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Estancia Elementary School

Family Handbook

2013-2014

At Estancia Elementary School, We all use “Bear Skills”

Estancia Bears are:

Respectful

Responsible

Safe

Estancia Bears are COOL, they follow the GOLDEN RULE!

Glenda Noblitt Upper Elementary – (505) 384-2004 Principal Lower Elementary and Van Stone Elementary– (505) 384-2005 Fax: (505) 384-2015

Estancia Elementary SchoolsP.O. Box 68 / Estancia, NM 87016

Estancia Municipal SchoolsBoard of Education Vision Statement

The Estancia Municipal School District believes in educating ALL students to become

productive and successful citizens. Instructional programs must challenge

all students to reach their potential. All other programs offered are in support of this.

Estancia Elementary SchoolEducational Plan for Student Success (EPSS) Goals

Ensure that teachers are effective and able to improve instruction.

Redesign the school day, week, or year to include additional time for student learning and teacher collaboration.

Strengthen the school’s instructional program and ensure that it is research-based, rigorous, and aligned to the Common Core State Standards.

Use multiple data sources to inform instruction for continuous improvement.

Establish a school environment that improves school safety and discipline.

Provide ongoing opportunities for family and community engagement.

We take PRIDE in helping your child reach for SUCCESS!

As you can read above, the fine schools that make up the Estancia Elementary team take Pride in helping your child reach for Success! We believe that every child that comes through our system and to our schools has the true potential to achieve greatness and success. It is our responsibility as highly qualified educators to make an educational difference by helping your child to achieve this potential. Our profession allows us to work with students who are hungry for knowledge, students who need encouragement, and families who look to us for support and guidance.

Estancia Elementary School is proud that you are a part of our educational team. We are here to educate the future generation, and to build an educational foundation that will excite and encourage our kids to be lifelong learners. Each parent, student, teacher, and family that is involved with our school is a vital part of the educational process. We must work as a team to ensure solid success for our children.

Within the pages that follow is information that will assist us in our efforts to achieve our school goals, district vision statement and guidelines and policies that ensure that we provide a safe, organized and enriching school environment. Please notice our school discipline matrix and the information that has been included regarding our EES Positive Behavior Supports.

We ask that you please read this handbook and our rules with your child. Please sign the signature page and return to your child’s homeroom teacher by August 30, 2013.

We have OUTSTANDING schools in the Estancia School District! Please unite with us to build the future, to inspire your child, to make a difference in their individual educational progression and to help them to reach the great successes that await them. There are teachable moments every day. Our goal is to make the most of these opportunities to push your child to immensity.

Sincerely,

Glenda NoblittElementary Principal

TABLE OF CONTENTS

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY STATEMENT

Estancia Municipal Schools is an equal opportunity educational entity that does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability, religion or any

other legally protected classification in compliance with federal and state law.

SECTION / TOPIC Page #

ATTENDANCE PROCEDURES 5 – 8

SUPPORT INFORMATION 9– 15

ACADEMIC INFORMATION 15-18

EES STUDENT DISCIPLINE MATRIX AND DEFINITIONS 19-24

ESTANCIA SCHOOLS ANTI-BULLYING POLICY 24-28

CYBERBULLYING 28-29

SIGNATURE PAGE Please Remove & Sign 30

RETURN BY 8/30/2013-HOMEROOM TEACHER

COMPULSORY SCHOOL ATTENDANCE

Administrative Procedures

Class attendance will be taken and maintained by class period for every instructional day for each student in each class in each school or school program.

Schools will report unexcused absences of two or more classes up to fifty percent of an instructional day as one-half day absence, and the unexcused absence of more than fifty percent of an instructional day will be counted as one full-day absence.

Students will be withdrawn as provided in Section 22-8-2 NMSA 1978 only after exhausting intervention efforts to keep students in educational settings.

Definitions:

1. Unexcused Absence : an absence for which no appropriate excuse has been provided by the student's parent or legal guardian within the time limits provided by this policy. Special family situations may be considered appropriate for excused absence when prior approval is received from the principal or his/her designee.

2. Excused absence: an absence for which an appropriate excuse has been provided by the student’s parent or legal guardian within the time limits provided by this policy. Acceptable explanations include illness or personal injury, death in the immediate family, medical appointments that cannot be scheduled apart from school, family emergencies (with administrative discretion), educational experience (previously approved by administration), religious holidays, when the school bus cannot make its run, activity absences (school related absences).

3. A Student in Need of Early Intervention: A student who has accumulated five unexcused absences within a school year.

4. Habitual Truant: a student who has accumulated ten or more unexcused absences within a school year.

5. Activity Absence: An absence that is the result of a student’s participation in co-curricular or extra-curricular activities.

Attendance Requirements

1. Parent Notification of Absence: parent or guardian shall notify the school each day his or her child will be absent from any class and the reason for the absence; or shall provide a written and signed verification of the reason for the student’s absence, to be presented upon the first day a student returns to school from any absence. If a student has been absent for 3 or more consecutive days due to illness, the principal or his/her designee may require written verification from the student’s professional health-care provider.

2. Prolonged Illnesses: In cases of chronic or prolonged illnesses expected to last 10 days or more, during which the student is able to do school work, the student’s parent or guardian shall present written verification by the student’s professional health care provider of the expected length of the illness and of the student’s ability to do school work at home, and the student shall be placed on home-bound study until he or she can return to school.

3. Make Up of Work Missed; Grades: Following an excused absence, a student shall be given a reasonable time by his or her teacher within which to make up the work the student missed during the absence. A student may or may not be provided the opportunity to make up the work missed during an unexcused absence (administrative discretion).

At applicable grade levels, if an absence is unexcused, or if the student fails to make up the work missed during an excused absence within the time permitted, any work for which a grade was taken may or may not be counted as a zero for such student in the teacher's grade book, and averaged into the student's grades for the relevant grading period (administrative discretion).

4. Discipline: In addition to the other measures to be imposed according to this policy, students may receive detention, in-school suspension, a referral to the Truancy Response Team, be referred for in home community services or other discipline designed to keep the student in school and progressing academically, for each unexcused absence, at the discretion of the Principal or his/her designee. Out-of-school suspension and expulsion will not be used as punishment for truancy or unexcused absences.

5. Notice to Parents of Unexcused Absence: If a student is absent from school without a parent notification of absence, as required by paragraph 1 above, the principal or his/her designee will, as soon as practicable, contact the parents or legal guardians by telephone or to give notice of the student’s absence and to ascertain and document the reason for the absence.

6. Third Unexcused Absence--Parent Conference Recommended : Upon a student’s accrual of a third unexcused absence, the school will provide written notice to the student’s parent or legal guardian recommending that the parent/guardian meet with the Principal or his/her designee for the purpose of identifying the cause(s) of the unexcused absences

7. Seventh Unexcused Absence--Parent Conference Required : Upon the student’s accrual of a seventh unexcused absence during the school year, the school shall notify the student’s parent/guardian that he or she is required to attend a conference to establish a plan to prevent future unexcused absences. The plan will be confirmed in writing and signed by the principal and the parent or legal guardian during the conference. The notification to the student’s parent(s)/guardians(s) and the meeting with the parent(s) /guardians(s) must be respectful and in a language and manner that is understandable to the student and the parent(s)/guardian(s). Notice of the these unexcused absences will also be sent to the Tri-County Juvenile Justice Board Truancy Response Team for the judicial district in which the student resides for appropriate action, which may include investigation under the Children’s Code.

