1. education
2. school

adat
adat ari el labowe family day school
2014/2015
PARENT/STUDENT
MANUAL
STUDENT HANDBOOK
TABLE OF CONTENTS
WELCOME LETTER
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MISSION STATEMENT
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LETTER FROM SENIOR RABBI
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COMING AND GOING
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Arrival
Absence
Tardiness
Late arrival
Carpools and Substitute pick-up
Early pick-up
Special Dismissal Instructions from Parents
Day Care
Late Pick-up
HEALTH & SAFETY
Health Issues
Medication during school hours
Emergencies
Flu
Lice
HIV
Earthquake and Fire Disasters
Child Abuse Reporting
Swimming Pools
GUIDANCE AND DISCIPLINE
Consequences
Gum, Candy, Toys, etc.
Buying or Selling
Electronic Communication Devices
Computer Use in School
Online Safety
Search Policy
Appropriate Attire
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GENERAL THINGS YOU REALLY NEED TO KNOW
Homework:
Study Hall
Homework Central
Library
Lost and Found
Lunch
Recess Snacks
School-Home Communications
Information Changes
Classroom Visits
Pets
Field Trips
Parent Involvement
Release of Records
RITUAL
Kippot
Tzedakah
Kashrut
Home Birthday Party Reminder
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Dear Parents,
Welcome to Adat Ari El Day School. This year is exceptionally exciting as we are
celebrating our milestone 36-year anniversary!
We know that you want your children to be instilled with the spirit of confidence, good
values, and a life-long passion for learning. We want that, too.
Here at Adat, we pride ourselves on an outstanding curriculum honed over decades,
strong teachers with a drive for excellence in education, and state-of-the-art facilities.
As we travel through this year together we are sure you will discover and re-discover
what makes Adat so extraordinary - a mix of academics, arts, athletics, spirituality,
character building and a warm community.
And there is more.
What really makes us special, what really takes your children where you want them to
be, is our shared spirit—the sense of community and warmth that you feel as soon as you
set foot on our campus.
If you have a question or concern about a classroom procedure, write a note or leave a
message for the teacher in the school office. We are always eager to speak with parents.
If we are not available, we will get back to you as soon as possible. Open
communication between the home and the school is truly essential
We encourage you to frequently visit our new website www.aaedayschool.org to find
out more about the school, enjoy our weekly newsletters, calendar, directory and so
much more! Additionally, please check us out on our social media platforms to see
your children in action - we are on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.
For many parents and children, Adat is much more than a school, it’s a home away
from home, a place to learn, play, make good friends and expand horizons, a safe haven
to grow. We hope you will take advantage of the Day School’s unique association with
the Adat Ari El community.
We are looking forward to a very exciting 2014-15 school year! Thank you for being
part of this journey with us!
Lana Marcus, M.A.
Head of School
Sari Beth Goodman, M.A.
Director of General Studies
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Tali Mekahel, M.A.
Director of Judaic Studies
ADAT ARI EL MISSION STATEMENT
Adat Ari El Labowe Family Day School provides an enriching environment that
empowers each student to excel academically, reinforces self-confidence, inspires
leadership, and instills a love of learning, while fostering a strong sense of
community. Our unique approach fuses innovation with tradition, linking robust
general studies, arts, and athletic programs with the development of Jewish identity
and values.
WHO WE ARE
em·pow·er
emˈpou(-əә)r
• give someone the power to do something
• make someone stronger and more confident
THE POWER OF PERSONAL ATTENTION
When children are excited to learn, the sky is the limit. Here at Adat, we bring together
the elements to make that possible: exceptional teachers who are passionate about
showing the way, a wide variety of tools and technologies, and a warm, loving
community that integrates secular smarts and Jewish wisdom. Our mission is to instill
the joy of learning and the confidence to lead.
Our school is equipped with all the best modern gadgets—but we don’t rely on them. In
order to give our children the right kind of start, we offer personal attention and a
multifaceted skills-based approach. That means that every child, no matter what his or
her level or interests, will learn how to think deeply, work hard, and explore
courageously.
THE POWER OF GOOD VALUES
At Adat, we know that excellence in academics and athletics isn’t enough. Just as
important is teaching our children good interpersonal communication skills, respect for
themselves, respect for each other, and respect for their world. Whether celebrating
Jewish holidays and exploring traditions, gardening together, learning about nutrition,
or playing together, the spirit of tikkun olam is at the forefront of our mission.
Our children want to make the world a better place. At Adat, they learn how.
