Staff Handbook - St Lucie County School Sites

As an adult and a Treasure Hunter I am
committed to search for all the talents, skills and
intelligence that exist in all children and youth. I
believe that all children are capable of
success… NO EXCEPTIONS!!!
Table of Contents
Staff Assignments ………………………………….…………………………..2
Daily Operating Procedures…………………………………………………….4
General Information In Alphabetical Order………….………………………6
Responsibilities of Teachers …………………………………………………18
Emergency/Evacuation Procedures…………………………………….…..25
RtI……………………………………………………………………………..…29
Attendance Policy..…………………………………………………………….30
Reporting Abuse/Neglect……………………………………………………...33
Acknowledgement of Understanding…………………………………………34
DAN McCARTY
School Mission Statement
Dan McCarty is preparing each child to be a valued member of society by providing the social
and academic skills to succeed.
School Vision Statement
Social and academic lessons that are challenging, engaging, and relevant will be provided to
each child, every day.
ST. LUCIE COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT
Mission Statement
The mission of the St. Lucie County School District is to ensure all students graduate from
safe and caring schools, equipped with knowledge, skills and the desire to succeed.
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2014 – 2015
Dan McCarty Staff Assignments
Principal – Felicia Nixon
Assistant Principal – Heather Clark
Positive Support Counselor – Jane Ingram
Positive Support Counselor– Wonderful Monds
Guidance Counselor – TBA
ESE Department Chair – Cheryl Karlson
Instructional Coach – Elker Harris
Math Coach – Dana Gantt
Reading Coach – Gina Clark
Office Staff
Executive Secretary – Margie Keller
Bookkeeper – Susanne Ferguson
Attendance Clerk – Kathy Barkey
Data Specialist – Barbara Bankston
Guidance Clerk – Teresa Coleman
ESE Clerk – Deb Diniakos
Positive Support Counselor Clerk – Cassie Jerger Health Aide – Cheryl McCrary
Media Clerk - Cynthia Gamble - Carrion
Office Clerk – Yaderia Gonzalez
Instructional Staff
6th Grade
7th Grade
Nakysha Dennis (Math)
John Hett (Civics)
Rodney Husbands (Math)
Rebecca Branam (Reading)
Angela Dietrich (Science)
Christa Logan (Science)
Rebecca Dumont (W. History)
Patricia Mitchner (L. Arts)
Rhoda Butler (L. Arts)
Linda Smith (Math)
Maxine Robers (Social St./Science)
Robin Fillman (Reading)
7th/8th Grade
Laura Poveroma (History)
Christopher Tolliver (Science)
Latricia Stubbs (L. Arts)
Hardges Sessions (Math)
Patricia Mallon (Reading)
Bonnie Key (Reading
Laura Povoromo (Social Studies)
8th Grade
Nicholas Berkely (Science)
Christopher Pierre (US History)
Rommel Rivers (Math
Julian Wright (Language Arts)
Connie Folmer (Reading)
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ESE
Kerry Burkhart (Speech)
Susan Griffin
Sandra Pauley
Paul Perry
Stuart Richardson
Paul Sands
Danielle Morningstar
Electives
Rolanda Jones (Chorus)
Diane Laster (Media)
Fred Hallett (Career)
Chad Perry (Art)
Kevin Garbers (Tech.)
TBA (Band)
Carla Pryor (PE)
Support Staff
Harriet Bell (ESE)
Olga Mark (ESOL)
Cheryl Cannon (ESE)
Kathleen Miller (ESE)
Jeannie Obrion-Robinson (ESE) Anthony Ingram (ESE)
Lionel Lalanne (ESOL)
Food Service Staff
Toni Jemison – Manager
Hope Benbow
Kathy Luster
Tylesia Jones
Mary Macy
Donna Diguiseppi Hazel Laster
Patricia Noble
Birttani Williams
Site Maintenance Staff
Joel Gamble – Site Foreman
Shelia Wilson-Smith
Virginia Anderson
Ilean Ricks
Gloria Willingham
Caroline Lewis
Reggie Wilson
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Daily Operating Procedures
WORK HOURS
The contractual work day for Instructional Personnel is 8:45 – 4:15. The contractual work day for
Non-Instructional Personnel is 8:30 – 4:30. All staff must sign in each morning. Workday/In-service
hours are: Teachers 8:00 – 3:30; Non Instructional 8:00 – 4:00.
BELL SCHEDULE
9:00 Students allowed on campus – report to breakfast and/or classroom
9:30 Morning Announcements
3:50 Dismissal
UNIVERSAL FREE BREAKFAST
In accordance with Florida Statute 1006.06 (6)(a), all Dan McCarty students will receive a free
breakfast. Encourage students to take advantage of this opportunity.
MORNING ANNOUNCEMENTS
The student run morning show will begin at 9:40. Administrative announcements will be televised
each day at 9:30 beginning with the Pledge of Allegiance, Eagle Expectations and Kids at
Hope/Treasure Hunter’s Pledge. All students and staff are expected to watch the announcements for
important information.
ATTENDANCE
All teachers are responsible for maintaining an accurate and up-to-date record of attendance of
students assigned to them. Your attendance is the official FTE record and can be used in court
and/or hearings. Attendance should be taken for all periods. For 6th – 8th, 3rd Period will be used.
For additional District Attendance Policy information, see page 38.
ABSENCES – STUDENTS
Students must bring a note from a parent or guardian upon returning to school, stating the cause of
absence, to be considered “excused”. Acceptable causes are: personal illness, serious illness or
death of family member, recognized religious holidays, conditions rendering attendance impossible or
hazardous, travel with parents or official school business. Frequent absences or those of more than 3
days will be verified by the Attendance Clerk. Please notify the Attendance Clerk or the Guidance
Counselor if there is a pattern of absences. Teachers may also contact parents.
ABSENCES – STAFF
Staff are provided with Sick and Personal Leave.
Personal Leave should be requested as soon as possible and must be approved in advance by
Administration. The leave process is done online in Skyward. You will receive an email stating if your
submission was successful. You will also be emailed on the status of your request – approved or
denied. As soon as a leave is approved, a substitute should be requested. The teacher is
responsible for securing the substitute and having lesson plans/materials prepared for the sub.
Sick Leave – Teachers should call the sub line and the school (468-5714) by 7:00 a.m. In addition,
the online leave form should be completed from home or immediately upon the return to school. It is
the employee’s responsibility to notify Administration of the time of his/her return to work.
Obtaining Substitutes
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ASEOP:
1-800-942-3767
www.aesoponline.com
ID:
PHONE #_____________________
PASSWORD
_____________________
(see M. Keller for password)
Failure to complete a Leave Form prior to or immediately following an absence is considered
Fraud and will be reported/handled as such.
Comp time – should also be requested through Skyward for full/half days and must be approved by
Administration in advance.
Half day absences for employees are 8:37 – 12:30 or 12:30 – 4:15.
If an emergency arises, contact the Main Office. Any request to leave school early must be approved
by an Administrator. Staff must sign out.
TRANSITIONS
Classes should be escorted by a teacher at all times. Students are expected to move quietly in a
single file line. Transitions include class changes, going to and from lunch, Special programs and
Electives. Students should be escorted directly to the destination – this is not a time for bathroom
breaks, water, socializing etc.
CORRIDOR PASS
If a student must leave a classroom, the Student Planner is the official hallway pass. Date, time,
location and staff signature must be filled in on the appropriate section. Staff signature should be in
pen. Students without this information will be sent back to class and can be considered skipping.
CAFETERIA PROCEDURES
Teachers will escort students to the Cafeteria at their scheduled time. Classes should go through the
gate and enter the Cafeteria on the North/Mississippi Ave. side. Students should remain in line to
receive a tray and go through the serving lines then sit at their assigned table. Teachers will report to
the assigned table at the end of the students’ lunch to escort students to class. Classes will exit, in a
quiet line, on the South side of the Cafeteria.
DISMISSAL
School is dismissed at 3:53 by waves. Staff should not hold students beyond this time.
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General Information
In Alphabetical Order
ACCIDENTS
An accident form will be completed for any student who sustains an injury and it will be submitted to
the Health Paraprofessional on the day of the injury. An injured student should be seen by the Health
Paraprofessional in the Clinic (Main Office). If a student appears to be seriously injured, do not permit
anyone to touch him/her besides someone qualified in first aid. The teacher should remain with the
seriously injured student and send for the Health Para/Administrator. Contacting the parent is the
responsibility of the Clinic/Administration.
In the case of an employee accident, report to the Secretary immediately. An accident report form
and a Workers Compensation form must be completed within 24 hours of the accident regardless of
whether medical treatment is required. If a report is not filed, Workers Compensation will not cover
your expenses if you need treatment at a later date.
