TEACHERHANDBOOK

DOLPHIN BAY ELEMENTARY2015-2016 SCHOOL YEAR

PRINCIPAL, SANDRA L. NELSONASSISTANT PRINCIPAL, BRAD SCHMIDT

ACCIDENTS/INJURED OR ILL STUDENTSWhen an accident occurs, it is important that the teacher take care of the injured child first. If the student is badly injured, call the office immediately and a person skilled in first aid will be sent to help the teacher. IN THE CASE OF A SERIOUS INJURY OR ILLNESS, DO NOT MOVE THE PERSON. CALL THE OFFICE FOR IMMEDIATE ASSISTANCE. USE THE SIGNAL “Code Blue” IN ROOM _____. IF A PHONE OR INTERCOM IS NOT AVAILABLE, SEND TWO STUDENTS TO THE NEAREST ROOM TO CALL FOR HELP. The teacher should never try to move a student with a possible broken limb, head injury or back injury. Any student who becomes too ill to remain in class should be sent to the clinic with a completed clinic form regardless of the time of day. Send messengers with any student being sent to the clinic. If you know the child will not be returning to the class, please send all items for dismissal. The teacher will be informed of the action taken in the office. Injuries sustained at school require the completion of an Accident Report located in the CAB conference by the supervising adult to be provided to the IMT the same day of the accident or injury. All head injuries and serious accidents or injuries require notification to parents. Chronic problems shall be referred to the public health nurse who services our school on an “as needed” basis.ANIMALS ON CAMPUSLive animals of any kind are not allowed on the school campus unless they are a part of a school board approved program.ATTENDANCE (STUDENT)Florida State Law requires a written excuse from the parent or guardian the same day the child returns to school. Illness of student, serious illness or death in the family, are causes for excused absences. All parent notes and other documentation pertaining to a student’s absence must be submitted to the school IMT, the same day the student brings them. Teachers need to phone the student’s home to determine cause of any unexplained absences after three consecutive days. After 30 hours or five days of absences, excused or unexcused, please notify the guidance counselor. At this time, a letter will be sent home stating the importance of being in attendance at school. If needed, social worker will become involved. Attendance must be taken daily before 8:15 AM in Pinnacle.ATTENDANCE (TEACHER)Use of Sick Leave: An employee shall have the right to use sick leave in one half day (7:30 AM – 11:15 AM) or (11:15 AM-3:00 PM) or full-day units (7:30 AM – 3:00 PM), Each teacher will be responsible for recording all absences on the Sub Finder System, 754-321-0050 or on the web at https://sems.browardschools.com. Absences must be recorded in advance of the absence prior to the start of the school day. A “Job Number” must be recorded for each substitute. Teachers not requiring a substitute MUST record their absences in the Sub Finder System, including planning days.

TDA’s must also be recorded on Sub Finder (including field trip TDA’s). Job Numbers must be recorded on the bottom of all TDA’s. A TDA must be submitted, in

advance (4 weeks), prior to TDA for principal’s signature and approval.

Teachers will be responsible for completing a substitute folder, including emergency plans, evacuation maps, emergency dismissal forms, and dismissal information that will remain in their classroom. It is the teacher’s responsibility to keep this folder up to date.

Teachers must sign a Certificate of Absence at the end of each payroll period if an absence occurred. No time is allotted during the school day for leaving and returning to school. If you have a concern, you must see Administration for approval to leave during the school day and complete a Request to Leave Early form (see request to leave early section). If you are given permission to leave, you must sign out, and in again when you return. The importance of regular attendance cannot be overstated, and in order for students to meet their academic potential, they need consistent and regular instruction from the same teacher.

BUS POLICIESBroward County provides bus transportation for students living more than two (2) miles from the school. Students who ride a school bus may not be kept in classroom after dismissal.

BIRTHDAYS (STUDENTS)Parents are welcome to celebrate their child’s birthday during their lunchtime. We ask however, that you please send only store bought cupcakes, doughnuts or cookies. These items may be shared only with their child’s class during lunchtime.NOTE: Balloons, cakes, pizzas, goodies, goodie bags, and birthday candles are not appropriate for a school setting and will not be permitted.

CAFETERIA REGULATIONSThe keeping of a tight schedule in the cafeteria is necessary. Hundreds of students must be fed in a short length of time. The teacher is expected to walk the class in an orderly, quiet manner to the kitchen door entrance and meet the class at the cafeteria door exit promptly at the end of their lunchtime. Cafeteria manners are to be taught in the classroom as part of school rules. Students are expected to eat with reasonable tidiness, speak quietly with those immediately around them, and leave the area clean and free of litter. Teachers may eat with their students if they wish or teachers may have their lunch in the teachers’ lounge or classroom. Food or drink should not be consumed in the classroom at any time students are present except for snack time and approved celebrations. The Dolphin Bay Cafeteria Management Plan will start the second week of school. One class from each grade level will be able to earn class rewards based on monthly scores.Any class parties are not to take the place of school lunch. All students, including free/reduced students, need to go through the cafeteria line daily. Parties will be held after regularly scheduled lunch times. No outside food is to be brought into the cafeteria for consumption.

CLASSROOM TIDINESS/SET UPThe first and sometimes only impression of our school may be based on what is seen as one walks through the building or visits a classroom. Counters and center

areas should be clear of clutter and set up with materials students need to work within that area. Paper and cardboard retain odors and dust. Storing food items is not recommended, because insects and rodents will be attracted. If food is necessary for an activity, it should be stored in plastic containers. Food should not be kept in cabinets and in classrooms for extended periods of time. Discuss or email any maintenance or cleaning concerns to administration.

