	We are ALWAYS KIND
●	Use a table voice ●	We are RESPECTFUL
●	Clean your area and use your manners ●	RESPONSIBLE
●	Remain Seated

o Clean up our messes

o Staying in our seat unless cleaning up

Other consideration while eat breakfast and lunch in the cafeteria:

1. Good manners should be practiced at all times.

2. Students are to report to their assigned tables upon entering the cafeteria. 3. Students are to wait until their table is called to proceed to the lunch line. 4. Put all trash in cans and leave the area clean.
5. Use quiet voices.

6. Participate in appropriate conversation and behavior. 7. Sit flat on the bench with both feet under the table.
8. Keep hands and feet to self.

9. When any adult says Hands Up all students should get quiet immediately.

10.All food and drinks must be finished while seated. Nobody is permitted to walk around while eating and drinking.
11.Only respectable behavior is acceptable.

CANCELLATION OF SCHOOL OR DELAY NOTIFICATION

Cancellation of school takes place only during circumstances such as extreme weather, equipment failure, or public crisis. A telephone message will be sent out alerting parents of delays and cancellations. Parents must have arrangements made for delays, early dismissals, and school closings. Cancellations or delays will be broadcast on the major networks as early as possible. Listen to the radio or television for such announcements.

In the event of a two hour delay, students should arrive at 10:30am. Please do not send children to school prior to the appropriate time as there will not be supervision. Parents must have arrangements made for delays, early dismissals, and school closings. In addition, parents can check the district website www.kosd.org

CELL PHONES AND OTHER ELECTRONIC DEVICES (POLICY 237: EDUCATIONAL USE OF STUDENT OWNED TECHNOLOGY DEVICES)

Effective August 29, 2022, the Keystone Oaks School District is changing its policy regarding students’ use of personal electronic devices. Students will no longer be permitted to use personal cell phones during the school day in district buildings; on district property; and during the time students are under the supervision of the District. Students may bring their cell phone to school, but they must remain turned off during the school day. Students may keep their cell phone in a pocket, bookbag, etc. so that they are accessible in case of an emergency, such as a lockdown or evacuation of the building. Anyone who needs to reach a student during the school day should call the main office and a member of the front office staff will ensure that the student receives the message.

Any violations will result in confiscation of the equipment and may result in disciplinary action. Parents may be asked to retrieve the confiscated device from the school office.

CLASSROOM POLICY

Students are not permitted to enter a classroom without permission from an adult staff member, preferably the teacher in that room. When entering the school, parents must report to the main office, must present driver’s license or State-issued ID, and receive a “Visitor” badge to be worn during their school visit. Waiting parents are asked to remain in the office. We would like to discourage the practice of parents bringing children back to school to get “forgotten work.” In cases where it is necessary, please check in the office before going to a classroom or locker.

CONFERENCES (PARENT – TEACHER)

Parent/teacher conferences are scheduled at various times, either in-person or via Google Meet. Parents are asked to make an appointment with the teacher(s) for each of their children regardless of the progress of the child. These conference times are very valuable to the overall educational program.

Some parents are hesitant about participating in conferences but teachers can do a much better job with students if they can share their assessment of the student’s progress directly

with the parents. It is not necessary to wait for regular conference time if a parent has a question or concern. Parent conferences are encouraged and can be arranged at any time during the school year.

COUNSELOR

Our school counselor is available to assist students, families, and staff with academic problems, social problems, and crisis situations. Students and parents are also encouraged to make use of the school counselor by making an appointment. This can be a meeting in person or by phone. The school counselor may be reached at 412-571-6000, option 3. The District contact regarding Counseling services is Suzanne Lochie, the Director of Pupil Services, lochie@kosd.org 412-571-6013

DISCIPLINE

Teachers have the authority and responsibility to maintain discipline in their classrooms. School district and classroom discipline policies have been established and will be consistently enforced. The faculty of Myrtle Ave. Elementary School utilizes the “Progressive Discipline” classroom management format. Students are rewarded for following classroom, playground, lunch hour, and general school rules. If students choose to break these rules, a set of consequences will be issued for each infraction. While somewhat similar, each teacher’s classroom plan may differ slightly with age group and type of class. Serious infractions of school rules will be handled on an individual basis with the parents being contacted. If a teacher issues a behavior referral form, a copy of the major infraction is sent home. Parents are encouraged to discuss the circumstances with their child, along with any consequences received.

DISMISSAL

Barring any unforeseen circumstances, whether it be a parent pick-up or going home with a friend, all changes and phone calls will need to be completed by 2:30pm. This will give our staff enough time to communicate with the teachers to inform them and your child of the change.

Students are not permitted to make phone calls arranging a change in dismissal. Any dismissal changes require a note from parent/guardian presented to the office at the beginning of the school day. The note should include a phone number where parent/guardian can be reached in case the request cannot be honored.

DOCTOR AND DENTIST APPOINTMENTS

Parents are expected to make every effort to schedule doctor and dentist appointments outside of school hours. However, due to the doctor or dentist office hours, this is not always possible. Therefore, students will be excused for these special appointments, as long as a note from the provider is given to the main office . Please send a note on the morning of the appointment.

