Parent Handbook

Ravena-Coeymans-Selkirk Central School District
Developing Tomorrow’s Leaders Today
A.W. Becker
ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
“Creating a Caring Community”
http://rcscsd.org
Back-to-School
Information Packet
for parents and students
2013-2014
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Vision and Mission Statements/Beliefs
Principal’s Letter
AWB Staff Roster
School Organization
School Hours
Contacting School Personnel
Lunch/Recess Schedule
1
2
3
4
4
5
5
Absences from School
- Attendance Policy Summary
- Reporting School Absences
Access to Student Records
Assemblies
AWB Newsletter
Bullying
Bus Transportation
- School Bus Safety Rules
- Bus Passes
Discipline
- District Discipline Code for Student Behavior
- Elementary Code of Conduct (rev. 6/11)
Dress Code
Electronic Devices , Toys and Cell Phones
Health Office
Integrated Pest Management Policy
Nondiscrimination Policy
PTA
School Breakfast and Lunch Programs
- Meal Cards and NutriKids Information
- Meal Charging Policy Detail
- How to Apply for Free/Reduced Meals
- Free/Reduced Frequently Asked Questions
- Food Safety at School
- It’s Your Child’s Birthday?
- RCS Café Food Options and Pricing
School News Notifier
Staff Qualifications
Student Directory Information
Student Privacy
School Safety/Visitor Policy
Addendums:
Excuse for Absence
Early Leave/Late Arrival Excuse
6
6
6
7
7
7
8-9
10
10
10
11
11-13
14-15
16
16
17
17
18
18
19
19-20
21
21-22
22-23
24
24
24
25
25
25
25
26
VISION STATEMENT
All students will be challenged to reach their full potential. As a district, we will provide the breadth and
depth of experiences that will excite our students and prepare them to excel as citizens in a global
community.
We will demonstrate empathy, compassion, civility and foster respect for self, others, property and the
environment. We are committed to open communication with all stakeholders.
Our district will be a place where staff and students will be successful. The community will support the
educational process and take pride in our schools, and in the work and accomplishments of our students and
staff.
MISSION STATEMENT
The Ravena-Coeymans-Selkirk Central School District will be an exemplary 21st century learning
community whose graduates are prepared to excel in a complex, interconnected and changing world.
BELIEFS
Students are our future and are to be given the tools they need to reach their full potential.
Teachers are the leaders and role models who foster learning and inspire students to reach their full
potential.
Principals are educational leaders who promote success.
All Support Staff are essential in providing a safe and healthy successful school learning environment.
The Superintendent is the District leader whose responsibility is to help the District and community realize
the vision.
The Board of Education are the community members responsible for setting policies that are consistent
with District beliefs.
Parents are essential partners in their children’s education.
The Community is our partner in these endeavors, supporting our work, providing suggestions and ideas,
and fostering citizenship, character and school pride.
A.W. Becker Elementary School
Claudia Verga, Principal, Ext. 5000
www.rcscsd.org
Phone: 518-756-5200 • Fax: 518-767-2512
September 2013
Dear Parents:
Our motto, as a school community, is “committed to a caring community”. As always, you can be confident
that your children will receive the best education possible here at A.W. Becker. As most of you already
know, we have the highest quality staff anywhere. They will give your child, and you, their best every day.
From our students, we expect their best work, best manners and best behavior. We encourage children to be
good citizens of their classroom and school at all times. Being committed to creating a caring community
means taking an active role in the school community by volunteering, being kind to all other students,
taking the initiative, being a leader and being respectful of school property and all the students and adults at
A.W. Becker.
Our vision here at Becker Elementary School is a collaborative effort among students, staff, parents and
community members. We provide a caring, nurturing environment that is focused on developing the whole
child. We work to create an environment that promotes the academic, social, emotional and physical wellbeing of every child.
We are very fortunate to have the constant support from all of you and the community. Education is a
partnership that depends on your involvement and continuous support.
Please share any concerns or suggestions at any time. Our doors are always open.
Yours in partnership,
Claudia Verga
Principal
A.W. BECKER ELEMENTARY SCHOOL 2013/2014
Claudia Verga, Principal
Fanny Weddell and Tina McMahon, Secretaries
Pre-Kindergarten
Patricia O’Keefe
175
Kindergarten
Lindsay Castagna
Krista Fiore
Kim McFerran
Jamie Knightes
124
123
125
127
Remedial Math
Anthony Marturano (.5)
Grade 1
Megan Brown
Jamie Guntert
Joan Isabella
Jennifer McGuiness
166
165
163
162
Grade 2
Laurie Bloodgood
Jennifer Locke
Terri Planck
Jennifer Wolfe
251
255
252
250
Grade 3
Kerry Anderson
TBD
Erin Daley
Jennifer Doran
207
205
208
206
Grade 4
Amy Conway
Liz Campbell
Marisa Tutay
Kathy Baumgras
Grade 5
Lee Brown
Elaine Palas
Dawn Sherman
Skills K/1/2
Jennifer Byrnes / LTS
Skills 3/4/5
Kate Thibault
L.A.S.O. K/1
Amy Roehr
Consultant Teachers
Teri Burns
Kelly McGillycuddy
Lisa Saltis / LTS
Sarah Pulcher
Ashley Robinson
Deb Conti
209
203
201
204
248
249
256
174
162
202
231
231
229
230
224
229
Building Aides
Deb Buhrke
Ruth Philpott
TBD/SPED
TBD/SPED
Noontime Aides
Karlene Dean
Angela Ennis
Diane Perry
Remedial Reading
Denise Mulligan (.5)
Laura Costello
Kerin Stagnitta
Gail Stewart
Christal Wheeler
202
202
254
254
202
Speech
Colleen Bonacci
Kerry DeLuca
Gillian Flynn (.8)
230
228/226
228/226
REACH/Scholars
Debbie Neubart (.5)
227
Library
Danielle DeFeo (.5)
152
Art
Lauren Young
240
Health Office
Patti LeFevre
Music
Ben Rau
239
Physical Education
Megan McClave
Elyse Loughlin
150
150
Outside Services
OT/PT Room 227
Denise Lyle
Michelle Agostinoni
Teaching Assistants
Josepha Abba
Sandi Ackert
Tracy Aldrich
TBD
Melanie Collins
Judy Dare
Debbie Decker
Victoria Dixon
Connie Kot
Marcia Luchkiw
Diane Montesano
Brenda Morehouse
Donna Sousie
Karen Weisheit
TBD
BOCES outside
providers Room 231
Band
William Hoeprich
178
Elementary Guidance
Amiee McGinness LTS
222
Psychologist
Sara Student
225
164
173
CONTENT SPECIALISTS
Math/Science
Anthony Marturano (.5)
224
ELA
Denise Mulligan (.5)
202
Cafeteria Staff
Judy Westervelt
Christina Shord
Barbara Marino
Custodial Staff
Tim Geeseman
Paul Lovely
Richard Vadney
SCHOOL ORGANIZATION
The A. W. Becker Elementary School is a Pre-K-5 building with about 470 students. In grades K-5 we
generally organize on a graded basis, with about 4 sections at each grade level for Kindergarten through 3rd
grade and 3 sections at grades 4 and 5; however we recognize the range of abilities and achievement levels
within each class. As we develop class lists, our goal is to create well-balanced classes for all students and
staff.