THE POWER OF TRUE COMMUNITY
With smaller class sizes, and a highly skilled, dedicated faculty that encourages open
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communication with parents, Adat fosters a team approach to every child. We get to
know every student, to better offer them individual, flexible, and dynamic
encouragement and support.
With the inspiration to reach excellence, and open and compassionate
communication, every child can become the best person they can be—in academics
and in life.
Adat is much more than a day school. We’re a vibrant community, teeming with
exciting programs and activities. Our classrooms are small, allowing our passionate,
dedicated staff to give each child the personal attention they deserve. And our
multifaceted, skills-based approach to learning helps every child reach their potential.
That’s why our students go on to flourish at the most competitive high schools and
universities in the country.
WHAT WE VALUE
mensch
(mench)
• a person of integrity
• someone who is responsible, has a sense of right and wrong
• a person who cares about others
At Adat, we value in our 21st Century Elementary School:
• Children who are motivated to learn
• Teachers who are passionate about showing the way
• Parents who support and inquire
• Resources with depth and variety
• New technologies that enhance learning
• Administrators and educators who are concerned about each individual
student
• Judaic studies that link students to their past while preparing them for the
future
• Physical education, drama, music, dance, and art to enrich young bodies and
minds
…so that every student can learn who they are as Jews and Americans, and learn how
to think deeply.
That’s why our students
• Understand that an individual can change the world
• Are prepared to go to middle school
• Develop their passions
• Know that THEY are important
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Our school is successful because we value and appreciate every child’s uniqueness.
• We establish a foundation through Jewish identity
• We raise children who care for others and make the world a better place
• We create learning experiences that are engaging and challenging
• We continually develop a strong community
We work to foster
• A sense of wonder
• A love of learning
• The impetus to achieve excellence
• Open and compassionate communication
• Social and emotional learning
• A love of Israel and a commitment to the Jewish people
• Critical inquiry
• Personal accountability
• Self-confident students who are ready to engage the world
• Spiritual growth and faith
• Creativity and curiosity
• Integrity and respect for others
• Commitment
Parents love us because:
• They have direct and regular communication with administrators
• They receive support and guidance for the needs of their children
• They trust that we recognize every student as an individual, and we
understand that students have a wide range of learning styles, interests, and
life experiences
Adat’s tiered model for student support strives to lessen and eliminate gaps in
learning, as well as nurture talents and strengths. Our framework gives us the
flexibility to offer both support and enrichment at the appropriate level as needed.
We teach and guide with your child in mind.
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Dear Parents,
There are two words that are used in Hebrew to describe inheritance: “yerushah” and
“nachalah.” “Nachalah” comes from the word “nahal” and means river. It signifies
something that is automatically passed down across generations, as a river flows
downstream. “Yerushah” comes from the root “yarash” meaning to take possession. It
refers to something to which you have legitimate title but which you need positive
action to acquire.
Judaism is our inheritance, but it is not a river that we automatically receive. It is one
we must take and we take it by studying it. And this studying becomes the key to our
identity as Jews and our understanding of what it means to be a human being.
The Adat Ari El Labowe Family Day School seeks to enable our children and their
families to make Judaism a “yerushah” - an inheritance - by providing the tools by
which they can positive action and claim it as their own. We do this through a faculty,
administration and community that are committed to teaching our children how to
learn and think and to do this within a warm and nurturing environment.
In this way they fulfill the best that is within themselves and thereby express fully the
divine image that is within them.
May this be a wonderful year of learning and growing for your children and your entire
family.
In peace,
Jonathan Jaffe Bernhard
Senior Rabbi
Adat Ari El
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COMING AND GOING
ARRIVAL
Bring your child(ren) to school between 7:30 and 8:00 a.m. Students must proceed
directly to the yard, placing backpacks away from gates, doorways, and passageways.
Playing outside with friends is a wonderful way to start the school day. Students are
sent to the classrooms at 8:00 a.m. Students must be seated at their desks when classes
begin at 8:10. It is essential to the well being of your child(ren), as well as classmates,
that all children arrive at school on time, every day. They need to begin their day
feeling prepared and relaxed. Lessons begin promptly. Students arriving late miss
important instructions and concepts. Timely arrival is an important life skill and best
learned early. Children may not arrive before 7:30 a.m., nor linger by classrooms
before 8:00 a.m.; there is no supervision.
ABSENCE
The school expects regular attendance by each student except when he/she is ill. If
your child is absent frequently, a special conference with the teacher and the Head of
School will be requested. It is the responsibility of the parent to make sure that the
child attends school daily, and on time. It is also the responsibility of the parents to
make sure that the child completes work missed when he/she is absent.