BULLETIN BOARDSBulletin Boards should be current, and display student work. Boards should be changed regularly in and out of the classroom.

DOORWAYSAll doorways must have a 32” wide, unobstructed access.

FACILITIES SERVICESThe facilities staff is responsible for maintaining our building in a clean and attractive manner. Teaching Staff will establish a neat, attractive environment for learning that encourages respect for neatness and order. The floor must be kept free of inappropriate items, i.e., paper, sweaters, jackets, book bags, etc. Particular care must be taken when using water, paints, glue and other substances, which may damage or stain walls, carpet, and furniture. No staples are to be used in the walls. Use push pins on tackable wall surfaces only. Chairs should be short-stacked neatly in the classroom at the close of the day. Only School Board approved cleaning supplies may be used in the classroom. NO BLEACH OR BLEACH PRODUCTS MAY BE USED IN THE CLASSROOM!Custodial Request forms are available for you to request services from the Head Facilities Service person. Report any needed repairs or problems to the Head Facilities Serviceperson, including any stained ceiling tiles. The Tools for Schools program, designed to promote healthy indoor air quality has learned we cannot use air fresheners, leave outside doors open, and to report temperatures/humidity levels that are not comfortable.

ENERGY USAGE AND PRINTINGTurn out the lights and turn off computers and printers in the classroom when not in use. Please conserve energy whenever possible. Do not use printers to run class sets of anything.

FIRE RETARDENT MATERIALS IN THE CLASSROOMAny furniture, carpets, curtains or fabric in the classroom must be made of fire retardant materials and must have the original fire safety label attached to it.

MICROWAVES/HEATING ELEMENTS/COFFEE POTSThe safety department has requested that no microwaves, heating elements of any type be kept in the classroom.

Paper CuttersPaper Cutters should not be out on counters, tables or desks in the classroom. They should only ever be used when students are not present in the classroom. When not in use by the teacher, all paper cutters need to be

properly stored in cabinets with doors. Paper cutters, as pictured below, cannot be in the school building. Only models with the sliding style of cutter can be used.

PEANUT PRODUCTSNo peanut products of any type can be used in the classroom.

PROPERTY AND INVENTORYNothing is to be moved out of any classroom, including technology.

REFRIGERATORSMake sure that all items in classroom refrigerators are not out of date and that the units are kept clean.

SECURITY/KEEPING RODENTS OUTAll doors should be kept locked. Exterior doors should never be propped open for any reason. Classrooms with exterior doors should keep them locked at all times.

WORD WALL PLACEMENT AND EXPECTATIONSAll classrooms should have a word wall that utilizes high value words that will assist our students in increasing their vocabulary. Placement should be visible from any area of the classroom for students, at student’s eye level and should be interactive.

CLASSROOM INTERRUPTIONSIn an effort to reduce daily classroom interruptions and increase time spent on academic focus, parents are asked to please make sure their children have ready their homework, agendas, school supplies, lunches, etc. prior to the start of the school day. Classrooms will not be interrupted for delivery of these items. Exception will only be made for such essential items as eyeglasses or if a parent has to administer medication.CODE OF ETHICS AND PRINCIPALS OF PROFESSIONAL CONDUCTRefer to the First Day Folder for this information.

COLLECTION OF MONEY for FIELD TRIPS or SCHOOL COLLECTIONS (FIELD DAY T-SHIRTS)Teachers will be issued money collection envelopes. Record the student name, with the amount collected, and return the envelope to the Office Manager that same day. Use blue or black ink only on the envelope. No money can be kept in the

classrooms. Field Trips over $15 will require a Receipt Book.????

Teachers are not permitted to ask parents for donations of money or gift cards for any reason including use for classroom parties, supplies, etc.

Room Parents and volunteers are not permitted to ask parent for donations of money or gift cards for any reason including use for classroom parties, supplies, etc.

COMMENTS ON STUDENTS’ PAPERSComments on student work papers are encouraged, but should be brief and positive in nature. Be sensitive when marking papers of poor quality. Large “F” or “N” grades can be demoralizing on a child’s paper. No assignment may receive a grade of less than 50%.

COMMITTEESSchool Advisory Council Committee assignments are made at the beginning of each school year. All committees should have grade level representation. These responsibilities should be shared among the faculty. SAC Committees include Reading, Writing, Math, Science, and Discipline/Safety. Meetings should be scheduled once per month. The SAC committees are responsible for implementing the activities that help meet the school improvement goal.

COMPUTER LAB/MEDIA CHECKOUTTeachers are responsible to bring students to the media center and actively supervise them with selecting appropriate materials to check out. In addition, students should be assigned to specific computer workstations for safety and monitoring of the equipment. Computer time should be used productively on iReady, FCAT Explorer, SRC, Riverdeep, making multi-media presentations or doing research on teacher approved websites. This should not be used as time for students to play video games. The Media Clerk is not responsible for supervision of students.COMPUTER TECHNICAL ASSISTANCEOur Micro Technology Specialist will preview new computer programs and train staff in utilization. She is also available to trouble-shoot any technical problems. Please complete a technology request from the Dolphin Bay CAB conference when you need assistance.