We take pride in offering varied and exciting programs in academic and special subject areas, as well as
providing support for students through supplemental services. Although students are assigned to particular
classroom teachers each year, all children are viewed as important individual members of the entire school and,
thus, the responsibility of all staff. As we work with your child each day, you will find that this is a
responsibility we take seriously and with great joy.
SCHOOL HOURS


Monday through Thursday
Friday:

Our AM Pre-K Students will start at 9:00 a.m. Monday through Thursday with an 11:30 a.m. dismissal.
On Fridays, students will start at 9:00 a.m. and be dismissed at 11:15 a.m.
Our PM Pre-K Students will start at 1:00 p.m. Monday through Thursday with a 3:30 p.m. dismissal.
On Fridays, students will start at 12:45 p.m. and be dismissed at 3:00 p.m.
There will be bus transportation provided mid-day for Pre-K students.


9:00 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.
9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Students report to their classrooms at 9:00 a.m. Any child who arrives after 9:10 is considered tardy and needs
to be signed in at the office. We ask parents who drive their children to school to please not arrive before 9:00
a.m. Supervision is NOT provided; consequently, if your child does arrive early, you and your child will be
asked to wait in the main office until 9:00 a.m.
If you need to contact a teacher, please go to the office for assistance. We ask that you do not ever go directly
to teacher classrooms. When visiting the school for such events as a classroom activity, meeting, or any other
reason, it is important that you report to the main office and sign in before going to your child’s classroom, and
wear a visitor’s badge for security reasons.
Dismissal is at 3:30 p.m, (except Fridays). While instruction has usually been concluded by 3:25 p.m., this time
is important for making announcements, handing out papers, assigning homework, etc. We ask that you plan
after school activities accordingly and only request release prior to 3:30 p.m. for emergencies. Your
cooperation is appreciated. We will actively encouraging families to show respect for the learning of all
students by asking parents/guardians to wait until dismissal to pick up their children.
CONTACTING SCHOOL PERSONNEL
By telephone:
Main office hours are 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. All offices have voicemail. If you wish to speak to a teacher, your
call will be forwarded to the teacher’s voicemail. Teachers return calls as soon as possible (when not directly
responsible for children). Please leave a detailed message so the teacher can have information ready when the
call is returned.
In writing:
Please feel free to write a note to the teacher and send it to school with your child. Most children are good
messengers, but it wouldn’t hurt to check with them when they return home.
By e-mail:
E-mail addresses for Main Office staff are listed below. An e-mail directory of all staff is on the district’s Web
site, http://rcscsd.org.
Main Office e-mail addresses:
Claudia Verga, Principal
Fanny Weddell, Secretary
Tina McMahon, Secretary
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
By FAX:
Our school fax number is 767-2512
LUNCH/RECESS
The children have a 45-minute lunch/recess break – approximately 25 minutes in the cafeteria and 20 minutes
of recreational time. As a rule, the children go outdoors for fresh air and exercise each day during the school
year, unless severe weather conditions prevent them from doing so. Please see that they are appropriately
dressed. Children returning from illnesses are also expected to go outdoors, unless your physician sends a note
regarding otherwise. Noon hour monitors supervise children in the cafeteria and on the playground.
Lunch and Recess Schedule for 2013-2014
Grade
Kindergarten
Grade 1
Grade 2
Grade 3
Grade 4
Grade 5
Lunch & Recess Time
10:45 – 11:30
11:10 – 11:55
11:35 – 12:20
12:50 – 1:35
12:00 – 12:45
12:25 – 1:10
ATTENDANCE POLICY SUMMARY
Regular attendance and punctuality are expected of pupils from the first day of school. Children should
understand that regular school attendance is essential to their educational development and well-being. With
some exceptions, every child enrolled in school is expected to be present.
Absences, tardiness and early departures (ATED) from class or school are excused if they are due to personal
illness, death in the family, impassable roads or weather, religious observance, quarantine or attendance at
health clinics. All other ATEDs are considered unexcused absences.
It is the parent’s responsibility to notify the school office within at least 24 hours of the ATED and to provide a
written excuse upon the student’s return to school.
Upon returning to school after an absence, each pupil must have a written excuse. Please include the following
information: date of excuse or dates of absence, reason for absence, and parent signature.
Unexcused ATEDs may result in disciplinary action consistent with the district’s Code of Conduct. Students
may also be denied the privilege of participating in or attending extracurricular events. In addition the principal
and/or designee will contact the student’s parents and the student’s guidance counselor.
REPORTING SCHOOL ABSENCES
Parents should call the school before 9:30 a.m. each day their child is absent. If you must leave a message,
please give the child’s name, teacher’s name, the date and the reason for the absence. Reporting a
communicable disease helps the school take immediate action to eliminate or control the spread.
New York State Law requires that parents/guardians write an excuse note to the school explaining the reason
for the absence. It would be most helpful if your child would bring this excuse to school on the day he or she
returns after an illness, but it must be received no later than within three days of return. Absences for
reasons other than illness, medical appointments, or a death in the family, as well as absences without a written
excuse will not be considered legal absences. Students will be considered tardy if they arrive late to school
for reasons other than a late school bus. The arrival time a tardy student enters the building will be
recorded and being tardy three times will equal one absence, as per district policy (Policy #7110). This
will also apply to early departures.
Perfect Attendance will be defined as being in attendance in school and on time for every school day and
students must remain in school for the entire school day.
As standards are raised, students really can’t afford to miss school. Even the best students quickly fall behind
when attendance drops or there is chronic tardiness. Parental support on this is essential. Toward that end, we
will be closely monitoring students who repeatedly arrive to school late, or have a record of chronic or
unexcused absences. Our school counselors communicate with families in an effort to help maintain students’
attendance. We continue to ask for cooperation in this effort to help our students be successful.
Please see back of handbook for EXCUSE FORMS and Student Attendance Policy #7110
Requests for Early Dismissal/Parent Pick-Up Parents who wish to take their children out of school early must
put their request in writing and send it to the child’s teacher in advance. Parents picking up children during the
day or at dismissal time should go directly to the main office to sign them out. Please do not go to the
classroom. At dismissal time, please wait in the lobby area. We are able to provide reminders via the public
address system.
Signing in Late/Parent Drop-Off If your child is late for any reason, or is returning to school (e.g. from a
doctor’s appointment), you must accompany your child into the main office to sign him/her in. A parental note
is necessary for any late arrival or early dismissal.
ACCESS TO STUDENT RECORDS
Under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), parents and students who are over 18 years of
age (“eligible students”) have the right to inspect and review the student’s educational records. Such a request
must be sent in writing to Ms. Diane Malecki, School Business Administrator, 15 Mountain Road, Ravena, NY
12143. Arrangements will be made to provide access to such records within 45 days after the request has been
received.
Parents also have the right to request the amendment of the student’s education records believed to be
inaccurate or misleading by writing to the School Business Administrator, identifying the record and specifying
what they believe is inaccurate and why.