TARDINESS
We show our child(ren) the positive value of school by stressing attendance and
punctuality. Getting him/her to school on time will help keep the child in step with the
class. A few minutes tardiness may cause the child to miss an important announcement
or explanation. It is the responsibility of the parent to make sure the child arrives at
school on time each day. We request that you do not ask that your child be dismissed
early. All doctor, dentist, and outside activities should be scheduled after school hours
whenever possible.
LATE ARRIVAL
In the case of late arrival after 8:10 a.m., the child must come TO THE OFFICE to be
signed in and receive an admittance pass. You may not bring the child to the
classroom and then come sign him/her in at the office. The children will require an
office pass in order to be admitted to class.
CARPOOLS AND SUBSTITUTE PICK-UP
Many children arrive and/or leave in carpools. The school will not release a child to
anyone but the child’s parent, or other adult permanently designated by the parent. We
must have permission in writing before we will release your child to anyone other than
his or her parent. The Emergency Form should be updated as needed.
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EARLY PICK-UP
If you must pick your child up before regular dismissal, please notify the teacher in
writing. You must come to the office to check your child out, and we will call the
classroom to summon your child. DO NOT GO TO THE CLASSROOM.
SPECIAL DISMISSAL INSTRUCTIONS FROM PARENTS
When it is necessary for a child to deviate from his/her normal routine, a note from the
parent should be presented to the teacher. Changes include staying after school for a
special event, such as daycare, or going home with someone other than the normal
carpool.
DAY CARE
The after school Day Care Program runs from 3:20-6:00 p.m. Monday-Thursday and
Fridays 3:00-5:00 p.m. during Daylight Savings Time. During Pacific Standard Time,
Day Care runs from 3:20-6:00 p.m. Monday-Thursday, and from 3:00-4:30 p.m. on
Fridays. There is an additional charge for Day Care.
The program is supervised by Day School staff. There is a designated inside and
outside play time, as well as time to do homework. Many students attend Day Care out
of desire rather than family need. It is great fun to play with others in their Day School
“neighborhood,” especially for those who do not live near children who play outside.
Pre-registration is important to have adequate staffing. Non-registered students can
attend, if necessary, and parents will be billed on a per diem basis. Prices are on the
Day Care sign-up sheet. This form is available on our website or in the Day School
office.
If you have an outstanding late payment due for Day Care, your child will not be
allowed to go to Day Care, but will be brought to the office to wait for you. You will be
charged the regular $25 per day, per child, for the day spent in the office as well.
LATE PICK-UP
There will be a $25 per day, per child charge after 3:45 p.m. Mondays-Thursdays and
3:15 p.m. on Fridays for students who are not registered for monthly Day Care on that
day. Students still waiting to be picked up at 3:45 p.m. Mondays–Thursdays and
3:15 p.m. on Fridays, will be sent to Day Care and parents will be charged.
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HEALTH & SAFETY
HEALTH ISSUES
In order to minimize the effects of illness in the classroom, keep your child at home if
he/she is ill. If your child has had a temperature or has vomited, please keep him/her
home for at least 24 hours. In the event of communicable diseases, the school office
must be contacted so that we can notify other parents. The child should return to
school only when he/she is no longer contagious. If your child must return to school
with a cast, brace, or splint, the child may have to stay in the school office during recess
and P.E. A doctor’s note allowing the child to come to school and explaining limitations
is necessary. A note from the doctor must also accompany the child after the device is
removed stating the extent to which the child may resume activities. Your child must
come to the office during recess and P.E., while recovering from the injury. He/she is
encouraged to bring one friend and a game during his/her time in the office.
MEDICATION DURING SCHOOL HOURS
If a child needs medication at school, parents must fill out the blue Request For
Medication form (available in the office). ALL MEDICATION MUST BE BROUGHT TO
THE OFFICE BY AN ADULT IN THE ORIGINAL CONTAINER AND PLAINLY
MARKED WITH THE CHILD’S NAME. Anything, including, but not limited to cough
drops, eye drops, antihistamines, inhalers, etc. must be brought to the office – nothing is
allowed to remain in a child’s backpack or lunch box. Your child will be called for
when the medication needs to be taken.
EMERGENCIES
In the case of a serious injury, the parent will be notified immediately. For an injury
that requires medical attention, the paramedics will immediately be called to the school.
IT IS IMPORTANT TO NOTE THAT PARAMEDICS WILL BE CALLED WHEN
NECESSARY. DO NOT ASSUME THAT BECAUSE THE PARAMEDICS HAVE BEEN
CALLED, YOUR CHILD IS SERIOUSLY INJURED. It is imperative that your
Emergency Form be current. We cannot reach you if we have the wrong information.
