1. education
2. school

Lower School
&
Middle School
Parent &
Student Manual
2014-2015
K-7 Parent & Student Manual
Table of Contents
Introduction
About this Guide
5
About our School
5
Our Mission
5
Our Philosophy of Education
6
Board of Directors: 2014-2015
7
Administration7
Accreditation 8
Parent Involvement
Student Records
9
Conferences9
Weekly Communications 9
Adjustment to School
10
Field Trips
11
Birthdays11
Parties11
Volunteer Opportunities
12
Fundraising12
Materials Distribution
13
Admissions
Admission and Dismissal
Class Placement
Change in Registration
Tuition Payments
14
14
14
15
Attendance
Daily Schedule
Morning Schedule
Afternoon Pick-Up
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16
16
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K-7 Parent & Student Manual
Tardiness17
Scheduling Appointments
17
Absences17
Extended Absence/Travel
17
Academic Policies
Academic Guidelines
18
Homework18
Binders18
Assignment Sheets (Grades 2-3)
19
Agendas (Grades 4-7)
19
Missing Work Alert
19
Study Hall
19
Make-up Work
20
S.H.O.T (Study Hall Organization Time)
20
Grading21
Report Cards
21
Grades Online
21
Standardized Testing
22
Middle School Semester Test
22
Health
Illness at School
23
Medicines24
Notification of Injuries
25
Health Screenings
25
Body Awareness
25
Guidance and Counseling
26
Child Nutrition Program
26
Food & Nut Allergies
26
Bringing Treats
26
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K-7 Parent & Student Manual
Safety
School Entry/Acess
27
Visitors27
Release of Students
27
Access to Student Records
28
Fire/Tornado/Lockdown28
Screening of Employees
28
Abuse Reporting
28
Interviews by DHS and Other Agencies
29
Student Conduct
Discipline Policies
30
School Property
31
Lockers31
Proper Attire
31
Personal Hygiene
32
School Phone
32
General
Student Council
Snow Days
Lost & Found
Messages & Gifts
33
33
33
33
Acceptable Use of Technology
Student Acceptable Use of Technology Policy
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Introduction
Introduction
About this Guide
The New School staff is pleased to welcome you to our school. We have provided this guide to
give parents a clear understanding of the policies and procedures of our school. It is our request
that each parent and student carefully read this booklet and comply with our policies in order to
help keep our school running as smoothly and efficiently as possible. If you have any questions,
or need clarification on a New School policy, please don’t hesitate to call us at 479-521-7037.
Your Signature: After you and your student read through this manual, please sign the form
included on the last page of this manual and return it to your child’s teacher.
About our School
The New School was founded as a non-profit corporation in 1971 by a group of parents,
teachers, and other Fayetteville residents who wished to establish a Nursery School and
Kindergarten program that would offer the best possible educational advantages for young
children. In 1991, the Board of Trustees approved an expansion of our program to include
elementary grades, and in 2001, the Board of Trustees approved another expansion of our
program to include middle school.
The New School is governed by a volunteer Board of Trustees consisting of current and former
New School parents. The Board takes ultimate responsibility for the fiscal management of our
organization and, through their efforts each year, they insure that The New School has sufficient
financial resources to support and enhance the quality of our programs and facilities.
Our Mission
The New School, an independent school, is dedicated to inspiring a love of learning and
empowering students to reach their potential for academic achievement, creativity, and
citizenship.
The New School is committed to:
• Building confidence and a positive sense of self in every child
• Instilling respect for others, beginning with a respect for oneself
• Creating an environment that encourages inquiry and initiative
• Partnering teachers and parents in the educational process
• Maintaining a low student-teacher ratio
• Providing enrichment and discovery beyond the traditional curriculum
• Setting academic standards that challenge each student to excel
• Supporting and developing the highest quality of professional staff
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Introduction
Our Philosophy of Education
At The New School, we believe that a school should inspire a love of learning while promoting
children’s social growth, emotional growth, intellectual development, and creativity. We believe
that children learn best in a positive environment with careful direction and guidance from
teachers who demonstrate caring and concern for each child. We believe that a school should
encourage exploration and inquiry in an environment enriched with opportunities in the arts
and sciences, and we believe that a school’s instructional programs should insure that students
reach their full potential for academic achievement. To achieve these goals, The New School is
committed to selecting outstanding teachers and supporting them with the highest quality of
professional development.
We believe that an early childhood education program should provide the best possible care
and educational experiences for young children. We strive to maintain an atmosphere in which
children can feel safe, accepted, and loved. For our youngest learners, we strive to stimulate
intellectual development by providing opportunities for exploration and discovery as well
as teacher-directed activities that accommodate different attention spans, interest levels, and
learning styles. We work to help children develop positive patterns of interaction with others, an
excitement about learning, and a strong sense of self-confidence.
In elementary and middle school, we endeavor to ensure that every student experiences academic
success. With small classes and even smaller instructional groups, teachers carefully monitor each
student’s progress and ensure that students strive for the highest level of achievement appropriate
for each child. The New School grading system supports competence in all academic subjects
while arts and enrichment activities broaden students’ experience and stimulate enthusiasm for
learning. At The New School we believe that efforts should be made to help students develop the
firm academic foundation and the organizational skills they will need to be successful in their
future academic endeavors.
At The New School we strive to promote a sense of community that helps each child and
family feel connected and valued. We believe that school programs should promote kindness
and cooperation to all members of the school community, including students, parents, faculty,
and staff. We believe that a school should help students become good citizens with a sense of
responsibility and respect for others within the school community and throughout the world
beyond.