And they have the right to consent to disclosure of personally identifiable information in a student’s education
record, except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without consent. It is the district’s policy to
disclose personally identifiable information from student records, without consent, to school district officials
with legitimate education interests (i.e., to fulfill professional responsibilities) and, upon request, to another
school district or institution in which a student seeks enrollment. School officials include administrators,
supervisors, instructors and support staff employed by the district; a person or company (e.g., attorney, auditor
or therapist) with whom the district has contracted to perform a special task; or a parent or student serving on an
official committee or assisting another school official in performing duties.
Parents who believe the district has not complied with FERPA requirements may file a complaint with the
Family Policy Compliance Office, U.S. Department of Education, Washington, D.C., 20202-4605.
AWB SCHOOL NEWSLETTER/SOURCES OF INFORMATION
At least bi-monthly, a school newsletter will go home with important notices about school and community
activities listed. This newsletter will also be posted on our district website. In addition, you can register for the
electronic “RCS Today”, the district’s e-mail newsletter. Subscribers receive periodic e-mail messages with
stories about events in the district. E-mail Robert Hanlon at [email protected] for more information and to
register for this service. The Parent Teacher Association (PTA) maintains an email list as well as a Facebook
account, so please consider these venues as sources of school news. For more information on how to sign up
for these accounts, visit the District’s webpage at www.rcscsd.org and follow the link to the Facebook page
(little blue square with a white, lower case “f”) or click on the tab for “A.W. Becker” and then “Committees and
PTA”.
BULLYING
Bullying has become a problem virtually everywhere. School officials understand the impact this problem can
have on a school environment. Bullying creates a climate of fear & makes learning difficult for all students. To
address this problem, the Board of Education adopted the Dignity for All Students Act Policy #7552. Please
refer to the end of the handbook.
BYSTANDERS; THE THIRD PARTY TO BULLYING
Traditionally, bullying prevention programs focused on the two most obvious parties to the crime, the bully &
the victim. However, new approaches now highlight the important role the witness or bystander can play in
stopping bullies in their tracks.
In their book Bullies & Victims: Helping Your Child Through the Schoolyard Battlefield, authors Suellen Fried
& Paula Fried write: “Though there is conflicting data about the percentage of children who are identified as
victims, the majority of students are neither bullies nor victims, they are witnesses to bullying.” Harnessing the
strength of these numbers may be the best hope for turning the bullying trend around.
Consider the following:

BYSTANDERS ARE HARMED BY BULLYING: If students feel powerless to put an end to bullying,
they many experience fear, sadness, anger, guilt or shame. All these can make learning difficult.

BYSTANDERS OFTEN BECOME PART OF THE PROBLEM: With pre-adolescents, peer pressure
& a desire to fit in will color most of the decisions they make. When confronted with the ominous
question, “whose side are you on?” Many will side with the bully, which makes the problem worse.

THERE IS NO SUCH THING AS AN INNOCENT BYSTANDER: Simply knowing that bullying is
taking place & yet not taking action makes the witness as much a part of the problem as the bully.
However, standing up for others can take a lot of courage.
HELPING YOUR CHILDREN TAKE A STAND
Encouraging your children to help prevent bullying may seem like a good idea in theory, but there are a lot of
factors – fear of retaliation being foremost – that can discourage them from taking a stand. Here are some ways
you can help:





TALK WITH YOUR CHILDREN ABOUT BULLYING. Ask them about what they witness at
school. Keep the lines of communication open so that you will likely be the one they confide in.
LET KIDS KNOW IT IS OKAY TO REPORT BULLYING. Make it safe for your children to tell
you about the things they have seen & what bothers them. Although your first instinct might be to
tell your children how to respond or, even worse, to downplay bullying as a natural rite of passage,
try to listen & keep your responses neutral.
HELP YOUR CHILD EMPATHIZE WITH THE VICTIM. It is much easier for kids to turn a blind
eye if the person being wronged is not a friend or is an unpopular student. Talk with your children
about how they would feel if they or one of their close friends were in the victim’s shoes.
WORK WITH YOUR CHILD TO DEVELOP STRATEGIES TO HELP THOSE WHO ARE
BEING BULLIED. For example, if gossip is being spread about someone they know, you can
counsel your children to counter it with the truth. The book Cliques: 8 Ways to Help Your Child
Survive the Social Jungle by Charlene C. Giannetti & Margaret Sagarese included suggestions for
discouraging different types of bullying.
ENLIST THE HELP OF OTHERS. Bystanders far outnumber the bullies. With children who are
hesitant to help stop bullying, the aid of a sympathetic friend or two might make the difference.
THE MANY FACES OF BULLYING
Bullying is not just about physical intimidation. In fact, it often takes other forms which are just as
damaging:





Verbal – using words to hurt or humiliate.
Relational – spreading rumors, excluding a person from the peer group.
Prejudicial – making racial slurs, making fun of cultural, religious or other differences.
Sexual harassment – using suggestive words or inappropriate touch
Physical – hitting, kicking, stealing or damaging the victim’s property.
Bullying usually occurs between individuals who are not friends. The bully may be bigger, tougher, or have
the power to exclude others from their social group.
Lots of kids joke around with each other. This may include name-calling or rough housing, but these
incidents are not necessarily bullying. Bullying has three characteristics that sets it apart:
1. There is a power difference between the bully and the victim.
2. The bully intends to hurt, embarrass or humiliate the other person
3. The behavior is repeated – with others or with the same person over time.
BOOKS & WEB SITES FOR MORE INFORMATION ON BULLYING:
FOR PARENTS:
 Cliques: 8 steps to help your child survive the social jungle by Charlene C. Giannetti & Margaret
Sagarese
 The Safe Child Book: A Commonsense Approach to protecting children & teaching children to protect
themselves by Sheryl Kraizer
 What to Do. when kids are mean to your child by Elin McCoy
 Odd Girl Out: The cultures of Hidden aggression in girls by Rachel Simmons
 Queen Bees & Wannabes: Helping your daughter survive cliques, gossip, boyfriends & other realities of
adolescence by Rosaling Wiseman
FOR KIDS:
 Why is everybody always picking on me? A guide to handling bullies by Terrence Webster-Doyle
 Stick up for yourself! Every kid’s guide to personal power & positive self-esteem by Gershen Kaufman,
Ph.D. & Lev Raphael, Ph.D.
 Bullies are a pain in the brain by Trevor Romain
 Cliques, phonies & other baloney by Trevor Romain
 www.kidshealth.org. This not-for-profit web site organized into sections for parents, kids & teens offers
a wealth of practical advice (in both English & Spanish) on a range of topics including bullying.
BUS TRANSPORTATION
Bus routes are developed by the transportation supervisor. Questions regarding school bus transportation
should be directed to the school bus garage by calling 756-5200 ext. 7010.
The safety of all students is the district’s primary concern. All buses are school property and are subject to all
rules set forth in the Code of Conduct. Each student has an individual responsibility to help ensure the safety of
all students on the bus by adhering to bus transportation rules. While coming to school, going home and riding
buses for extracurricular events or field trips, all students are expected to listen to and obey all instructions from
transportation personnel and to adhere to the following rules:
 Remain seated at all times
 Use your inside voice while on the bus
 Respect both yourself and others
 Listen to, and follow directions from adults
SCHOOL BUS SAFETY RULES

Be ready when the school bus arrives at your stop. Please be at the stop five minutes before the
designated pickup time.