8. Eleventh Unexcused Absence s : Following notification of parents of a student’s seventh unexcused absence, the school will refer elementary students to the Children Youth and

Family Department Statewide Central Intake (FAX # 505.841.6691 or email [email protected]) and secondary students to the Probation Services Office (FAX # 505.382.1827) for the judicial district in which the student resides for appropriate action and/or investigation as to whether the student shall be considered to be a neglected child or a child in a family in need of services because of habitual truancy and thus subject to the provisions of the Children’s Code. Copies of all letters (3 unexcused, 7 unexcused, and 11 unexcused absences) and a copy of the student’s attendance records shall be included with each referral. Within 5 work days, the school shall receive notification of receipt. School staff will cooperate with both agencies and the District Attorney in enforcement actions.

9. Parent Failure to Meet: If a parent/guardian fails to arrange, or to appear for, a conference regarding unexcused absences within 10 days of notice from the school, the school will provide written notice to the Children Youth and Family Department and Probation Services Office (phone # 505.384.2780) of such failure. School staff will cooperate with the Juvenile Probation Office or the District Attorney in enforcement actions.

10. Notice and Reports of Habitual Truancy: If the student is a habitual truant, the local school authorized representative shall, in addition, give written notice of the habitual truant by mail to or by personal service on the student’s parent/guardian. The notice shall include a date, time and place for the parent to meet with the local district to develop intervention strategies that focus on keeping the student in an educational setting. If a student continues to accrue unexcused absences after written notice of habitual truancy has occurred, the student shall be reported, within 7 days, to the Probation Services Office of the judicial district where the student resides for an investigation as to whether the student shall be considered to be a neglected child or a child in a family in need of services because of habitual truancy and thus subject to the provisions of the Children’s Code.

11. Excessive and Pattern Absences: Habitual student absences shall be monitored for patterns (i.e., every Monday or Friday), and reported as required herein.

12. Distribution of Policy; Acknowledgment of Receipt: A copy of this policy and an acknowledgment form will be issued to each student on the first day of school. The student shall return the acknowledgment form, signed by his or her parent/guardian no later than the fifth day of school. A student who fails to return a signed form within that time may be subject to the disciplinary actions prescribed herein.

Note: It should be noted that students that are the age of majority or emancipated must continue to comply with all rules, regulations, and procedures of the High School or be subject to disciplinary action.

mailto:[email protected]

ATTENDANCE PROCEDURES :

ATTENDANCE POLICY – In the event of a necessary absence, parents must call the school attendance office (384-2009) and leave a message no later than 9:30 a.m. The district’s electronic student information system (Powerschool) will call parents automatically throughout the school day. Upon a student’s return, parents must submit a written excuse for the absence to the student’s homeroom teacher.

Students are responsible for making up any and all missed work as arranged and agreed to by the teacher. Students are expected to hand in work on time. If a student is absent due to a school approved absence, he/she will be given one day for each day absent to make up missed work unless otherwise extended by the teacher. Students must be in attendance and must miss no more than four school days within a semester to be considered for excellent attendance. Unexcused absences will result in the student being unable to make up school work other than a major exam project. Please help your child develop regular attendance habits.

Elementary School is the best time to assist your child in developing good attendance habits. Calling in absences, writing a note the day of return from an absence, and ensuring your child is in school all show the student you care and that attendance is important to your child’s education.

TARDY and LEAVING EARLY- The school day begins at 8:10 AM and ends at 3 PM.

Students must be in their seats and ready to learn when the bell rings at 8:10 AM. Breakfast and morning announcements occur from 8:15 – 8:25 AM. Instruction begins at 8:25 AM.

If a student is tardy, parents/students must sign in at the office upon arrival. Excessive tardiness will result in contact from the Estancia Attendance Officer and Elementary Principal. Three tardies will count as a day missed for the purpose of attendance awards.

Students must stay in school until 3:00pm. Occasionally students have a doctor or dentist appointment. If that is the case, the student will need to bring a note from the doctor. Students who are checked out early three times without an excuse will count as a day missed for the purpose of attendance awards.

STUDENT ILLNESS- Estancia Elementary School houses the EMS District Nurse at the Lower Elementary School, room # 10. 505-384-2005.

In the event that your child becomes ill at school, the District Nurse will report illnesses to the individual student’s principals. The District Nurse will contact parents to pick up ill children or children who may be contagious, IMMEDIATELY. The District Nurse will refer to Parent Contact Cards/Information located in the site offices to get in touch and let you know of all child illnesses. It is important that updated home phone numbers and addresses be provided to the school for home contacts (Emergency Contact forms are updated each year).

PLEASE NOTE-In the unfortunate event of an accident, at school, where your child is injured, the District Nurse’s priority is your child’s safety. She will treat your child immediately, make sure they are safe and then contact you.

SUPPORT INFORMATION

SCHOOL BUS TRANSPORTATION-The Estancia Municipal Schools District has very specific guidelines for all students who ride buses daily.

The first priority of each bus driver is STUDENT SAFETY. Students are expected to behave, talk quietly, follow directions, and are to respect their bus driver as the manager/teacher of the bus ride. Student discipline/bus referrals are submitted to the district Transportation Director, and then to the Elementary Principal to be enacted upon.

Students found to be in non-compliance of bus rules can be removed from the bus---with no consideration for alternative modes of transportation, at parent expense.

The privilege of riding the school bus is governed by the state, as well as local regulations. Students will not be allowed to ride any bus other than his/her regularly assigned bus without filing a request form with the Transportation Director. Non-bus students must also obtain permission from the Transportation Director.

STUDENT DROP OFF & PICK UP- Students are NOT TO BE DROPPED OFF before 7:50 AM. Students are to be picked up no later than 3:15 PM.

Parents who drop off and pick up students from private vehicles must do so in designated non-bus areas. Children who walk to school and other early arrivals should stay clear of the bus area (parents parking in bus loading area or fire marked zones will be ticketed).

Upon arrival to school, students must go directly to the playground or office (see tardy policy). Students may only be in the school building prior to 8:10 if under the supervision of a teacher and/or parent.

TRANSFER STUDENTS- Estancia Elementary is an exciting place for new families. We welcome all transfer students and families to our valley. You may call 384-2004/384-2005 to set up a meeting with the Principal.

New students entering Estancia Elementary must be enrolled by a parent or legal guardian. Students will be admitted if they transfer with a good standing status from another elementary school. All students must have an established residency in the Estancia Municipal Schools district boundary. (See District Boundary Maps in the EMS Central Office for concerns)

Elementary School will follow the District Policy 303.3.1 for out of district students. Students may be admitted from out of district depending on space availability, discipline records, transcripts, and prior school history pending an interview with the Elementary Principal for placement.

The following documentation is required for children to enroll in Estancia Elementary School:

Copy of Official Birth Certificate (“Hospital” certificates are not acceptable) Up-to-date Immunization records Up –to-date Contact Card for Site Office

Other requested documentation includes: Social Security Number (for state reporting) and any previous school records, specifically special education, grades, and standardized testing information.

STUDENT WITHDRAWL PROCEDURES- Withdrawal of a student from school MUST be handled through the site office.

Parents are requested to contact the school office one-week prior to withdrawal to ensure accumulation of student fees, records, grades, and student designation and complete the appropriate paperwork. Students must return all books and school property, pay fines and fees, and obtain grades from all teachers. Student data WILL NOT be sent to another school until the withdrawal process is complete.

STUDENT RESOURCE AREAS/INFORMATION- There are numerous resources and locations that house students on our campus.