DRESS CODE (POLICY 221: DRESS AND GROOMING)

The mode of dress is left to the discretion and good taste of the parent. Special attention should be given to the student’s attire during warm weather. Students’ dress should be appropriate. The final decision regarding the suitability of any individual outfit is left to the judgment of the principal. Barring special designated days (ie Hat Day), hats are not to be worn in school. Students are required to wear tennis shoes for gym class. Tennis shoes with wheels are not permitted.

The following items are examples of clothing and dress which are inappropriate:

● No hats, head coverings, or bandanas worn, or carried in school unless for medical or religious purposes.
● Appropriate undergarments worn and not visible. ● No bare midriffs.
● Shorts and skirts of reasonable length (midthigh).

● No clothing displaying inappropriate messages e.g. apparel that demeans or degrades another, suggests sexual activity (innuendo) or refers to violence, alcohol, drugs, or tobacco.
● No extremely tight, loose, or revealing clothing.

● Any tops that expose midriff, bare back, chest, or underwear.

DROP-OFF AREA

Due to the lay out of Myrtle Ave. Elementary-students are not able to be dropped off within the bus circle during the times of 8:10-8:55am.

EARLY DISMISSALS AND STUDENT SAFETY

Written requests are required for early dismissals. Students are not permitted to wait outside the office/building for pick-ups.

For the safety of the students at Myrtle Elementary, students will only be dismissed from the main office and must be signed out for an early dismissal. Students will only be released to adults listed on the authorized pick-up list.

EMERGENCY DRILLS

Schools are required by Pennsylvania State Law to conduct fire drills on a monthly basis. Every effort will be made to conduct these drills when the weather is suitable for leaving the building. Teachers are responsible for ensuring that the students understand the fire drill procedures and the escape route from their classrooms to an outside area that is a safe distance from the building.

Severe weather drills are conducted annually. During these drills, each classroom reports to a designated area within the building. Our district also conducts safety drills in order to assure that students are prepared to respond appropriately to a variety of emergency situations.

In each drill, children are to move to the designated areas in a safe, quiet and orderly manner.

EMERGENCY INFORMATION

At the beginning of each school year, parents are requested to complete an emergency form in PowerSchool for each student, to be used in case of an emergency. It includes the following information:

1. Parent(s) or guardian(s) name(s).

2. Complete and up-to-date address.

3. Home phone number and work phone number. 4. Emergency phone number of friend or relative. 5. Physician’s name and phone number.
6. Medical alert information.

* If any of the above information changes during the course of the school year, it is imperative that personnel in the office be notified.

FIELD TRIPS

Field trips to places of interest are scheduled by classroom teachers throughout the school year. Parents/Guardians will receive notices of field trips in advance of the scheduled trip. A signed permission slip from the parent must be returned to the school prior to the date of the field trip.

FOOD SERVICE

Students are able to purchase breakfast and lunch daily. Breakfast is available from 8:20-8:45am. Lunch is served in three sessions. A menu of the available lunch choices is
provided to each student on a regular basis and can also be found on the district website www.kosd.org

FREE AND REDUCED LUNCHES

The Federal Government has provided the opportunity for families to apply for free and reduced-price lunches. An application must be submitted for each family in school. Applications may be filed at any time during the school year. The application can be found on the district website, www.kosd.org

The qualifications and income guidelines that determine who would qualify are available from the office of the Supervisor of Food Services. Any questions regarding the program should be referred to the Supervisor of Food Services.

GUM

Unless otherwise allowed by the administrator or teacher, students are not permitted to chew gum while in school for health and custodial reasons.

GYM

On the days that your child has gym, he/she will be required to wear tennis shoes to participate in class.

HALL BEHAVIOR

The following is a list of school expectations in the HALLWAYS:

●	We show SELF-CONTROL

●	Walk on the blue tiles ●	We are ON-TASK
●	Keep body and objects to self ●	We are ALWAYS KIND
●	Hold the door for the next person ●	We are RESPECTFUL
●	Open and close doors quietly ●	Face Forward
●	Voices Off

●	We are RESPONSIBLE

●	Move in a timely manner

HATS and HOODS

Remove hats and hoods indoors. Hats and hoods are not to be worn in Myrtle Elementary School, unless designated by the principal for a special occasion (ie Hat Day).

HOMEWORK

Homework is an important part of the educational process. It is an extension of the learning that takes place in school. Homework can provide practice and drill that reinforces classroom learning and can provide opportunities for independent study, research, and creative thinking. Parents can help their children by arranging a quiet, comfortable place for students to work, and check their children’s work before it is returned to school. Study time at home for Grades 1, 2, and 3 can be approximately 30 minutes. Students in Grades 4 and 5 may study an average of up to one hour.

If your child is absent and you are requesting homework, please email the teacher. For homework requests received prior to 10:00, teacher(s) will have the homework prepared for you by the end of the day for pick-up in the main office. Any request made after 10:00 can be picked up the following day after morning arrival.

Any questions or concerns about homework should first be addressed to the teacher who made the assignment.

ILLNESS OR INJURY

In case of illness or injury, the school nurse, health aide, administrator, or member of the school staff will care for the students. School staff will render first aid treatment only. If emergency medical treatment is necessary, the parents will be contacted. If parents are not available, the student will be taken to the emergency room at the hospital. Remember, an emergency telephone number where parents can be reached must be on file at the school.

IMMUNIZATIONS

As required by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, there are new vaccination requirements for attendance in all Pennsylvania schools. All Keystone Oaks students are encouraged to receive required vaccinations ASAP!