CLASSROOM STUDENT COMPUTERSComputer time should be used productively on iReady, FCAT Explorer, SRC, Riverdeep, making multi-media presentations or doing research on teacher approved websites. This should not be used as time for students to play video games.LAPTOPSEach teacher will be provided with a laptop and a storage case. The laptop and storage case are the teacher’s responsibility. Each teacher assigned a laptop must sign a property pass with the original kept on file in the office. Please keep in mind that Broward County School’s Technology Use Policy (5306) applies wherever you use your laptop. Refrain from eating and

drinking around your laptop. Keep all laptops secured in your classroom and in cases. Do not leave laptops in cars as they can be easily stolen. A stolen laptop must be reported to the police and a police report must be completed and kept as a part of the school records. Laptops should never be transported without their case.

LAPTOP STORAGEAll laptops, including the teacher’s, must be powered down daily and placed in a locked cabinet prior to leaving school for the day.

PROPERTY PASSThis form must be completed when taking any school equipment, including computers, home and signed by administration. Laptops are to be checked out in August and returned in May. A new pass may be completed for summer usage.

CONFERENCESConferences are an important part of reporting student progress to parents and can be great help in furthering home/school understandings. Teachers must hold a minimum of two (2) conferences each school year with parents. Part of your conference must be pre-written so your recommendations will be addressed.The following items are helpful to share with parents at conferences:

Work samples in all subject areas (dated) Grade books to indicate daily/weekly performance Copies of tests, Informal Reading Inventories/Rigby’s Copies of referrals Parent-Teacher Conference Form Appendix B, Broward County Public Schools Document Relating to Parental Input and Meetings

(Mandatory)

CONFIDENTIALITYHIPPA regulations require that all employees maintain the strictest confidentiality when discussing student academic and behavioral records. This information should be dispersed only on a need to know basis, unless written permission has been given by the legal guardian and must be signed in the presence of the teacher or approved personnel. Teachers should not discuss a student's behavior, academic progress, or concerns in the teachers' lounge or other social places. A release form must be completed and filed in the students CUM folder in order for a staff member to communicate with an outside provider, doctor, psychologist, tutor etc.

CONTAGIOUS DISEASESNo one may attend school with a contagious disease. A student or staff member suspected of having a contagious disease is to be sent to the office immediately. Any lingering condition that is suspicious should be reported to the front office.

COPIES, LAMINATING AND POSTER MAKINGThe Xerox machines in the front office and Media Center and in the office are reserved for front office, media, respectively. Office staff will make all copies. Complete a copy request form and attach to materials to be copied. Place these requests in the copy basket in the principal’s office. This also applies to the

laminating and poster making machines.COPYRIGHTSBook CopyrightsReproduction of copyright material without prior written approval of the author or publishing company is a violation of copyright laws. Always check the rights before making any copies.

Video/DVDTape CopyrightsVideos may not be shown in the classroom as entertainment. All videos need administration approval prior to showing in the classroom and must be tied directly to curriculum and instruction.

School Board employees shall conform to all existing federal and state copyright laws, including but not limited to, Public Law 94-533, the Copyrights Act. The regular legal and/or liability insurance protection provided by the School Board will not be extended to Board employees who knowingly violate Copyright Laws.Guidelines for using videotapes include the following:

Taping off-air is permitted only for public television (no cable channels) for INSTRUCTIONAL purposes.

Off-air taped material for instructional purposes. May be used up to ten days after taping May only be used on individual TV sets, not closed circuit Must be erased after 45 days May not be edited or merged Must be reflected in lesson plans Must relate to educational objectives, not recreational or entertainment

purposesIndividually purchased or rented tapes

Must be previewed May only be shown to students (not PTA, parents, etc.) on individual TV’s (not

closed circuit) for educational purposes written into lesson plans Tapes in the media center collection for which the publisher has granted

permission may be shown fewer than two categories: Public Performance – after school care, motivation or enrichment CCTV-closed circuit broadcastA list of copyright permissions for Broward County has been given to the media specialist. Please see the attachment Broward School’s Audiovisual Materials Use Guidelines. All full-length movies that are not part of the media collection must be tied to your curriculum and must be approved by administration before viewing.

CORPORAL PUNISHMENTUnder no circumstances will any staff members administer corporal punishment.

CUMULATIVE RECORDSCum Folders cannot leave the school. If cum folders are removed from their original location, they must be returned and secured in the cum drawer before leaving for the day. Cums must be requested for review via email to the IMT at least 1 day prior. Cum folders must be returned to the IMT before leaving for the

day, no later than 2:30 PM. When cums are received, you will be notified of such via email.

CURRICULUM/COMMON CORE All teachers are to be following and implementing the Common Core State Standards.DATA Decisions for instruction, enrichment, and remediation are based on data. Data collected should is tied to instruction and assessment that will give teachers and parents an accurate, clear picture of how their students are performing.DISCIPLINE PLANPlease refer to the School Discipline Plan and Code of Student Conduct Discipline Matrix in CAB Conference. We will be stressing the Positive Behavior Plan and CHAMPs.DISMISSAL OF STUDENTSEncourage students to leave school promptly at dismissal time. Students are to be dismissed by the teacher. Students should remain past dismissal time at teacher request only if parents are aware of it. This is to be verified either with a note to the teacher or a phone call and the front office is to have email notification. During the school year, EVERY student will have a colored band attached to their backpack, which will indicate where they are to be dismissed (color coding will be established and consistent for the entire school). Students going to Sunshine Aftercare should go DIRECTLY to their Sunshine classroom at dismissal. Please encourage students to keep their bands on their backpacks. There will be extra bands in the main office if a student loses one. It is very important that there is some sort of visual in your classroom indicating where students are dismissed in case you are absent and this should also be included in your substitute plans. Students are not to be dismissed early or released to the custody of anyone without clearance from or knowledge by administration. Adults coming to remove students from school are asked to sign a checkout sheet in the front office. Students are not to be released to parents who come to the classroom and bypass the front office. In addition, students cannot be dismissed within the last half hour of the school day. If a parent is volunteering in the classroom and wants to take their student for early dismissal, send the parent to the front office to sign the student out. Students are not to come with the parent. The front office will call to the classroom to send the student to the front office. All students are released through the office. Any changes in dismissal must be done in writing by the parent. All changes must be emailed to the front office.