ALARM SYSTEM
Each building is monitored with an alarm system. In order to prevent false alarms, please follow the
schedule for staff access – Monday – Friday, 7:00 am to 7:00 pm. Permission from Administration
should be obtained to enter any building outside of our scheduled hours. Entering the building without
disarming the alarm(s) may put you and/or law enforcement at risk and/or cost the school a fee for
security.
ASSEMBLIES
Assembly programs will be scheduled when appropriate and if supportive of our academic program.
Programs should be of such nature as to provide information and entertainment to the viewers, which
are within the accepted limits of community standards. Assemblies are also a means of teaching
proper social interaction in group situations.
AWARDS
Every month each teacher will nominate one student as the “Citizen of the Month”. Students
consistently following Dan McCarty’s Schoolwide Expectations and rules should be nominated.
Monthly ceremonies will be held for this special recognition. Students will also be recognized for
academic achievements in Honor Roll Ceremonies.
AWAY FROM ROOM
If you need to leave your room for an emergency, please notify the Main Office so supervision can be
provided for your students. At no time should a class be left unsupervised.
BULLETIN BOARDS
Teachers are responsible for classroom and any hallway bulletin boards. Teachers should use
boards to teach a concept and/or display student work. Displays are not meant to be decorative. The
Sunshine State Standard/Benchmark associated with the work displayed should also be posted. By
the first school day of each month, the display should be updated.
BULLETINS
Staff will receive a weekly bulletin through email. It is the staff member’s responsibility to read and be
aware of all information in each bulletin. Any calendar changes/updates will also be listed.
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BULLYING AND HARASSMENT POLICY
All staff are expected to review, understand and follow procedures/requirements involving
bullying/harassment. Statutory Authority 1001.41, 1001.42, F.S., Law 1006.147 and all necessary
forms can be found on the School Board website.
BUS
A student must have a note from his/her parent submitted to and
approved by the SLCSB Transportation Department in order to ride a
bus other than the regularly assigned bus.
If a student who usually rides the bus is not to ride the bus on any one
afternoon, the teacher must receive a WRITTEN NOTE specifying how
the child will be going home.
CELL PHONES
Students are not permitted to place or receive cell phone calls during the school day. All
cell phones must be turned off and put away. The student is solely responsible for his/her
cell phone. Staff members must model this expectation as well. Refrain from sending
and receiving cell phone calls during class time.
CLASSROOM APPEARANCE
Classrooms should not be altered in any way without consulting Administration. Do not remove
furniture from other classrooms. If you place pictures on the walls, please be sure there is no
damage. Please check the classroom at the end of each day for excess paper on the floors. Also,
report all spills/accidents immediately to the office or Maintenance.
CLASSROOM ASSIGNMENTS
Each staff member is assigned to a specific location. All classrooms can be utilized at the discretion
of the Administration for other instructional purposes, including, but not limited to – testing, programs,
Electives, counseling.
CLINIC
Students who become ill should be taken or sent to the Clinic, located in the Main
Office. Completed Planners are required for students sent to the Clinic. Students
will be signed in and out of the Clinic. Never leave a child in the Clinic without proper
adult supervision. The Health Aide will record each visit, contact parent/guardian, and
inform teacher of action.
A medical alert list will be issued from the Clinic. Please make a note of students who are listed and
become familiar with the students’ medical needs and the possible ramifications. This list is
confidential and should not be shared. All medications are to be kept in the Clinic – this includes
prescription and non-prescription medications. Only trained staff are able to dispense medication and
only with parent permission.
COMMUNICATION
It is critical that any written communication that goes home to parents or leaves the school be error
free and representative of our high standards. Please have another teacher or an Administrator proof
your materials. All teachers are expected to post announcements and assignments on Skyward.
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COMP TIME
Taken from District/Union Agreement
COMPENSATORY TIME PROCEDURES
For Instructional Employees
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
Compensatory time must be taken during the current fiscal year in which it was authorized.
The Principal or appropriate administrator must authorize in advance the earning of compensatory time.
Compensatory time includes but is not limited to required attendance at school related activities, programs,
teacher conferences, projects, building maintenance, and supervision before or after the scheduled work day.
Each school will keep a uniform compensatory Time Log sheet for each employee in a central location
designated by the appropriate administrator.
Except in an emergency, compensatory time must be requested with at least 24 hours notice in advance using
the district request for leave form.
Compensatory time may be taken up to one full day. The use of compensatory time is at the discretion of the
administrator to ensure that the operation of the school or department can continue.
A comprehensive mandatory training program on compensatory time must be completed by all administrators
and they must provide training to employees under their supervision. In addition, a building representative
from the bargaining unit must be in attendance at the administrative training.
COMPENSATORY TIME PROCEDURES
For Non- Exempt Employees
1.
Compensatory time must be taken during the current fiscal year in which it was
authorized.
2. The Principal or appropriate administrator must authorize in advance the earning of compensatory time.
3. Compensatory time includes but is not limited to required attendance at school related
activities, programs, teacher conferences, projects, building maintenance, and supervision
before or after the scheduled work day.
4. Each school will keep a uniform compensatory Time Log sheet for each employee in a
central location designated by the appropriate administrator.
5. Except in an emergency, compensatory time must be requested with at least 24 hours
notice in advance using the district request for leave form.
6. A limit to the number of accrued hours shall be determined. A balance of a maximum of
40 hours is allowed
7. Compensatory time may be taken up to one full day. The use of compensatory time is at the discretion of the
administrator to ensure that the operation of the school or department can continue.
8. At the end of the year compensatory time accrued by non-exempt employees will be paid.
9. A comprehensive mandatory training program on compensatory time must be completed
by all administrators and they must provide training to employees under their supervision. In addition, a building
representative from the bargaining unit must be in attendance at the administrative training.
1. Employees moving into new positions will be paid out for unused compensatory time.
Comp time should be requested following regular on-line absence procedures. A sub must be
secured for instructional absences. Administration will record all comp time earned/used.
CONFERENCES
Scheduling of conferences is done by the teacher, Administration, or a Counselor. Conferences may
be held before school, during your planning time or after school. Any teacher who experiences
difficulty with any parent conference should request a Counselor or Administrator to join the meeting.
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CONFIDENTIALITY
All student records, report cards, IEPs, medical information and any other student records must be
kept confidential. It is a violation of the Professional Code of Ethics to discuss this information in class
or in any public setting. If a disciplinary incident is being investigated, all information must be handled
by the Administration and treated with the highest degree of professionalism. According to FL
Statute, information regarding ANY consequences of an incident can ONLY be shared with that child’s
parent/guardian – this includes consequences ranging from time-out to expulsion. Any parent
questioning the outcome of an incident should be referred to an Administrator.
COPY MACHINES
Teachers will receive an individual code and will be allowed a specific number of copies for the year
the copier is located in the Main Office. Risos should be used when more than 50 copies are needed.
Administrative approval is required for having copies run on the riso by Office Staff. Copies should be
requested at least 3 days before needed. No emergency copies will be run.
COPYRIGHT LAW
Teachers are responsible for reviewing the “Copyright Manual”. These manuals are on file in the
Media Center. Each teacher is solely responsible for this information and is accountable for any
infractions against the law.
CUMULATIVE FOLDERS
Folders will be available to teachers upon request. They must be signed out on the proper log located
in the cum room and cannot leave school grounds. All cums must be returned each Friday.
DRESS CODE
Staff – Through our dress, we project an image of ourselves and set an example for our students.
Staff members are asked to dress in a professional manner which is in keeping with the position held.
Unacceptable attire includes: spandex pants, sweat pants, hats, strapless or spaghetti strap tops,
revealing items and/or flip-flops. Shorts can be worn on workdays or Field Days. Jeans may be worn
on Friday for price. Students – Please refer to the Student Planner for Dress Code requirements.
DRUG-FREE WORK PLACE
It is the intent of the School Board of St. Lucie County that work environments must be free of the
presence of illegal drugs and alcohol. Therefore, employees are prohibited from possessing, using,
manufacturing, dispensing, distributing, or being under the influence of illegal drugs or alcohol while
on duty. For the purpose of this policy, illegal drugs are those controlled substances as defined by
Federal or State Law, or any counterfeit of such drugs or substances.
As a condition of employment, each employee shall notify his or her supervisor of his or her conviction
of any criminal drug statue for a violation occurring in the workplace no later than five days after such
a conviction. An employee who violates the terms of this policy may be non-renewed or his or her
employment may be suspended or terminated.
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DUTIES
There will be, in so far as possible, a fair and equitable distribution of all assignments, duties, and
responsibilities among all staff members. For the safety of our students, please notify an
Administrator if you expect to be late or absent from a supervision post. Please be visible at your
classroom door during class changes.