FLU
In an effort to prevent exposure to the flu, please join the school staff in teaching
children the following habits:
• When sneezing or coughing, cover mouth and nose with a tissue. If a
tissue is not handy, use the inside of the elbow.
• Clean hands often, especially after sneezing or coughing.
• Wash hands in warm water and soap for 15-20 seconds (as long as it takes
to sing “Happy Birthday”). Alcohol-based hand wipes or gels can also be
used.
• Avoid touching eyes, nose or mouth.
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The CDC (Center for Disease Control) says those who are ill should stay home and
remain at home until symptom free for 24 hours. This will prevent students, siblings,
parents and staff from contracting the disease.
The school will check governmental guideline updates.
LICE
This problem can happen to anyone and can be eliminated by prompt detection and
effective treatment. It is not a sign of a lack of cleanliness. We have the right and
responsibility to routinely check your child(ren)’s head for nits to enforce our school’s
nit free policy.
Upon returning from lice treatment, walk your child into the office to have him/her
checked. Students will only be re-admitted when checked by our personnel in the
school office.
HIV
Every precaution will be taken to protect the confidentiality of records, files, and other
information about the HIV status of a student. The teachers, classroom assistants, and
yard supervisor will be informed of a child’s HIV status to ensure the child’s emotional
well-being.
Any decision regarding the type of educational service to be provided to a student
based on the presence of the AIDS/ARC virus, will be made in consultation with the
student’s physician, counselor, the student’s parents or legal guardian and
administration.
EARTHQUAKE AND FIRE DISASTERS
The school conducts regular fire and earthquake drills during school hours. Each
classroom is supplied with emergency food, water, flashlights, and first aid equipment.
Every staff person on the premises is required to be certified in both CPR and First Aid
and must be recertified every other year. We urge each family to plan what it will do if
an earthquake strikes during the day. Children will remain on-site in a safe area until
parents or designated adults (indicated on the Emergency and/or Disaster Form)
arrive.
In the event that the phone lines are down within California due to an earthquake or
other natural disaster, the emergency contact outside of California will be:
THE PORTLAND JEWISH ACADEMY (503) 244-0126. PJA PRINCIPAL, MERRILL
HENDLIN. PORTLAND JEWISH ACADEMY CAN BE CALLED FOR
INFORMATION WHICH WE WILL CONVEY.
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CHILD ABUSE REPORTING
In accordance with the school policy and California State Law, the school staff is
obligated under penalty of fine and jail term, to report the reasonable suspicion of
physical abuse, emotional abuse, emotional deprivation, physical neglect, inadequate
supervision, or sexual abuse and exploitation. IN THIS VERY SERIOUS AND
LEGALLY NARROW AREA, THE SCHOOL DOES NOT CONTACT PARENTS IN
ADVANCE OF MAKING A REPORT TO LEGAL AUTHORITIES. The clear intent of
the law, based on the seriousness of the crimes listed above, is to mandate that a report
of any reasonable suspicion is made. School staff members are legally required to make
such reports in the best interest of the affected child and do not, once reasonable
suspicion is established, have any legal alternative except to make the report to the
proper authorities for their investigation and review.
SWIMMING POOLS
Any AAE Day School event in which Day School children will be present that is held at
a home or other location that has a swimming pool that does NOT contain a safety fence
that can prevent children from entering the swimming pool area must have two (2)
qualified lifeguards at the swimming pool at all times during the event.
GUIDANCE AND DISCIPLINE
Our goal is for students to internalize and implement Jewish values in all aspects of
their lives, and to distinguish right from wrong.
It is the belief of our staff that every child has the right to come to school with a sense of
security and well-being, free from fear and intimidation. We work very hard at meeting
this goal by:
Setting clear-cut standards, boundaries and consequences for students.
Adopting a communication system in which parents are made aware of a
possible problem.
• Using an “open door policy” for parents to talk with the administration
and staff.
• Sincerely hoping to receive the cooperation, help and support of parents.
• Teaching that physical abuse, (fighting, wrestling, pushing, or shoving) is
not permitted.
• Responding to the destruction or removal of school property.
Weapons of any type must not be brought to school. Having a weapon is grounds for
expulsion. Please do not send plastic knives with your child for lunch or snack.
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CONSEQUENCES
There are times when some students do not follow the rules and procedures of the
school, thereby choosing to accept the consequences of their actions. In most instances,
these consequences will be handled by the teacher. There are some situations that
require the direct involvement of the administration. These include:
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Fighting, biting, or other action intending to harm another person.