 Use the hand railing when you enter and leave the bus. Pushing and jumping on the stairs causes
injuries.
 Emergency exits are used only in emergencies. Use them only when instructed by the driver or when
the bus must be evacuated.
 All passengers must remain seated when a school bus is in motion.
 All body parts, including heads and arms, must be kept inside the bus windows at all times. Clothing,
book bags and other possessions must also be kept inside the bus windows.
 Always use the 15-foot rule when crossing in front of a school bus.
 Seat belt use is encouraged when the bus is equipped with them.
 Eating, drinking, smoking and using alcohol and other drugs are not allowed on the school bus at any
time.
 Using profanity, excessive noise, horseplay, fighting, bullying or any unnecessary confusion distracts
the driver, which is extremely unsafe and is considered unacceptable behavior.
 Keep the bus neat. Papers on the floor and cutting or writing on seats is unnecessary and costly.
 A school bus is an extension of the classroom. A teacher often tells you where to sit in the classroom,
and a bus driver may tell you where to sit in a school bus. Follow the driver’s instructions at all time.
Disciplinary Options
 Building administrator meets with student regarding bus behavior and parent is contacted.
 Driver and school administrators have joint conference with student and parent is contacted.
 Conference with student, parents, driver and school administrators
 Suspension of bus riding privileges
IMPORTANT REMINDER: It is against the law to pass a school bus with its red lights flashing. We are
required to report people who violate this law.
BUS PASSES
If, for any reason, your child needs to ride on a different bus on a particular day, you must send in a note
with him/her containing the following:
 Child’s first and last name, grade level and homeroom teacher
 Where she/he is to be dropped off
 Phone number where you can be contacted during school hours
DISTRICT DISCIPLINE CODE FOR STUDENT BEHAVIOR:
ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS
A.
LEVEL I
Level I Misbehaviors classified in this level represent relatively minor infractions of established procedures,
which regulate the orderly operation of the school and its educational process. The frequency of their
occurrence shall determine the appropriate disciplinary response and their reclassification at a higher level.
Infractions:
Littering
Tardiness to school or class
Failure to be prepared with class materials and supplies
Failure to complete assignments, carry out teacher directions or prepare for class
Abuse of hall or lavatory privileges
Careless or unauthorized use of school property or facilities
Disruptive behavior in school, on campus, or on bus
Loss of or damage to school property
Unauthorized use of radios, CD players, cell phones or electronic games in the school building
Being in unauthorized areas
Use of inappropriate language
Unauthorized playing with toys in the school building
Throwing dirt, stones, snowballs or any object other than a playground ball when permitted.
Procedures:
Supervising staff member or observer immediately intervenes and applies the most appropriate disciplinary
option.
In cases of repetitive misbehavior, the staff member shall communicate with the principal and arrange for
parental contact.
Since the frequency of occurrence determines subsequent response to the same infraction, a record of
infractions, and the disciplinary response to each may be kept for each student in the principal’s office.
Referral to Social Worker/Counselor/Pupil Study Team
Disciplinary Options:
Verbal reprimand – immediate adult counsel
Seat change
Parental contact
Behavioral contract
Strict supervised study
Restriction of privileges
Written apology
Temporary removal from class
School-community service
Payment of damages
Filing of a PINS petition
DISTRICT DISCIPLINE CODE CONTINUED
B.
LEVEL II
This level includes misbehaviors whose frequency or seriousness tends to disrupt the learning climate of the
school and to affect seriously the student’s own education. Infractions at this level include Level I infractions
committed by a student who continues or repeats the infraction after being disciplined at Level I for that
infraction. Teachers usually have made a home contact before repeated Level I offenses are turned into Level II
offenses. Because of their frequency or seriousness, the principal assumes the major responsibility for
corrective action.
Infractions:
 Unmodified Level I misbehavior
 Harassment
 Chronic misbehavior on school bus
 Use of profanity or obscenity
 Leaving classroom or school without permission or a legitimate reason
 Truancy
 Serious acts of defiance
 Forgery
 Cheating
 Bullying
Procedures:
 Referral to The teacher or observer reports the infraction or refers the student to the principal for
appropriate disciplinary action.
 The principal meets with the student and/or the teacher, determines the most appropriate disciplinary
response and then informs the teacher of the action taken.
 The parent will be notified.
 The principal maintains a record of the offense and the disciplinary action.
 social worker/Counselor/Pupil Study Team
Disciplinary Options:
 Continuation of the more stringent Level I options
 Parental conference
 Temporary withdrawal of certain participation privileges in
 school activities
 Temporary removal from class
 Suspension of school bus transportation
 Temporary out-of-school suspension
DISTRICT DISCIPLINE CODE CONTINUED
C.
LEVEL III
These acts are more serious because their consequences may have a lasting effect on the individual or may pose
a threat to the health and safety of others in the school. While some might be considered criminal acts, for the
most part their remediation can be undertaken through the disciplinary mechanism of the school. However, in
some cases law enforcement officials may have to be contacted or notified and criminal charges may be filed
when appropriate.
Infractions:
 Continuation of Level II misbehavior
 Chronic truancy
 Stealing
 Assault
 Vandalism
 Possessing, using or being under the influence of unauthorized substances (e.g. drugs, alcohol) on school
property or at school functions
 Starting a fire in school
 Extortion of other students
 Tampering with the fire alarm or pulling false alarm
 Possession and/or use of fireworks
 Use of tobacco on school property
 Providing, selling and use of illegal chemical substances and/or alcohol on school property or at school
sponsored activities.
 Bomb threat
 Possession of weapons on school property or at school-sponsored activities.
Procedures:
 Continuation of the more stringent Level II options
 Parental conference
 Temporary withdrawal of certain participation privileges in school activities
 Temporary removal from class
 Suspension of school bus transportation
 Temporary out-of-school suspension
 Police report file
ELEMENTARY CODE OF CONDUCT
Revised July 2012
* Please note this addendum is not part of the student Code of Conduct. This addendum serves as a guide for
administration. Consideration of this addendum will be given under disciplinary options.
1. DISRUPTIVE BEHAVIOR
Disruptive behavior means substantially interfering with the teacher’s authority over the classroom,
i.e. student demonstrates a persistent unwillingness to comply with the teacher’s instructions or
repeatedly violates the teacher’s rules for the classroom.
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Incident 1 -3
Teacher handles in classroom.
The teacher may ask that the student speak to a counselor for a few minutes, especially if the student is
“shutting down.” In this case, this should not be counted as a disciplinary/punitive measure.
Teacher should use their own discretion in handling discipline in their classrooms. However, before a
referral is sent to the office, a parent should be called to discuss the behavior(s) in question, even if
this call occurs on the same day as the incident being referred.
Each incident should be documented, including when it happened and how it was handled.

Incident 4
Referral is sent to office, along with the documentation of prior incidents and date when parent was
contacted.
½ day ISS & call to parent
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
Incident 5
Referral to office
1 day ISS

Incident 6 -8
ISS or OSS, 1-3 days (at principal’s discretion)
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
Incident 9 or more
Principal’s Hearing to determine consequences
In this case, the parents/guardians are requested to meet with the teacher, counselor and principal
regarding the disruptive behaviors. This should take place within 48 hours of the incident. The
student may be suspended until the hearing takes place.