RAINY DAY PROCEDURESBecause of heavy congestion on rainy days, a special rainy day procedure needs to be discussed with students at the beginning of the school year. Please refer to your student's Emergency Dismissal Form for information. Remember that we cannot dismiss any child if there is lightning in the area. Telephones will not be available for students to call parents except in an emergency and by teacher discretion. An understanding needs to be made between parents and students on procedures to follow on rainy days. On rainy days, please follow any special instructions that might be given on the

intercom system, as there may be delays in dismissal. It is essential that everyone pitches in and assists with the carpool students in the main hallway to assure a smooth and safe dismissal. THERE ARE SIGNS IN THE FRONT HALLWAY FOR AREAS WHERE GRADE LEVELS SHOUD SIT FOR DISMISSAL.

DRESS CODEStudents will be expected to adhere to the Code of Student Conduct and to the School Uniform Policy in matters of dress. Student bottoms include docker style shorts, pants or skorts in black or khaki. Student tops should be polo style shirts in black, white, teal, purple or gray with the school logo. Crew style shirts may also be worn with the Dolphin Bay Logo from the uniform store. Any student violating the dress code should be sent to the front office by 8:20 AM.

All staff members are asked to dress in a professional manner and use good judgment in the selection of attire.

ELEVATOR USAGEA staff member must accompany students that require the usage of the elevator while they are riding. In addition, if you are traveling with your entire class and need to take a student down in the elevator, either pair up with a class that is traveling at the same time with you to Special or call the office for assistance.

E-MAIL ETIQUETTE Avoid sending E-cards, chain letters, poems, virus warnings, and personal

notices Direct all emails to only the specific people you want to receive the email Make certain any group emails are related to school business; Delete old email or save to a local folder Our Micro Tech is our CAB administrator. Please see her if you have any

questions or need help. All of our email is considered public record, please be careful with what

Information you put in an email. You should read your email 2 times per day to assure proper communication. All email needs to be responded to within 24 hours.

EMERGENGY PROCEDURESAll rooms in the building have an emergency clipboard located near the exit. Complete instructions for all types of emergencies are located there. Place Student Information Forms on the clipboard. Teachers will be required to update the list if students are added or deleted from the class. Emergency clipboards are to taken with teachers on all evacuations and drills.

EMPLOYEE ASSISTANCE PROGRAM (EAP)The Employee Assistance Program (EAP) is designed to help employees solve personal concerns that may or may not affect job performance. Phone Number is 754-322-9900.

END OF YEAR CHECKLISTYou will receive a list of requirements each May that must be signed off on prior to the last planning day of the school year.

EVALUATIONS/OBSERVATIONSTeacher evaluations will be based on multiple observations using the observation evaluation system, which uses Dr. Marzano’s Art and Sciences of Teaching Framework.

EXCEPTIONAL STUDENT EDUCATION PROGRAMSEach teacher needs to review the IEP’s of all ESE students assigned to their class. It is the responsibility of each classroom teacher to implement and follow each students IEP. All ESE accommodations must be documented in lesson plans. Each teacher needs to submit to the ESE Specialist all updates, student performance, academic and behavior information when requested for IEP meetings and staffings. If you will be absent or on a TDA when a staffing is scheduled, please notify the ESE Specialist prior to the meeting.

ELLAn ELL folder must be completed by the ELL Committee for each student classified as bilingual (ESOL). Required forms will be completed by this committee and will be maintained in the student's cumulative folder. The ELL Committee is comprised of the ESOL Coordinator, parent, teacher, and support staff/administrator. Teachers should give a copy of any PMP’s and report cards of ELL students to the ESOL Coordinator. This documentation is necessary for both active and inactive (LF) students. All ELL instructional strategies must be documented in lesson plans.

FACULTY MEETINGS/SAC COMMITTEES/TEAM MEETINGSRegular faculty and grade chair meetings are important for coordinating activities. Every staff member is expected to block out ALL Tuesdays on his or her calendars. No IEP meetings, parent conferences, request to Leave Early, or any other meeting should be scheduled from 2:00 – 3:00 PM on Tuesdays. All faculty members are expected to attend Tuesday Meetings. If you cannot attend, administration must be notified. If you are absent, it is your responsibility to discuss the agenda items with your team chairperson. Absent team chairpersons should discuss agenda items with the school administration. If for any reason our meetings or trainings last beyond 3:00 PM, please feel free to leave.

FAX MACHINEThe FAX machine may be used only for official school business. No personal materials may be faxed. Confidential materials, such as psychological reports, IEP's and school records, may only be faxed with the principal/assistant principal's permission and an identified person at the receiving end.