Misuse or destruction of personal or school property.
Using profanity or inappropriate language.
Willful disobedience or disrespect of authority.
Biting will result in suspension.
Any other action deemed by the professional staff to be detrimental to the
learning or well being of other students.
If incidents continue to occur, an administrator will call for a conference between the
teacher, parent and administration to find ways to change inappropriate behavior. This
team approach is vital to help the student work through a difficult time with his/her
behavior. We use problem-solving techniques to deal with discipline problems.
Temporary or permanent removal from the school may be considered a possible
consequence.
GUM, CANDY, TOYS, ETC.
Students should not bring gum or candy, toys, electronic toys, cameras, trading cards,
or laser pointers to school. The school and synagogue take no responsibility for
personal items that are lost or broken. Leave pocketknives and other such articles at
home. Large sums of money should not be brought to school. Sums over $5 should be
left in the school office for safekeeping.
It is against the school’s rules for a student to make a purchase from the synagogue
vending machine unless accompanied by a parent.
BUYING OR SELLING
Students must get prior approval from the school administration in order to sell
anything on campus. Students must not bring money to purchase any unapproved
items from students.
ELECTRONIC COMMUNICATION DEVICES (ECD’s)
Students are allowed to have cell phones in school provided they are turned off and
kept in a locker or backpack during school hours. After hours begins at 3:20, or after the
student has been dismissed for the day. Cell phones cannot be used in either Study
Hall or Homework Central and can be used in Adat After School and Day Care only
with the permission of the supervisor or instructor.
There are phones in the building, located in all offices, to be used for any important or
emergency calls. No play dates will be arranged through the office. Please send a note
in advance if your child wants to play at a friend’s house.
Cell phones which are used at inappropriate times or ring during class, will be
confiscated and placed in the school safe, where they may be retrieved by a parent
during regular office hours. THE SCHOOL IS NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR LOST,
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STOLEN, ECD’s. Other ECD’s brought to school many only be used in school with the
permission of a teacher.
For safety reasons, parents may not use cell phones, either hand held or hands free
while in the Adat Ari El parking lot or on school field trips. We strongly advise that
you review safe and appropriate use of electronic devices with your children.
COMPUTER USE IN SCHOOL
A separate Acceptable Use Policy (A.U.P) document will be distributed to all students.
The A.U.P. must be signed by every student and a parent before he/she can use a
school computer and access the internet.
ONLINE SAFETY
The internet is a great place for children to spend part of their time. As long as their
time online is balanced with other important activities-playing outside, reading,
creative activities, spending time with friends and family-the Internet can be fun and
beneficial. As the Internet becomes more common in homes across America, children
are using the Internet earlier and earlier. WHEN A CHILD IS YOUNG, IT’S A
PARENT’S RESPONSIBILITY TO MAKE THE SURE INTERNET USE IS IN A SAFE
ONLINE ENVIRONMENT.
Before you allow your children to go online, make sure you establish a set of rules that
you can all agree on.
• Remain actively and positively involved. Encourage your children to share their
Internet experiences with you. Enjoy the Internet along with your children. Help
your child make good choices based on your family’s values.
• Do not allow your child to register on sites for users over the ages of 13. If your
child’s friends are on the sites, talk to their parents. Find a safer place where
friends can communicate and share.
• Implement appropriate computer security against malware. Use a spam blocker.
Block pop-up ads. Use the safe search features.
• Teach your children to trust their instincts. If they feel nervous about anything online,
they should tell you about it.
• Help your child create a safe and fun username that does not disclose personal details
and a safe password. Use your email for address for any site registrations
• Insist that your kids never give out your address, phone number, or other personal
information, including where they go to school or where they like to play.
• Teach your children that the difference between right and wrong is the same on the
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Internet as it is in real life. Show them how to respect others online. Make sure
they know that rules for good behavior don't change just because they're on a
computer.
If your child engages in inappropriate or harmful behavior, respond in a way that will
focus your child’s attention on the harmful consequences of his or her actions.
Require that your child remedy any harm.
Insist that your children respect the property of others online. Explain that making
illegal copies of other people's work - music, video games, and other programs is just like stealing it from a store.
Tell your children that they should never meet online friends in person. Explain that
online friends may not be who they say they are.
Teach your children that not everything they read or see online is true. Encourage
them to ask you if they're not sure.
SEARCH POLICY
Lockers are provided to the students as a matter of convenience and remain the
property of the school. School officials may perform inspections of lockers, desks
and student work and play areas at any time without notice, student or parent
consent, or a search warrant. Although book-bags are the property of the students,
when they are present on School property or at School functions, School officials
reserve the right to inspect them as well.