EMAIL
Please check your email regularly throughout the day. This is the fastest way to distribute information
to all staff members. When using email please remember you are working on a school domain and all
information is within the public domain.
Emails are by law public record and may be requested by the media/press for use in stories. You are
to use the highest level of professional judgment when using email. Seek administrative approval
prior to sending 1DMM messages.
Employees new to the district will be provided an email account.
ESE
It is required that teachers who educate students with special needs
attend IEP meetings.
Other meetings may need your input as well and you will be notified in advance of the date, location,
time and purpose.
In accordance with Public Law 94-142 and 504 Guidelines, Dan McCarty will provide services for
students with special needs in the least restrictive environment.
 ESE students will have access to a Guidance Counselor, Student Support Specialist and
other support or resource personnel in the same manner as all other students.
 Students may receive services in a resource classroom for one or more subjects, a
mainstream classroom with consultative services, in a co-teaching or inclusion classroom
or in a self-contained program.
 Co-teachers and classroom teachers are expected to plan together and be consistent in
expectations for both academics and behavior. Paras assigned to ESE students/classes
should be included in planning and informed of expectations, as well.
 For Regular Education classes, the ESE Department chair or designee will provide the
classroom teacher with a copy of the student’s Individual Education Plan (IEP) for each
child to be served in the general education class. As these plans are updated, a revised
copy will be provided to the teacher within three days of the plan being written.
 It is the responsibility of the regular education teacher to document the use of modifications
and ESE strategies in the daily lesson plans.
 When requested, staff members are required to attend RtI or IEP meetings or to provide
written notes/observations to be used at these meetings. Teachers are expected to bring
appropriate data to meetings.
ESOL
ESOL students will have access to a Guidance Counselor and other support or resource personnel in
the same manner as all other students. Students will receive support in the classroom when
available. It is the responsibility of the regular education teacher to document the use of modifications
and ESOL strategies in the daily lesson plan.
ETHICS
Personnel within the school system shall follow a Code of Ethics and Principles of Conduct as
adopted by the State Board of Education.
An effective educational program requires the services of men and women of integrity, high ideals and
human understanding. To maintain and promote these essentials, all employees of the SLC School
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Board are expected to maintain high standards in their school relationships. These standards include
the following:
1. The educator values the worth and dignity of every person, the pursuit of truth, devotion to
excellence, acquisition of knowledge, and the nature of democratic citizenship. Essential to
the achievement of these standards are the freedom to learn and to teach and the guarantee
of equal opportunity for all.
2. The educator’s primary professional concern will always be for the student and for the
development of the student’s potential. The educator will therefore strive for professional
growth and will seek to exercise the best professional judgment and integrity.
3. Aware of the importance of maintaining the respect and confidence of one’s colleagues,
students, parents, and other members of the community, the educator strives to achieve and
sustain the highest degree of ethical conduct.
Refrain from using the school contact and privileges to promote partisan politics, sectarian
religious views or selfish propaganda of any kind.
Refer to the Code of Ethics and Professional Practices for further information.
Constructive criticism is to be made directly to the particular school Administrator who has the
Administrative responsibility for improving a situation and then to the Superintendent, if necessary.
FIELD TRIPS
Field trips are considered an extension of the classroom and should correlate with the Sunshine State
Standards. Requests for field trips must be submitted at least 6 weeks prior to the date of the activity.
The District website and/or school secretary has the necessary forms. Field trips must be approved
by the Administration/District before any arrangements are finalized or information sent home.
Requests for SLC buses should be completed along with the Field Trip request. Office staff should be
given Field trip information to answer parent questions as soon as it is sent home. All students must
have a properly signed parent permission form. A list of students participating and not participating in
the trip must be filed in the Main Office prior to departure. Teachers cannot deny a student from
attending a field trip based on behavior or lack of funds. Parents may be requested to attend with
their child. Severe behavior situations will be handled on a case by case basis by Administration.
Siblings are not allowed. If a parent chooses to drive him/herself and their child, that is allowed. No
other student may ride with the parent. Only cash or money orders will be accepted for Field Trips.
Check requests for the group payment for the activity must be made at least 3 days prior to the trip.
Check requests for any charter bus must be made 1 week in advance. Communication/handling of
money for the team should be done between the Team Leader/Sponsor and the Bookkeeper.
At least, 3 days prior to the trip:
 The Cafeteria must be notified of number of students that will not be at lunch and the number
of students requiring a bag lunch.
 A list of teachers and students remaining at school and their location must be filed in the Main
Office.
FOOD IN CLASSROOMS
Teachers are asked to refrain from allowing food or drink in the classrooms.
GUIDANCE DEPARTMENT
Dan McCarty’s Guidance Department is student-centered. The Office is open to all students, parents,
and staff members who wish to discuss school or other problems. Our Counselors are available to
assist students in the following areas: school adjustments, learning problems, emotional problems,
and social needs. For problems requiring immediate attention, teachers should notify a Counselor or
Administrator. For non-emergencies, teachers can schedule an appointment for a student. Teachers
that want to refer a student for evaluation should follow the RtI process. Counselors’ other duties
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include facilitating the administration of standardized testing, interpreting test scores, conducting RtI
meetings, and new student orientation/scheduling.
Response to Intervention Team – The RtI Team is composed of the Guidance Counselor,
School Psychologist, School Social Worker, Reading Coach, teachers, parents, and any other
individual who can contribute knowledge of the student. Teachers can refer a student for RtI.
Reasons for referral include academic concerns, behavioral, social and/or emotional problems.
Teachers are responsible for providing appropriate data.
Cumulative Records – Cum folders are stored in the vault in the Main Office. Teachers needing
to view student records must sign the folder found in the Records vault. Teachers are encouraged to
review student records to familiarize themselves with their students. The counselors are available to
assist with interpretation of records. All student records must remain on campus and be returned to
the Office within 24 hours. It is recommended to review a student’s cum folder before a conference
and have records on hand during the conference.
HONOR ROLL
Principals Honor Roll = All As; no more than 1 N in Conduct; no Us in Conduct
Honor Roll = As and/or Bs; only 1 C allowed; no more than 1 N in Conduct; no Us in Conduct
Ceremonies are held each 9 Weeks in the Cafeteria. Invitations are sent home with Report Cards.
KEYS
A set of keys will be issued to instructors for classroom use. Management of keys will be the
responsibility of every instructor. Keys are not to be given to students or unauthorized persons. Lost
keys should be reported immediately. Each teacher is accountable and liable for unauthorized use of
school keys assigned to him/her. All keys issued to teachers must be turned in at the end of the
school year. All closets, teacher’s desks and files should be locked before leaving for the summer.
KIDS AT HOPE
Dan McCarty staff are Treasure Hunters! We believe that all children are capable of success and we
pledge to help students reach their dreams and goals. Students and staff will recite the KAH Pledge
each morning.
LEAVING SCHOOL (CHILDREN)
A student is not to leave the school grounds during the regular school day for any reason whatsoever
unless approval is obtained from the principal or designee. In such cases, the student will be called to
the office to be dismissed. The parent, or the person designated by the parent, will sign the student
out from the office. Any student leaving campus without permission must be reported to the office
immediately.
MESSAGES
Parent and non-emergency phone call messages will be recorded in your voice mailbox. Please
check daily and empty it on a regular basis.
MONEY
Money is allocated to the school based on the preceding year’s enrollment. For any purchase,
teachers will be required to sign for receipt of all materials and should verify that the order is correct
and complete.
Internal Accounts – When using internal funds, a check request form must be approved by
Administration at least 3 days prior to receiving the check. Once the purchase is made, the receipt
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must be given to the Bookkeeper. No future checks will be given until a receipt is received.
Reimbursement checks cannot be made payable to any individual.
Fundraisers – All fund-raising activities must be preapproved by the Administration.
Team/sponsor must pay any upfront costs from their own accounts – the school will not “loan” money
to be reimbursed from the fundraiser. Specific District guidelines must be followed: All monies
collected are to be turned in daily; no money should be left in a classroom over night;
money should be properly receipted and ready for deposit; money raised must be spent on the
club/team the year it is collected; no account may have a deficit balance at the year’s end. After
following District procedures, teachers will give all deposits to the Team Leader. Team Leaders will
turn in money/deposit information to the Bookkeeper and give copies of receipt back to
teacher.
Checks – Checks made to the school should include the student’s first and last name and the driver’s
license number and date of birth of person writing the check.
Students should never be sent to the office with collected money.