Contained within the campus of Estancia Elementary School are three (3) separate schools. Lower Elementary is comprised of Kindergarten and 1st Grade. Van Stone Elementary houses our 2nd Graders, and Upper Elementary is the area for 3rd-6th Grades. We have three (3) separate playgrounds for each respective age group. Physical Education courses are held at the gymnasiums located in Van Stone.

Additionally, we have two (2) libraries (located at Upper and Lower elementary) as well as three (3) computer labs for students to access.

Students are allowed to access our network pending an on file Technology Users Agreement and compliance with district technology requirements. Short Term Assessments are required of ALL students grades K-6. Students who violate technology requirements WILL BE removed from computer access.

Kindergarten through 2nd grade are tested via Ipod devices to check for understanding of core primary skills.

Classes are scheduled for library visits on a weekly basis. Books are checked out for a two week period, except for reference books and magazines, which are due the following day. Students in grades PreK-2 may borrow one book at a time, while grades 3-6 may borrow two books.

While the Elementary Schools do not charge for overdue books, students are encouraged to return materials by the due date so others can enjoy them. Students are expected to pay for lost books. If the book is returned later, a refund will be provided.

TELEPHONES/COMMUNICATION- Throughout the day there may be times when you need to reach your child or have contact. Therefore, you may contact the front office of Lower 384-2005 and Upper 384-2004 to make contact with your child.

Classroom instruction will NOT be interrupted due to phone calls and child communication. Secretaries are required to deliver messages to students without interruption of the learning environment.

Students need to take care of all personal business before coming to school. If unforeseen problems arise, they may be allowed to use the office phone at the discretion of the teacher and office staff. There are public phones for student calling located in the front office of each school. Students are NOT allowed to make calls from classrooms.

It is important that updated home phone numbers and addresses be provided to the school for home contacts (Emergency Contact forms are updated each year).

PARENT/TEACHER CONTACTS- All parent/teacher communications are expected to occur for the betterment of the child. Teachers are required to contact parents regularly to notify of student progress and upcoming events. All teachers keep a phone log of calls made to parents and letters sent home.

Messages will be taken for calls that are made to staff members during the instructional day. Staff members will return these calls at their earliest convenience outside of instructional time.

Telephone calls will not be transferred to classroom unless it is an absolute emergency. Students and parents need to make arrangements for after school prior to coming to school. Classes and instruction cannot be interrupted for personal messages.

STUDENT AGENDA PLANNERS- All Estancia Elementary students receive a STUDENTAGENDA PLANNER.

It is vital that parents continuously utilize planners daily to keep open communication with homeroom teachers.

IF A TEACHER IS NOT UPDATING YOUR CHILD’S PLANNER, PLEASE NOTIFY THE SCHOOL PRINCIPAL FOR AN IMMEDIATE PARENT/TEACHER CONFERENCE.

Students and Parents are expected to keep track of the planner and to utilize it throughout the entire year.

AFTER SCHOOL ACTIVITIES/EVENTS- Students are expected to exhibit appropriate behavior at all times when associated with school.

When participating in after school extracurricular activities, regular school rules apply. Students must have written parental approval to participate in after school activities. It is the parent’s responsibility to ensure students get to and from activities and are picked up immediately after the activity is completed.

Additionally, there are times throughout the year when families are on campus, or athletic and academic events are hosted in our facilities. Any children or parents violating our site rules will be held to the same standard of the regular school day and hours.

SOCIAL ACTIVITIES AND FUNDRAISERS – All social activities and fundraisers must be approved by appropriate administration prior to the event.

Estancia is a very close, small community. Students are encouraged to participate in fundraising events, but are NOT required to do so. All fundraisers held by Estancia Schools and various students groups are

approved through the Principal’s office and coordinated with the HS Athletic/Activity Coordinator. The administration works very diligently to ensure that fundraisers are practical, affordable and useful for all families and children. All fundraising proceeds are to be spent on our students. If food is sold as a fundraiser, the wellness policy has to be followed.

BREAKFAST/LUNCH PROGRAM- Estancia Elementary is fortunate to receive funding for a free and reduced breakfast program for our students. Breakfast is served to children, in their homerooms after the first bell rings.

The lunch schedule is as follows:

Lower Elementary(Kindergarten through 2nd grades):o 10:50AM-11:25AM

Upper Elementary (3rd, 4th , and 6th Grades)o 11:25AM-Noon

5th Grade students eat in the North Cafeteria from 11 AM to 11:25 AM

MONIES COLLECTED AT SCHOOL- New Mexico State Law requires that schools receipt and deposit money daily. All funds must be submitted to the office secretary daily.

Students are to give any school-related monies to his/her homeroom teacher at the beginning of the day. Staff members are to deliver all money to the office secretary immediately (preferably before 9:00 am).

Parents and guardians may bring money directly to the office before 9:00 am. This gives secretaries time to receipt and deliver monies to the Central Office for deposit in the bank.

FIELD TRIPS- The school may schedule field trips of an educational reward nature. Opportunities for field trips must be filed with the building principal and in a minimum of two weeks prior to the planned event. A chaperone ratio of five students per adult is necessary.

Due to the nature of field trips, siblings are NOT allowed to attend. Reward trips are grade and level standard specific. IE..If 5th grade students go to a nursery cause they are working in the greenhouse, there would no need for other age children to attend. The trip would not be relevant to what they are learning.

Parents are not to take siblings out of school to attend brothers and sister field trips.

Parents are appreciated as chaperones who assist teachers on field trips.

In the event parents wish to take children from field trip sites, prior approval needs to take place via the field trip sponsor. Please submit a release form to the teacher at the field trip. Release forms can be obtained in the school office.

COUNSELING SERVICES – The Counseling Office is available to students to assist them during the elementary school years.

This office is a link between the student, teachers, and parents. Counseling services include, but are not limited to individual/group crisis intervention/counseling, bereavement, and behavior management.

Counseling Services are comprised of a

School Counselor: Students needing to see the counselor can stop by the counseling office after obtaining teacher’s approval. Students may also be referred to the counselor by any staff member or administration.

School Social Worker: Community Liaison who works specifically with families, individual children and governmental agencies for the protection of the child.

School Psychologist: Works very closely with individual children who need coping skills, educational plans, and behavior trainings.

TITLE I – Our school district receives Title I from the Federal Government in Washington DC to assist the education of our students. It is the Districts responsibility to notify you, as parents and legal guardians, that you may request information regarding the professional qualifications of the student’s classroom teacher(s) and any paraprofessionals that may work with the students. Thank you for supporting our schools. If you have any questions or comments, contact the Superintendent at the Central Office, PH: 505-384-2001.

ADMINISTRATION OF MEDICATION- At NO point should any teacher, instructional aide, or child administer medication to another person on the Estancia Elementary Campus. ONLY THE EMS DISTRICT NURSE OR NURSING STAFF ARE ALLOWED TO LEGALLY ADMINISTER MEDICATIONS---pending appropriate paper filing with the offices.

Estancia Municipal Schools is NOT legally obligated to administer medication to any student. Medication will be administered in the school ONLY when it is necessary for a student to remain in school.

1. The School Nurse must be notified in writing of each student taking medications at school and proper documentation kept on file in the Nurse’s Office.

2. A physician must submit, in writing, his/her recommendations. This statement must include the following information: name of student, name of drug, dosage of drug to be administered with the precise schedule of administration, side effects of the drug, and periods of time during which administration of drug is indicated. A medication form can be obtained from the School Nurse.