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Introduction
Board of Directors: 2014-2015
• Edward Prewitt (Chair)
• Monika Hatfield
• Michael Chaney (Vice Chair)
• Emily Hinton
• John Wright (Treasurer)
• Bob Kohler
• Mandy Hunt (Secretary)
• Suguna Madaiah
• Mary Kathryn Brown (Parliamentarian)
• Nathaniel Marler
• Susan Celentano
• Amy Merryman
• Scott Hancock
• Wynn Saitta
Administration & Staff
• President & Head of School: Dennis Chapman
• Associate Head of School: Angel Petet
• Head of Lower & Middle Schools: Amber Moore
• Head of Preschool: Karen Beaton
• Director of Development: Liz Anderson
• Director of Finance and Facilities: Mary Seubert
• Director of Network and Infrastructure: Jon Gibson
• Academic Program Coordinator: Brynn Wright
• Director of Maintenance: Cody Apperson
• Special Events Coordinator: Sarah Elder
• Office Manager: Ashlee Haywood
Accreditation
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Introduction
In 2009, The New School received full accreditation by the Independent School Association of
Central States (ISACS). This accreditation validates, in a highly visible fashion, that The New
School’s internal expectations also meet more public, national accountability standards.
The school became a member of ISACS in 2004 and began the accreditation process in 2006.
Through the careful evaluation of our program, we identified the school’s strengths, defined our
aspirations for improvement, and determined the direction of future development.
In the spring of 2008, the ISACS Accreditation Visiting Team evaluated all aspects of our school,
including the board, faculty, students, curriculum, and facilities. The process revealed positive
findings, especially regarding our positive interactions with students and the students’ enthusiasm
towards learning.
In conjunction with the ISACS accreditation, our school was also accredited by the Arkansas
Nonpublic Schools Accrediting Association (ANSAA). By becoming accredited through ISACS
and ANSAA, The New School has made an ongoing commitment to quality education and to
continuous efforts toward school improvement.
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Parent Involvement
Parent Involvement
Student Records
We must have a complete file on each child updated annually at enrollment time. All required
emergency information, addresses, phone numbers, and parent signatures must be completed by
parents. Immunization records must also be kept up-to-date and verification must be provided.
Each child is also required to have a copy of his/her birth certificate on file. We ask that parents
remain diligent about updating their child’s file when addresses, phone numbers, or other contact
information changes.
Students in Kindergarten should have a well-child physical assessment form on file with the
school. Your physician will provide you with this form during your child’s annual physical.
Conferences
At the beginning of each Fall semester, teachers and parents of students in grades K-7 will meet
for a pre-academic conference to discuss the upcoming school year. Parents will also be asked to
attend a Fall and Spring conference to review report cards and to discuss their child’s adjustment
and performance at school, as well as an exit conference at the end of the year. Parents may
request special conferences with their child’s teacher at pre-arranged times.
Weekly Communications
Friday Folders are one of the main sources of communication between a teacher and parent.
Friday Folders will be sent home each Friday with student’s work, Friday Notes, and any other
important information. Please check your child’s folder weekly and return them on the following
Monday.
Kindergarten - 2nd Grade: Check your child’s file (found outside of the classroom) and the class
bulletin board regularly for these important announcements.
3rd - 5th Grade: Check your child’s Friday Folder, located in their binder or notebook. Parents
should also monitor assignment sheets and books to ensure they are aware of upcoming
assignments.
6th - 7th Grade: There are some very important differences between the manner in which
Friday folders are handled in the Middle School as compared to the lower grades. First, not all
completed work will be sent home. This is because even once an assignment is completed, it
may be related to a later assignment or contain foundational information that is necessary to
another assignment’s completion. These assignments will be placed in your child’s respective
subject section. Work that is no longer needed will be sent home on Fridays, so you should still
check it each Friday. Other important notices will also be sent home on Fridays. Because of this
difference, you should make sure that you regularly check the online gradebook in order to have
a clear notion of your child’s performance.
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Parent Involvement
Adjustment to School
Some elementary students will have difficulty separating from the parent who brings them
to school. Usually, this is very short-lived and the child adjusts to the day’s activities once the
parents leave. If separation anxiety is prolonged or extreme, we will discuss with the parent
the best approach to take. There are many different ways to handle separation anxiety and the
approach depends on several variables, unique to each child. The following general hints may be
helpful:
• Children adjust better to being at school when their arrivals and departures are on a regular,
consistent schedule.
• Children who usually separate from their parents willingly may show some separation anxiety
after a disruption in their attendance. (It sometimes takes a few days to readjust to school after
staying home for an illness.)
• Children who arrive after activities have begun will miss the special time we have for
welcoming each child into the school day. Children who arrive late are often self-conscious
and reluctant to separate from parents and enter the group. Please familiarize yourself with
your child’s class routine and try to schedule an arrival time which is comfortable for your
child.
• If a child is having separation problems, the best plan of action is to stick with a consistent
routine. Teachers can only help with separation problems when children are at school on a
regular basis.
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Parent Involvement
Field Trips
The New School must obtain parent signatures on field trip permission forms for every child
on every trip we take. Without a parent’s signature for a specific trip, his/her student may
not attend. When students go on field trips, we ask that students do not bring money unless
requested by teachers.
In most situations, a bus will be used to transport students to and from field trip locations.
Parents who attend field trips should drive their own vehicles instead of riding the bus, which
will help ensure that all children have a seat on the bus. Due to state regulations, parents may
only transport their own children on field trips, and may not transport other children, even if
they are on their “Authorized for Release” list.
Parents who volunteer for field trips can help in the supervision of all students as directed by
the classroom teacher. Volunteers should help walk students to and from venues and guide them
through the educational sites. It is important that the volunteer maintain a supervisory role
during the field trip. Because of volunteers’ supervisory responsibilities on field trips, we ask
volunteering parents to not bring siblings.