MOVIES/VIDEOS
Films and videos may be a useful part of a school’s curriculum. However, habitual showing of
films/videos is not an educationally sound practice. Videos should not be shown for reward,
entertainment, or fundraising. Administrative approval is required prior to showing any video not
secured through the Media Center. A lesson plan showing the relationship between the Sunshine
State Standards, District Scope and Sequence and the video content must be submitted.
If you choose to show a video rated other than “G”, follow these procedures:
1. The teacher will identify, in writing, instructional objectives for viewing the video.
2. The Administration approves the video to be shown based on its instructional objectives.
3. Written permission is obtained from parents/guardians of all students prior to viewing the video.
4. Alternative activities are provided for students who have not received parental permission to
view the work. These students are removed from all possible viewing or hearing of the
performance.
5. Viewing occurs in face-to-face classroom instruction with the teacher present. Video is not
delivered over the school’s CCTV system.
6. Written objectives, Principal approval, date of viewing and parental permission slips are kept on
file for an appropriate period (1 9 weeks).
Following the above procedures does not guarantee the instructional objectives will not be called into
question by parents or the general public or subject to review by Administration of the SLC School
System.
Keep of a copy of these guidelines in your substitute folder.
NAME TAGS/IDs
Dan McCarty personnel are encouraged to wear these daily.
PARTIES
Grades 3 – 5 are allowed to have 2 “parties” per school year. Winter Break parties will be on
Thursday, December 20. Please identify students that cannot celebrate holidays and provide
alternative activities. Teachers should be aware of any food allergies or health concerns. All
food/candy must be stored in sealed bags/containers. Other engaging activities may be planned as
long as they are related to the Scope and Sequence – holiday stories/plays, songs etc. Please notify
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Administration of any special activity. Classes/students earning incentives through PBS are not
considered parties.
PERSONAL BELONGINGS
It is each individual’s responsibility to ensure that personal items are kept in a safe place. Money and
personal belongings should NEVER be left in the school overnight even though the school is locked.
During the day, avoid leaving valuables unsecured. The school is not responsible for lost articles.
PLANNERS/LEAVING CLASS
If a student needs to travel to a location he/she must have the teacher’s signature from the room
he/she is leaving in the planner. The teacher/staff member receiving the student should sign the
planner indicating when the student returns to class. All signatures should be in pen. Only one
student is allowed on a pass. Multiple students require multiple passes.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Section 1003.44, Florida Statutes, requires that the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag of the United
States be recited at the beginning of the day in every Florida public elementary, middle, and high
school. The statute also requires public schools to post in a conspicuous place a notice stating that
each student has the right not to participate in reciting the Pledge.
1.
2.
Any student who chooses not to recite the Pledge shall be excused from such activity,
and shall also be excused from standing during the Pledge.
Any student who chooses not to stand or to recite the Pledge may not disrupt the
reciting of the Pledge by others. Any material disruption of the Pledge may subject a
student to disciplinary action in a like manner as any other material disruption of a
school activity.
3.
The school may not discipline or otherwise single out any student who
chooses not to stand or to recite the Pledge and who does not otherwise disrupt the
reciting of the Pledge by others.
4.
The school shall notify the parent(s) of any elementary or middle school student
(grades K through 8) who chooses not to recite the Pledge or to stand during the
Pledge. The parent(s) will be requested, but will not be required, to confirm in writing
his, her, or their agreement with the student’s choice.
PRESS/MEDIA
The Superintendent or Principal must approve all press, radio, and/or television releases. The
Tribune publishes a School Page every Sunday. If you would like information about your class, team,
and/or school organization to be in the paper, submit the information through email to Ms. Hoffman by
the Monday prior to the publication date. Announcements/updates on Twitter can be done daily.
Make sure all students’ names – and please include them! – are spelled correctly.
RADIOS
When using a school radio, refrain from using student names or giving any
confidential information over the air. Keep communication as brief as possible.
RECOGNITION
Dan McCarty will select participants for the District’s Teacher of the Year, School Related Employee
of the Year, Outstanding Minority Educator, and First Year Teacher recognition programs. If staff
members receive any other awards or accolades outside the school, please let us know so that we
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can share the news!
SALESPEOPLE
Salespeople are not authorized to visit teachers or interrupt classes during school hours. Please
report such interruptions to the office at once.
SCHOOL BOARD POLICY
Copies of Rules of the District School Board of St. Lucie County are available on line at
www.stlucie.k12.fl.us.
SCHOOL SECURITY
Report to the office any persons who seem to have no reason to be in the building or on the school
campus. Please lock your room when you leave it during the day and at the end of the day. All
visitors and volunteers must sign in at the Main Office. They will be issued badges to designate they
have been properly cleared. When having guests on campus, please notify the Office prior to the
activity and remind guests to stop by the Office first to obtain a pass. Do not leave doors to outside
the campus propped open. This puts the entire school at risk. Close any gate being used during the
day.
SELF-REPORTING OF ARRESTS AND CONVICTIONS BY EDUCATORS
1. A new standard of conduct dealing with educators self-reporting arrests and convictions has
been added to State Board of Education rule (SBER) 6B-1.006(5), Florida Administrative
code (FAC), The Principles of Professional conduct of the Education Professional in Florida.
2. The language for the new standard reads:
(5) Obligation to the profession of education requires that the individual: Shall
self-report within 48 hours to appropriate authorities (as determined by district) any arrest/charges
involving the abuse of child or the sale and/or possession of a controlled substance. Such notice shall
not be considered an admission of guilt nor shall such notice be admissible for any purpose in any
proceeding, civil or criminal, administrative or judicial, investigatory or adjudicatory. In addition, shall
self-report any conviction, finding of guilt, withholding of adjudication, commitment to a pretrial
diversion program, or entering of a plea guilty of Nolo contendere for any criminal offence other than a
minor traffic violation within 48 hours after the final judgment. When handling sealed and expunged
records disclosed under this rule, school districts shall comply with the confidentiality provisions of
Sections 943.0585(4)(c) and 943.059(4)(c)Florida Statures.
The second purpose of this notification is to clarify and define “minor traffic infraction” so that
educators and school districts operate from a common definition which will allow for a uniform
interpretation and reporting. A minor traffic violation shall be defined according to Section 318.13(3),
Florida Statures, as follows:
Infraction means a non-criminal violation that may require community service hours under
Section 316.027(4), F.S., but is not punishable by incarceration and for which there is no
right to a trial by jury or a right to court-appointed counsel.
Criminal traffic violations are not minor and must be reported.
SEXUAL HARASSMENT
It is the policy of the St. Lucie County Board of Education to maintain a working environment free from
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all forms of sexual harassment or intimidation.
Sexual advances or requests for sexual favors are serious violations of our policy and will not be
condoned or permitted. Further, other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature which has the
effect of unreasonably interfering with an individual’s work performance or which creates an
intimidating hostile or offensive work environment are likewise serious violations of our policy and will
not be condoned or permitted. Any employee who is subjected to sexual harassment and/or
intimidation should immediately contact his/her supervisor and/or the Assistant Superintendent of
Human Resources and, if necessary, proceed to the Equity Grievance Procedure. Any employee who
violates this policy will be subject to appropriate disciplinary action up to, and including, discharge.
SMOKING
In compliance with recent Florida legislation, smoking is not allowed in any building on the Dan
McCarty campus. Teachers who smoke may do so outside in the delivery area behind the cafeteria.
No other smoking areas are provided. Lighters and cigarettes should not be in view of students.
SOCIAL NETWORKS
Use discretion when posting information on social networks. Students and parents often view these
sights. “Friending” students and/or parents is not recommended.
STAFF MEETINGS
Staff members are expected to attend staff meetings in their entirety.
Meetings are scheduled on the school calendar. Updates, changes or other
scheduled meetings will be on the Mailroom’s information board and in the
weekly bulletin. Emergency meetings will be called only when necessary.
TECHNOLOGY
Computers are used to assist in instruction and student learning. Please monitor students so that
inappropriate games are not used as a substitute for active learning. All students/parents of specified
grades must sign the Internet Acceptable Use Agreement before using the Internet. When using one
of the Labs, laptop carts or classroom computers, the classroom teacher is responsible for monitoring
students. All laptops should be accounted for at the end of each day and left to charge on the cart. A
calendar will be available to sign up for a specific time in the lab. The lab will not be available during
testing windows.
Every teacher is provided with a teacher computer. It is the teacher’s responsibility to secure
access to the computer when not present. Please log off the screen when leaving the classroom.
Laptops/tablets should be secured each night – either taken home or locked in the classroom.