3. Parents must provide written consent for administration of the drug by school personnel. In addition, parents must provide a telephone number through which either parent may be reached in the event of an adverse reaction to the drug.

4. Medication MUST come to school in the original pharmacy bottle, with your child’s name as the prescribed.

5. Medications must be brought immediately to the School Nurse to be kept in a central location within a locked closet or cabinet. Student administration of their own medication –Only the School Nurse is allowed to house or store medications.

SCHOOL VISITORS- ALL VISITORS ARE REQUIRED TO REPORT TO THE SCHOOL OFFICE TO CHECK IN AND RECEIVE VISITOR DESIGNATIONS. Your child’s Safety is our first concern…..we must be aware of all visitors and people coming onto our campus.

Students visiting from other schools ARE NOT permitted at Estancia Elementary School. In this instance, parents will be called to pick up visitors immediately.

Parents/Guardians are encouraged to become involved in their child’s education, however, for student safety, all non-school personnel must check in at the school office and obtain a visitor’s pass before entering the school hallways. The school administration reserves the right to cancel visitation passes as safety or organizational needs warrant. Visitors may not be allowed to interrupt the educational process.

VISITORS WHO DO NOT COMPLY ARE CONSIDERED TO BE TRESPASSING AND WILL BE ASKED TO LEAVE OR THE AUTHORITIES NOTIFIED!!!

Office Staff will make every effort to reduce unnecessary interruptions to class time. If it is not necessary for you to actually visit the classroom, we will deliver any items dropped off in the office or call the student to the office to receive the materials.

Parents, please DO NOT enter a classroom without signing in the office.

SNOW/WEATHER DAYS/EARLY RELEASE/DELAYS- Local radio and television stations will announce school closures or delayed starts. DO NOT leave your student at school in the event of a delay, dangerous conditions, or early release. Estancia weather is very brutal and ALL children must be supervised and safe.

DELAYED SCHOOL DAYS - On delayed school days, classes will begin at 10:00 A.M. This will be announced as a two (2) hour delay. The breakfast program will be canceled on delayed school days. For students riding the bus, individual bus drivers will notify students of their arrival time. If students do not hear from the driver, the bus will be late by approximately late 1 or 1 1/2 hours depending on the road conditions in the school boundary area.

EARLY RELEASE - When early release becomes necessary, normal release time is 1 PM. School staff will and/or the EMS automated call system will notify you of the release. In case the school staff is unable to contact a parent of a student who rides the bus, the student will be released at the designated time to the bus driver. The driver is responsible for making a contact with a parent before dropping the student off. If no contact can be made, the student will be returned to school until a parent can pick them up. If buses are unable to run in your particular area and school is open, your child will receive an excused absence.

PARENTAL CONTACT - You will also receive automatic emails and phone calls via the districts automated electronic student information system (Powerschool).

STUDENT DRESS CODE – Dress that may disrupt the educational process is not allowed at EES. The school staff reserves the right and has the responsibility to intervene anytime they feel that the appearance of a student does not conform to these standards. Students violating these standards are required to change into appropriate

clothing. With administrative approval, sponsors and coaches may require students to adhere to a different dress code more appropriate for the sport or special event.

1. Skirts, dresses, and shorts must fall below fingertip level when standing with shoulders relaxed, arms at the student’s sides and fingers extended. Spandex style clothing is acceptable only when worn under shorts and skirts of proper length.

2. Hats, caps, sunglasses, and other types of headgear must be removed upon entering any of the school classrooms. Hairnets and bandannas are not worn or displayed on school property.

3. Half-shirts, see-through clothing, or shirts with partial sides or revealing armholes are not allowed. Students may wear sleeveless tops as long as the shoulder strap is at least two inches (2”) wide. Undergarments are not to be exposed. Shirts that reveal cleavage or the mid-section are not allowed. Loose belts, any hanging straps or any type of chain are not allowed.

4. Clothing exhibiting symbols, pictures, and/or printing that references drugs, alcohol, tobacco of any type, or obscenities/inappropriate words/pictures are not allowed.

5. Clothing/Dress/Make-up styles identified by school staff as indicators of gang-like behavior and/or affiliation are prohibited.

6. Tattoos and body piercings that are distracting to the educational environment are not allowed.

Not all situations can be covered in a single document. Therefore, the administration reserves the right to make additions or deletions to the dress code. Chronic violation of the dress code is grounds for disciplinary action.

ACADEMIC INFORMATION

PROCEDURES for CLASS PLACEMENT CHANGES

At EES, our goal is to provide a fair and equitable procedure for all parents. We recognize that all parents want what is in the best interest of their child and we ask that all parents recognize that all the teachers at Estancia Elementary School are highly qualified educators. All student placements have been carried out with as much consideration to their learning needs as is possible. The following process is provided for parents/guardians who are concerned about the current placement of their child as it relates to learning. All steps must be carried out in order for requests to be considered by the committee.

Step 1: ALL class placement change requests will be accepted after two full weeks of school.

Step 2: Observe/Volunteer in your child’s classroom for a minimum of one hour. Write a reflection of your experience (to be turned in with request).

Step 3: Observe at least one other classroom within the same grade level. Write a reflection of your experience (to be turned in with request).

Step 4: Submit a change request form (in Elementary offices) including reflections of both hour-long experiences from steps 2 & 3.

Step 5: The class placement change request committee will meet to determine if changes can occur. The committee will consist of the Principal and/or RtI Director and the EES Counselor. Considerations will include although are not limited to: space availability, class membership, compatibility between student learning style, teaching styles and parent observations/reflections of the classroom experience. The committee will make its decision based upon the listed criteria and what is in the best interest of both the individual child and the class.

Step 6: Parents will be notified by phone of the committee’s decisions within five days of the completed request submittal.

ESTANCIA MUNICIPAL SCHOOLS GRADING POLICY

412.1 In compliance with New Mexico Administrative Code 6.29.1, Estancia Municipal Schools will have a standardized grading system. All grading and reporting practices will support the learning process and encourage student success. It is the policy of the Board of Education to support its professional staff in this professional duty. District wide grading and reporting practices will include the following components:

a. a written report to parents regarding the performance of their children tested with the New Mexico standards-based assessments;

b. for grades 2 – 12, a standardized alphabetic grading system, based on the 4.0 scale;

c. alignment of all district and school curriculum to the New Mexico content standards with benchmarks and performance standards; and

d. all school report card grades shall reflect standards-based academic performance.

There are four levels of student achievement relating to the New Mexico content standards: Advanced = superior achievement Proficient = full mastery of the standards for a particular grade Nearing Proficiency = partial mastery of the standards Beginning Step = minimal mastery of the standards

The district’s grading system is based upon equal intervals as follows: A or 4 = 100% - 90% B or 3 = 89% - 80% C or 2 = 79% - 70% D or 1 = 69% - 60% F or No Credit = 59% - 0%

No Credit = insufficient evidence for determination of proficiency level Kindergarten and First Grade may use an alternative E, S, N, U grading scale with administrative approval.

In order to strike an appropriate balance between practice and assessment, teachers will weight all scores collected into two basic categories;

1. Lesson and Practice Activities = 40% (e.g. classwork, homework, group activities, reviews, etc.) Assigned homework needs to be relevant, attainable, age appropriate, and structured around content with which students have a high degree of familiarity. 2. Unit and Course/Grade Level Understanding and Performance = 60% (e.g. formative and summative assessments, major performance tasks such as essays, presentations, lab experiences, projects, etc.)