ON THE FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL, a KOSD student must have had at least one dose of the following vaccinations or RISK EXCLUSION from all KOSD school buildings:

● Tetanus, diphtheria, and acellular pertussis (DTap)* (1 dose on or after the 4th birthday). There are 4 doses of this vaccine.
● Polio** There are typically 4 doses of this vaccine.

● Measles, mumps, rubella *** There are 2 doses of this vaccine. ● Hepatitis B. There are 3 doses of this vaccine.
● Varicella (chickenpox) or evidence of immunity. There are 2 doses of this vaccine. ○ *Usually given as DTP or DTap or if medically advisable, DT or Td
○ **A fourth does is not necessary if a third dose was administered at age 4 years or older and at least 6 months after the previous dose
○ ***Usually given as MMR

If a child does not have all of the doses listed above, needs additional doses, and the next dose is medically appropriate, the child must receive that dose WITHIN THE FIRST FIVE DAYS OF SCHOOL or risk exclusion.

The medical plan from a doctor must be followed or risk exclusion from all KOSD school buildings.

FOR MORE INFORMATION ON THE VACCINES YOUR STUDENT NEEDS TO ATTEND SCHOOL, PLEASE CONTACT YOUR STUDENT’S SCHOOL NURSE OR TALK TO YOUR CHILD’S PEDIATRICIAN.

If your student is uninsured, please contact the Allegheny County Health Department at 412-578-8060

INTERNET (POLICY 262: INTERNET/E-MAIL USE BY STUDENTS)

The use of the Internet is a privilege. The primary use of the network shall be reserved to those students who utilize the materials that are of educational value. Educational value shall mean those areas of network access that have direct or indirect impact on the student’s educational program. The use of the network for e-mail to friends, chatting, reading jokes, searching sport sites or games, or other actions that are not directly or indirectly related to the school’s curricula are not deemed to be of educational value and will not be given any priority use of the system.

The use of the system for any type of inaccurate, offensive, or illegal material, or other prohibited activities shall not be permitted. Each student has the responsibility to report any knowledge or entry of such materials immediately to an appropriate employee. Only those contacts leading to appropriate educational and personal growth on the Internet are

permitted. The school district reserves the right to use electronic devices, cards, or any other means of monitoring the manner in which research is performed, to determine whether the student is using the system for appropriate educational purposes.

Students may not move, repair, reconfigure, modify, or attach external devices to the computer/network without permission of the network supervisor.

More information regarding ELECTRONIC DEVICES can be found in Appendix A of this Student/Parent Handbook.

INTERACTING WITH ADULTS

Students are expected to interact with all adult staff members in a polite, mannerly fashion. A student should demonstrate respect to every member of the staff.

INVITATIONS

We request birthday invitations not be brought to school unless there is one for each child in the class (homeroom). The exception to this is if ONLY girls or ONLY boys in the class or homeroom are being invited. Your cooperation in this area can save hurt feelings and tears. PLEASE NOTE: The school is not permitted to provide mailing addresses and/or phone numbers to families.

LEAVING THE SCHOOL GROUNDS

Students are not allowed to leave the school grounds during school hours without the knowledge and consent of their teacher and office personnel. Permission to leave the school grounds will only be granted upon written request from the student’s parent or guardian, and only after the student has been signed out at the office.

LEGAL CUSTODY

Separated or divorced parents are advised of their obligation to inform the school about the situation in the home and provide written documentation about the custody status of the children. Information that the parent(s) should make available to the school include court orders or directives related to custody and access to the child; shared custody plans; documents fixing responsibility for the child’s education; informal parental understandings and agreements regarding the child’s education and welfare; and information verifying a non-legal “custodial parent” arrangement.

LIBRARY

The library is open on a regularly scheduled basis and is supervised by the librarian. Library classes are held for all grade levels in the school. They are held for the purpose of library instruction as well as the enjoyment of the materials and books.

There is no fine for overdue books but lost or damaged books must be paid for.

LITTER POLICY

Students are encouraged to help keep the building clean by depositing litter and garbage in garbage receptacles and to discard any litter that they see. Please put litter in its place.

LOST AND FOUND

Lost and Found is located near the school office. Please feel free to inspect the items there. Encourage your child to look for lost articles. Items left on the bus are returned to the school and placed at the Lost and Found area. Items not claimed will be donated to a charity in December and June.

MEDICAL/DENTAL EXAMINATIONS/SCREENINGS (POLICY 209: HEALTH EXAMINATIONS/SCREENINGS)

Medical and dental examinations should be done by the family physician or dentist and reported to the school on forms supplied by the school. Payment for exams is the responsibility of the parent.

Physical examinations are required for entry into kindergarten, first and sixth grades, by all new pupils from out-of-state or out-of-the-country, and by pupils transferred from other Pennsylvania school systems, unless an adequate health record is available.
Dental exams are required for entry into kindergarten, third, and seventh grades, by all new pupils from out of state, and by pupils transferred from other Pennsylvania school systems, unless an adequate health record is available. Parents are invited to be present for any examinations at school.

The school nurse does vision screenings, using the Snellen chart, on all students every year. Hearing screening using an audiometer is done on students in kindergarten, second, third, and seventh grades by the school nurse.