Discipline of students on field trips will be the responsibility of the classroom teacher. If a
parent witnesses a problem during a field trip, the parent should report to the teacher in charge
immediately.
Birthdays
Because of the number of birthdays during our school year, we maintain a policy on birthday
activities during school hours. Birthday activities are strictly voluntary, and we do not want
anyone to feel obligated to include the school in birthday activities.
Parents may bring refreshments and/or party favors to school. A cake, cupcakes, or cookies may
be brought to serve on your child’s birthday. Please be sure to observe allergy guidelines. If parties
are held outside the school during school’s extended day hours (3:30pm-5:30pm), please invite
the whole class. Children’s feelings are hurt when some children leave for a party while others are
not invited.
Parties
For parties to be held away from the school, we ask that you mail invitations to each child’s
home. Please do not hand out invitations at school. Address lists are available at any time in the
school office.
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Parent Involvement
Volunteer Opportunities
Parents are encouraged to volunteer with school events such as the “Children’s Fun Run” and
“The Spring Party” dinner and auction. The success of these fundraisers, which are critical to
our program, is due to the tremendous support we receive from parents. Parents interested in
volunteering regularly should inquire about joining our Parent Association.
Fundraising
The New School is a non-profit organization which is committed to aligning our development
program with the school’s mission and vision. All fundraising activities should be conducted
solely to benefit the school’s mission and long range plans. The New School encourages private
support of our fundraising activities as a means of maintaining educational excellence and
enhancing the quality of our academic programs.
In order to limit the number of fundraisers at The New School, and to ensure that our
organization’s priorities are properly represented and successful, all fund raising activities at The
New School must be coordinated through the development office.
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Parent Involvement
Materials Distribution
Representatives from numerous worthy organizations frequently make requests of our school to
distribute their materials, flyers, and notes to our families. Attempting to honor these requests
would drastically increase the volume of written communications our families receive daily.
To maximize the effectiveness of our school’s internal communications to staff, students, and
parents, The New School will not post, distribute, or promote other organization’s materials in
our school. We cannot participate in business promotions even if a portion of the proceeds are
dedicated to the school.
Exceptions
The school will distribute materials for other non-profit organizations that offer additional
enhancement, programs or sports activities to our students, as long as the programs or activities
are not in direct competition with the programs available through The New School. (Example:
Cub Scouts, Brownies, The Boys and Girls Club, Arkansas Athletics Outreach, The Soccer
Association.)
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Admissions
Admissions
Admission and Dismissal
The New School admits children of any race, color, or national origin. Children with special
educational, emotional, or social needs, and children with special physical handicaps or
developmental disabilities will be considered on an individual basis.
Previous school records and teacher recommendations are required prior to the admission of new
elementary and middle school students. Prior grades, achievement test scores, conduct reports,
and attendance records will be taken under consideration for admission. New applicants may be
expected to attend a minimum of two “shadow days.”
If, after admission, a child proves to be disruptive, injures other children, or has difficulty
functioning within the structure of our program, staff will notify parents and a plan of action will
be developed and implemented. Thereafter, if the difficulties cannot be resolved, Administration
may recommend withdrawal. Alternatives for more appropriate placement or treatment may be
explored.
If, after a child’s admission, the parent causes undue hardship to the staff or unreasonable
distraction from teacher’s regular duties, the staff will ask for resolution of the problem.
Thereafter, if parental needs cannot be met, Administration may recommend withdrawal of the
child.
Class Placement
In arranging class placement each year, teachers and administrators create class lists with careful
consideration given to students academic and behavioral strengths. Previous years’ teachers make
recommendations in regard to students who work well together, and students who may work
better when separated. We work to create class lists that are balanced in terms of gender, diversity,
new/returning students, and academic and behavioral strengths.
Due to all these considerations, it is difficult to accommodate parents’ requests for class
placement. It is school policy that the faculty and administration will make all class placement
decisions, and that we will not be able to accept parents’ requests for class placement. All class
placement decisions will be made with interest, care, and concern.
Change in Registration
When a parent wishes to change or update the information provided on their child’s registration
form (contact info, medical permissions, dietary needs, etc.), he/she may fill out a change of
registration form in the front office. If a parent wishes change a child’s enrollment in after-school
extracurricular programs, he/she should contact the central office.
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Admissions
Tuition Payments
Tuition must be paid by bank draft, and will be drafted on the first business day of each month.
Non-Payment Policy
The enrollment of a student with account balances past due may be suspended or terminated.
The school’s Finance Committee will review payment histories of accounts more than 30 days
past due for determination. Students with accounts more than 60 days past due may not register
for subsequent school years or for summer sessions. Students with accounts 60 days past due
from the Fall semester will not be allowed to continue attendance for the Spring semester unless
arrangements for payment have been made through the Head of School.
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Attendance
Attendance
Daily Schedule
7:15 a.m. – School Opens
8:30 a.m. – Instruction Begins
3:30 p.m. – Extended Day Program Begins
5:30 p.m. – School Closes
Students arriving before 8:00 a.m. must be dropped off at the Main (Lower) Building, as we
have no staff scheduled to supervise in the Walker Annex until 8:00 a.m.
Afternoon Pick-Up
All K-7 students are invited to stay at school for our Extended Day Program from 3:30 p.m.
until 5:30 p.m. Parents may pick up their child anytime during the Extended Day Program.
Parents should familiarize themselves with their child’s afternoon and extra-curricular schedule to
learn which building their child will be in at their pick up time. For safety and staffing reasons,
we ask that parents pick up students themselves, and refrain from asking afternoon staff to send a
student down or up the hill. Students may not walk between buildings without staff supervision.