ESTANCIA ELEMENTARY HONOR ROLL- Honor Roll (Grades 3-6) is recorded each quarter and announced after 1st and 2nd semesters. Students are recognized as Honor Roll recipients at Fall and Spring Award Ceremonies.

A student’s grade point average (GPA) must be 3.2 or better. No student with a grade less than a C will be admitted to Honor Roll. Students with a GPA of 3.0-3.19999 will be considered as honorable mention.

SCHOOL SUPPLIES- All students are required to come to school ready to learn. This includes bringing all necessary supplies and maintaining an adequate number of supplies throughout the year.

The supply list is distributed with the report cards at the end of the prior school year or when a student is enrolled. Lists can also be obtained from the office during office hours. Parents are encouraged to have extra supplies at home (crayons, scissors, ruler, paper, pencils, sharpener, glue, etc.) so that students can complete homework. Parents should check with students/teachers frequently to see if replacement supplies are needed.

SCHOOL MATERIAL REPLACEMENT- Students are responsible for all school materials that are checked out to them.

Students must pay the cost of replacing materials that they lose or damage.

Report cards, completion paperwork and student transcripts will be HELD in the event materials are not paid for and returned to school. Students may not be allowed to go on reward field trips if they have not returned or replaced school materials that were loaned to them.

RETENTION/REMEDIATION POLICY – Students who are not proficient in grade level skills may be recommended to be retained by the classroom teacher.

EMS Board Policy-412.5 Promotion and Retention – Upon satisfactory completion of local requirements and a students' demonstration of proficiency on the state standards set by the Public Education Department in grades one through seven, there are three options for promotion / retention.

412.5.1 The student is academically proficient and shall enter the next higher grade.

412.5.2 The student is not academically proficient and shall participate in remediation. Uponcertification by the School District that the student is academically proficient, he / sheshall enter the next higher grade.

412.5.3 The student is not academically proficient after completion of the remediation and uponthe recommendation of the certified school instructor and school principal shall either be:

a. retained in the same grade for no more than one school year with anacademic improvement plan developed by the student assistance team inorder to become academically proficient, at which time the student shallenter the next higher grade; or

b. Promoted to the next grade if the parent refuses to allow the child to beretained pursuant to paragraph a. In this case, the parent shall sign a waiverindicating the parent’s desire that the student be promoted the next highergrade with an academic improvement plan designed to address specificacademic deficiencies. The academic improvement plan shall be developedby the student assistance team outlining time lines and monitoring activitiesto ensure progress toward overcoming those academic deficiencies.

Students failing to become academically proficient at the end of that year asmeasured by grades, performance on school district assessments and othermeasures identified by the school district shall be retained in the same gradefor no more than one year in order to have additional time to achieveacademic proficiency.

412.6 At the end of the eighth grade, a student who is not academically proficient shall beretained in the eighth grade for no more than one school year to become academicallyproficient or if the student assistance team determines that retention of the student in theeighth grade will not assist the student to become academically proficient, the team shalldesign a high school graduation plan to meet the student’s needs for entry into the workforce or a post-secondary educational institution. If a student is retained in the eighthgrade, the student assistance team shall develop a specific academic improvement planthat clearly delineates the student’s academic deficiencies and prescribes a specificremediation plan to address those academic deficiencies.

Estancia Elementary Discipline Matrix

Offense Primary Pre-K - Grade 2

Elementary Grades 3- 6

Bullying &Harassment Threat/ IntimidationFight Instigation

1. Loss of privileges2. Parent conference; 1 day ISS 3. Parent conference, 2 days ISS 4. Parent conference, 3 days OSS

1. 3 days ISS2. 5 days ISS 3 7 days ISS4. 3 days OSS 5. 5 days OSS

Bus misconduct Level 1

1. Parent notified / warning2. 1 day bus suspension 3. 3 days bus suspension 4. 5 days bus suspension 5. 5-9 days bus suspension or suspension from bus for remainder of the year

Defacing school property

1. clean, repair/ compensation 2. clean, repair/ compensation and 1 days ISS

1. clean, repair/ compensation, 1 days ISS 2. clean, repair/ compensation 3 days ISS 3. clean, repair/ compensation, 1 day OSS

Disrespectful speech/ action

1. Loss of privileges2.2 days of loss of privileges 3.1 day ISS4. 1 day OSS

1. Loss of privileges2. 1 day ISS 3. 3 days ISS 4. 1 days OSS5. 3 days OSS

Disruptive behavior 1. Loss of privileges2. 2 days loss of privileges3. 1 day ISS4. 3 days ISS5. 1 day OSS

1. Loss of privileges 2. 1 day ISS3. 3 days ISS4. 1 day OSS5. 3 day OSS

Failure to follow classroom/ school rules

Cheating

1. Student conference; parent notified 2. Parent conference; loss of privileges 3. Parent Notified, 1 day ISS4. 2 days ISS5.3 days ISS 6. 1 day OSS

1. Loss of privileges2. 1 day ISS 3. 2 days ISS4. 3 days ISS 5. 1 day OSS6. 3 days OSS

Fighting or battery 1. 1 day ISS 2. 2 days ISS 3. 3 days ISS 4. 1 day OSS5. 3 days OSS

1. 1 day OSS2. 3 days OSS 3. 5 days OSS4. 7 days OSS 5. 9 days OSS, expulsion may be recommended

Horseplay, pushing, running, hitting, kicking

1. Loss of privileges2. 2 days Loss of privileges3. 3 days Loss of privileges4. 1 day of ISS 5. 2 days ISS

1. Loss of privileges2. 1 day ISS 3. 2 days ISS 4. 3 days ISS 5. 1 day OSS6. 3 days OSS

Inappropriate dress, wearing symbols not adhering to dress code

1. Warning, change clothes and contact parents 2. 1 day ISS, student warning, change clothes and contact parents 3. 1 day OSS, student warning, change clothes and contact parents

Defiance 1. Loss of privileges 2. 1 day ISS 3. 3 days ISS4. 1 day OSS

1. Loss of privileges2. 3 days ISS 3. 5 days ISS 4. 1 day OSS

Items not appropriate at school

1.Item(s)will be confiscated and parents will be notified to retrieve item(s) 2. Item(s) will be confiscated and held for 1 week before parents will be able to reclaim property.3. Item(s) will be confiscated and held for the semester before parents will be able to reclaim property.

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Leaving school without authorization

1. Loss of privileges2. 2 days loss of privileges3.1 day ISS 4. 3 days ISS

1. 1 day ISS2. 3 days ISS 3. 5 days ISS

Profanity, foul language, obscene materials or gestures

1.Loss of privileges 2.1 day ISS3. 3 days ISS4. 1 day OSS

1. 1 day ISS2. 3 days ISS3. 1 day OSS 4. 3 days OSS

Sexual harassment

Computer misuse

1. Loss of privileges 2. 1 day ISS 3. 3 days ISS4. 5 days ISS5. 1 day OSS6. 3 days OSS

1. Loss of privileges2. 3 days ISS3. 5 days ISS4. 1 day OSS5. 3 days OSS6. 5 days OSS

Stealing 1. Loss of privileges, restitution 2. 1 day ISS, restitution3. 1 day OSS, restitution, referral to (SRO)

1. 1 day ISS, restitution2. 1 day OSS, restitution3. 3 days OSS, restitution, referral to (SRO)

Vandalism 1. 1 day ISS; damages repaired/replaced 2. 3 days ISS; damages repaired/replaced 3. 3 days OSS, damages repaired or replaced referral to (SRO)

1. 3 days ISS; damages repaired/replaced 2. 3 days OSS, damages repaired or replaced referral to (SRO)3. 9 days OSS, damages repaired or replaced referral to (SRO)

Weapons –Possession Arson/Assault and/or batteryBomb threatsDrugs, alcohol, tobacco - possession, use, sale ofUnauthorized entry into/use of school facilities

9 days OSS, law enforcement notified w/ recommended expulsion for one year

Possession of Knives, lighters, etc. 1. Warning and possible 3 days OSS w/ mandatory parent conference before student returns to class 2. 5 days OSS w/ mandatory parent conference before student returns to class and law enforcement notified 3. 9 days OSS w/ recommended expulsion

CELL PHONE AND ELECTRONIC DEVICE USAGE – Student cell phone and electronic device

(ex. IPod, MP3 players, etc) use is prohibited during the school day. Phones and devices used during the

school day are confiscated and held in the office until the end of the day. The school is not responsible for

lost or stolen phones or electronic devices.