Body Mass index is a numerical calculation based on the child’s weight in relation to his/her height. It is also specific for age and gender. The BMI number is translated to a percentile to compare that number to other children of the same age and sex. All parents will be notified

of their child’s Body Mass Index for age percentile and the range of percentiles that may put their child at risk for health problems.

MEDICATION (POLICY 210: MEDICATIONS)

Any students who need to take medicine during school hours for any reason should follow this procedure:

1. Parents must obtain a written prescription from their physician to be directed to the school nurse.
2. The prescription should include the student’s name, diagnosis, kind of medicine, and the time and amount of medication to be given.
3. Medication is to be locked in a safe place in the nurse’s office.

a. Parents may drop off cough drops to keep in the nurse’s office. A written note must accompany the cough drops, stating they can be given at school.
b. All other non-prescription (over-the-counter) medication should not be sent to school without a written prescription from the doctor. Parents may come and personally administer medications that they wish their child to have during the school day.
4. Prescriptions are to be updated each school year.

PARENT FACULTY ORGANIZATION (PFO)

The Myrtle Elementary School PFO is an active part of the Keystone Oaks School District. The PFO members volunteer and assist in many school functions, organize holiday parties, fund grade level field trips, act as liaisons, and serve in a host of other roles. All parents are urged to become members and actively participate. Furthermore, your membership provides you with voting privileges. Meetings are held monthly in the library beginning at 7:00 p.m.

PETS

No pets of any kind are allowed at school without permission.

PARTIES

There are three classroom parties during the school year: Halloween, Christmas, and Valentine’s Day. Classroom parties are coordinated by the PFO. Non-edible treats are allowed to be distributed.

RECESS

Please encourage your children to play safely and respect the rights of others. Under no circumstances will toy weapons be permitted on the playground.

The following is a list of playground expectations for OUTDOOR RECESS:

●	We show SELF-CONTROL:

●	Use equipment and games appropriately ●	We are ON-Task:
●	Keep body and objects to yourself ●	We are ALWAYS KIND:
●	Follow rules ●	Take turns ●	Share
●	We are RESPONSIBLE: ●	Include others
●	We are RESPECTFUL:

●	2 whistles clean/line up

●	1 whistle be ready to enter the building

The following are expectations for INDOOR RECESS:

● We show SELF-CONTROL:

● Use equipment and materials safely ● We are ON-TASK:
● Keep body and objects to yourself ● We are ALWAYS KIND:
● Follow rules ● Take turns ● Share
● We are RESPONSIBLE: ● Include others ● Clean up area
● We are RESPECTFUL:

● Stay in classroom

OTHER CONSIDERATIONS FOR OUTDOOR AND INDOOR RECESS:

1.	Dress for the weather. We will go outside whenever possible. 2.	Come to the line as soon as the whistle blows.
3.	Work out disagreements so they do not escalate into a fight.

4.	Only flag football. No contact sports on the playground or field. 5.	Slides are feet first and one at a time
6.	Only soft balls on the playground.

7.	To keep the halls orderly for everyone, keep to the right and talk quietly. Close lockers quietly. In addition to the above playground rules, the following rule is to be observed during inclement weather (indoor recess): Sit-down activities and games are the only acceptable activities for indoor recess.

REPORT CARDS

Report cards are issued electronically via email following the completion of each nine-week period. Please carefully review your child’s progress and contact the school if you have any questions regarding the report card. Kindergarten report cards are issued at the end of each semester.

RETURN TO SCHOOL AFTER ILLNESS

It is important that children stay at home until they are completely well. The child recovering from one of the diseases listed here may no longer be able to transmit it to others, but his/her resistance may be so low that the child is easily susceptible to other infections.

Additionally, pupils should remain at home when they show any of the following signs or symptoms: Fever, red-watery eyes or crusted lids, swollen glands or sore throat, general signs of illness, skin sores or rashes, and acute cold or nausea. Check with the school nurse for the minimum period of exclusion from school if your child has contracted one of the following diseases:

Chicken Pox Scabies
RingWorm (Scalp & Skin) Pink Eye (conjunctivitis)
Pediculosis (head lice)

Mononucleosis Hepatitis (Infectious)
Scarlatina or Scarlet FeverImpetigo Streptococcal Sore throat Influenza (flu)
Pneumonia

SCHOOL SECURITY

The primary responsibility of the Keystone Oaks School District is the education of its students in a safe school environment. Collaboration between members of the entire school, parents, and the community is critical to this safe school effort. Parents are encouraged to check

their child’s backpack on a daily basis – not only for school communication but to ensure that inappropriate items are not carried to or from school. Students are urged to report concerns about safety to their parents and teacher. If your child is being bullied, teased, threatened, or feels left out, please contact the teacher, guidance counselor, and the principal. Every effort will be made to address these issues.

Parents, please be advised that during school hours all outside doors of the school will be locked. In order to gain admittance into the elementary buildings, you must buzz in at the main entrance of the school. Anyone entering the building will be asked to present a photo ID.

STUDENT PLACEMENT PROCEDURES

One of the most important duties in the summer is the creation of classroom rosters for all K-5 students. This is a very time-consuming process. Many factors weigh into classroom placements. Each class is carefully chosen to balance academic ability, behavior, personality, and an equitable class size. Specific student needs and teacher input is critical during this process. In addition, the number of boys and girls, ELLS and Special Education needs are addressed.