Walker Annex 3:30 p.m. Pick-Up Schedule
3rd-7th grade parents may choose to pick up their child from the Walker Annex at the end of the
academic day (3:30 p.m.) from our Pick-Up Line. Students picked up from the Walker Annex at
this time of day will be called out of class by a traffic attendant beginning at 3:30 p.m. Parents
may stay in their car.
Parents should be aware of the time that their student transitions to the Main (Lower) Building
for snacks, and be sure to arrive before this transition if they intend to pick up from the Walker
Annex. Parents who arrive late (after their student has transitioned to snack) will be asked to
drive down to the Main Building to pick up, or (5th-7th) wait for their student to return to the
Upper Building after snacks.
3:30 p.m. - Walker Annex pick-up begins. Students called out of class by traffic attendant.
3:30 p.m. - 3rd - 5th grades transition to the lower building for snacks.
3:40 p.m. - 6th - 7th grades transition to the lower building for snacks.
3:45 p.m. - Extended day program and extracurricular activities begin.
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K-7 Parent & Student Manual • 16
Attendance
Tardiness and Early Dismissal
Tardies and early pick-up will be recorded on the student report card. Three unexcused tardies
or early pick-ups will be recorded as one absence. We hope that every parent will make a
conscientious effort to get his/her child to school on time and allow him/her to complete the day.
Students should arrive in time to be settled into their classrooms and be ready for instruction
to begin at 8:30 a.m. Students who need to eat breakfast at school should arrive in the Lower
Building by 8:15 a.m. Parents who need to speak to their child’s teacher should see the teacher
before the instructional period begins at 8:30 a.m. Teachers have assigned duties in the morning;
if you need to speak at length with your teacher, please schedule an appropriate time.
Scheduling Appointments
Please realize that almost every period of the school day has a designated purpose. When
a student misses class time, the teacher must re-teach the subject or lesson missed, taking
valuable time away from other students or other subjects. When possible, parents need to
schedule appointments during after-school hours to prevent their child from missing important
instruction. If a student must leave early due to an appointment or other circumstance, please let
the teacher know in advance so that make-up arrangements can be made.
Absences
If a student is absent more that 10 days per semester or 20 days for the school year, he/she may
not receive credit for that semester, especially if his/her grades do not show the expected degree
of progress for that class. The Administration will decide if extenuating circumstances are to be
considered.
When a student is absent, his/her teacher will complete a “While You Were Out” form. Your
child’s teacher will inform you and your child of the process to pick up make-up work..
Extended Absence/Travel
The New School recognizes that family travel can often be a stimulating and educational addition
to the lives of children. We also recognize that time away from the regular course of studies
places a student at a disadvantage. In order to minimize this disadvantage, families planning to
take children out of school should inform the Head of Lower and Middle Schools and teachers
at least two weeks in advance. It is very important that the student follow through on assigned
work during the absence so that he/she will not fall behind.
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Academic Policies
Academic Policies
Academic Guidelines
Class periods are designed to give students enough time to complete their assigned work during
class time. We prefer for students to do their work at school where teachers can supervise and
assist when needed, leaving their evenings for family activities.
Some students, however, will not manage to complete all their work during class time. These
students will need to go to Study Hall or take work home. Please notify your child’s teacher if
your child is bringing home an excessive amount of work.
All students will, on occasion, be assigned reading materials, reports, or projects to be done
outside of school hours. We ask that parents watch carefully for project due dates and for test
dates. We need to work together to impress upon our students the importance of managing time
and preparing for tests.
Homework
It is the philosophy of The New School that students should not have large amounts of
homework. However, there may be some instances when a child needs to complete assignments
at home.
Teachers will use the following guidelines for daily homework assignments:
• Grades 3 - 5: A maximum of 1 hour
• Grades 6 - 7: A maximum of 11/2 hours
Please notify the teacher if your child is bringing home work requiring more than the
recommended amount of time.
Middle School Homework
In Middle School, the amount of daily assignments may increase. This increase is designed to be
challenging, not overwhelming. Planning is essential to success and to avoiding excess anxiety at
certain times of the year, including Semester Tests and Projects. Students and parents will need
to stay aware of upcoming due dates in order to practice good planning. Due dates for large
assignments will be communicated from the faculty.
Binders
Students in grades 3-7 are given individual binders that they are to use for all core classes. We
request that students use the provided binders and organize them according to each teacher’s
criteria. Students will be graded on the organization of their binders.
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Academic Policies
Assignment Sheets (Grades 3 & 4)
3rd and 4th grade students will complete assignment sheets each day during class time. The
assignment sheet will designate assignments which need to be completed in Study Hall or at
home. Parents should check their child’s assignment sheet daily to monitor their child’s progress
and make sure that books and materials are taken home if necessary.
Agendas (Grades 5-7)
Students in grades 5-7 are provided an agenda and all assignments are recorded in this agenda
book daily. Students are also required to record upcoming tests and reports. This book is an
important form of communication between teachers and parents. The agenda book should
be taken home each evening and reviewed by parents. Parents are to initial each day’s agenda.
This organizational tool is utilized to prepare students for higher levels of education. If your
child’s agenda is maintained electronically, the homeroom teachers will explain the system to be
implemented. This portion may change upon implementation of digital agendas. Faculty will
notify parents of the new procedure.
Missing Work Alert
A missing work alert will be attached to the student’s assignment sheet/agenda and e-mailed to
parents for all assignments that have not been turned in to the teacher. Students will have the
opportunity to complete work, but points may be taken off for late work according to following:
• 1st day late - 5 percentage points off
• 2nd day late - 10 percentage points off
• 3rd day late 0 - no credit given for work; assignment must still be completed
Study Hall
Study Hall is offered during the Extended Day Program. Each day, teachers will designate which
students need to attend Study Hall to complete their daily assignments or to be tutored. A parent
may request in writing to his/her homeroom teacher if their child should be excused from Study
Hall. Parents may also request that their child attend Study Hall on a regular basis by writing to
the homeroom teacher. When a student needs to be excused from an Extended Day activity in
order to attend Study Hall, parents should notify the central office.