FIELD TRIPSField trips should be planned to reinforce the basic curriculum. You must discuss with administration any student behavior concerns. Any student, who is unable to pay, should not be deprived of the trip. See administration for special arrangements for these students. No staff members are to contact PTA themselves to request money for students. All requests need to go through administration. Field Trips are coordinated at the grade level and reflect an annual scheduled crossed referenced over a multiple year period to avoid field trip destination repetition. Grade level teams should agree specific dates on. Field trips may not be scheduled during testing blackout periods or in the month of May. Grade levels should plan two field trips per year, one during the first semester and one during the second semester.

Team Leaders may obtain forms for field trips from the Office Manager. Permission for the trip must be obtained from administration. Completed packets must be submitted at least 45 days before the trip for in county trips and 60 days before the trip for out of county trips. All paperwork in the field trip packet must be completed.Chaperones- Only SBBC approved chaperones can attend trips. Parents should not be encouraged to, “follow the bus”. Any parent who chooses to follow the bus is not permitted to stay with the field trip group, take pictures or assist in anyway. They are not SBBC approved for the trip.

FLORIDA STATE CODE OF ETHICS FOR TEACHERS/SELF REPORTINGRefer to the first day folder for this information.

GRADEBOOKEvery teacher will have a grade book. The electronic grade book will be used in lieu of the traditional paper grade book when functionally possible at the work location. The Teacher of Record will input a minimum of three (3) grades by the Interim Period. GRADES SHOULD BE RECORDED IN PINNACLE WEEKLY. By the end of each quarter, the grade book will reflect a minimum of nine (9) grades (BTU Article 6 .0).GRADE CHAIRPERSONThe team leaders attend monthly meetings with administration and communicate the information discussed to team members. The chairperson assumes leadership for the grade level by facilitating consistent instruction, sharing of ideas, team planning, initiating staff development, implementing school improvement strategies, requesting materials, and serving as that grade’s liaison to the school grade chair meeting. Grade chairs will support new team members, visit colleagues’ classrooms to provide feedback, be a resource for technology, and lead their peers in the school’s mission.

HALL PASSESStudents are NEVER to be out of the classroom alone without supervision from an adult. If students are sent anywhere in the building without an adult, a runner should be sent if the student is making a round trip. If the student will not be returning to class with the runner, a second runner should be sent for the return trip.HOMEWORKThe following guidelines will assure that homework activities will result in a satisfying session for both parent and student. Homework policies should be discussed and agreed on by all members of the grade level team

Assignments should be on the student's independent level and modified or shortened as necessary according to students IEP’s.

Assignments should be a reinforcement of skills taught during the day Assignments should be no longer than 10 minutes per grade level, e.g. 1 st

grade 10 minutes, etc. Please note that these times are for the total amount of homework for any given day, not per class or subject.

Copies should be clear and readable Homework emphasis should be on strengthening basic skills taught in the

classroom Homework should be checked by the teacher

See School Board Policy 6306 for a complete list of procedures.

HONOR ROLL & OUTSTANDING EFFORT CRITERIAHonor Roll will be given out by each teacher for students in their classroom or at pre- arranged Honor Roll Assemblies.

GRADES 3-5

Principal's Honor RollAll A's1’s1’s and 2’s for specials

A/B Honor RollAll A's and B'sMay have 1’s and 2’sGRADES 1 & 2All 1’s & 2’s

INTERIM REPORTSBoard Policy 5104 states, "Not later than midway between marking periods, an interim report shall be sent to the parents of students who are experiencing difficulty," including but not limited to the following:

Failing A drop of two or more grades Unacceptable behavior Excessive absences or tardiness

Do not give a student an interim report immediately before the report cards are submitted to the office. Good Interim Reports provide support for students and enhance parental support.

KEYSKeys are issued to a teacher and are not to be used by anyone but the teacher, unless approved by administration. Teachers will receive a key to their classroom as well as a key to the building, staff restrooms, and teacher’s lounge. Teachers are not to allow students to use their keys. It is a violation of School Board Policy to duplicate school keys. Teachers are financially responsible for any key lost during the school year.

LOST KEYS MUST BE REPORTED IMMEDIATELY Keys are not to be kept on Key rings/lanyards that have the school

name on them.

LEARNING COMMUNITIES-PLC’sLearning Communities are integral parts of the instructional planning process. Each teacher will participate in PLC’s.

LESSON PLANS AND CLASS RECORD BOOKSAn effective teacher plans not only his/her day, but plans ahead. It is most important to make full use of the planning time available. Teachers are strongly encouraged to plan with other members on their grade level. Plan books are an important part of

documentation and every teacher must have one. The organization and contents of plan books are the responsibility and concern of the individual teacher; however, in order that the program may not be interrupted by an unavoidable absence of the instructor, all teachers are asked to be uniform in following the suggestions below:

Cover Teacher's name and date First Page Schedule of week's activities. The bell schedule and lunch period should be noted. Specify your lunchtime as well as instructional planning (specials). Plan Overall plans based on objectives of lesson. Do you want to add expectations for New sunshine state standards and

posting of objectives?The plan book is a specific guide for teachers and substitutes. Specific time schedules, daily work, seating plan, and any other emergency information should be noted. Names of reliable students and a folder of work for use by the substitute should be included. Be sure to include the Common Core Standards, ELL Strategies, and ESE Accommodations. Lesson plans may be checked as often as deemed necessary by administration. It is not a good policy to take the plan book home. If it should be at home and you happen to need a substitute, it must be returned by some means. Lesson plans may be done on the teacher’s laptop; however, a hard copy must be printed and in the teacher’s plan book for the week.