TELEPHONE
Personal calls should not be placed while you are responsible for students. Calls should be made
during the teacher’s Planning Period. No long distance calls are to be made on school phones
(School Board Policy 6.13). During instructional time, Office Staff will take messages and email the
information to teachers. Do not give your Voice Mail extension to parents unless you plan to regularly
check for messages. Do not interrupt the instructional time of other teachers by calling their
extension. In the event of an emergency, please notify the Principal.
Students are not to use a school phone unless absolutely necessary. Students may use classroom
phones under the following conditions: 1 – Call is logged by teacher (including start/end time of call,
reason for call, recipient, live/voice mail, student signature); 2 – Call is monitored at all time by
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teacher; 3 – Teacher ends call if conversation becomes inappropriate. Examples of reasonable
causes to use phone – Dress Code violation, need supplies/work/lunch/money, unclear on dismissal
plan. The Health Aide will call parents from the Clinic concerning sick students.
TEXTBOOKS
Teachers requisition textbooks and supplemental texts from the Assistant Principal.
Teachers are responsible for the care of textbooks. When issuing textbooks to students,
keep a record of the book number and condition. Students should write their name in the
front cover. Teachers should conduct periodic book checks. For lost or damaged books, send home
the designated letter indicating the amount owed. Letter and information can be obtained from the
Bookkeeper. Although students are not required to pay for lost textbooks, every effort should be
made to obtain payment. If payment is made, a receipt should be issued. Students that lose or forget
a book will be provided with one for classroom use only.
VOLUNTEERS
We will be active participants in the School Volunteer Program. Volunteers will wear badges for easy
identification and they are expected to conform to the rules and norms of the school. Please make
your specific needs for volunteer assistance known to our Volunteer Coordinator. Use volunteers in
accordance with the guidelines of the program and treat them with the respect and appreciation they
deserve. Should a problem develop between you and a school volunteer, please make the
Administration aware of the problem.
WEBPAGE
The school’s webpage will provide monthly information for parents and students. Teachers with class
pages can be linked to the school’s page. Team Leaders or a designee should submit team/grade
level news to Mr. Sines on Mondays using the following schedule: 1st Monday = 3rd, 6th, Media Center;
2nd = 4th, Guidance, Electives; 3rd = 5th, 7th; 4th = 8th, ESE. If including student names, make sure each
is spelled correctly.
WORKDAYS
Pre-school and school age children should not accompany their parent or guardian to school,
including pre- and post-school days and workdays, unless they are volunteers with assigned tasks to
be accomplished. This is School Board policy.
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RESPONSIBILITIES OF TEACHERS
Each member of the instructional staff shall perform the duties as required by law and all other
generally accepted professional duties such as: hall duty, supervision of bus loading zone,
chaperoning school sponsored social activities, educational events of students and such other
reasonable duties as may be assigned by the individual’s immediate administrative supervisor.
Failure to perform such duties in an acceptable manner shall constitute a violation of the contract.
Instructional personnel shall be encouraged to participate in community activities. Duty assignments
are subject to change.
Authority: 230.22(2), FS Law Implemented: 231.09, FS
.
ACCENTUATE THE POSITIVE
Each teacher is to make at least one positive telephone call per week to a parent regarding
a student in your class. Please document your contacts.
CLASSROOM ATMOSPHERE
Strive to establish a well-organized and orderly classroom where high standards of conduct,
achievement, respect, and consideration are evident. Be kind, but firm. Do not ridicule or humiliate
any student. Students are to be treated with respect and dignity. If you find yourself getting angry,
loud, and losing control, stop until you regain your composure. You are the model for student
behavior.
CONFERENCES - PARENT/TEACHER
Teachers/Team Leaders are responsible for scheduling parent-teacher conferences. Conferences
are NEVER held during the teaching day when you are responsible for class instruction unless you
have coverage. Tuesdays and Fridays are designated for conferences. Some conferences may need
to be scheduled after school for the convenience of our parents. Your comments are to be
professional and only about the student for whom the conference is scheduled. Teacher/Team
Leader should document concerns, plans of action and signatures of attendees.
DISCIPLINE
Dan McCarty utilizes the Positive Behavior Support program and will implement CHAMPS. Please
refer to the RtI:B/PBS Handbook for more detailed information.
Teacher managed behavior - In most cases, concerns will be addressed by the classroom teacher.
Parents are partners in students’ education; therefore, contacting them is a vital part of the
intervention plan. (Document all contacts.) It is your job to enforce the rules/polices/requirements
listed in the Student Handbook and Student Code of Conduct as written. If you allow students to
“break” these rules in “just your class,” the Code of Conduct cannot be enforced. Through a united
team effort, we will create a safe and caring learning environment.
Administrative managed behavior - When a teacher feels that he/she cannot settle a problem, the
Deans and/or Administrators will assume responsibility to work with all concerned to bring about
desired results. Disciplinary referral forms must be filled out in Skyward when such intervention is
required.
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**No child is to be placed outside the room for punishment. Corporal punishment will not be
administered.
If you are need of immediate assistance (ex. a fight), use a radio or the intercom following FAST
procedures:
Code 1 = Fight/Physical altercation
Code 2 = Extremely disruptive/upset student
Code 3 = Student leaves assigned area
Code Blue = First aid needed
No other information should be given when making the call.
GRADING
Use a numeric grading system which can be averaged and easily understood. Check marks cannot
be averaged. Grades for the nine weeks should include weekly assessments, nine weeks tests,
homework, class work, projects, and any alternative forms of assessment. The grade should
communicate the extent to which grade level expectations were met. The level of motivation should
not be reflected - only its direct impact on the achievement. Work which is below
grade level should be called to the immediate attention of parents.
Enrichment work should also be noted. A deficiency report must be sent to
parents when a student is in danger of failing. Reduction of grades cannot
be used as a disciplinary action for violations of the Code of Conduct. When
a student is absent, make-up work must be provided. Make-up work will be
allowed for all absences and will be graded at full credit. The student will be
allowed a period of two days make-up time for each day absent, not to exceed
10
school days from the date of return for make-up work.
Although teachers will use Skyward for recording grades, a hard copy should be available. Grades
should be updated/entered at least once a week. Gradebooks must be submitted and signed at the
end of each school year.
General Promotion Requirements for K – 8 Students –
In addition to interim progress reports and report cards, parents must be notified in writing or by
documented phones calls at any time during the grading period when it is apparent that the student
may fail or is doing unsatisfactory work in any course or grade assignments. The teacher must
maintain all documentation of the parent contact for one year. The opportunity for a conference with
the teacher or principal must be provided for the parents or guardians of any child or an adult student
who may fail and/or be retained. For students with disabilities, parents will be notified of student’s
progress on Individual Educational Plan annual goals as well as receive reports of progress according
to the same frequency as parents of non-disabled students.
St.Lucie County Student Progression Plan Section G (n)
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Students in grades 3-12 will be awarded letter grades to indicate student progress.
(a.) Uniform Grading System
Students in grades 3-12 will be awarded letter grades to indicate student progress.
Grade
Percent
Grade Point
Definition
Average
A
90-100
4
outstanding progress
B
80-89
3
above average progress
C
70-79
2
average progress
D
60-69
1
lowest acceptable progress
F
50-59
0
failure
I
0
0
Incomplete*
W
N/A
N/A
withdrawn Dual Enrollment
*A student who receives an incomplete has to complete the work within the guidelines of the make-up
work policy contained herein. If the student does not make-up all work by the designated period of
time then for any missing work a grade of Zero will be entered by the teacher and the final grade will
be calculated. NOTE: the “I” will calculate as a Zero on the report card until the “I” is replaced with a
grade. At that time an adjusted GPA will be calculated for the student.
(b.) Calculation of Middle & High School Grades
 Full Year
1st 9 weeks = 20%
2nd 9 weeks = 20%
Semester exam = 10%
3rd 9 weeks = 20%
4th 9 weeks = 20%
Semester exam = 10%
 Term 1 / Term 2 Only
1st 9 weeks = 40%
2nd 9 weeks = 40%
Semester exam = 20%
Point Value: A = 4, B = 3, C = 2, D = 1, F = 0
 Total points divided by 10( this number is derived by counting each nine weeks 2 times and
the semester exams one) = GPA to letter grade
Grade Point Average
Grade Given
3.51 - 4.0
A
2.51 - 3.50
B
1.51 - 2.50
C
.51 - 1.50
D
0 - .50
F
If a student is in a single term (1/2 year) course and has two or more F's, the final grade is
automatically determined as "F".
HOMEWORK
Students should be given homework as reinforcement for the objectives already presented during
instruction. Teams should coordinate homework activities so as to avoid homework in all subjects on
the same nights. Homework should have a purpose for improving
skills
and study habits. Homework is not to be given in excessive
amounts or for disciplinary reasons. Homework should be
listed
on the board and copied in the planner. Skyward can also be
used
to post assignments.