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Academic Policies
Make-up Work
If your child is absent due to illness, please let us know as early in the day as possible so that
the faculty may prepare home assignments, if necessary. Work missed during an absence may
be made up under the direction of the teacher. During an absence, parents should check with
the teacher to make sure assignments have been completed. Assignments should be completed
during the allotted time beginning the day he/she returns.
Days Absent
Allotted Days for Make-up
1 day absent
2 school days permitted
2 days absent
3 school days permitted
3 days absent
4 school days permitted
If the student is unable to make up the work because of continuing illness, the teacher and
student may make arrangements for the student to make up the work at a later date.
S.H.O.T (Study Hall Organization Time)
SHOT is a time, scheduled each day, for students to complete any of their unfinished daily
work, ask teachers questions about assignments, or work with group members on group projects.
Therefore, parents should only take their child from SHOT if it is absolutely necessary and have
made arrangements with the homeroom teacher.
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Academic Policies
Grading
At The New School, we believe that the most important aspect of education is ensuring that
students grasp and master the presented material in a positive, supportive environment. We strive
to provide our students with sufficient opportunities to learn the material. Therefore, if a teacher
feels a student has not mastered an assignment or material, they may be asked to correct or repeat
a similar assignment.
K-2 Grading: In grades K-2, academic performance and classroom behavior are reported as
Excellent, Very good, Satisfactory, Needs to improve, and Unsatisfactory.
3-7 Grading: In 3rd through 7th grades, a combination of letter grades and percentages are used
for academic performance. Classroom behavior is still reported as in K-2.
Percentage equivalents are as follows:
A (Excellent)
90 - 100%
B (Very Good)
80 - 89%
C (Satisfactory)
70 - 79%
D (Needs to Improve)
60 - 69%
F (Unsatisfactory)
0 - 59%
Report Cards
Report cards for students in grades K-7 will be presented every nine weeks. Progress reports are
issued mid-way between each nine weeks grading period. Each of these reports are provided to
give parents insight into students’ performance.
Grades Online
The New School uses an online gradebook and grade viewer. Parents will receive instructions on
how to access grades during our “Back to School” Event on September 25, 2014.
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Academic Policies
Standardized Testing
Each spring, The New School elementary and middle school teachers administer normreferenced tests to students in grades 1-7. These tests represent a nationally-standardized
assessment of academic performance in all subject areas, providing a comprehensive profile
of each child’s level of achievement. In addition, the test provides an analysis of each class’s
performance for each area tested. Copies of individual test scores will be available to parents.
Scores will become a part of each child’s academic record.
Middle School Semester Test
Middle School students will take semester tests/EOC Exams. Teachers will place test schedules in
Friday folders in addition to e-mailing them to parents.
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K-7 Parent & Student Manual • 22
Health
Health
Illness at School
To protect children from the spread of communicable diseases, state regulations require that
children with any of the following symptoms not be allowed to attend school:
Health Condition
Symptoms requiring that the child
be sent home.
Guidelines for when can a child return to school?
101 or Greater
Must be fever free for 24 hours (24 hours from start
of being fever free) or a doctor’s note stating the
condition is not contagious
Diarrhea
3 or more watery stools in a 24 hour
period
Must be diarrhea free for 24 hours (24 hours from last
diarrhea) or a doctor’s note stating the condition is
not contagious
Vomiting
2 or more occasions within the past
24-hour period
Must be free from vomiting for 24 hours (24 hours
from last vomit) or a doctor’s note stating that the
condition is not contagious
Body rashes, not obviously associated
with diapering, heat or allergic
reactions to medications
Rash must be completely gone before returning
or a doctor’s note stating that the condition is not
contagious
If associated with fever or swollen
glands in the neck
Must be free from symptoms fro 24 hours or a
doctor’s note stating that the condition is not
contagious
Severe
Coughing
Episodes of coughing which may lead
to repeated gagging, vomiting, or
difficulty breathing
Conditions must be minimized significantly and
a doctor’s note stating that the condition is not
contagious or completely free of symptoms
Pink Eye
Pink or red eye(s) which may be
swollen with white or yellow discharge
Must be on antibiotics for a minimum of 24 hours
Head Lice
Tiny insects that live on human scalps
and nits (eggs) are found on the hair
shaft
May return after treatment and has been given
approval to return to the classroom by an office
employee.
Mouth Sores
Multiple sores in mouth with drooling
Health care provider determines the condition is
non-infectious
Ring Worm
A fungal infection of the scalp or skin
After treatment by a health care provider has begun
Impetigo
Skin infection mostly seen on face bumps or large patchy areas
May return 24 hours after treatment has been
initiated
Fever
Rash
Sore Throat
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K-7 Parent & Student Manual • 23
Health
Picking Up A Sick Child
If a child displays any of the previously described symptoms while at school, we are required
to contact parents to pick up their child. If a child is without any of these symptoms, but still
appears ill and unable to participate in the group’s activities, we will notify parents that their
child is not feeling well.
Please have contingency plans worked out in advance for such occasions and make sure that your
child’s file indicates other friends or relatives who could pick up your child if needed.
Medicines
On rare occasions The New School may administer medicine to students with the written
permission of parents. State Regulations require that medications shall be given to children
only with signed, written parental permission. Each student’s registration form contains a list of
medications that a student’s parent has granted The New School permission to administer. When
medicine is administered to a student, office staff will fill out a Medical Report indicating the
medicine type, dosage, and time. An electronic copy of this report will be sent to the parent via
email.