Electronic Device Confiscation Process:

1 st Occurrence - Item is returned to a parent. Principal notifies parent to come pick item up.

2 nd Occurrence -Item is held for one week , parent contact will come from the Principal.

3 rd Occurrence -Item is kept for the semester.

* SATURDAY SCHOOL WILL BE USED AS APPROPRIATE. PLEASE SEE BELOW FOR SATURDAY SCHOOL DETAILS.

1. The discipline matrix is subject to change.2. The extreme nature of any infraction may warrant the most severe discipline. 3. Site administrators may recommend alternate intervention as they see fit. Alternate intervention may include but is not limited to work detail (community service), appropriate loss of privileges, or Saturday School.

Classroom Management Each teacher has well-defined procedures for maintaining an environment conducive to learning. There are structures and routines in place to ensure a safe and disciplined environment. Each teacher is responsible for consistently and equitably applying classroom rules. Positive Behavior Support is the school-wide program that all teachers will implement to increase student academic performance, increase safety, and decrease problem behaviors in a positive school environment.

Saturday SchoolThe administration may assign a student to Saturday School in order to minimize the amount of out of classroom time during an in-school suspension. Saturday School is considered by the District to be a form of in-school suspension. Saturday School shall be conducted in accordance with the following guidelines:

Doors for Saturday School will open at 8:00 a.m. and will close at 8:15 a.m. Students are expected to report on time. It is the student’s responsibility to have all necessary materials to complete any work.

A Saturday School absence will only be excused with a physician’s note. In addition, the student must make up the missed day on the following scheduled Saturday.

Students who cut Saturday school will make up the day the following scheduled Saturday School and will receive one (1) day out of school suspension. Students who cut Saturday School will be ineligible to participate in extracurricular activities until the original assigned Saturday School is served. Students who are assigned to Saturday School will not participate in nor attend any extracurricular activities on the day assigned.

Students must remain quiet and constructively occupied with work throughout the entire morning (8:15am-11:30am). Suggestions for work include school assignments, other work, silent reading or assigned reflective writing.

Students are not permitted to bring food, candy, or drink during Saturday School. Students are not permitted to display or use electronic devices in Saturday School.

While in Saturday School, students who are not following the rules will be given two (2) warnings prior to being sent to the Administrator.

Sleeping or misbehaving will not be tolerated. Students who fail to follow the Saturday School rules will be charged with an additional day of Saturday School.

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In School Suspension (ISS)Students who are assigned to In School Suspension will not participate in nor attend any extracurricular activities on the day assigned.

Students must remain quiet and constructively occupied with work throughout the day. Suggestions for work include school assignments, other work, silent reading or assigned reflective writing.

Students are not permitted to bring food, candy, or drink during ISS. Students are not permitted to display or use electronic devices in ISS.

While in ISS, students who are not following the rules will be given two (2) warnings prior to being sent to the Administrator.

Sleeping or misbehaving will not be tolerated. Students who fail to follow the ISS rules will be charged with a day of Saturday School.

Definitions:

Arson - the willful and malicious burning of any part of a building or its contents Assault- the intentional, unlawful threat by word or act to do violence to the person of another coupled with an apparent ability to do so, and doing some act which creates a well-founded fear in such other person that such violence is imminent Battery- the actual unlawful and intentional/unintentional touching or striking of another against his/her will, or the intentional/unintentional causing of bodily harm.Battery upon a student - the actual intentional/unintentional pushing or striking of another student against the will of the other, or intentionally causing bodily harm to an individual Bomb threat - any such communication(s) which has the effect of interrupting the educational environment Bullying – Systematically and chronically inflicting physical hurt or psychological distress on one or more students or employees that is severe and pervasive enough to create an intimidating, hostile, or offensive environment; or unreasonably interfere with the individual’s school performance or participation Bus misconduct - student behavior that affects, hinders, or otherwise impairs the driver’s concentration and which jeopardizes the safety, health, and welfare of the student or other bused students, or persons or property in the bus area Disrespectful speech/action - lacking proper speech, discourteous, rude, non-verbal, disregard for authority, uncontrolled behavior, and negative performing of conduct Disruptive behavior - student behavior that hinders the teaching process, the learning process, the school’s safety, climate, property, and well being Drugs/alcohol - any substance used as or in a medicine, a narcotic, alcohol, or controlled substance, such as cannabis, or manufactured substance Possession, use, sale - the possession, administration, dispensing, distribution, or delivery of the above items Failure to follow classroom rules - misconduct dealing with the classroom rules as determined by the teacher while student is in said classroom

Fighting - to take part in a physical struggle; to struggle against opposition; to oppose physically as with fist; to actually and intentionally strike another against the will of the other; intentionally causing bodily harm to an individual Fight instigation - a third person instigating, inciting, or encouraging a fight or confrontation between two other individuals Harassment – Any threatening, insulting, or dehumanizing gesture, use of data or computer software, or written, verbal, or physical conduct that places a student or school employee in reasonable fear of harm to his or her person or damage to his or her property, has the effect of substantially interfering with a student’s educational performance, opportunities, or benefits, or has the effect of substantially disrupting the orderly operation of a school including any course of conduct directed at a specific person that causes substantial emotional distress in such a person and serves no legitimate purpose Items not appropriate at school - the bringing of items such as radios, tape players, cameras, video cameras, cellular phones, paging devices, etc. that are not appropriate or beneficial to the learning environment of the school (food, candy, drink, and gum) Leaving school without authority - a pupil who leaves school without proper authority Other infractions - other forms, types of unacceptable behaviors which are not defined or identified by other definitions on this report Profanity, foul language, obscene material - indecent, extremely “dirty” language or material; disgustingly “filthy” language or material Sexual Harassment - (undesired sexual behavior towards another) Unwanted or repeated verbal or physical sexual behavior that is offensive and objectionable to the recipient, causes discomfort or humiliation or creates a hostile environment. The following types of conduct by any adult or student constitute sexual harassment: Threat/Intimidation - (instilling fear in others) Must have all three elements to be considered a threat: (1) intent; (2) fear; and (3) capability. To unlawfully place another person, either another student or a staff member, in fear of harm (emotional or physical) with or without the use of a weapon. Tobacco products: possession, use, sale - cigarettes, cigars, snuff, dipping and chewing tobacco, etc.; leaves prepared for smoking, chewing, or snuffing Vandalism - malicious destruction of property; to destroy or damage propertyWeapon - any weapon which will or is designed to or may be readily converted to expel a projectile by the action of an explosive; the frame or receiver of any weapon described above; any firearm muffler or firearm silencer; any explosive, incendiary, or poison gas; any weapon which will, or may be readily converted to, expel a projectile by the action of an explosive or other propellant, and which has any barrel with a bore of more than one-half inch in diameter; any combination of parts either designed or intended for use in converting any device into any destructive device described in the two immediately preceding examples, and from which a destructive device may be readily assembled. Not included in this definition are an antique firearm; a rifle intended solely for sporting, recreational, or cultural purposes; any device which is neither designed nor redesigned for use as a weapon; any device, although originally designed for use as a weapon, which is redesigned as a signaling, pyrotechnic, line throwing, safety, or similar device; surplus ordnance sold, loaned, or given by the Secretary of the Army pursuant to the provisions of section 4684(2), 4685, or 4686 of title 10; any Class-C common fireworks that are not included in the definition of weapon Wearing symbols/not adhering to the dress code clothing that contains symbol or logos that are not appropriate and are disruptive to the learning environment; wearing of clothes that are not acceptable and do not meet the requirements of the school dress code; caps and hats refer to both male and female students