The staff develops rosters based on the factors detailed here. Requests to move students from one classroom to another necessitate other moves without consideration being given to why the assignments were initially made. For these reasons, rosters are established prior to the start of school and will remain as detailed in the letter sent to families.

STUDENT RECORDS (POLICY 216: STUDENT RECORDS)

Permanent records are maintained on each student at Myrtle Elementary School. These records are securely housed in the school office. These records include the child’s report cards, health records, attendance information, and any academic testing data done at the Keystone Oaks School District. These records are considered confidential information and will not be released to any agency outside the school without the parent’s/guardian’s written permission. The building principal is the school’s contact, and Ms. Suzanne Lochie, the Director of Pupil Services, is the District contact lochie@kosd.org 412-571-6013.
STUDENT VACATIONS

A principal may accept as an excused absence trips or vacations that children take with their parents during the school year for a maximum of five school days. In order to be considered an excused absence, the following criteria must be met:

● The principal receives a parental request to have the child excused to accompany his/her parents on a trip or vacation in writing at least two weeks prior to the time of the absence.
● Arrangements will be made for the student to have the work and studies he/she will miss while absent.
● This absence will be marked excused if all assigned work is submitted to the teacher soon after returning.

SUBSTITUTE TEACHERS

A substitute teacher may periodically teach students. The most common reason for using substitute teachers occurs when the regular teacher is ill. However, substitutes are also used when regular teachers are on leave for professional training, family emergency, or personal business.

VALUABLES

The staff cannot be responsible for valuables which students bring to school. Students should leave valuables/toys at home.

VISITORS

All visitors to the building must have an appointment. School Board Policy 907 requires all visitors to present an official photo identification card (driver’s license, state ID card, etc.). A visitor’s badge will be given and must be worn at all times.

PLEASE NOTE: School Board Policy 823 prohibits the use of tobacco and tobacco products on all Keystone Oaks properties.

WEAPONS POLICY (POLICY 250: WEAPONS)

The Elementary Student Code of Conduct addresses the possession/use of any weapon or look-alike weapon or any object used as a weapon,

Any offense will incur Suspension/Expulsion/Notification of Superintendent/Notification of Police

Please be advised that this policy is strictly enforced at Myrtle Elementary for the safety of our students and staff.

SUPPORT SERVICES

Elementary Student Assistance Program (SAP): Reviews students experiencing academic and/or other difficulties in the school setting. The team identifies the problem, establishes goals and intervention strategies, and monitors student progress.

School Counselor: Elementary school counselors provide social, emotional, and academic counseling in a small group and/or classroom setting. The District contact regarding Counseling services is Suzanne Lochie, the Director of Pupil Services, lochie@kosd.org
412-571-6013

English Learners (EL): (Policy 140) Students that speak another language at home may be eligible for English language instruction depending on their individual needs. The District contact regarding English as a Second Language is Dr. Shannon Varley, Assistant to the Superintendent for Student Achievement, varley@kosd.org 412-571-6004

Learning Support: (Policy 113, 113.1, 113.2, 113.3, and 113.4)Consists of services and programs to meet the educational needs of students who meet state and federal eligibility criteria. Accommodations and modifications may be provided in the regular education classroom and/or the student may receive direct instruction and/or support in the learning support classroom. The District contact regarding Special Education programs is Ms. Desiree Burns, the Director of Special Education, burns@kosd.org 412-571-6083

Life Skills Support: Consists of services and programs to meet the educational needs of students who meet state and federal eligibility criteria. Accommodations and modifications may be provided in the regular education classroom and/or the student may receive direct instruction and/or support in the learning support classroom. The District contact regarding Special Education programs is Ms. Desiree Burns, the Director of Special Education, burns@kosd.org 412-571-6083

Mentally Gifted (PKO): (Policy 114) A student may qualify for the mentally gifted program based on established group ability and/or achievement test scores. Differentiated instruction, enrichment, acceleration, special academic events, independent study and group study may be a part of the programming to meet the child’s needs. The District contact regarding English as a Second Language is Dr. Shannon Varley, Assistant to the Superintendent for Student Achievement, varley@kosd.org 412-571-6004

Title I Reading (for K-3 only): Supplemental reading services are provided to those students who meet eligibility requirements.

Speech and Language Support: Students who demonstrate a need in articulation, fluency, language and auditory processing and meet eligibility requirements may receive speech services.

Wellness Program: (Policy 246) In a healthy school environment, students will learn about and participate in positive dietary and lifestyle practices that can improve student achievement and a student’s long-term health and well-being. The District contact regarding its Wellness Program is Mr. Kevin Lloyd, Director of Food Services, lloyd@kosd.org 412-571-6059

For more information on other services contact the building principal, school counselor, or Director of Pupil Services.

CHILD FIND AND ANNUAL NOTICE TO PARENTS

Keystone Oaks School District

Child Find and Annual Notice to Parents

Notice of Special Education Services & Programs

It is the responsibility of the Pennsylvania Department of Education to ensure that all children with disabilities residing in the Commonwealth, regardless of the severity of their disability, and who are in need of special education and related services, are identified, located, and evaluated. This responsibility is required by a federal law called the Individual with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). The IDEA requires each state educational agency to publish a notice to parents before any major identification location or evaluation activity. The IDEA requires this notice to contain certain information. Pennsylvania law requires each school district to fulfill this notice requirement by providing an annual public notice. This notice, in summary form, is to help find these children, offer assistance to parents, and describes the parents’ rights with regard to confidentiality of information. If a person does not understand any of this notice, he or she should contact the District and request further explanation. The content of this notice can be translated into other languages. The District will arrange for an interpreter for parents with limited English proficiency. If a parent is deaf or blind or has no written language, the District will arrange for communication of this notice in the mode normally used by the parent.