If a student refuses to consent to the search, the student may be refused admittance to
the school buildings or grounds and may not leave a book-bag or other item on
school property.
APPROPRIATE ATTIRE
The purpose of school is for learning. Students at our school are required to dress with
modesty and discretion regardless of current fashions. Garments, hairstyles, and other
adornments that distract from learning are unacceptable.
Students should dress in neat, clean, and comfortable clothes. Outer garments should
be labeled with your child’s name. Shoes are to be closed at both the heel and toe.
Students wearing shoes with wheels are prohibited from skating on synagogue
property. Athletic shoes should be worn on P.E. days. Your children are active,
especially during recess, P.E., and dance. The clothes and shoes they wear should allow
them to play freely and safely.
Pants must be worn at the waistline. Girls must wear tops with a full back. Girls in
Grades 4-6 must wear tops with a minimum 1” width shoulder strap. Skirts and shorts
must cover the upper thigh.
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Clothing that is “see-through”, revealing, provocative, overly tight fitting, or torn is not
acceptable at school. This includes wearing clothes that require continual re-adjustment
to meet the dress code standards. Clothing and/or jewelry with profanity, violence,
suggestive content or drug-related sayings, symbols, or pictures, including references to
tobacco and alcohol are not allowed.
Make-up may be worn during our Purim Costume Day and Intergenerational
performance only.
Hats may only be worn on outdoor field trips or during recess P.E.
Temporary or permanent tattoos are prohibited.
If your child comes dressed inappropriately, you will be called to bring a change of
clothes.
Friday is a special day at school as we prepare for Shabbat, and children should dress in
comfortable, but special clothing.
GENERAL THINGS YOU REALLY NEED TO KNOW
HOMEWORK
Homework is a necessity for students to practice skills previously taught in school. It
also enables the teacher to provide challenges that allow for the individual differences
in the class. Students should be able to do their homework assignments independently
and should be encouraged to assume full responsibility for the satisfactory completion
of given work. Encourage your child to seek help from the classroom teacher if he/she
be useful.
Students in Grades 2-6 are given academic planners to teach organization and
responsibility. Parents should look over the planners each school day.
A. STUDY HALL (A Day Care Program)
Study Hall is designed to provide a quiet, supervised room in which students
can do their homework. It is available Monday through Thursday from 3:30-5:00
p.m. through the Day Care Program. Your child must be registered in Day Care
to participate in Study Hall. There is an additional charge if your child
participates in Study Hall, and requires pre-registration. Study Hall is for
students in grades 3-6 only.
B. HOMEWORK CENTRAL (A Day Care Program unique to AAE Day School)
Homework Central is designed to provide a quiet, structured program where
students are taught organization, independence, and perseverance: skills
necessary to do homework successfully. It is available Monday-Thursday from
3:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. to help children with homework. Homework Central is by
referral only and requires pre-registration. Your child must be registered in Day
Care to participate in Homework Central. (There will be an additional charge if
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your child participates in Homework Central). Homework Central is for
students in grades 3-6 only.
LIBRARY
The Weber Library is open from 8:30 a.m. to 3:20 p.m. Monday through Thursday, and
until 3:00 p.m. on Friday. Students and parents have book checkout privileges. In
addition to an extensive children’s book and reference collection, there is a small adult
lending library with books written in English and Hebrew. Food and drink must be
taken outside to be consumed.
LOST AND FOUND
Should your child lose any article of clothing or lunch box, it will be put in our Lost and
Found. Please be sure to label all of your children’s belongings. In keeping with the
spirit of tzedakah, lost items without names are donated to charitable agencies after a
reasonable length of time.
LUNCH
Lunch is available for purchase five days a week. You will receive a sign-up sheet three
times during the year – on our website. If you forget to send lunch with your child one
day, we will provide a peanut butter and jelly sandwich and side dishes from the lunch
buffet and you will be charged $5.00. We will modify our menu every three months.
THERE ARE NO MAKE UP DAYS FOR HOT LUNCH.
RECESS SNACKS
Snacks of fruit, vegetables, or other healthy food may be brought for mid-morning
recess. A beverage snack of chocolate milk may be purchased for 75 cents. A bagel
($1.00) and cream cheese (50 cents) may be purchased on Thursdays. Prepaid Jamba
Juice orders are distributed on Tuesdays.
SCHOOL - HOME COMMUNICATIONS
“What’s The Buzz” is e-mailed each Friday with the dates and times of Day School
events. AAE Community events are included. It is most important that you read it
every week to ensure you are kept up to date on all of the “happenings” regarding the
school. Please be sure to update your email address.