PROHIBITED ITEMS: These items should not be brought on to this campus: Alcohol, drugs, tobacco or controlled substances, or drug-related materials. Weapons of any kind, including lighters, firearms and knives. Music players of any kind. Large sums of money (unless for a fund raiser, which must be turned in immediately). Items of significant value including sports collector cards and other trading cards Fireworks, water pistols, or shaving cream. Candy or other food to be sold by a non-school sponsored organization. Any item that may cause a disruption in the classroom or at school. Electronic pagers or cellular phones. Athletic equipment (i.e. bats, balls mitts) unless approved by the principal.

TOYS : Sports equipment, toys and games can draw attention away from learning, they are subject to loss or theft, and could instigate a disagreement among students. Such items should not be brought to school. Please make sure your child does not bring such items unless requested or approved by the teacher. Unauthorized sports equipment, toys or games will be confiscated and kept in the office until the parent picks it up.

702 Anti-Bullying PolicyThe Estancia Municipal Schools Board of Education believes that providing an educational environment for all students, employees, volunteers, and families, free from harassment, intimidation, or bullying supports a total learning experience that promotes personal growth, healthy interpersonal relationships, wellness, and freedom from discrimination and abuse. Therefore, harassment, intimidation or bullying are forms of dangerous and disrespectful behavior that will not be tolerated.

702.1 Definitions

702.1.1 “Bullying” means any repeated and pervasive written, verbal or electronic expression, physical act or gesture, or a pattern thereof, that is intended to cause distress upon one or more students in the school, on school grounds, in school vehicles, at a designated bus stop, or at school activities or sanctioned events. Bullying includes, but is not limited to, hazing, harassment, intimidation or menacing acts of a student which may, but need not be based on the student’s race, color, sex, ethnicity, national origin, religion, disability, age or sexual orientation.

702.1.2 “Harassment” means knowingly pursuing a pattern of conduct that is intended to annoy, alarm, or terrorize another person.

702.1.3 “Disability Harassment” is defined as intimidation or abusive behavior toward a student based on disability that creates a hostile environment by interfering with or denying a student’s participation in or receipt of benefits, services, or opportunities in the district.

Harassment and Disability Harassment include but are not limited to: 702.1.3.1 Verbal acts, teasing, use of sarcasm, jokes;

702.1.3.2 Name-calling, belittling;

702.1.3.3 Nonverbal behavior such as graphic or written statements;

702.1.3.4 Conduct that is physically threatening, harmful, or humiliating; or

702.1.3.5 Inappropriate physical restraint by adults.

702.1.4 “Racial Harassment” consists of physical or verbal conduct relating to an individual’s race when the conduct:

702.1.4.1 Has the purpose or effect of creating an intimidating, hostile, or offensive academic environment;

702.1.4.2 Has the purpose or effect of substantially or unreasonably interfering with an individual’s academic performance; or

702.1.4.3 Otherwise adversely affects an individual’s academic opportunities.

702.1.5 “Sexual Harassment” means any unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, or other inappropriate verbal, written, or physical conduct of a sexual nature. Sexual harassment may take place under any of the following circumstances:

702.1.5.1 When submission to such conduct is made, explicitly or implicitly, a term or condition of obtaining an education; or

702.1.5.2 Submission to or rejection of that conduct or communication by an individual is used to factor in decisions affecting that individual’s education; or

702.1.5.3 That conduct or communication has the purpose or effect of substantially or unreasonably interfering with an individual’s education, or creating an intimidating, hostile or offensive educational environment.

702.1.6 “Hazing” means committing an act against a student, or coercing a student into committing an act, that creates a risk of harm to a person, in order for that student to be initiated into or affiliated with a student organization, or for any other purpose. Hazing includes but is not limited to:

702.1.6.1 Any type of physical brutality such as whipping, beating, striking, branding, shocking, or placing a harmful substance on the body.

702.1.6.2 Any type of physical activity such as sleep deprivation, exposure to weather, confinement in a restricted area, calisthenics or other activity that subject the student to an unreasonable risk of harm or that adversely affects the mental or physical health or safety of the student.

702.1.6.3 Any activity involving the consumption of any alcoholic beverage, drug, tobacco product or any other food, liquid, or substance that subjects the student to an unreasonable risk of harm or that adversely affects the mental or physical health or safety of the student.

702.1.6.4 Any activity that intimidates or threatens the student with ostracism, that subjects the student to extreme mental stress, embarrassment, shame, or humiliation, that adversely affects the mental health or dignity of the student or discourages the student from remaining in school.

702.1.6.5 Any activity that causes or requires the student to perform a task that involves a violation of state or federal law, or district policies.

702.2 Notice of Prohibition Against Bullying and Anti-Bullying Interventions

702.2.1 The prohibition against bullying shall be publicized by including the following statement in the student handbook(s):

“Bullying behavior by any student in the Estancia Municipal Schools is strictly prohibited, and such conduct may result in disciplinary action, including suspension and/or expulsion from school. “Bullying” means any repeated

and pervasive written, verbal or electronic expression, physical act or gesture, or a pattern thereof, that is intended to cause distress upon one or more students in the school, on school grounds, in school vehicles, at a designated bus stop, or at school activities or sanctioned events. Bullying includes, but is not limited to, hazing, harassment, intimidation or menacing acts of a student which may, but need not be based on the student’s race, color, sex, ethnicity, national origin, religion, disability, age or sexual orientation that a reasonable person under the circumstances should know will have the effect of:

Placing a student in reasonable fear of physical harm or damage to the student’s property; or

Physically harming a student or damaging a student’s property; or

Insulting or demeaning any student or group of students in such a way as to disrupt or interfere with the school’s educational mission or the education of any student.

Students and parents may file verbal or written complaints concerning suspected bullying behavior to school personnel and administrators. Any report of suspected bullying behavior will be promptly reviewed. If acts of bullying are verified, prompt disciplinary action may be taken against the perpetrator, up to and including suspension and/or expulsion.”

702.2.2 Staff will be reminded at the beginning of each school year about the Anti-Bullying Policy, as well as their responsibilities regarding bullying behavior. A copy of the policy will be disseminated annually.

702.2.3 The Anti-Bullying Policy will be available on the Estancia Municipal Schools’ website and in all staff handbooks.

702.3 Reporting Intimidation, Harassment, or Bullying Behavior

702.3.1 Any student who believes he/she has been the victim of harassment, intimidation, bullying, or hazing by a student or school personnel, or any person with knowledge or belief of such conduct that may constitute harassment, intimidation, bullying, or hazing toward a student should immediately report the alleged acts.