2. VIOLENT BEHAVIOR
Physical Contact –
including pinching,
kicking, scratching, openhanded hitting, pushing
Aggressive Physical Contact
– includes closed-hand
hitting, i.e. punching,
fighting (more than one
physical contact at one
time), throwing an object at
someone
Use of Weapons a) Weapons, including
but not limited to
guns and knives
b) Objects used with
intent to harm, such
as staplers, plastic
knives or forks,
pencils, sticks, rocks
c) Displays what
appears to be a
weapon
Incident 1 – During recess, 5 minutes time-out and report incident
to the classroom teacher. If the student refuses to comply, the child
can be sent inside to serve the entire recess indoors.
- In classroom, at teacher’s discretion.
Incident 2 – See above PLUS, send referral to principal &
consequences are at discretion of principal
Incident 3 or more – Immediate removal for remainder of recess,
written referral plus an additional consequence from principal and
phone call home.
Incident 1-Removal from classroom immediately, phone call home
from principal, referral with consequences of: detention, ISS ½ day,
or after-school detention.
Incident 2- See above PLUS, referral with consequences of: 1 day
ISS or OSS
Incident 3-See above PLUS, referral with consequences of: 2 or more
days ISS or OSS
a)Incident 1- OSS-number determined by district policy
b)Incident 1- Removal from setting, phone call home by principal,
referral with consequences of: ½ day ISS or after school detention
Incident 2- See above PLUS, referral with consequences of
ISS or OSS
Incident 3-See above PLUS, referral with consequences of ISS
or OSS
c)Incident 1-Phone call home by principal, take item away
immediately, parent must come and pick up item at school,
referral with meeting with parent, student and principal
Incident 2- See above PLUS, after school detention or ISS
Incident 3- See above PLUS, OSS
Violent Destruction of
Property - Willful destruction
of school/and or
personal property of
a student, teacher,
administrator or
other district
employee in an act
of anger, such as
throwing chairs,
removing things
from walls, breaking
or destroying
property. This also
includes graffiti.
Incident 1- Removal from setting, phone call home by principal,
referral with the consequences of: ISS or OSS for 1-2 days
Incident 2-See above PLUS, OSS for 2-3 days
**For Special Education students, services must still be
provided.
Incident 3-See above PLUS, OSS for at least 3 days, but could result
in a manifestation determination meeting (CSE) or Superintendent’s
meeting (Gen. Ed.)
DRESS CODE
All students are expected to give proper attention to personal cleanliness and to dress appropriately for school
and school functions. Students and their parents have the primary responsibility for acceptable student dress
and appearance. Teachers and all other district personnel should exemplify and reinforce acceptable student
dress and help students develop an understanding of appropriate appearance in the school setting.
A student’s dress, grooming and appearance, including hair, jewelry, make-up and nails, shall:
 Be safe and appropriate and not disrupt or interfere with the education process.
 Not include extremely brief, revealing or see-through garments or garments that expose undergarments
and/or midriffs, including spaghetti string straps, halter-tops, etc.
 Not include pajama pants, or other sleep attire.
 Include footwear at all times. Footwear that might pose a safety hazard, such as flip-flops or open-back
sandals, will not be allowed on the playground equipment.
 Not include the wearing of hats/headgear inside the school during the school day except for a medical or
religious purpose or for approved activities.
 Not include items that are vulgar, obscene or libelous or that denigrate others on account of race, color,
gender, religion, ethnic origin, sexual orientation or disability in an expressed or implied manner.
 Not promote or endorse the use of alcohol, tobacco or illegal drugs or encourage other illegal or violent
activities.
 Not denote or represent gang affiliation such as bandanas, beads, jewelry or other indicators and/or
symbols intended expressly so.
Students who violate the student dress code shall be required to modify their appearance by covering or
removing the offending items and, if necessary or practical, replacing it with an acceptable item.
Any student who refuses to do so shall be subject to discipline, up to and including in-school suspension for the
day. Any student who repeatedly fails to comply with the dress code shall be subject to further discipline, up to
and including suspension.
Each building principal or designee shall be responsible for informing all teachers, students and their parents of
the student dress code at the beginning of the school year and any revisions to the dress code made during the
school year.
ELECTRONIC DEVICES, TOYS & CELL PHONES
We ask that your child’s toys remain at home, except for show and tell activities in the primary grades. All
electronic devices, including, but not limited to personal video games, i-Pods and cell phones are NOT
ALLOWED in school.
As per district policy, students in grades K-5 who violate this policy:
1st time – student can pick up device from the main office at the end of the day.
2nd time and any continued violation – Parent can pick up at the end of the day.
Any student who violates this policy shall be subject to discipline in accordance with our Code of Conduct.
Please note that these items should not be at school during after-hour activities and evening events as well.
HEALTH OFFICE
The A. W. Becker Elementary School has a health office located on the first floor by the main office. The
school nurse, Mrs. LeFevre, is available to assist students in case of an accident, illness, or any health related
problem. Mrs. LeFevre can be reached by phone at 756-5200, ext. 5005 & 5006. Please notify the school’s
health office if your child has a health problem of which we should be made aware.
In order for the school nurse to give a student medication during school hours, the following requirements must
be met:
 Accompanying the medication must be an original, signed order from the prescribing physician
containing the student’s name, name of medication, dosage, reason for prescribing the medication and
possible adverse reactions.
 All medications must be in their original pharmacy containers, which must be properly labeled with the
student’s name, name of medication, dosage and the prescribing doctor’s name. Over-the-counter
medications (i.e., Tylenol, Advil, etc.) need to be in their original, unopened containers.
 A signed note from the parent giving the school nurse permission to dispense the medication as
prescribed by the doctor.
 All medications must be hand-delivered to the school nurse by a parent or other responsible adult.
NO medication of any kind can be given without a written order from the doctor. A prescription
bottle/container with the name of the child, dosage, name of medication, and name of doctor is necessary, and
parent must bring it in. NO medication can be transported on the bus.
Your child is encouraged to report any accident to the teacher who will send him/her to the health office to be
checked. You will be called if there is the slightest suspicion that your child might need to be seen by a
physician.
Children in Pre-K, K, 2, 4, 7 and 10 must have a physical and Dental Certificate. If it is not done by your health
provider, the school physician will do the screening. Physicals, eye exams, and hearing tests are given
throughout the year. Head lice checks and other precautionary exams will be given as needed or required by
law.
INTEGRATED PEST MANAGEMENT (IPM) POLICY
New York State Education Law requires the district to provide written notification to all persons in parental
relation, faculty and staff regarding the potential use of pesticides periodically throughout the school year. The
district is required to maintain a list of persons in parental relation, faculty and staff who wish to receive 48prior written notification of certain pesticide applications. The following pesticide applications are not subject
to prior notification requirements:
 A school remains unoccupied for a continuous 72 hours following an application;
 Anti-microbial products;
 Nonvolatile rodenticides or insecticidal baits in tamper resistant bait stations, silica gels and other
nonvolatile ready-to-use pastes, foams or gels in areas inaccessible to children;
 Boric acid and disodium octaborate tetrahydrate;
 The application of EPA designated biopesticides or exempt materials under 40CFR152.25;
 The use of aerosol products with a directed spray in containers of 18 fluid ounces or less when used to
protect individuals from imminent threat from stinging and biting insects including venomous spiders,
bees, wasps and hornets.