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LESSON PLANS
Chapter 4.00 – Curriculum and Instruction
4.16 – Lesson Plans
(1)
Each teacher is required to prepare lesson plans for all subjects that he or she
teaches. The plans should clearly indicate the specific Sunshine State Standards for
the subject area being taught.
(2) Organization and contents of the plan book are to be determined by the principal
and the individual teacher. However, lesson plans are mandatory and will be
checked periodically by Administration.
(3) Substitute and emergency lesson plan procedures are set forth in the school
handbook.
(4) Lesson plans represent a permanent record and shall be maintained by the
records custodian for the school.
STATUTORY AUTHORITY: 1001.41, 1012.22, F.S.
LAWS IMPLEMENTED: 1001.43, F.S.
The plans should be sufficiently clear so that in an emergency, another teacher could easily
follow them. Plans should be completed by Friday for the upcoming week. Administrators will
schedule dates to submit plans for review.
Lesson Plans should include:
Scheduled subjects and times taught
Learning Goal/key skill, concepts or behaviors targeted
Standard(s)/SLC Benchmarks
Procedures – lesson design, introduction/warm-up, direct instruction, group work, practice,
materials needed, page numbers, review, homework, etc
Kagan Strategies
Technology
Evaluation – Indicate grading criteria and means of assessment
PBS lessons
ESOL/ESE strategies
Planning Time should be clearly indicated. Any duty for which you are responsible, including
times and locations, should be noted. List field trips/extracurricular activities when relevant.
MAKE UP WORK District Policy
K- 12
K -5 Provisions
6-8 Provisions
*Allowed for all absences, excused or unexcused
*Student has 1 day to make up the work for each day absent, not including the day of return, unless the
principal approves an extension due to unusual circumstances. Previously assigned work is due on the day the
student returns to school.
*All work, regardless of the number of days absent, must be made up on or before grades are due in the final
quarter of the school year. *Students whose work is turned in after the end of the grading period for quarters
one through three, will receive an “I” or incomplete. If the work is turned in on-time, the student will receive the
grade for the work (see grade provisions for students in grades 9 -12 below)
*Incomplete grades become “F” or “0” if not replaced with the grade for the makeup work that was turned in on
time
* Students will take announced tests on first day of return to school. Student will be allowed 2-days to prepare
for tests assigned during the absence
*Teacher will inform student/parent of work to be made up as specifically as plans will allow, but is not
expected to develop special assignments
*Graded at full credit
*Students must request makeup work; students will not be penalized for makeup work that is requested, but not
provided by the teacher
*Upon student’s request, the teacher will inform student/parent of work to be made up as specifically as plans
will allow, but is not expected to develop special assignments
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BIC (if available) – Students assigned to BIC can receive full credit for correctly completing
assigned work.
LEARNING GOAL
The goal should be posted daily and should be visible to all. The goal is a teaching tool, as well as, a
guiding factor for what is to be learned. Use the goal as a summary for the day’s lesson.
PROGRESS REPORTS
Hard copy reports of student progress will be sent home on a regular basis. Teachers may send
computer generated or teacher made reports. Progress reports should reflect the student’s current
grade. All reports should have an area for parent signature and teachers should record the return of
reports. Follow up should be done if reports are not consistently returned.
SUBSTITUTE PLANS
To minimize the effect of a regular teacher’s absence, a substitute folder is to be kept with the Team
Leader. These are to be completed and turned in to the supervising Administrator by Friday, August
24, 2012. These plans should include:
1. Daily schedule
2. Detailed, easy to follow Lesson Plans
3. Up to date class roster/seating chart
4. List of assigned duties you may have (time and location)
5. 3 days of Emergency Lesson plans (at least) – required by Union Contract
6. Location of manuals
7. Children receiving special services
8. Description of routine procedures (attendance, lunch, dismissal)
9. Distribution of materials
10. Student planner information
11. Fire drill and emergency plans
12. Important information about specific children (physical disabilities, special privileges,
medication)
13. Discipline procedures
14. At least one set of “generic” worksheets for emergencies
15. Names of Team members that can offer assistance
Train your students to respect and accept the service of a substitute and encourage them to do
what they can to make the day productive. Review and update your folder following an absence
or at least once every nine weeks.
In the event of an extended absence, communication with the school’s secretary is critical. The
staff member or a family member should call the secretary to provide updates on the status of an
absence and need for class coverage as often as possible. Any effort to provide lesson plans beyond
the required 3 days would be considered a professional courtesy to the Team. Procedures should be
in place to keep parents informed of students’ progress.
WITHDRAWLS
All student withdrawls are initiated from the Office. When a student withdraws, the cum folder
checklist and route sheet should be completed within 48 hours.
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Emergency/Evacuation Procedures
Every school facility is inspected each year for safety issues. The following are basic procedures for
keeping students and staff safe daily and in case of an emergency.
 Do not block exits, including windows.
 Do not post/hang signs, posters, student work, etc. on or above doorways or windows.
 Do not hang items from the ceiling. Storage and anything on walls should be 12” from the
ceiling.
 Keep waste material from accumulating in the classroom or workroom.
 Not allowed – candles, air fresheners, hand sanitizer, anything flammable.
 Keep extension cords rolled in out of the way except during actual use.
Scheduled and unscheduled drills will be held to prepare for the following emergencies. Please teach
students the steps for each event and review periodically. Be sure that students understand there is
no immediate danger or threat but that we should always be prepared.
Emergency Supervision Duties
MAIN OFFICE
BUIDING 900
GUIDANCE AREA 1002 &1004
PSC/BIC/READING BK RM
ART/ESE OFFICE
GYM PE
MEDIA CENTER
IMPERIAL COMPUTER LAB
HARPY 1ST FLOOR
HARPY 2ND FLOOR
TECH WEST
TECH EAST
CAFETERIA/BAND/CHORUS
ALARMS
ALTERNATES
WASHINGTON/KELLER
MONTENEGRO
JOHNSON
JERGER
DINIAKOS/KARLSON
COACH HALLETT
CARRION/LASTER
INGRAM
INGRAM
MONDS
GOODMAN
GANTT/HARRIS
PARKER
GAMBLE/SMITH-WILSON
PRYOR, PAUVILL, NOBLE
FIRE
Upon hearing the continuous sounding alarm, please observe the following steps:
1. Students immediately line up quietly at the door.
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2. Teacher secures roll book. All other materials – teacher and students’ – should remain in the
classroom.
3. Close, but do not lock, door.
4. Students and teacher exit classroom according to Evacuation Map posted by the door.
5. All visitors and volunteers must evacuate with the class.
6. Students should remain in a quiet, orderly line. Any child with a physical handicap should be
assisted.
7. When reaching the outside designated area, the teacher will check the roll. If any student
cannot be located, the staff assigned to that area should be notified immediately.
8. If class is not in the assigned classroom at the time of the alarm, the teacher should follow the
route posted for that specific area and do a head count.
9. If alarm sounds during lunch, teachers should meet their class in the evacuation area.
Students will be directed to the East side of the cafeteria using doors along Misssissippi Ave.
10. Once the all clear is given by Administration, teachers should direct students to return to class
in a quiet, orderly line.
All Staff must evacuate the buildings during a drill/emergency.
BOMB
For any threat of an explosive device, electronic devices cannot be used and should be turned off.
This includes the intercom system, radios, cell phones, and beepers. In order to notify staff of this
threat, a designated staff member will enter the classroom and show the teacher a notice stating
“Evacuate Now”. Please observe the same steps as above (Fire Drill) to evacuate. In addition,
teachers should also do a quick survey of the room for any unfamiliar or unusual items.
If you answer a call regarding a bomb threat, follow these steps:
1. Dial an outside line (9) then *57
2. If caller id is available, document the name and number of the individual calling.
3. Alert the Administration or SRO in a manner that will not cause panic. Do not use a radio or
cell phone.
4. If possible, complete the Bomb Threat form.
5. Do not share the information regarding the call with other employees.
TORNADO WARNING
Staff will be notified of this threat over the intercom system. Please observe the following steps:
1. Students immediately line up quietly at the door.
2. Teacher secures roll book. All other materials should remain in the classroom.
3. Teacher checks that all windows are closed and locked.
4. Teacher leads students to the designated area.
5. Students kneel on floor – head to the wall – in the “duck and tuck” position. If additional
space is needed, two lines may be used.
6. Teacher checks roll and immediately informs designated staff if any student is unaccounted
for.
7. Classes on the playground/outside should immediately return to the closest hallway and get
into position.
8. Classes remain in position until all clear is announced.
9. Teacher will direct students quietly into classroom.
Seek shelter by moving to interior corridors. If a corridor is not available for shelter, move to the
opposite side of any windows and assume the protective position.