Special Education Services for Preschool Age Students

Act 212, the Early Intervention Services System Act, entitles all preschool children with disabilities to appropriate early intervention services. Young children experiencing developmental delays or physical or mental disabilities and their families are eligible for early intervention services including screening, evaluation, individualized education program planning and provision of appropriate programs and services.

Screening for preschool children is available through the Allegheny Intermediate Unit #3. For more information, contact the Allegheny Intermediate Unit’s Preschool Early Intervention “DART” Program at 412-394-5904.

Special Education Services for School-Age Students

Keystone Oaks School District provides a free, appropriate public education to eligible students. To qualify as an eligible student, the child must be of school age, in need of specially designed instruction and meet eligibility criteria for mentally gifted and/or one or more of the following physical or mental disabilities as defined by Pennsylvania State Regulations: autism, deaf-blindness, hearing impairment (including deafness), emotional disturbance, intellectual disability, multiple-disabilities, orthopedic impairment, other health impairment, specific learning disability, speech or language impairment, traumatic brain injury or visual impairment (including blindness).

The District engages in identification procedures to ensure that eligible students receive an appropriate educational program consisting of special education and related services, individualized to meet student needs. At no cost to the parents, these services are provided in compliance with state and federal laws and are reasonably calculated to yield meaningful educational benefit and student progress. To identify students who may be eligible for special education, various screening activities are conducted on an on-going basis. These screening activities include: review of group-based data (cumulative records, enrollment records, health records, report cards, ability, and achievement test scores); hearing, vision, physical, and speech/language screening; and review by building-level intervention teams. When screening results suggest that a student might be a student with a disability, the school district seeks parental consent to conduct a multidisciplinary evaluation. Parents who suspect that their child is eligible for special education services may request a multidisciplinary evaluation at any time through a written request to the Building Principal or Director of Pupil Services.

Services designed to meet the needs of eligible students include the annual development of an Individualized Education Program (IEP), bi-annual or tri-annual multidisciplinary re-evaluation, and a full continuum of services, which include Itinerant, Supplemental, or Full-Time Levels of Intervention. The extent of special education services and the location for the delivery of such services are determined by the IEP team and are based on the student’s identified needs and abilities, chronological age, and the level of intensity of the specified intervention. The District also provides related services, such as transportation, speech and language therapy, physical therapy, and occupational therapy, required for the student to benefit from the special education program. Parents may obtain additional information regarding special education services and programs and parental due process rights by contacting the child’s Building Principal or the Director of Special Education

Services for Students who are Mentally Gifted

The definition of giftedness comes from the Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE) Special Education Rules and Regulations under Chapter 16 and states that a student who is mentally gifted demonstrates outstanding intellectual and creative ability, the development of which requires specially designed programs or support services, or both, not ordinarily provided in the regular education program.

The Keystone Oaks School District provides for mentally gifted students using the conceptual framework of continuous progress and differentiation though the District’s mainstream curriculum. Additionally, enrichment, acceleration and specialized study activities are provided to students as part of their gifted education program to address their unique needs. If you believe your school-age child may meet the criteria of mental giftedness and demonstrates a need for gifted education you may contact in writing your child’s Building Principal or the Director of Pupil Services.

Services for Students in Nonpublic Schools

Public special education is accessible to resident students attending nonpublic schools by affording the opportunity for the nonpublic student to enroll, on a part-time, dual enrollment basis in a special education program operated within the District. Public special education services are accessible following a multi-disciplinary team evaluation, determination of eligibility, and development of an Individualized Education Program. Parents of nonpublic school students may obtain further information by contacting the Keystone Oaks School District, Director of Pupil Services.

Services for Protected Handicapped Students

Students who are not eligible to receive special education programs and services may qualify as protected handicapped students and, therefore, be protected by other federal and state laws intended to prevent discrimination. The school district must ensure that protected handicapped students have an equal opportunity to participate in the school program and extracurricular activities to the maximum extent appropriate for the individual student. In compliance with state and federal law, the school district will provide to each protected handicapped student, without discrimination or cost to the student or family, those related aids, services or accommodations which are needed to provide equal opportunity to participate in and obtain the benefits of the school program and extracurricular activities, to the maximum extent appropriate to the student’s abilities. In order to qualify as a protected handicapped student, the child must be of school-age with a physical or mental disability which substantially limits or prohibits participation in, or access to, an aspect of the school program.

Services and protections for protected handicapped students are different from those applicable to all eligible students enrolled in special education programs. These services are outlined in a Chapter 15 Service Agreement. Questions regarding Chapter 15 should be directed to the Director of Pupil Services.

Services for Students with limited english proficiency (lep) and english learners (el)

The education of students whose dominant language is not English is the responsibility of every school district/charter school in Pennsylvania. English language learners must be enrolled upon presentation of a local address and proof of immunization. The school district/charter school must administer a home language survey (HLS) to all students as required by the Office for Civil Rights (OCR). The results of that survey must be retained in the student’s permanent folder. For those students whose primary home language is other than English (PHLOTE), the district must also determine the student’s English language proficiency. Then, if appropriate, ESL instruction will be provided for the limited English proficient student with local/state funds.