LETTERS/NOTES TO WHOLE CLASSAll letters, notices, etc. that are to be sent home with students must be approved by the administration prior to distribution. Please coordinate with grade level members and design one item for each notice, etc. if possible.

LOUNGE POLICYThe use of the school lounge is primarily restricted to the paid employees of Dolphin Bay Elementary. In compliance with Federal Regulations, the school lounge has been designated as a non-smoking area. Students and employee’s children are never allowed in the staff lounge. All staff are requested to keep the lounge tidy and to keep the doors locked at all times.

MAILBOX Each staff member is assigned a mailbox. Notes, messages, materials will be placed in them. Staff members should check their box daily. Student flyers should be sent home on the day they are received. Mailboxes must not be used for storage. STUDENTS MUST NOT BE SENT TO RETRIEVE MAIL OUT OF THE TEACHERS MAILBOX. Please treat information placed in individual boxes with respect.

MARKETING THE SCHOOLWe must plan ways to inform parents and the community of the positive things going on in our school. Each of us must assume responsibility for getting the “good news” out. There are many ways that this may be done, examples are:

Invite parents to visit classrooms for presentations, etc. Involve parents Send happy notes with students’ projects Create innovative ideas for follow-up lessons Make telephone calls to parents

Speak positively about the students, school, zone schools and the school system.

Set high standards for behavior and achievement Provide clubs, enrichment activities, etc. Participate in competitions, e.g., spelling bees, math, and social studies Inform administration, in writing, at least two weeks in advance, if you would

like the press to write a story about one of your projects.Administration is required to notify the Area Office and Community Relations if the press is invited to the school.

MEDIA CENTERAll students, parents and staff are welcome to use the media center for book checkout, and as a resource for many materials such as listening sets, magazines, videotapes/DVDs, music and a professional teacher collection. We ask that as a courtesy to other staff members, that you limit your checkouts of “special occasion” materials and return them promptly so others can also use them with their classes. (For example: Thanksgiving books and videos) Please remember to checkout all materials at the checkout desk before taking them from the media center. (This includes all videos!) Each teacher is responsible for all items they check out of media. All lost items must be returned, replaced or paid for- cash only.

MEDICATIONTeachers are not to administer medication to children. If a child requires medication during school (this includes aspirin and prescription medicines), the child must be sent to the office with the medication. A medication form must be sent home and filled out by the physician. The completed form must be kept in the clinic.

MONTHLY CALENDARAll school events will be kept on the Dolphin Bay CAB Calendar.

MORNING ANNOUNCEMENTSOur morning announcements, DBTV, will be broadcast from the Media Center via the Closed Circuit TV system to all classrooms beginning promptly after the 8:00 bell AM. It is expected that the entire school’s faculty/staff and students tune in for the Pledge of Allegiance, news, information, upcoming events, pertaining to our school program. If you would like to have an announcement made during the morning program, please see the teacher in charge.

NEWSLETTERSThe major means of communication to parents will be our newsletter. All teams, guidance, and special area teachers, etc. will be asked to provide articles on a monthly basis. The newsletter will be published once per month on the school’s website.

PARENT NOTICESSend all flyers on the day they are received. Flyers will be placed in mailboxes or copy room.

PARENT/ TEACHER ASSOCIATION (PTA) /SCHOOL ADVISORY FOURM

(SAF) /SCHOOL ADVISORY COUNCIL (SAC)All staff members are encouraged to join the school’s organizations. Teachers will be elected to represent the staff at monthly SAC meetings. SAF and SAC meetings will be scheduled at the beginning of the year and posted in the monthly calendar. You are welcome to participate and all staff members are encouraged to join our PTA and support PTA functions.

PHONE MESSAGESAll phone messages will be routed to the Voice Mail System. It is important to check your voice mail daily for messages and return all calls within 24 hours.

PHYSICAL EDUCATION EQUIPMENTPhysical education equipment for class recess will be organized by the P.E. Coach and placed in the area where they are to be utilized. Please return the equipment to the designated area for other classes to use.

PONY MAILMessages and small materials are moved between the schools and county offices on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday by means of a truck delivery route called the "PONY". Special Envelopes are available for this in the office.

PARTIESAll parties must have the prior approval of administration. No parties may take place on the last day prior to any vacation. All holiday parties should have an academic focus and be tied into what is currently being studied in class. Holiday parties should be used as a way of extending and enhancing what is being taught in class. Parties should be consistent across the grade level. Any food being consumed for classroom parties must be store bought. All class parties involving food must take place after your regularly scheduled lunchtime.

P.M.P.Students, who do not meet academic standards, will have a completed Progress Monitoring Plan (PMP). PMP’s must be completed for all students who are working below grade level as per School Board Policy 6000.1. All PMP’s are to be completed electronically by the end of the first marking period.PROFESSIONAL GROWTH PLANSPGP Plans are developed in iObservation each year. Please adhere to the timeline.

PROGRESS REPORTS/REPORT CARDSReports of students’ progress are issued four times a year (once each quarter). Students must be in attendance for 25 days in a Broward County school to receive a progress report. Reports cards cannot be issued prior to approved issue date. Policy #6000.1 has specific criteria that have been established for promotion, including alternative assessments.REQUEST FOR CLASS CHANGEAdministration handles all classroom changes.