Note: Dosages greater than specified on the label shall not be given.
Administering Prescription Medications
Occasionally, the school administers prescription medications during the school day at the
request of parents. Medicines can be given to children at 12:00 noon and 4:00 p.m. daily. Parents
bringing prescription medication must follow these guidelines:
• Turn-in and register the medication with the central office. (Classroom teachers are not
authorized to distribute medication brought from home unless special circumstances have
been arranged with the Division Head.) All medicines will be stored in the office refrigerator
or locked medicine cabinet.
State Regulations require that medications shall be given to children only with signed, written
parental permission. Permission shall contain:
• Date
• Drug name
• Time
• Dosage
Note: Dosages greater than specified on the label shall not be given.
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K-7 Parent & Student Manual • 24
Health
In addition to the written permission, please follow these guidelines for medication:
• Medicine must stay in its original container.
• Medicine must have current expiration date.
• Medicine labels must have the child’s name.
Medical Plan
If your child has a medical condition (examples: asthma, nut allergy), you will need to fill out a
medical plan form. Your Division Head will give you the appropriate form.
If your child uses an inhaler for asthma, you will need to provide an inhaler for use at school to
be kept in the front office.
If your child has been prescribed an epipen, you will need to provide two epipens for school, one
to be kept in the office and one to be kept in the classroom.
Notification of Injuries
To notify parents of minor injuries at school, a medical report is created which has information
regarding when and where an injury occurred as well as how it was treated. Medical reports
are entered into our student database and an electronic copy will be e-mailed to parents. After
reading the medical report, parents may request a paper copy of the report from the main office
and are asked to sign a copy for storage in their child’s file.
For any type of head injury, injury to the face, or any injury that staff suspects may be more
serious, the parent will be notified immediately.
Health Screenings
Vision screenings will be conducted for grades K, 1, 2, 4, and 6 during the school year. Scoliosis
screening for 7th grade will also be conducted during the school year. Parents will be notified if a
follow-up visit to the doctor is necessary.
Body Awareness
Students in grade 5 will attend a presentation on body awareness conducted by local
pediatricians.
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K-7 Parent & Student Manual • 25
Health
Guidance and Counseling
The New School contracts with Dr. Carrie Rye to maintain support for our faculty, students, and
parents. This support is offered through consultation with teachers and parents, and individual
meetings with students when appropriate.
Dining
The New School contracts with Flik Independent School Dining. Specific information on the
dining program can be found on The New School website or at www.myschooldining.com.
Students in grades K-7 may choose to bring their own lunch. Please do not send lunches that
require heating or microwave preparation.
Parents may not bring “fast food” or carbonated drinks to school for lunch. If a parent chooses to
take his/her child off campus for lunch, please finish all food and drinks before returning to the
classroom. Please check with your child’s teacher before arranging an off-campus lunch.
Food & Nut Allergies
No nut products are served in our food program, and no food items containing nut products
should be brought to school as treats for a whole class. We have several students who are severely
allergic to peanuts, and any contact with peanuts or peanut products could prove dangerous.
In the cafeteria, there are designated as “peanut tables” for lower and middle school students who
bring peanut products in their personal lunches from home. Students with peanut allergies can
be seated at any of the other tables without risking contact with peanut products.
Students who bring peanut products for lunch must keep those foods in their lunch box until
meal time.
Bringing Treats
On special occasions, parents are welcome to bring nut-free treats for the whole class. When
parents are bringing treats for the class, we want to encourage them to bring healthy, nutritious
snacks rather than high-calorie sweets. Teachers should be notified ahead of time when snacks or
food will be brought for the class.
We request that treats brought to school for holidays, birthdays, etc. be planned from classroom
time. Treats brought by parents may not be eaten in the cafeteria.
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K-7 Parent & Student Manual • 26
Safety
Safety
School Entry/Access
All entrances and exits on campus are secured. Main entrances can be accessed with door codes,
entered on a keypad. Each student and parent will be designated an individual door code to
access main entrances. To ensure our safety, please do not share your code with anyone else, and
use only your individually assigned code at all times.
If you forget your code, you may ring the door bell at the main entrance. After entering you may
present identification to office staff and request that they look up your door code.
Please do not send siblings to pick up children unless they are of driving age and have been
authorized through the office. New School students are not allowed to walk between buildings
without adult supervision.
Visitors
All non-parent visitors must enter through the main entrance of the Main Building, whether
first-time or recurring, each visitor must sign in at the front desk and wear a visitors badge while
on the premises. Upon leaving, visitors must sign out and return their visitor’s badge. Visitors
who wish to eat lunch with a student must be on the student’s Authorized for Release list.
Release of Students
Anyone other than parents must have pre-arranged authorization and identification to pick up
a child. Parents may designate continuous authorization for pick-up on their child’s registration
form kept on file in the school office; however, even those with prior authorization must check
in at the front desk before picking up a child. Parents may authorize release for an individual to
pick up their child by notifying the office.
To grant authorization to an individual for one day, you must inform the main office so the
office manager can enter the temporary authorization into our database. To grant continuous
authorization for an individual to pick up your child, you may indicate the authorization in the
designated section on your registration form.
Non-custodial Parents
The school will not be responsible for enforcing divorce decrees or visitation rights in regards to
the pick-up of children. Parents who are divorced or living separately must work out their pickup and visitation arrangements without involving school personnel.
The school will not deny a non-custodial parent access to the school or his/her child without
a specific restraining order signed by an official of the courts and retained on file at The New
School. In such cases, school personnel can, if needed, call upon law enforcement officials to
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K-7 Parent & Student Manual • 27
Safety
enforce the order and deny access to a non-custodial parent.