Facebook – www.facbook.com/AAEDaySchool.org.
Check out the day school facebook page for photos, videos and other news of what is
happening in school. Tell your friends and adult family members to “Like”us.
Website – aaedayschool.org.
Our new and improved website has a great deal of information about the day school
including the people with whom your children interact and the programs in which they
participate.
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INFORMATION CHANGES
If there are any changes to your personal information such as address, phone number
(home, work, or cell), doctor’s name, people allowed to pick up your child, please let
the office know immediately. In the case of an emergency, we cannot reach you if we
do not have updated information. Also, please remember to inform the office if you are
leaving town and your child(ren) is/are being cared for by someone else.
CLASSROOM VISITS
Parents are welcome and encouraged to visit school during classes, programs and
holiday celebrations. We want our school to be a part of an extended family, which
includes students and their relatives. To maintain the integrity of the classroom, it is
necessary to insist on the following:
• All classroom visits must be scheduled through the office in advance.
• Visitors to the classroom are asked to be as unobtrusive as possible, and to interact
with the teachers and children only as invited by the teacher.
PETS
Please do not bring your pets to school. We realize that at times it is too hot to leave
your loved one in the car. Please think of this before you leave home.
FIELD TRIPS
Our students are provided opportunities to learn beyond the classroom walls. A
separate field trip form must be signed by a parent every time a field trip is planned.
Without a parent signature, your child will not be allowed to leave the school grounds.
Your child must also wear the green Adat Ari El Day School T-shirt.
Parent drivers must have a copy of a current driver’s license and proof of auto
insurance on file in the Day School office.
Seat Belts on Field Trips – These policies have been created with the full understanding
of seat belt laws in California.
1. All students must wear seatbelts with shoulder straps. There is absolutely
no double belting. A driver may not transport a child in a motor vehicle
on a highway without properly securing the child in a rear seat in a child
passenger restraint system meeting applicable federal motor vehicle safety
standards, unless the child is one of the following
2. Students over 60 pounds or 6 years old may sit in the front seat if all other
seats are occupied by children under 12. In all other cases, students must
be seated in the rear. Students may not sit in the front seat if the vehicle is
equipped with passenger side air bags.
3. Students under six years of age or under 60 lbs. must have a booster with a
shoulder strap or car seat appropriate for his/her weight.
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PARENT INVOLVEMENT
We welcome your involvement in our school program. Ongoing parental support adds
much to our school activities. Parent participation also offers the opportunity for
fellowship among our school families. The two organizations that serve our Day School
are the Parent Association and the Governing Board.
Parent Association:
The functions of the Parent Association are:
A. To be the service organization of the school
B. To raise money which goes directly to the school
C. To serve as a forum of information between parents and the school
The Parents Association fulfills its responsibility only with the assistance of
parent volunteers. Active parental participation and cooperation is essential to
initiate and develop programs for our children.
Day School Governing Board:
A. The Governing Board sets policy and is responsible for the administration of
the affairs of the school.
B. The voting members of the Governing Board include Day School parents,
alumni, and synagogue members.
C. The Day School Governing Board meetings are held monthly and we hope
you will attend.
Involvement by all parents is important and necessary.
RELEASE OF RECORDS
A student’s records shall be released as soon as possible to requesting schools. A
parental signature shall be required before records are sent to anyone. All references
that are forwarded to a school are “personal and confidential” and shall be between the
two schools only. Copies and/or verbal readings of the reference cannot be done
without the written permission of those who completed the forms.
The school must comply with a court order to release information concerning a student.
However, the student’s parent will be notified of the compliance in advance if it is
within the requirements of the judicial order.
Communication between school staff and an outside professional, such as a doctor or
therapist, shall only take place with the written permission of a student’s parent.
RITUAL
At Adat Ari El Day School, a climate of joyous celebration of Jewish life is maintained
through religious observance. These observances include daily prayer, the recitation of
blessings in appropriate situations (e.g. before and after eating), the practice of kashrut,
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wearing of the Kippah (yarmulke) for boys, and attendance at Shabbat and holiday
services as a regular part of the curricular experiences. We encourage our children and
their parents to attend services weekly and on holidays.
Holidays with Christian or pagan origins are not celebrated in any way at school. These
holidays include Christmas, Easter, St. Valentine’s Day, St. Patrick’s Day, and
Halloween.