Gym/PE Classes – move to boys’ locker room
Media Center – remain in media center on back wall
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Harpy Building – move to hallway corridors on first floor
Second Floor classes move to first floor hallway corridor.
First Floor classes:
Move to first floor hallway corridor: 102, 103, 105, 107, 109, 110, 111, 113, 114,
116, 117
Move to interior classroom corridor: 100, 101, 104, 108, 112, 115, 118
Technology Building – move to interior corridors away from doors and windows
T119, T121 – classes move to shelter in the computer lab
T105 – class remains in room for shelter
900 Building – move to interior corridor
Main Office – move to Administrative conference room
Band and Chorus – move to interior corridor
Cafeteria Common Dining Area – assume protective position at current location (drop down beside
seating assignment)
Cafeteria Kitchen Area – move to interior storage room
Guidance Office – move to interior corridor in front of Guidance offices
BIC – move to wall opposite windows
Art – move to wall opposite windows
ESE office – move to wall opposite windows
Notification of Weapon on Campus
If you become aware of a weapon on campus, contact the Main Office immediately without alerting
student(s) and/or suspect(s), if possible. Suggested methods of notification:
A Student Observed/Knows of a Weapon
1. Send reporting student to the office
2. If the reporting student is unable/unwilling to report, follow the steps below:
A Teacher Observed a Weapon
1. Immediately send a sealed message with a trusted student to Administration. The message
should include:
o Your name and location
o Name and description of suspect
o Information regarding the weapon’s location and type of weapon
OR
2. Discretely call the office if the suspect is not present.
3. Seek assistance from another teacher in reporting the incident.
4. Wait For Administrative/SRO Response.
In all cases, use extreme caution. Do not confront the suspect.
CODE YELLOW
A Code Yellow is a serious situation that requires all students to stay in the classroom. There should
be no student traffic in the hallways. This announcement will be made over the intercom system.
Designated staff will lock and check hallways. Students in hallways will be brought to the nearest
classroom. Please observe the following steps:
1. Lock the classroom door.
2. Close the blinds.
3. Alert office of any students not in the classroom.
4. Continue teaching.
5. No one leaves the classroom until the Code Yellow is lifted.
CODE RED
A Code Red is an extreme situation that means a danger of serious or deadly force exists on campus.
This could include an unauthorized individual on campus, gun/weapon, hostage situation, or campus
25
riot. Every teacher should remain calm and focused. This announcement will be made over the
intercom system. Designated staff will lock and check hallways. Students in hallways will be brought
to the nearest classroom. Please observe the following steps:
1. Lock the classroom door. If the door cannot be locked, escort students to nearest lockable
room.
2. Do not allow anyone to leave the room.
3. Close the blinds.
4. Stop teaching.
5. Move all students to corner farthest from windows and door.
6. Turn off lights in classroom and workroom.
7. Alert office of any students not in the classroom.
8. If there is no immediate danger within your classroom, place a green sheet of construction
paper with Room # ½ way under your door. Also place a green sheet with Room # in an
outside window.
9. Do not unlock your door for anyone except Administration or a Police Officer with I.D.
10. If you observe anything unusual, notify the office immediately.
11. If an evacuation is ordered, collect attendance documents and move to the evacuation zone in
an orderly manner.
10. Remain with students in corner until Code Red is lifted. An announcement will be made by an
Administrator.
NUCLEAR
In the event of a nuclear emergency that requires evacuating the school, the Principal will implement
evacuation procedures. No action would be taken with an emergency known as an “unusual event”.
This classification generally involves a minor incident at the plant site that requires no public action.
For a “site or general emergency”, evacuation may be required with students being transported to
predetermined centers. Teachers will receive a bus assignment list to add to this information. Local
radio and television stations, as well as, Connect Ed will announce when and where parents can pick
up children.
Off-Campus Evacuation
In the event that an off-campus evacuation is called, the St. Lucie County Transportation Department
will provide buses for students and staff.
1. Teachers will take attendance and make a note of students not present.
2. Teachers will collect record books and keep with them during entire evacuation.
3. Remain in classroom until instructed to change location, board bus, or report to gymnasium.
4. Once instructed to move to the designated area, ensure all students are out of the classroom
and adjoining bathrooms. Close door.
(If you are asked to report to the gymnasium, students will sit with class.)
5. Teachers are to remain with students throughout the evacuation procedure and at the SLC
Fairgrounds until released by Administration.
6. Lists of students not present will be collected from teachers.
7. Parents will be directed to pick up students from the management post at the SLC
Fairgrounds.
CHEMICAL SPILL ON CAMPUS
1. Alert Administration of occurrence.
2. Identify location in school where spill has occurred.
3. Administration will assess situation and call SRO/911 if needed.
4. Evacuate affected areas.
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FCAT EMERGENCY GUIDELINES
The following guidelines are to be adhered to for handling any potential life threatening situation such
as fire, tornado, intruder, bomb threat, etc. during FCAT administration.
Always consider safety first. Once an announcement or alarm has been issued, do the following:
1. Treat all occurrences seriously.
2. DO NOT try to collect test booklets. Have students close their FCAT test booklets and exit the
room according to event guidelines.
3. Follow your standard safety procedures for the situation.
4. The teacher should be the last person to leave the classroom and close the door.
5. Once the teacher and students have arrived at their safe and designated area, the teacher
should make note of the time the testing was interrupted.
6. If the building is cleared for students and teachers to re-enter, the teacher may continue the
testing if students are not emotionally distraught. If students are emotionally affected, collect
the test booklets and return them to the school’s coordinator who must contact the district test
coordinator for further directions.
7. If testing continues after the event, the teacher should adjust time for the testing to make up
for the lost time during the drill.
8. If the life threatening situation is not resolved in a reasonable time for students to continue
testing that same day, the school’s test coordinator must secure the test materials when
appropriate and contact the District’s Test Coordinator.
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BOMB THREAT
St. Lucie County Public Schools Bomb Threat Report Form
Caller ID Information:
Name:______________________________________
Phone:_________________________________
School:________________ Date Call Received:_________________ Time Call Received
___________
Time Caller Hung Up:_________________________ Exact Words of Caller:_______________
Questions to ask:
When is the bomb set to explode?
Precisely where is the bomb located?
What kind of bomb is it?
What does it look like?
Why did you place the bomb?
Where are you calling from?
Description of Caller’s Voice:
 Male
 Female
 Unknown
 Young (Child)
 Young (Adult)
 Middle Aged
 Old
 Unsure
Tone of Voice:
 Serious
 Joking
 Laughing
 Sounded Tense
 Sounded Sure
 Sounded Unsure
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Is the caller’s voice familiar? ____ Yes
____No Who?__________________________
Did the caller have an accent? ____Yes ____No (If yes) What kind?________________
Other Voice Characteristics:__________________________________________________
Signature_______________________________ Print Name:________________________
Response to Instruction &Intervention
(RtI) is the practice of providing high
quality instruction and interventions
Matched to student need
 Monitoring progress frequently to
make decisions about changes
in instruction or goals
 Applying student response data to
important educational
decisions

Intensive
Interventions
(FEW)
Supplemental
Interventions
(SOME)
Universal
Interventions
(ALL)
Access to high quality
curriculum and instruction in the
general education classroom
Access to universal behavior
supports in the general education
classroom
Available in general education
settings
Developed from individualized
student problem-solving
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Opportunity to increase
academic engagement time
Goals are to find successful
interventions
Based on “intensity” of the
ATTENDANCE POLICY
D.
ATTENDANCE POLICIES K-12
(a.)
Compulsory School Attendance & Declaration of Intent to
Terminate School Enrollment (F.S. 1003.21)
Pursuant to Section (F.S. 1003.21), all children who are either six years of age or who will be six years
old by February 1, or who are older than six years of age but who have not attained the age of 18 years,
must attend school regularly during the entire school term. A student between 16 and 18 years of age is
not subject to compulsory attendance if the student completes a formal declaration of intent to terminate
school enrollment with the district school board. The declaration must acknowledge that terminating
school enrollment is likely to reduce the student’s earning potential and that the disenrollment will be
reported to the Department of Safety and Motor Vehicles. The declaration of intent to terminate school
enrollment must be signed by the student and the student’s parent or legal guardian. The school must
notify the parent or legal guardian of receipt of the student’s declaration of intent to terminate school
enrollment. A student who attains the age of 18 years during the school year is not subject to compulsory
school attendance beyond the date upon which he or she attains that age.
(b.)