If a non-custodial parent comes to the school requesting release of a student, school personnel
will require identification to determine if the visitor is the non-custodial parent listed on the
student’s Registration Form. If the non-custodial parent is not listed on the Registration Form,
the custodial parent will be contacted for confirmation before the student will be released.
Access to Student Records
In accordance with the Federal Educational Rights and Privacy Act, student records must be
shared with a student’s parent upon request, regardless of the parent’s custody of the child. A
custodial parent may will be asked to confirm that the person requesting records is, in fact, the
student’s biological parent. If a non-custodial parent appears at the school to request records,
identification will be required before the student’s records will be released.
Fire/Tornado/Lockdown
Each month, to improve our emergency preparedness, we run school-wide drills to practice
implementing our emergency plans for fires, tornadoes, and intruders.
Screening of Employees
The New School conducts criminal background checks through the Arkansas State Police on all
employees. Employees who have not lived in the State of Arkansas for the past six years are also
screened through the FBI. Background checks are also conducted through the State Child Abuse
Registry for all employees.
Abuse Reporting
Our teachers are required by state law to report suspected child abuse/maltreatment. This
includes non-accidental injuries, such as welts, bruises, cuts, burns, scratches, and broken bones.
Suspected sexual abuse, emotional abuse, and neglect are also reported. Child neglect is defined
as abandonment, lack of food, utilities, shelter, or lack of supervision.
Teachers are trained to recognize indicators of possible abuse. If they fail to report suspected
abuse/maltreatment, teachers can be charged with a Class C misdemeanor. Reports are
confidential and are considered allegations until an investigation is completed. The phone
number for the Child Abuse Hotline is posted in the main office and all classrooms.
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K-7 Parent & Student Manual • 28
Safety
Interviews by DHS and Other Agencies
In accordance with AR state law, any staff member or children in attendance may be interviewed
by Child Care Licensing, by the Division of Child and Family Services, and/or by law
enforcement officers for the purpose of investigations or to determine compliance with licensing
requirements. Child interviews do not require parental notice or consent.
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K-7 Parent & Student Manual • 29
Student Conduct
Student Conduct
Discipline Policies
One of the most important aspects of a child’s education is learning to communicate and work
cooperatively with other students and adults. Our staff makes a continuous effort to provide
positive guidance to help children develop consideration and respect for others with an emphasis
on courtesy and kindness.
In order to maintain a pleasant atmosphere and an environment conducive to learning, we also
need students to cooperate with school policies and disciplinary rules of conduct. Teachers will
present these policies and classroom rules to the students and will welcome students’ input into
policies and rules during class meetings.
Logical consequences for inappropriate or uncooperative behavior will be used to help students
learn to comply with classroom and school rules. After continued breaches of conduct on the
part of the student, parents will be notified and a conference will be scheduled.
Parents may be asked to intervene if their child expresses aggression, hostility, or derision toward
another student. Such behavior is harmful to others and will constitute grounds for disciplinary
action.
Students who have had repeated promptings on complying with school policies may be asked to
sign and comply with a Behavioral Contract in order to continue enrollment. More serious or
chronic breaches of conduct may result in suspension (in-school or out of school) or expulsion.
Here are some examples of behaviors that may be considered grounds for suspension or
expulsion:
1. Fighting or aggressive behavior
2. Demeaning or bullying another student
3. Continuous disruptive behavior
4. Vulgar language
5. Expressions of hostility toward other students or staff
6. Possession of dangerous objects
7. Damage or destruction of school property
8. Academic Dishonesty
If a student is suspended from school, he or she will complete missed assignments.
We request that all parents support our efforts to maintain an atmosphere of cooperation and
mutual respect. Parents should make clear to their child their expectations for good conduct and
compliance with our rules.
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K-7 Parent & Student Manual • 30
Student Conduct
School Property
New School students are expected to take pride in their school, help others to keep the buildings
and campus neat and orderly, and keep all school property free from unnecessary damage.
Intentional damage to New School property may be replaced by billing the student’s account,
upon notification.
Textbooks and technology are provided by the school for student use. If any of those items
are lost or damaged, the student’s account may be billed for the replacement. This policy also
pertains to lost or damaged library books and any technology item.
Lockers
Each middle school student in the Walker Annex will be assigned two lockers: one for backpacks
and coats, and the other for books. A student accepts use of the locker with the understanding
that he/she will maintain it and its contents in an orderly manner. Students should not place a
lock on their lockers or decorate the exterior of the lockers. Lockers are New School property.
Proper Attire
All students are expected to dress neatly and appropriately. These are some examples of
inappropriate attire:
• Cut-offs, pants with holes in them, and halter-tops are examples of inappropriate dress.
• T-shirts with inappropriate phrases, pictures, or alcohol or tobacco advertising are not allowed
at school.
• Short shorts and short skirts are not appropriate for school. All shorts and skirts must be midthigh in length or longer.
• 4th - 7th grade students may not wear spaghetti-strapped or strapless shirts, spaghetti-strapped
or strapless dresses, or extra low-cut shirts.
• Hats and Sunglasses
It is not our intent to embarrass students. Therefore, if any article of clothing becomes a
distraction in the classroom, the teacher will notify the student’s parents.
Physical Education Attire
We request that students wear athletic shoes for physical education classes. Appropriate shoes
are necessary for recess and physical education classes. Please wear clothing appropriate for
movement and avoid wearing constrictive clothing such as tight jeans.
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K-7 Parent & Student Manual • 31
Student Conduct
Field Trip Attire
Students may be asked to meet specific dress codes for special field trips. We request that parents
purchase one navy blue New School polo shirt to be worn on field trips to aid in supervision,
keeping the group together, and improving the safety of our students.