REQUEST TO LEAVE EARLY- FLEX TIMEIf during the school day an emergency arises and it is necessary to leave school, a

Request to Leave Early form must be filled out approved by administration prior to leaving campus. Forms can be found in the teacher mailbox room or outside the office manager’s office.

FLEX TIMEFlex Time can be earned for participating in family nights, PTA meetings, loss of a break due to testing/ field trips, opening doors early on the first day of school or any other time that the principal stipulates. If you are using pre-approved Flex Time for leaving early, your Flex Time Log must be completed and turned into the Principal for approval 24 hours prior to the requested time. Flex Time can only be used and earned in the current school year.

When completing the Flex Time Log, please make all entries separate. This means Flex Time earned should be entered with date, start time, end time, hours earned, and reason. Flex Time used should be entered with date, start time, end time, hours earned, and reason.

Flex Time can only be used when no student contact time is involved. Flex time cannot be used when late to work. Flex Time cannot be used on Early Release Days or Planning Days when Staff Development is planned, or on Tuesdays when Staff and Team Meetings are planned.

Flex Time Logs are available in the Dolphin Bay CAB Conference in the Dolphin Bay Info Folder.

Administration notification must be given for all types of leave or sign-out.

RESTROOMSStudents are encouraged to use the restrooms prior to coming to the cafeteria for lunch, as there is limited access in the cafeteria.(RtI) – See the RtI HANDBOOKSCHOOL SOCIAL WORKERA School Social Worker who is employed by the School Board serves our school. The School Social Worker will make home visits to discuss school concerns such as attendance, obtaining parent signatures, and other school/student related items. To request the services of the School Social Worker, see the guidance counselor. Administration must sign the referral form.SECURITYOur school security system is activated all weekend. No one is to enter the school site unless you are informed, in advance that administration and/or the custodial staff will be on campus. The school site is opened by 6:00 AM every regular school day by our Head Custodian. The School site is then secured by 8:30 p.m. by the night custodial staff. If you plan on working late, please notify the custodians so they can make sure you have left before they lock up. Please do not attempt to enter the school site at any other times. The alarm will alert police. The principal, assistant principal, and the head custodian will have to respond to the call and secure the school site.

SNACK TIMESnack time is not a subject. Students should be eat their snack in conjunction with a classroom assignment.STAFF BADGESStaff will receive ID badges at the beginning of the year and are asked to wear these at all times.

STAFF CHILDRENStaff members with children will be responsible for making the necessary arrangements for their child/children from 7:30 AM- 8:00 AM and 2:00-3:00 PM and on Early Release and Planning Days. Staff students are not permitted to be in classrooms/offices or roaming around the school campus during these times. Applications for Sunshine Aftercare can be obtained through Sunshine.

STATEWIDE ASSESSMENTStudents in grades 3 through 5 participate in the Florida statewide FCAT SSS Assessment. Additionally, students in grade 4 take the FCAT Writing test and students in 5th grade take the FCAT Science Assessment.

STRUCTURED RECESS/SUPERVISED PLAY ON NON-PE WEEKSTeachers are expected to provide a daily Structured Recess on non-PE weeks. Classes should have a structured activity for 30 minutes daily in grades K-5th. This activity can take place indoors or outdoors and must consist of planned games and activities. The teacher should actively supervise participating students at all times. The responsibility for students personally rests with the teacher. Students should not be restricted from participating in supervised play as a result of a school rules infraction or as a form of punishment. Please adhere to your Structured Recess schedule in order to avoid too many classes on the playground or field area. All classes should remain clear of the areas being utilized by the PE coach.

STUDENT ASSEMBLY BEHAVIOR/TEACHER RESPONSIBILITIESPlease review proper behavior with students when attending assemblies. Students should be sitting and listening to the presentation. Teachers need to be actively supervising students and correcting any behaviors as they happen. Teacher laptops should be left in the classroom.

SUBSTITUTE TEACHERSAny teacher who plans to have a sub for more than three consecutive days needs clearance from administration for approval of sub. Please use Sub Finder. In general, we will not ask faculty members to "cover" for someone unless it is impossible to obtain a substitute. Substitutes must be provided with properly kept, advanced plans and with student rosters and clear information on the daily routine. Administration will check these plans at regular intervals. A substitute folder must be kept in the classroom, updated and readily accessible for the substitute. Administration will approve and place all interim substitutes.

SUPPLIES FOR STUDENTS

Students cannot be mandated to purchase supplies. Arrangements must be made to give required supplies to those students that cannot voluntarily bring their own.

TARDIES (STUDENTS)All students are tardy when entering the classroom after 8:00 AM and need to be marked tardy in Pinnacle.

TARDIES (STAFF)Teachers are expected to be on time and planning at 7:30 AM daily. If you are tardy, you must call administration prior to your arrival.

TEACHING CERTIFICATESA copy of your Florida Department of Education Teaching Certificate must be on file with the office manager. Failure to renew your teaching certificate will result in non-renewal of your contract.

TEACHING ASSISTANTSThe following activities are not within the job description of a Teaching Assistant:

Teaching assistants may not assign a grade to a student’s work. They may check and score objective item responses, (i.e.: math papers, multiple choice, spelling).

Teaching assistants may not be left in charge of an entire class without the teacher present. (In an emergency, tell the teacher located closest to your room or notify the office).

