Policies and Procedures

Please refer to the Procedures Manual you received at the beginning of the
school year for a complete listing of the fifth grade policies and
procedures. Here are a few general things to remember:

* Snacks:
I do not allow daily snacks in my classroom. Special events and privileges
will be exceptions to this rule.

* Birthday Parties:
District policy says that students cannot hand out party invitations of any
kind at school. If a child wishes to have cookies/cupcakes, ect. at school
for their birthday, please check with me first. Typically around 2:00 pm is
best.

* Playground:
District policy prohibits parents on the playground at any time for any
reason. Thank you for your cooperation.

* Email:
I am not allowed to use a student's name in an email, as it is a direct
violation of the Family Educational Rights to Privacy Act. If we email, I
will say "your son," "your daughter," or "your child." Email 
is my preferred means of communication. I will only discuss a specific child 
or situation after I am sure that I am corresponding with the parent.

* Renaissance:
Renaissance is a special privilege for students who earn straight A's in a
nine week period. They will be allowed a special lunch as a reward for their
hard work.

* Attendance:
District policy states that a student can be considered for retention if
there are absences in excess of 12 per semester. If a student continues to
have excessive absences or tardies, a referral will be made to the Canadian
County Juvenile Truancy Office. Doctors' notes will not be accepted. If
your child is going to be absent please call the office in advance.

* Tardies:
Students should be in their seats at 7:55 am. Please plan ahead for the
heavy traffic in front of our building. We suggest that students ride the
bus to avoid being late. 

* Field Trips:
Students are asked to wear a Mustang Valley t-shirt on field trips. It
does not need to be current; any year's shirt will do. District policy
prevents preschoolers and school-age-siblings from attending field trips.


* Homework:
I typically do not assign homework. However, fifth grade is very fast
paced, and it is likely that your child will bring work home frequently. If
a student does not finish an assignment during the time allotted, then he or
she may take it home for homework.

* Make Up Work:
If a student is absent, then all make up work will be sent home with a cover
letter explaining each assignment. The student will have the same number of
days to return the work that they were absent. For example, if a student is
absent for two days, he will have two days to make up all missed work. It
is the student's responsibility to make up the work in a timely
manner.