In the event of an emergency application necessary to protect against an imminent threat to human health, a
good-faith effort will be made to supply written notification to those on the 48-hour prior notification list. If
you would like to receive 48-hour prior notification of pesticide applications that are schedule to occur in your
school, please contact Brian Dengler, Director of Operations and Maintenance.
NON-DISCRIMINATION POLICY
The Ravena-Coeymans-Selkirk Central School District offers employment and educational opportunities,
including vocational education opportunities, without regard to race, color, national origin, creed, religion,
marital status, sex, age or disability. Grievance procedures are available to interested persons. Inquiries
regarding this non-discrimination policy may be directed to: Elizabeth SantaBarbara, Title IX/Section 504
Coordinator, Sex/Handicap Discrimination, 15 Mountain Road, P. O. Box 100, Ravena, NY 12143.
PARENT TEACHER ASSOCIATION (PTA)
The A. W. Becker School Parent-Teacher Association is a member of the New York State PTA and is organized
in accordance with its by-laws and guidelines. The Becker PTA brings together administrators, families,
teachers and community members to promote the highest standard of education and welfare for our children.
The PTA welcomes all to participate in the school community, family activities and monthly meetings. Consult
the district calendar for meeting dates. Meetings are generally held the second Wednesday of the month. The
monthly agenda is posted prior to the meeting and abbreviated meeting minutes are posted monthly.
Throughout the year, the PTA sponsors programs for the children’s enjoyment, as well as to enrich their
education. The National PTA has consistently demonstrated that effectively involving parents and families in
support of children and their education produces meaningful and lasting results. Therefore, our PTA advocates
strongly for parent and family involvement to increase our student success.
We have a concerned, well-informed, talented membership. Each year we strive to have more families join the
PTA. The most advantageous reason to join is to benefit your child. The many additional reasons include:
being connected to the school community, venue for parent resources, a strong parent network, an avenue of
communication and being a role model for your child. Please consider joining the PTA!
2012-2013 PTA Officers
President:
Vice President:
Treasurer:
Recording Secretary:
Denise Hughes
Jessica Madden
Victoria Dixon
Shawn Benton
SCHOOL BREAKFAST & LUNCH PROGRAM
Applications for free and reduced meals are attached and are also available in the Main Office.
2013-2014 MEAL
PRICES:
BREAKFAST:
Elementary $1.50
MS/HS
$1.75
LUNCH:
Elementary $2.15
MS/HS
$2.40
We will be continuing to use the NutriKids meal system again this year at the RavenaCoeymans-Selkirk Central School District. This system promotes a more efficient and
effective way for our district’s central food service department to increase accountability
and accommodate government reporting needs. It also allows parents the convenience of
prepayment on their child’s account and access to what is being purchased.
If you already activated a NutriKids account last year, you do not need to re-register for
this school year. If you have not yet enrolled and would like to, please see the
instructions on the next page.
All students will use the same ID number they were assigned last year. This is also their student ID number.
New students to the district will be assigned a number as they register.
Meal Cards
Student ID numbers will appear on meal cards they will be issued. The card may be scanned by the cashier, or
students may memorize their number and enter it into a keypad. Younger students’ (grades K-5) cards will be
kept at school to prevent them being lost or left at home. The student food service card is not a credit card; it
functions as a debit card for food items only.
As the student approaches the cashier, they will run their card through a scanner or enter their number on a
keypad. The computer screen, visible only to the casher, will discretely display the student’s *photo, name,
account status, and account balance. (*This will guard against students’ using other students’ cards/names.)
Lost cards will be replaced if necessary, but students still may purchase meals by giving their ID # or name to
the cashier.
Students may purchase breakfast, lunch and ala carte items such as milk, ice cream or other snacks with their
card. Breakfast costs $1.50 for students grades K-5 and $1.75 for students grades 6-12. Lunches at the
Elementary Schools will cost $2.15 and at the Middle and High Schools will cost $2.40.
Prepayment
Prepayment is encouraged. Money can be sent in at any time or added to your child’s account online via the
NutriKids system at www.NutriKids.com. Your child’s ID Number will be needed for you to access this
system; see details for registering on the next page. If you are not using NutriKids, checks are recommended
for prepayment purposes, and you may prepay any amount into your child’s account. Please checks payable to
Ravena-Coeymans-Selkirk School Lunch, and include your child’s full name on it. Please write your child’s
full name on the check. Cash will also be accepted, but it is not recommended as it is harder to track in the
event of any issues.
Charge Policy
Although not required by law, the Board of Education recognizes that, on occasion, students may forget to bring
meal money to school, and will allow limited charging of school meals. To ensure that students do not go
hungry, but also to promote responsible student behavior and minimize fiscal burden to the district, the Board
will allow students who may forget meal money to “charge” the cost of meals within certain limitations. For
more detail on the application of this policy, see the next page of this packet.
We look forward to a successful program that will offer nutritionally balanced meals, decrease the time spent on
lines for students, and a convenience and time saver for parents as well. If you have any question, please call
Mr. Doug Porter, Director of Food Services, at 756-5200, Ext. 2437.
NutriKids Online Payment Service
Three years ago, the Food Service Department announced the availability of a secure, on-line pre-payment
service for parents to deposit money into their child’s school meal account at any time. The service is available
through the NutriKids Web site.www.nutrikids.com. Parents who created a NutriKids account last year do not
need to re-register or reactivate their account; they can continue to use the system as they did last year.
About www.nutrikids.com





Parents with more than one child in the district can create a
family account and handle all online prepayments for their
children from this one account.
Parents will have the ability to print out a copy of their child’s
eating history within the past 30 days.
Parents not interest in using this new system can continue to
make advance payments via check.
In order to use the online prepayment service, a convenience fee
of $1.75 will be assessed for each transaction. The district will
not profit from the use of this site.
Anyone with questions about this new service should call the
Food Services Department at 756-5200, Ext. 2437.
Haven’t setup an account yet?
Parents who want to take advantage of the service must create an account at www.mynutrikids.com Parents
will need their child’s student identification number to create a NutriKids account. Follow the steps on the
NutriKids page on the website.
Setting up an account at www.nutrikids.com:
If you already have an account:
 Log-In to the RCS Website at www.rcscsd.org
 On the “Café menus” follow this to the link for “NutriKids”
 This will take you to a letter with more detailed instructions about the NutriKids system. You will also
see a table with your child’s student identification number.
 With this number, visit http://www.MyNutriKids.com to create an account. Parents will need their
child’s name, student ID number and school ZIP code to create an account.
MEAL CHARGING POLICY DETAIL
As indicated on the previous page, the district will allow limited charging of school meals when students in
grades K-8 forget their school lunch money. Only regular school lunches may be charged as follows:
Elementary (Kindergarten through
Grade 5)
Students will be allowed to charge 2 lunches.