No Teaching assistant shall be asked by another staff member to change his or her job assignment without prior administrative approval.

Teaching assistants are not to be held responsible for the supervision of students on the playground or picking students up from a special or lunch.

Teaching assistants should be kept busy at all times. If you have nothing for them to do, refer them to administration and they will be assigned to another area.

Teaching assistants are assigned to grade levels/classrooms to assist ESE students to be successful in the general education classroom.

TELEPHONE CALLSCalls will be transferred to the teacher’s classroom between 7:30 AM - 8:00 AM. If the call rolls back to the office, the call will be sent to the teacher’s voice mailbox. Unless the teacher informs the office that a telephone call is expected from a parent, calls will not be transferred to the classroom during student/teacher contact time. In case of an emergency, the teacher will be called over the intercom. 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM Same as above. School Board Policy states that any and all long distance telephone calls made for school business shall be properly logged on a long distance form. (All clerical staff and the office manager have the proper form). Such calls must first be cleared through administration. Students may only use the telephone in the classroom in case of an emergency and under direct supervision of the teacher. Personal classroom and cell phone use is limited to planning and lunch times. Parents should not be called during student contact time.

TEMPORARY DUTY AUTHORIZATION (TDA)TDA's are required for all out-of-county workshops, conferences, and conventions,

team leader release days, off campus field trips, or after school inservice. It is also required for in county inservice and workshops where funds are being requested from our school's budget. Job numbers for absence must be recorded on the bottom of all TDA’s. Anyone off campus without prior approval of a TDA, will be required to return to campus. All TDA’s must have prior approval from administration. A TDA must be submitted to administration, 4 weeks prior to the TDA taking place, for principal’s signature and approval. TDA’s must also be recorded on Sub Finder; even TDA’s for field trips need to be called in to Sub Central. Job Numbers must be recorded on the bottom of all TDA’s. TDA’s may be cancelled if there is not a qualified person to cover the class. There is a new electronic TDA, which has been emailed to you and placed in the Dolphin Bay Info folder in CAB.

TEXTBOOKSAll students are required to have a complete set of textbooks. Students are required to pay for lost/damaged textbooks.

TUTORINGSchool Board Policy #4202 prohibits a teacher from receiving reimbursement for tutoring a student in any of his/her classes. A teacher tutoring a child not in his/her class may not use school facilities or materials for this tutoring.VANDALISM OF PROPERTY DAMAGEAll members of the instructional staff should consider that it is their responsibility to report any incident of property damage by students or others so that restitution can be gained and repairs made. This pertains to the damage of equipment, materials, furniture, or to the school site proper.VIDEOSPlease see the attachment Broward School’s Audiovisual Materials Use Guidelines. All full-length movies that are not part of the media collection must be tied to your curriculum and must be approved by administration before viewing. The film rating must be G. The official form that must be filled out and kept on file in the front office for parent’s review. (Form 2238) Also, parents that do not wish for their child to view a movie may request an alternative assignment.VIRTUAL COUNSELORVirtual Counselor is part of the SBBC Data Warehouse and houses a variety of information/reports about students. The student data in VC is very helpful in understanding past and current student performance.VISITORS AND VOLUNTEERSVisitors are required to register in the office. No teacher should admit an unknown person to the classroom without asking his identity. All visitors will be wearing a visitor’s badge. Teachers must report any adults walking around campus without an identification badge or button to the office as soon as possible. Instruction should begin promptly at 8:00 AM. All visitors should be asked to leave once the 8:00 AM bell rings. Teachers should not allow visitors to use class time for discussion of individual student concerns. During the first day of school, parents will be allowed to escort their child on Campus and to class. On the second day of school, students must be dropped off in the carpool area. No parents will be allowed on campus unless they have a scheduled conference and have signed in at the front office and

obtained a visitor badge. All teachers need to reinforce this policy with parents at conferences and Open House so we can maintain a safe and secure campus.Volunteers are encouraged at Dolphin Bay Elementary to assist teachers in the classrooms. All volunteers must register in the office and wear a volunteer badge. Their hours are important to our accumulation of hours for the Golden School Award: a county recognition for schools.All volunteers must complete an application form at www.getinvolvedineducation.com and be approved before they may chaperone or work at school.WITHDRAWALSWhen learning of student plans for withdrawal, classroom teachers should:

Notify office manager and fill out a Withdrawal Checklist. Collect all books or school property in the child's possession. Investigate library debts or cafeteria debts. If at least 25 days passed in a marking period, fill in a report card (in ink if

leaving the county, in pencil if going to another Broward County School). Any part of the student's 25 days may have been in another Broward

County School. Pencil in all available data on the cum folder. Send cum folder and report card to guidance within two days after the

withdrawal. Teacher must sign attendance card, make a photocopy of it, and put inside

the cum. Complete the cum folder checklist Return the folder to the counselor.

WORKERS COMPENSATIONThe School Board is subject to provisions of the Workers Compensation Act (Charter 440 F.S.), the same as any other employer. This act requires that all work-connected injuries be reported promptly. Failure to do so will result in penalties. The fines and penalties will be assessed against the school or department responsible for the late reporting. If you are injured, report the accident that day to the office. Any person going to a doctor not authorized by the employer and/or workers compensation insurance carrier will be responsible for his or her own medical expenses.

WORKROOM/MEDIAClean up after yourself. Keep di-cuts in ABC order. Do not remove paper rolls for bulletin boards from the rack