The Keystone Oaks School District will provide ongoing screening services. If you wish to learn more, have questions, or believe your child may need to be identified, please contact the Director of Pupil Services.

Confidentiality of student records

Each school district protects the confidentiality of personally identifiable information regarding its exceptional and protected handicapped students in accordance with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) and other applicable federal and state laws. FERPA gives parents certain rights with respect to their children's education records. These rights transfer to the student when he or she reaches the age of 18 or attends a school beyond the high school level. Students to whom the rights have transferred are "eligible students." These rights are:

●	The right to inspect and review their education records within 45 days of the day the school/school district receives a request for access.
●	The right to request an amendment to the student's education records that the student believes are inaccurate or

misleading.
●	The right to provide written consent before the school discloses personally identifiable information (PII) from the student's education records, except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without consent.
●	The right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failures by the school/school district to comply with the requirements of FERPA. The name and address of the Office that administers FERPA are:

Student Privacy Policy Office U.S. Department of Education 400 Maryland Avenue, SW Washington, DC 20202

The District maintains its education records in compliance with the guidelines for the collection, maintenance and dissemination of pupil records.

The District may release information known as directory information without consent. If a parent/guardian or eligible student does not consent to the automatic release of directory information, the parent/guardian or eligible student must, on an annual basis, sign a form opting-out of the automatic release of any directory information. Directory information includes the following: student’s name, address, telephone listing, electronic mail address, photograph, date and place of birth, primary field of study, dates of attendance, grade level, participation in officially recognized activities and sports, weight and height of members of athletic teams, degree, honors, and awards received, the most recent educational agency or institution attended, student ID number, user ID, or other unique personal identifier used to communicate in electronic systems that cannot be used to access educations without a PIN, password, etc. (a student’s SSN, in whole or in part, cannot be used for this purpose.)

HOMELESS STUDENTS AND THE MCKINNEY VENTO ACT (POLICY 240)

HOMELESS STUDENTS & THE MCKINNEY VENTO ACT

The McKinney Vento Act is a policy of Congress, passed in 1987, which states educational agencies shall ensure that each child of a homeless individual and each homeless youth has equal access to the same free, appropriate public education, including a public preschool education, as provided to other children and youths.

Students are considered “homeless” and entitled to protection under the McKinney Vento Act under these circumstances:

●	Sharing housing of other persons due to loss of housing, economic hardship or a similar reason; are living in motels, hotels, trailer parks or camp grounds due to lack of alternative adequate accommodations, are living in emergency or transitional shelters, are abandoned in hospitals
●	Primary nighttime residence is a public or private place not designed for or ordinarily used as regular sleeping accommodation for human being
●	Living in cars, parks, public spaces, abandoned buildings, substandard housing, bus or train stations, or similar settings
●	“Migratory Children” whose parents are migratory agricultural workers, including dairy workers and fisherman, who have moved from one school district to another in the preceding 36 months
●	Awaiting foster care placement
●	“Unaccompanied Homeless Youth” any child who is not in the physical custody of their parents or guardian. They may have run away, been thrown out of their home, been abandoned by parents, or separated from their parents for any reason

The McKinney Vento Act indicates that every school district shall, according to the child’s best interest:

1.)	Continue the student’s education in the school of origin for the duration of homelessness in any case in which a family becomes homeless between academic years or during the academic school year

2.)	For the remainder of the academic year, if the child becomes permanently housed during an academic year

3.)	Enroll students in an public school that non-homeless students who live in the attendance area in which the child or youth is actually living are eligible to attend

School Placement based on the Best Interest of the Child/Youth:

Appropriate school placement arrangements, based on the child’s best interest, should be implemented through cooperative efforts of the respective chief school administrators. Each case presents a unique set of circumstances and, therefore, requires an individualized response. In all cases, the District shall comply, to the extent feasible, with the request made by the parent or guardian regarding school selection, shall attempt to minimize disruptions and shall maintain the highest possible degree of continuity in programs for all homeless students. The choice regarding placement shall be made regardless of whether the child or youth lives with the homeless parents or has been temporarily placed elsewhere.

In determining the best interest of the child or youth under McKinney-Vento Act, the District shall:

1.)	Keep a homeless child or youth in the school of origin, except when doing so is contrary to the wishes of the child’s or youth’s parent or guardian

2.)	Provide written explanation, including a statement of regarding the right to appeal, to the homeless child’s or youth’s parent or guardian, if the District sends such a child or youth to a school other than the school of origin or a school requested by the parent or guardian

3.)	In the case of an Unaccompanied Youth, ensure that the homeless liaison considers the views of the unaccompanied youth and provides notice to the youth regarding the right to appeal

If you have any questions regarding the education of homeless youth or if your family is experiencing an episode of homelessness, please contact the Director of Pupil Services, Homeless Liaison, Suzanne Lochie at 412-571-6013 or lochie@kosd.org.

Appendix

Electronic Devices ................................................................... A

ELECTRONIC DEVICES

More information can be found within Policy 262

In the event that a student is unsure whether the restrictions set forth in the Code of Conduct apply to a particular device, it is the student's responsibility to verify with the building administrator, who shall have the sole discretion to determine whether the device is subject to the Code of Conduct. The District is not liable for the loss, damage or misuse of an electronic device brought to school by a student as the student has the option, but is not required by the District, to bring such a device to school.