After 2 lunch charges, students will be served
alternate meals (i.e. peanut butter and jelly
sandwich, cheese sandwich, vegetables and fruit or
equivalent) until their account is properly funded.
A computer generated point of sale (POS) system will be used for identifying and recording all charged meals,
as well as for collecting repayment.
HOW TO APPLY
To get free or reduced price meals for your children you may submit a Direct Certification letter
received from the NYS Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance, OR carefully complete one application
for your household (available in the main office or online at www.rcscsd.org) and return it to the designated
office. If you now receive food stamps, Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TANF) for any children, or
participate in the Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations (FDPIR), the application must include the
children's names, the household food stamp, TANF or FDPIR case number and the signature of an adult
household member. All children should be listed on the same application. If you do not list a food stamp,
TANF or FDPIR case number for all the children for whom you are applying, the application must include the
names of everyone in the household, the amount of income each household member, and how often it is
received and where it comes from. It must include the signature of an adult household member and the last four
digits of that adult's social security number, or check the box if the adult does not have a social security number.
An application that is not complete cannot be approved. Contact your local Department of Social Services for
your food stamp or TANF case number or complete the income portion of the application.
The information provided on the application will be confidential and will be used for determining eligibility.
The names and eligibility status of participants may also be used for the allocation of funds to federal education
programs such as Title I and National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP), State health or State
education programs, provided the State agency or local education agency administers the programs, and for
federal, State or local means-tested nutrition programs with eligibility standards comparable to the NSLP.
Eligibility information may also be released to programs authorized under the National School Lunch Act
(NSLA) or the Child Nutrition Act (CNA). The release of information to any program or entity not specifically
authorized by the NSLA will require a written consent statement from the parent or guardian.
The school district does, however, have the right to verify at any time during the school year the information on
the application. If a parent does not give the school this information, the child/children will no longer be able to
receive free or reduced price meals (free milk).
Foster children may also be eligible for these benefits. A separate application for a foster child is no longer
necessary. Foster children may be listed on the family application which must contain the foster child's name,
personal use income.
Under the provisions of the policy, the designated official will review applications and determine eligibility. If
a parent is dissatisfied with the ruling of the designated official, he/she may make a request either orally or in
writing for a hearing to appeal the decision. Douglas Porter SFA, whose address is 2025 Rt 9W Ravena New
York 12143 has been designated as the Hearing Official. Hearing procedures are outlined in the policy.
However, prior to initiating the hearing procedure, the parent or School Food Authority may request a
conference to provide an opportunity for the parent and official to discuss the situation, present information, and
obtain an explanation of the data submitted in the application or the decisions rendered. The request for a
conference shall not in any way prejudice or diminish the right to a fair hearing.
Only complete applications can be approved. This includes complete and accurate information regarding: the
Food Stamp, TANF, or FDPIR case number; the names of all household members; on an income application the
social security number of the person who signs the form or an indication that the adult does not have one, and
the amount and source of income received by each household member. In addition, the parent or guardian
must sign the application form, certifying the information is true and correct.
Nondiscrimination Statement: This explains what to do if you believe you have been treated unfairly. In
accordance with Federal law and U.S. Department of Agriculture policy, this institution is prohibited from
discriminating on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, or disability. To file a complaint of
discrimination, write USDA, Director, Office of Civil Rights, 1400 Independence Avenue, SW, Washington,
D.C. 20250-9410 or call (202) 720-5964. USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.
A complete copy of this policy is on file in the office of the School Food Authority District Administrator
where it may be reviewed by any interested persons.
FREE AND REDUCED LUNCH FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
1. DO I NEED TO FILL OUT AN APPLICATION FOR EACH CHILD? No. Complete the
application to apply for free or reduced price meals. Use one Free and Reduced Price School Meals
Application for all students in your household. We cannot approve an application that is not complete,
so be sure to fill out all required information. Return the completed application to: Douglas Porter,
2025 rt 9w Ravena, NY 12143, 518-756-4508.
2. WHO CAN GET FREE MEALS? All children in households receiving benefits from food stamps,
the Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations or TANF, can get free meals regardless of
your income. Also, your children can get free meals if your household’s gross income is within the free
limits on the Federal Income Eligibility Guidelines.
3. CAN FOSTER CHILDREN GET FREE MEALS? Yes, foster children that are under the legal
responsibility of a foster care agency or court, are eligible for free meals. Any foster child in the
household is eligible for free meals regardless of income.
4. CAN HOMELESS, RUNAWAY, AND MIGRANT CHILDREN GET FREE MEALS? Yes,
children who meet the definition of homeless, runaway, or migrant qualify for free meals. If you
haven’t been told your children will get free meals, please call or e-mail Ravena Coeymans Selkirk
Central School District, Social Work Office to see if they qualify.
5. WHO CAN GET REDUCED PRICE MEALS? Your children can get low cost meals if your
household income is within the reduced price limits on the Federal Eligibility Income Chart, shown on
this application.
FREE AND REDUCED F.A.Q.’s CONTINUED:
6. SHOULD I FILL OUT AN APPLICATION IF I RECEIVED A LETTER THIS SCHOOL YEAR
SAYING MY CHILDREN ARE APPROVED FOR FREE MEALS? Please read the letter you got
carefully and follow the instructions. Call the school at 518-756-4508 if you have questions.
7. MY CHILD’S APPLICATION WAS APPROVED LAST YEAR. DO I NEED TO FILL OUT
ANOTHER ONE? Yes. Your child’s application is only good for that school year and for the first few
days of this school year. You must send in a new application unless the school told you that your child
is eligible for the new school year.
8. I GET W.I.C. CAN MY CHILD(REN) GET FREE MEALS? Children in households participating in
WIC may be eligible for free or reduced price meals. Please fill out a FREE/REDUCED PRICE
MEAL application.
9. WILL THE INFORMATION I GIVE BE CHECKED? Yes and we may also ask you to send written
proof.
10. IF I DON’T QUALIFY NOW, MAY I APPLY LATER? Yes, you may apply at any time during the
school year. For example, children with a parent or guardian who becomes unemployed may become
eligible for free and reduced price meals if the household income drops below the income limit.
11. WHAT IF I DISAGREE WITH THE SCHOOL’S DECISION ABOUT MY APPLICATION? You
should talk to school officials. You also may ask for a hearing by calling or writing to: Douglas
Porter, 2025 Rt 9w Ravena, NY12143, phone , 518-756-4508, e-mail, [email protected]].
12. MAY I APPLY IF SOMEONE IN MY HOUSEHOLD IS NOT A U.S. CITIZEN? Yes. You or your
child(ren) do not have to be U.S. citizens to qualify for free or reduced price meals.
13. WHO SHOULD I INCLUDE AS MEMBERS OF MY HOUSEHOLD? You must include all people
living in your household, related or not (such as grandparents, other relatives, or friends) who share
income and expenses. You must include yourself and all children living with you. If you live with
other people who are economically independent (for example, people who you do not support, who do
not share income with you or your children, and who pay a pro-rated share of expenses), do not include
them.
14. WHAT IF MY INCOME IS NOT ALWAYS THE SAME? List the amount that you normally
receive. For example, if you normally make $1000 each month, but you missed some work last month
and only made $900, put down that you made $1000 per month. If you normally get overtime, include
it, but do not include it if you only work overtime sometimes. If you have lost a job or had your hours
or wages reduced, use your current income.