702.3.2 The report may be made to any staff member. The staff member will assist the student in reporting to the principal.

702.3.3 Teachers and other school staff who witness acts of bullying or receive student reports of bullying will promptly notify building Principal or school Counselor.

702.3.4 Reports should be done in writing using the Harassment, Intimidation, Bullying, or Hazing Complaint Form (See Sample Form).

702.3.5 School principal or designee will accept and investigate all reports of suspected intimidation, harassment or bullying.

702.3.6 School principal or designee will notify the parent or guardian of a student who commits a verified act of intimidation, harassment, or bullying of the response of the school staff and consequences that may result from acts of bullying.

702.3.7 Nothing in this policy shall prevent any person from reporting directly to the office of the Superintendent.

702.3.8 Retaliation against an individual who either orally reports or files a written complaint regarding harassment, intimidation, bullying, or hazing or who participates in or cooperates with an investigation is prohibited.

702.3.9 The right to confidentiality, both of the complainant and the accused, shall be preserved consistent with applicable laws.

702.3.10 If harassment or bullying continues, the perpetrator will be immediately suspended and removed from the school, pending a long-term hearing.

702.3.11 To the extent permitted under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act, (FERPA) school staff will notify the parent or guardian of a student who is a target of bullying of the action taken to prevent any further acts of bullying.

702.4 Investigating Intimidation, Harassment, or Bullying Behavior The Principal, or their designee will appropriately and promptly investigate all reports of harassment, intimidation, bullying, or hazing. In determining whether the alleged conduct constitutes bullying, the totality of the circumstances, the nature of the conduct, the student’s history, and the context in which the alleged conduct occurred will be investigated.

702.4.1 The administrator will make every effort to inform the parents/guardians of the victim and the accused of any report of harassment, intimidation, bullying, or hazing prior to the formal investigation taking place. 702.4.2 The investigation shall consist of personal interviews with the complainant, the individual(s) against whom the complaint was filed, and others who may have knowledge of the alleged incident(s) or circumstances giving rise to the complaint. The investigation may also consist of other methods or documents deemed relevant by the investigator.

702.4.3 The district may take immediate steps to protect the complainant, students, teachers, administrators, or other school personnel pending the completion of an investigation.

702.4.4 The investigation shall be completed as soon as possible. The principal (or investigator) shall make a written report to the Superintendent upon completion of the investigation. If the complaint involves the Superintendent, the report shall be filed directly with the New Mexico Public Education Department, Educator Ethics Bureau. The report shall include a determination of whether the allegations have been substantiated as factual and whether they appear to be violations of this policy. A copy of the completed report will be maintained by the district Safe Schools Coordinator.

702.5 Consequences for Bullying

702.5.1 Verified acts of bullying shall result in intervention by the building Principal or his/her designee that is intended to ensure that the prohibition against bullying behavior is enforced.

702.5.2 Bullying behavior can take many forms and can vary dramatically in how serious it is, and what impact it has on the targeted individual and other students. Accordingly, there is no one response to bullying. While conduct that rises to the level of “bullying” as defined above will generally warrant disciplinary action against the perpetrator of such bullying, whether and to what extent to impose disciplinary action (detention, in and out-of-school suspension, or expulsion) is a matter for the professional discretion of the building Principal.

702.6 Consequences for Knowingly Making False Reports

702.6.1 False charges shall also be regarded as a serious offense and will result in disciplinary action or other appropriate sanctions.

702.7 Anti-Bullying included in Health Education Curriculum

“Health Education” is the instructional program that provides the opportunity to motivate and assist all students to maintain and improve their health, prevent disease, and reduce health related risk behaviors. It allows students to develop and demonstrate increasingly sophisticated health-related knowledge, attitudes,

skills, and practices. It meets the content standards with benchmarks and performance standards as set forth in 6.30.2.19 NMAC. Bullying behavior is mentioned specifically in many areas of the Health Education performance standards, in all grade levels. All students need to be aware of bullying behavior beginning in Kindergarten and continuing throughout their school years. It is imperative that students are comfortable with understanding, describing, and recognizing bullying behaviors, and then in the later grades being able to analyze those behaviors and role play refusal skills. Our curriculum recognizes the importance of bully prevention skills in all grade levels.

702.8 Threats of Violence

702.8.1 Threats of violence toward other students, school staff, or facilities are prohibited and may result in suspension or expulsion, regardless of whether the student has previously engaged in such conduct.

702.8.2 All employees and students are required to report evidence of threats of violence to their principal. Such reports shall be investigated by the principal or designee. All such reports shall be documented by the principal.

702.8.3 In cases of threats that may constitute a violation of criminal law, the principal, superintendent or designee shall notify law enforcement authorities.

702.8.4 Students who are charged with violation of this policy shall be placed on short-term suspension pending investigation of the charge(s). Those found, through a due-process hearing, to have violated this regulation shall be subject to discipline, including long-term suspension or expulsion. For Special Education students administrators will consult with the Director of Special Education regarding the appropriate process.

Board Adoption: 8-14-07

Cyberbullying Prevention The District prohibits all forms of bullying, harassment, hazing, and intimidation, andspecifically prohibits cyberbullying.

DefinitionsFor purposes of this policy “cyberbullying” means electronic communication that:

(1) Targets a specific student;(2) Is published with the intention that the communication be seen or disclosed to thetargeted student;(3) Is in fact seen by or disclosed to the targeted student; and(4) Creates or is certain to create a hostile environment on the school campus that is sosevere or pervasive as to substantially interfere with the targeted student’s educationalbenefits, opportunities, or performance.

ReportingAny school employee who has information, or a reasonable suspicion, that a student isbeing cyberbullied shall report the matter immediately to the campus principal, thesuperintendent, or both. Reports shall be reduced to writing on the district’s Harassment,Intimidation, Bullying or Hazing Report Form. If the reporting school employee does notcomplete the report, the receiving administrator is responsible for completing the form.

InvestigationUpon receipt of a report of cyberbullying, the campus administrator or designee shall takeimmediate steps to promptly investigate the report, and to document the findings from that

investigation. All reports of cyberbullying shall be investigated and documented within 20school days. If more time is needed for an effective investigation, the responsible administratorshall notify the relevant parties.

Disciplinary ActionAppropriate disciplinary action shall be taken in response to the findings from a cyberbullyinginvestigation, including but not limited to confirmed instances of cyberbullying. Consistent withstate law, where cyberbullying is found, disciplinary action will be by the least restrictive meansnecessary to address a hostile environment on the school campus and may include, but is notlimited to, counseling, mediation, and appropriate disciplinary action consistent District policy.

TrainingAll instructional and licensed school personnel shall be provided with annual training onrecognition and prevention of cyberbullying.

Legal Reference:NMSA 1978 § 22-2-21 (2013).

ESTANCIA ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

STUDENT HANDBOOK

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF RECEIPT

2013-2014

My signature indicates that I have received and read the rules and regulations at Estancia Elementary School. I realize the importance of rules and consequences for the sake of creating a safe, inviting, and comfortable learning environment for my child and all students at school. I understand that violation of school rules and policies may result in disciplinary action, suspension and/or expulsion.

STUDENT NAME PRINTED:

PARENT SIGNATURE DATE

STUDENT SIGNATURE DATE

HOME ROOM TEACHER:

Please return this page signed to your classroom teacher prior to August 30, 2013.

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