Official Attendance
The official daily attendance will be taken during the second-class period for middle and full-time high
school students and at the beginning of the day for elementary schools. For part-time high school
students the first scheduled period of the day on campus will be used to determine daily
attendance. Secondary attendance must also be taken daily by class period.
(c.)
Enforcement of Attendance (F.S. 1003.26)
When Parent is Required to be Contacted

Means of Parent Contact

Required Documentation
Referrals to Student Services
After each unexcused absence or absence for which the
reason is unknown
Contact can be by phone, auto call system, mail, inperson by school representative
 Phone log noting date and time of call, official making call,
family member contacted, and outcome of conversation
 Mail – copy of dated notice or postal service return-receipt
 Personal Contact – Parent’s signature on form(s)/letter or
Student Services forms
th
 Prior to or upon the 10 unexcused absences in any 90-day
period and after school efforts to resolve have not been
successful.
 Schools will provide Student Services with documentation of
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their efforts to resolve the truancy
Truancy Petition
Described herein
Referral to CINS/FINS
Secondary schools are encouraged to refer habitual truants to the
(Children in Need of Services/Families in
d. CINS/FINS provider.
Need of Services; The CINS/FINS provider is
Children’s Home Society)
(d.)
Project ROCK
Student’s suspended out-of-school who attend Project ROCK (north or south) can be coded as “R”
(Project ROCK) for the dates that the school confirms that the student attended the program. Students
with a disability may attend Project Rock. Day of attendance at Project Rock will not count as out-ofschool suspension.
(e.)
Attendance Codes, Excused Absences, Unexcused Absences (F.S.1003.26)
Unexcused Absences - Unexcused
Attendance Codes Excused Absences - Absences are excused when an
appropriate explanation is provided by the parent within 3- absences are all failures to attend
days of the student’s return or by the parent’s physician, school other than those specifically
when the physician authorization threshold has been
excused by the principal or designees.
reached. The written explanation must include the dates (F.S. 1003.26)
of the absences which are sought to be excused and the
reason for the absence. (F.S. 1003.26)
C – Clinic
 Illness of the student
 Truancy
E – Excused
 Major illness in the student’s immediate family
 Vacation travel where the student
G – Guidance
has accumulated more than 10
 Medical appointment of the student
I – BIC (not an
excused or 5 unexcused
 Death of family member or friend
absence)
absences within a semester and
 Required Court Appearance
O – Out of School
the travel has not been approved
 Religious holiday of the student or student’s
Suspension
in advance by the principal.
family’s faith
R – Project ROCK
Absences for this reason cannot
 Subpoena or forced absence by any law
(not an absence)
exceed 5-days annually and
enforcement agency to fulfill civic duties; a copy
Students
cannot be excused without
of the subpoena or court summons is required
suspended out of
advance written approval
 Major disaster that justifies the absence that has
school who attend
of
the
principal. Schools have the
been approved by the principal
Project ROCK can
authority
to withdraw students whose
 Head lice: maximum of 2 days per incident and a
be coded as “R” for
absences
for this reason exceed this
maximum of 2 incidents per semester
the dates the
provision. Such students will be
 Missing the school bus if the bus is more than 5
program verifies.
withdrawn for non-attendance.
minutes early or more than 15 minutes late or is
S – School
 Take Your Son or Daughter to
not able to make the route
Activity/Field Trip
Work Day
 Other planned absences approved in advance by
(not an absence) In

Failure to provide an explanation
the principal
cases where there
of the absence to the school within 3
 Vacation travel or family outing/activity where the
is a question about
days of the student’s return to school –
student has accumulated fewer than 10 excused
the validity of the
 Student Services staff can, after
or 5 unexcused absences. The principal can
activity, the Zone
investigation advise the school to
excuse vacation travel that exceeds the threshold
Assistant
excuse absence documentation
after considering the student’s attendance history,
Superintendent
received after the expiration of the
academic performance, mastery of the
shall make the
3-day period. Physician
curriculum, and reason for the travel.
determination.
explanations received after the 3T – Excused Tardy Absences for this reason cannot exceed 5-days annually.
day period will also authorize the
Schools have the authority to withdraw students whose
U- Unexcused
school to excuse the absence(s).
absences for this reason exceed this provision. Such
Tardy

Failure to provide a Physician’s
students will be withdrawn for non-attendance
1 – Unexcused
Authorization when required
 Out of school suspensions
Tardy
 Missing the school bus if the
2 – Absence due to
bus is less than 5 minutes early
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excessive tardies
(K-5 only)
Reporting Attendance Cases to PST/Attendance
Committee (F.S. 1003.26)
When: Student has accumulated at least 5 unexcused
absences, or absences for which the reasons are
unknown, within a calendar month or 10 unexcused
absences or absences for which the reasons are
unknown, within 90 calendar days
By Whom: Teacher or any school staff with knowledge of
the student’s attendance
Required Participants: School Social Worker or
contracted caseworker; `school attendance officer; parent
shall be invited and encouraged to attend
Purpose of Meeting: To determine if a pattern of nonattendance is developing or exists and to develop
interventions that shall be implemented
Interventions: Interventions may include, but are not
limited to:
*frequent communication between school and family
*mentoring
*counseling
*evaluation for alternative education program
*attendance contracts
*agency referral(s)
*other interventions, including but not limited to a Truancy
Petition pursuant to (F.S. 984.151)
Non-Compliant Students: When students subject to
compulsory attendance will not comply with attempts to
enforce school attendance, the parent, guardian,
superintendent or designee may refer the case to the
case staffing committee pursuant to F.S. 984.12 and the
superintendent may file a truancy petition pursuant to F.S.
984.151.


or less than 15 minutes late
Immunization non-compliance
Non-Attendance due to head
lice that exceeds two days per
incident and/or exceeds 2-days
per semester; students who
return to school with lice or nits
and who are sent home the
same day or who remain in the
office /clinic will not be counted
as “in-attendance” and will have
the absence unexcused.
Truancy Petition
The Superintendent may file a truancy petition
pursuant to procedures in F.S. 984.151 when:
a. A student has 5 unexcused absences in a
calendar month or 10 unexcused absences in
a 90 calendar-day-period
b. The PST/SST has met and efforts to correct
the attendance has been unsuccessful
c. The parent has been notified as to the
unexcused absences or absences for which
reasons are unknown and that a Truancy
Petition is being filed.
School’s Responsibility:
 Partner with Student Services to prepare the
Petition
 Provide Student Services will all verifications
of notification to and conferences with the
parent to inform and discuss attendance
 Copies of all parent and physician excuses
and phone logs
 Verification that the recorded attendance is
true and correct according to School Board
policy
Filing of Truancy Petitions:
th
 Filed in Circuit Court in the 19 Judicial Circuit
 All supportive documentation becomes part of
the Court file
 Parent(s) named in the Petition will receive a
copy of the Petition when the Petition is
served
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REPORTING ABUSE/NEGLECT
Abuse Hotline Phone Number: 1-800-962-2873
REPORTING CHILD ABUSE 5.37
(8) Child Abuse, Abandonment, or Neglect
(a) All School Board employees who know or have reasonable cause to suspect that a student
is an abused, abandoned, or neglected child shall report such knowledge or suspicion directly
both (i) to the state-wide central abuse hotline established and maintained by the Florida
Department of Children and Families (DCF), and/or (ii) to the appropriate local law enforcement
agency, either through the School Resource Officer or through the central dispatch center
telephone number (911).
(b) Each school in the District shall post in a prominent place a notice containing the state-wide
toll-free telephone number of the central abuse hotline and stating that, pursuant to Florida
Statutes, all District employees:
(i) Have a duty to report to DCF all actual or suspected cases of child abuse, abandonment, or
neglect;
(ii) Are immune from any liability when such reports are made to DCF in good faith;
(iii) Have a duty to comply and cooperate with child protective investigations and all provisions
of law relating to child abuse, abandonment, or neglect, and
(iv) Are subject to criminal prosecution if they knowingly and willfully fail to report known or
suspected child abuse, abandonment, or neglect to DCF, or if they knowingly or willfully prevent
another person from doing so.
(c) No student shall abuse any other student. Any student or employee that has knowledge of
any student abusing another student shall report the abuse to the principal and/or law
enforcement. Any incident reported to the principal shall be handled as required by policy and
law.
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ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF UNDERSTANDING
I have read the Dan McCarty 2013 - 14 Faculty and Staff Handbook and
supplements. I understand the contents and agree to abide by the policies
that are set forth. I also understand that it is supplemental to all the laws
and policies set forth by the School Board of St. Lucie County and all
Florida and Federal statutes.
Employee Name (print) _____________________________________
Employee Signature ________________________________________
Date ___________________________
Please return this page to Mrs. Keller by Friday, August 17, 2012.
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