15. WE ARE IN THE MILITARY. DO WE INCLUDE OUR HOUSING ALLOWANCE AS
INCOME? If you get an off-base housing allowance, it must be included as income. However, if your
housing is part of the Military Housing Privatization Initiative, do not include your housing allowance
as income.
16. MY SPOUSE IS DEPLOYED TO A COMBAT ZONE. IS HER COMBAT PAY COUNTED AS
INCOME? No, if the combat pay is received in addition to her basic pay because of her deployment
and it wasn’t received before she was deployed, combat pay is not counted as income. Contact your
school for more information.
17. MY FAMILY NEEDS MORE HELP. ARE THERE OTHER PROGRAMS WE MIGHT APPLY
FOR? To find out how to apply for food stamps or other assistance benefits, contact your local
assistance office or call 1-800-342-3009.
FOOD SAFETY AT SCHOOL
If you plan to send in any foot items for any event at school, please know that we now have a FOOD LOG that
needs to be completed so that we can help out if/when someone becomes sick from a food consumed at school.
All foods will be logged in for this reason, so we can determine the possible source of a food allergy or
contamination. This log will be in the main office for parents to complete as they bring food items to school. A
sample is included below:
Date
Name
Food Item
Storebought
Homemade
Time
Child’s Class
IT’S YOUR CHILD’S BIRTHDAY?
We would like to encourage families to take advantage of the food items available through our RCS Cafeteria
for birthday parties and other special events. Check out the flyer in the main office for items such as cupcakes,
pizza and more. All orders must be received at least 10 days in advance to insure delivery. Checks payable to
RCS Lunch Fund. To order, email or call Doug Porter, Director of Food Services: [email protected] or 7565200 extension 2437 for further details.
FOOD OPTIONS
Cup Cakes
Muffins
Cookies
100% Juice Pops
.75 each
.75 each
$4.00 dozen
.40 each
Pizza Party 16 slices for $16.00
Ultimate Pizza Party! (a slice of pizza, carrot and celery sticks
Ranch dip, choice of 1% milk, water or 100% juice)
$2.25 per student
(gluten free pizza is available upon request)
SCHOOL NEWS NOTIFIER (SNN)
RCS’s “School News Notifier” is designed to help keep parents and the community more in touch with what is
happening at RCS schools. SNN is a free, opt-in e-mail alert system that parents and residents can sign up for to
receive e-mail alerts from the district. With SNN, district officials send updates and reminders about district
activities and information about school closings and delays. Additionally, parents/community members can sign
up to receive text message alerts about closings/delays on their cell phone. You can choose to receive any or
all of the alerts and you can unsubscribe at any time.
Parents are strongly encouraged to take advantage of this tool. To sign up, visit www.rcscsd.org and click on the
SNN icon. If you have any questions regarding this program, you may email them to Robert Hanlon,
communications coordinator, at [email protected].
STAFF QUALIFICATIONS
Pursuant to the No Child Left Behind Act, parents may request information about the professional qualifications
of their child’s classroom teachers including whether the teacher has State certification for the classes being
taught; the teacher’s bachelor’s degree major and any other certifications or degrees by field or discipline; and
whether the child is provided services by paraprofessionals and, if so, their qualifications.
Requests for the above information may be directed in writing to Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum &
Instruction, Mr. Brian Bailey, 15 Mountain Road, P. O. Box 100, Ravena, NY 12143.
STUDENT DIRECTORY INFORMATION
Student directory information (defined as name, grade, school, town of residence, photograph, participation in
activities and/or sports, and any honors or awards received) may be released for publicity purposes to the media
or other organizations and/or used in school district publications or on the official district web site.
Parents/guardians who object to the release of their child’s directory information should notify, in writing, both
the superintendent of schools and their child’s building principal within 14 days of the start of each school year.
STUDENT PRIVACY
Under the Protection of Pupil Rights Amendment (PPRA) parents have the right to inspect and to opt their child
out of any student survey that reveals information about personal attitudes, behaviors or beliefs. Parents also
have the right to receive notice of and opt their child out of any activities that involve the collection, disclosure
or use of a student’s personal information for marketing purposes and out of any non-emergency, invasive
physical exam or screening, except for hearing, vision and scoliosis screenings or as permitted or required by
state law.
STUDENT SAFETY/VISITOR POLICY
All schools in our district practice crime prevention through environmental design (CPTED). CPTED facilitates
and enhances school safety and security by ensuring that the physical layout and organization of the school
encourage positive student behavior. Safe and secure schools can:

Control unauthorized access to buildings and grounds by having a single access point of entrance for
visitors (our main office)
 Screen visitors and require them to wear ID tags
 Reduce the number of secondary entries around the perimeter and to buildings
 Limit building access to visitors in the interest of student and staff safety
Security measures reduce the risk of crime and school violence by enabling the administration to control and
monitor access to any area of the facility. The following steps are currently in place:
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Visitors’ policy requires visitors to sign in or show proper identification.
Unmonitored doors are locked from the inside at all times to prevent unauthorized persons or items
from entering the building unnoticed.
Students entering and exiting the school property are monitored.
All doors have high security locks or electronic access control units. This applies especially to closets
that have private information or hazardous materials, outside doors, and basements.
Operating procedures include a clear communications plan to ensure that administrators and staff can
contact one another instantly in emergency situations.
All windows are secure.
Ravena-Coeymans-Selkirk Central School District
EXCUSE FOR ABSENCE
A.W. Becker
Date:
Pieter B. Coeymans
Middle School
High School
______________
Student Name: _______________________________________
Grade: ____________
Homeroom Teacher: _________________________________________
Dates: ______________
Reason for absence: ________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________
Parent/Guardian Signature
Ravena-Coeymans-Selkirk Central School District
EXCUSE FOR ABSENCE
A.W. Becker
Date:
Pieter B. Coeymans
Middle School
High School
______________
Student Name: _______________________________________
Grade: ____________
Homeroom Teacher: _________________________________________
Dates: ______________
Reason for absence: ________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________
Parent/Guardian Signature
Ravena-Coeymans-Selkirk Central School District
EARLY LEAVE OR LATE ARRIVAL EXCUSE
A.W. Becker
Date:
Pieter B. Coeymans
Middle School
High School
______________
Student Name_______________________________________
Grade____________
Homeroom Teacher__________________________________
Time of Arrival______________
Time of Early Leave______________
Reason________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________
PLEASE HAVE STUDENT SIGN IN THE STUDENT SIGN IN-OUT BOOK ON THE COUNTER.
______________________________________________________
Parent/Guardian Signature
Ravena-Coeymans-Selkirk Central School District
EARLY LEAVE OR LATE ARRIVAL EXCUSE
A.W. Becker
Date:
Pieter B. Coeymans
Middle School
High School
______________
Student Name_______________________________________
Grade____________
Homeroom Teacher___________________________________
Time of Arrival______________
Time of Early Leave______________
Reason________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________
PLEASE HAVE STUDENT SIGN IN THE STUDENT SIGN IN-OUT BOOK ON THE COUNTER.
______________________________________________________
Parent/Guardian Signature