Personal Hygiene
Please be sure that your child has any personal hygiene items they may need, located in his/her
backpack or locker. 3rd and 4th grade students do not have lockers, so they are permitted to keep
personal hygiene items in their backpacks.
Cell Phones
Students may bring cell phones to school, but they must be kept in backpacks and turned to
silent.
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K-7 Parent & Student Manual • 32
General
General
Student Council
The Student Council is elected by the middle school student body and is responsible for
planning and implementing various student activities throughout the year. Its representatives are
elected in the fall. Two at large representatives are elected from each grade level, 6th and 7th, and
the following officers: President, Vice-President, and Secretary. Representatives to the Student
Council are expected to set a positive tone and to be leaders at The New School. Students who
do not meet these expectations may be asked to step down from their Student Council position.
Snow Days
Decisions concerning cancellation of school will be determined by the Head of School. Please
check your local listings, social media, and school website for information concerning school
closing.
If The New School is closed for more than two consecutive school days, the faculty will
communicate assignments and plans for a Digital Learning day. On some occasions the school
may have a delayed start.
Lost & Found
Teachers and staff will place lost items in the lost and found bin located in the back hallway next
to the rear cafeteria entrance. Items will be periodically displayed in the front lobby for parents
and children to claim. Items not claimed will be donated to a local non-profit organization.
Messages & Gifts
Every effort is made to prevent interruptions of the individual class periods. Messages taken for
students may be delayed until a break period. We also ask parents to restrain from delivering
flowers, balloons, gifts, and favors to the school. If items are delivered to the school, the student
will be notified. The student may come to the office to look at the item and then pick it up at the
end of the day.
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K-7 Parent & Student Manual • 33
Acceptable Use of Technology
Acceptable Use of Technology
Student Acceptable Use of Technology Policy
The New School’s information technology resources, including e-mail and Internet access, are
provided for educational purposes. Adherence to the following policy is necessary for continued
access to the school’s technological resources:
Students must:
1. Respect and protect the privacy of others.
• Use only assigned accounts.
• Not view, use, or copy passwords, data, or networks to which they are not authorized
• Not distribute private information about others or themselves
2. Respect and protect the integrity, availability, and security of all electronic resources.
• Observe all network security practices, as posted, including visiting only those webpages
that have been specified by the teacher.
• Report security risks or violations to a teacher or network administrator.
• Not destroy or damage data, networks, or other resources that do not belong to them,
without clear permission of the owner, including not destroying shared documents or
changing permissions on those items that have been shared.
• Conserve, protect, and share these resources with other students and Internet users.
3. Respect and protect the intellectual property of others.
• Not infringe copyrights (no making illegal copies of music, games, or movies)
• Not plagiarize
4. Respect and practice the principles of community.
• Communicate only in ways that are kind and respectful.
• Report threatening or discomforting materials to a teacher.
• Not intentionally access, transmit, copy, or create material that violates the school’s code
of conduct (such as messages that are offensive, threatening, rude, discriminatory, or
meant to harass)
• Not intentionally access, transmit, copy, or create material that is illegal (such as obscenity,
stolen materials, or illegal copies of copyrighted works)
• Not use the resources to further other acts that are criminal or violate the school’s code of
conduct
• Not send spam, chain letters, or other mass unsolicited mailings
• Use only school-assigned resources for academic-related communications
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K-7 Parent & Student Manual • 34
Acceptable Use of Technology
Students may, if in accord with the policy above:
1. Design and post web pages and other material from school resources.
2. Use direct communications such as email, online chat, or instant messaging with a teacher’s
permission.
3. Install or download software, if also in conformity with laws and licenses, and under the
supervision of a teacher.
4. Use the resources for any educational purpose as directed by the teacher.
Consequences for Violation
Violations of these rules may result in disciplinary action, including the loss of a student’s
privileges to use the school’s information technology resources.
Supervision and Monitoring
School and network administrators and their authorized employees monitor the use of
information technology resources to help ensure that uses are secure and in conformity with
this policy. Administrators reserve the right to examine, use, and disclose any data found on
the school’s information networks in order to further the health, safety, discipline, or security
of any student or other person, or to protect property. They may also use this information in
disciplinary actions, and will furnish evidence of crime to law enforcement.
PARENTS, PLEASE DISCUSS THESE RULES WITH YOUR
STUDENT TO ENSURE HE OR SHE UNDERSTANDS THEM.
These rules also provide a good framework for your student’s use of computers at home, at
libraries, and elsewhere.
For more information, visit: www.cybercrime.gov
2014-2015
K-7 Parent & Student Manual • 35
Signatures
K-7 Parent & Student Manual
Please Sign and Return...
Parent & Student Manual Agreement
By signing below, I acknowledge that I have read the full contents of the 2014-2015 K-7 Parent
and Student Manual, and that I understand and agree to comply with the policies described in it.
Student Printed Name __________________________________________________________
Student Signature
____________________________________ Date ______________
Parent Printed Name
__________________________________________________________
Parent Signature
____________________________________ Date ______________
Transport Authorization
By signing below, I grant any employee of The New School permission to transport my child, the
above student, by vehicle between New School buildings in case of hazardous weather, illness, or
injury.
Parent Signature
____________________________________ Date ______________
Grades 3-7 PG Movie Permission
On rare occasions (child-care days, indoor recess, etc.) New School K-7 students may be shown
G-rated movies. 3rd-7th grade parents may grant permission for their child to watch PG movies as well.
By signing below, I grant The New School permission to show PG-rated movies to my 3rd-7th grade
child, the above student.
Parent Signature
2014-2015
____________________________________ Date ______________
K-7 Parent & Student Manual