KIPPOT
A Kippah is necessary each day for our male students. Wearing a Kippah is optional
for female students. Each boy also needs to bring a plastic bag labeled with his name
containing three Kippot at the beginning of the school year. Boys who do not have
Kippot will receive a Kippah from the office and will be charged fifty cents.
TZEDAKAH
At Adat Ari El Day School, we encourage children to follow the customs of giving
tzedakah (charity) on Fridays. Of course, money for tzedakah may be sent with your
child any time to celebrate any special family occasion. The Day School also maintains
a Scholarship Fund and a Library Fund for special remembrances.
KASHRUT
In its broadest sense, kashrut (“keeping kosher”) is a system of unique dietary
observance, which reflect Judaism’s ideas of reverence for life and the uniqueness of the
Jewish people. The essence of Jewish living is to draw closer to God so that we may
become an “am mitzvot”, a holy people. According to our tradition, the mitzvot were
given for no other reason than to refine and perfect us. Among the many observances
that pave our way to ever increasing levels of holiness are the laws of kashrut. Within
Judaism, the simple act of preparing or eating food for sustenance is elevated to a
sacred task, with all the attending guidelines and standards.
It is our task as a Conservative synagogue and school to both observe and teach these
standards and guidelines as we strive continually to be a holy people. The first step in
this process is the formulation of a kashrut policy for the synagogue itself.
All foods brought to the Day School must be dairy or pareve and be free of any animal
product ingredients. We hope the following definitions will help you: All foods must
have a copyrighted symbol indicating the item is kosher. A “K” is not copyrighted and
is therefore not acceptable.
DAIRY FOODS are all types of products containing milk – milk, cheese, yogurt, ice
cream, butter, most margarine, whey and casseinate.
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PAREVE FOODS are foods which contain neither dairy nor meat products. These
foods include fruits, vegetables, and eggs. Fish with fins and scales – tuna, salmon, cod
are considered pareve. Shellfish – (shrimp, crab, and lobster) is not acceptable.
MEAT PRODUCTS of any kind, including chicken and other poultry are not
permitted. Even meat or poultry prepared in a Kosher home is not permitted at Adat
Ari El.
When bringing a treat, at any time for your child’s class, we strongly recommend that
you make healthy choices. If you bring a treat for your child’s class on a meat hot lunch
day, you may use the following establishments for purchases: Continental Bakery,
Sam’s Kosher Bakery (only non-dairy items), Swartz Bakery (only non-dairy items),
Renaissance Bakery (available in markets), and Cambridge, all have several varieties of
non-dairy (pareve) treats. Another suggestion is to look in the market’s frozen food
section for pareve (non-dairy) ice cream or Popsicle treats. Pareve, tofu treats are
available in most markets including Trader Joe’s. Pareve popsicles are available at
kosher. Look for the circled U without a “D”, indicating dairy, beside it.
For celebrations held on a dairy hot lunch day, purchases may be made at Krispy
Kreme Donuts. Dairy products such as Entemann’s and Ralph’s house brands and ice
cream with appropriate copyrighted symbols such as circled U or circled K may also be
used. On dairy days, all items included on Pareve days are also acceptable. Grape juice
must have the appropriate circled U symbol. “K” is not permitted.
SUNSHINE PRODUCTS ARE NOT PERMITTED. FOODS BAKED OR COOKED
AT HOME MAY NOT BE DISTRIBUTED TO STUDENTS IN CLASS.
All fruits and vegetables, etc., must be cut in the synagogue kitchen if they are to be
served to anyone but your child. No pre-cut products are permissible for the classroom.
Allergies : Food allergies are increasingly prevalent. If a student in your child’s class
has a food allergy, please avoid buying treats containing that ingredient for the class.
HOME BIRTHDAY PARTY REMINDER
JEWISH HOLIDAYS/BIRTHDAY PARTIES
In keeping with the religious traditions of our school, we ask you to not hold parties on
Shabbat (Friday evening through all day on Saturday until sundown) or on other Jewish
holidays. Please note that birthday parties on Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur, the first
and last two days of both Passover and Sukkot, (including Simchat Torah), and the two
days of Shavuot are not appropriate.
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INCLUSION
Among the “FAIR” values we teach our students is “I” for “Include Everyone”.
This is because we are a community. Leaving someone out causes a great deal of hurt.
Therefore, our policy is that no child be singled out from a party. Either
invite all the boys in the grade, all the girls in the grade, or everyone in the
grade.
IN CLASS BIRTHDAYS
Birthday parties will be celebrated in class once a month for all of the children who have
birthdays in that month. Children who have summer birthdays will celebrate them
during the school year on a special “un-birthday” day for that month, chosen by the
teacher.
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