The District holds high expectations for student behavior, academic integrity and responsible use of existing and emerging technologies. Students who possess and/or use such devices at school or school-sponsored events must demonstrate the greatest respect for the educational environment and the rights and privacy of all individuals within the school community.

The District reserves the right to restrict student use of District-owned and student-owned electronic devices on school property or at school-sponsored events. Except to the extent expressly authorized by this policy, the Board prohibits the use of cell phones by students during the school day in district buildings; on district property; and during the time students are under the supervision of the District.

The District reserves the right to take appropriate action, which may, depending on the circumstances, include monitoring, inspecting, copying, or reviewing a district or student-owned device or file(s) contained on a district or student-owned device when administration has a reasonable suspicion that a violation of District policy or applicable law has occurred, and the student and the student’s person in parental relation agrees that the District shall have such rights and there is no expectation of privacy that would restrict the District’s exercise of such rights.

1.	 Violations of this policy by a student shall result in disciplinary action and may result in confiscation of the electronic device.
a.	The confiscated item shall not be returned until a conference has been held with a person in parental relation. 2.	The administrators retain full oversight in their buildings regarding appropriate, necessary, and/or permissible use of
electronic devices
3.	Cell phones are to be turned off and out of sight during all instructional periods and activities. (the school day) 4.      All related School Board policies shall continue to apply in full force.
5.	 Access is a privilege, not a right. Students have the option, but are not required by the District, to bring their electronic device to school. If a student exercises the option to bring their electronic device to school, the student and the student’s person(s) in parental relation understand that there is a limited expectation of privacy with regard to the student owned device and its content while on school premises. Violations of this policy by a student may result in disciplinary action, including but not limited to, confiscation of the electronic device, banning of the student from using personal electronic devices in school, or criminal prosecution if applicable. When in school, students using their own devices must be logged-in using their district Google credentials.
6.	Appropriate use of electronic devices (including headphones, both wired and wireless), other than cell phones, shall include any use of such devices for educational purposes, such as educational research, which is specifically authorized by a classroom teacher with approval from the building administration. Educational purposes include classroom activities, career development, and communication with experts, homework, and limited high-quality self-discovery activities. Students are expected to act responsibly and thoughtfully when using technology resources. Students bear the burden of responsibility to inquire with school administrators and/or teachers when they are unsure of the permissibility of a particular use of technology prior to engaging in their use.
a.	Student-owned devices permitted for educational use only are not allowed to be used for accessing and/or using social media, sending messages (excluding email), making phone calls or taking pictures or audio recordings during instructional periods and activities.
7.	 Reasonable use of electronic devices is permitted on district buses and other district transportation vehicles, provided that the use of said device does not disrupt or distract other students, passengers or the operator of the vehicle and does not pose a risk to the safe and orderly operation of the vehicle.
8.	 Any use of electronic devices that leads to the disruption of the instructional/educational processes and/or violates the rights of others is a violation of the Code of Conduct. Use of an electronic device to access, store or transmit inappropriate content or engage in any form of bullying or harassment is grounds for immediate confiscation by District staff, building principal and/or building security.
9.	The use of ANY electronic devices in restrooms, locker rooms, health suites or changing areas is strictly prohibited. 10. The use of an electronic device to take, store, disseminate, transfer, view or share any obscene, pornographic, lewd, or
otherwise illegal images or photographs, whether by electronic data transfer or other means, including but not limited to texting and emailing, is strictly prohibited. Because such violations may constitute a crime under state and/or federal law, the district may report such conduct to state and/or federal law enforcement agencies

11. The Keystone Oaks School District infrastructure is first and foremost provided and maintained for primary benefit of and access by District-owned technology equipment. The District reserves the right to control, monitor, log and restrict in size or content all network use, e-mail, chat conversations and space available on District workstations, laptops, or servers.
12. Network bandwidth and access is finite and where a decision must be made between student use of technology and reliable use of District computers, District computing equipment will be given first priority.
13. Students shall not use electronic devices in any way that may cause a teacher or staff member to question whether the student may be cheating on tests or academic work or violating copyright policy.
14. Many electronic devices contain camera or motion picture recording technology – electronic devices are not to be used to capture pictures or motion recording of other students, teachers, administrators or other individuals without that person’s permission. The distribution of any unauthorized media may result in discipline, including but not limited to, suspension, criminal charges, and expulsion.
15. The use of student-owned electronic devices is forbidden during assemblies, in-school suspension, and detention. 16. During fire or other emergency drills or during actual emergencies students should not make phone calls unless
absolutely necessary. If a student needs to reach someone during actual emergencies, text or email messages are permitted.

In addition to the types of use expressly permitted by this policy, the building administrator may grant approval for possession and use of an electronic device by a student for the following reasons:

1.	Health, safety or emergency reasons.

2.	An Individualized Education Program (IEP) or Section 504 Service Agreement.

3.	Other reasons determined appropriate by the building administrator.

The building administrator may also grant approval for possession and use of a telephone paging device/beeper by a student for the following reasons:

1.	Student is a member of a volunteer fire company, ambulance or rescue squad.

2.	Students have a need due to the medical condition of an immediate family member.

3.	Other reasons determined appropriate by the building administrator.