Upper Moreland Primary School

UPPER MORELAND PRIMARY SCHOOL

FAMILY HANDBOOK

2022-2023

Dr. Dena Criss, Principal

Mrs. Shannon Sullivan, Assistant Principal

Ms. Diane DeKezel, Building Secretary

Mrs. Heather Nyholm, Attendance Greeting Secretary

3980 Orangemans Road

Hatboro, PA 19040

Office (215) 325-1400

Fax (215) 325-1401

Nurse (215) 325-1702

Absentee psattendance@umtsd.org

FROM THE PRINCIPAL 

Welcome to Upper Moreland Primary School. The teachers and staff work very hard to create a positive learning environment for your child. We strive to be a child-centered community and hope that through an exciting and challenging curriculum our students will develop a lifelong thirst for knowledge. 

Furthermore, we aim to educate the whole child at Upper Moreland Primary School and are focused on the physical, social, and emotional growth and development of your child.  We have a full-time school psychologist and school counselors on staff to assist children and families.  Our teachers have been trained in strategies that encourage good decision making.  A variety of classroom and school-wide events are designed to foster a positive self-image in each student. 

This handbook is intended to provide information on various topics.  We hope that it answers many questions about the operation of our school.  Please keep the booklet handy, as it may be a valuable resource as the school year progresses.  If you have any additional questions, please feel free to contact me. 

I am looking forward to a positive and productive school year. Your interest and support of our curriculum and programs are greatly appreciated. I believe that an open line of communication between home and school is vital to the success of your child. 

Sincerely, 

Dr. Dena Criss,

Primary School Principal 

PHILOSOPHY OF EDUCATION OF THE SCHOOL DISTRICT OF

UPPER MORELAND TOWNSHIP

A democratic society is founded on the worth of each individual and the value of their unique contribution to that society. The board is committed to providing a system of education that will offer equal educational opportunities in accordance with a student's interests, abilities, and needs consistent with available resources. 

The board, as the agent responsible for the education of the children of the School District of Upper Moreland Township, directs the development of a planned program of learning which meets the needs of the students in the district. 

The planned program of learning shall encourage the fullest possible development of each student to: 

• acquire communication skills of understanding, speaking, reading and writing 

• construct concepts and make meaningful, real-world connections in mathematics 

• develop self-understanding and a feeling of self-worth

• develop analytical thinking 

• acquire knowledge of different cultures and an appreciation of the worth of all people in an equitable and safe environment 

• review the history of the nation, understand its systems of government and economics and acquire the values and attitudes necessary for responsible citizenship 

• acquire knowledge, appreciation, and skills in the arts and the humanities 

• acquire the knowledge, understanding, and appreciation of science and technology 

• acquire the knowledge, skills, and attitudes necessary to become a self-supporting member of society 

• acquire the knowledge, skills, and attitudes necessary for successful personal and family living 

• acquire knowledge and develop practices necessary to maintain physical and emotional well-being 

• acquire the knowledge and attitudes necessary to maintain the quality of life in a balanced environment

POLICIES AND PROCEDURES

ATTENDANCE PROCEDURES & ABSENCE NOTES 

• Regular school attendance is required of all students enrolled in the school during the days and hours that the school is in session.  The School Board considers the following conditions to constitute reasonable cause for absence from school: 

  • Personal illness 

  • Quarantine of the individual or home 

  • Death in the immediate family 

  • Very unusual weather conditions 

• Exceptional, urgent reasons – must pertain to student 

• Religious holiday 

• Suspension from school 

• Required court appearance 

• In the case of the exceptional student (Special Education), where absence is caused by or directly related to the student’s exceptionality 

• Religious instruction – at the written request of a parent, students may be excused for up to 36 hours of religious instruction per school year.  

• Parents are asked to email psattendance@umtsd.org if their child is absent and to state the reason for the absence.

• All absences resulting in a total of three (3) or more consecutive days will require a written excuse note by a licensed healthcare provider. 

• When a student has been absent, excused with a parent note, totaling ten (10) days (cumulative), all subsequent absences require a written excuse note from a licensed healthcare provider.

ARRIVAL & DISMISSAL PROCEDURES 

• All late arrivals and early dismissals require parents/guardians to sign into the building and a driver’s license will be checked. 

• PARENTS/GUARDIANS WHO BRING LATE STUDENTS TO SCHOOL MUST PARK THEIR CAR IN THE FRONT PARKING LOT OF EITHER THE PRIMARY OR INTERMEDIATE SCHOOL AND ESCORT THEIR CHILD(REN) TO THE APPROPRIATE MAIN OFFICE. 

• All elementary students must report to homeroom by 8:35am daily in order to be marked on time.

• All changes to dismissal procedures must be secured via email to psattendance@umtsd.org or a handwritten note to the child’s homeroom teacher. 

• NO elementary students are permitted to ride bicycles to school.  

• Our safety and traffic procedures will be carefully monitored and adjusted if necessary.  They have been established for the safety of our students – not for convenience.  We thank our families in advance for their cooperation, support, and patience in helping to provide safe and orderly arrival and dismissal procedures for our students. 

• Students will only be released to parents or guardians or those individuals whose names appear in the e-school database.   Any other person who wishes to take a child with them will have to wait for telephone/written verification by the parent or guardian.  Students will be dismissed from the office only.  A parent who has sole custody of his or her children must have the appropriate court order on file in the school office.  When a parent or designee comes to pick up a child, the parent must show proper identification and sign the child out of the office.  Children will not be dismissed directly from the classroom.  If the child later returns to school, the parent/guardian must check in at the office in order to make school officials aware of the student's return.  This procedure is designed for the safety of our students and will be strictly enforced. 

ASSEMBLIES 

• Through the generosity of the Upper Moreland Elementary School Home and School Association (H.S.A.), our school has been able to schedule an exciting series of assemblies.  This enables the school to provide many unique assembly productions to share with students.

• Cub Gatherings are a monthly school-based assembly designed to recognize Character Education virtues and promote a pro-social and positive school community.  It is also a time to showcase the talents and hard work of our classes.  Outside visitors are not permitted to attend these assemblies.

• Other assembly opportunities such as the Intermediate School Music Fest may be offered throughout the year and would be communicated through the district website.

ATTENDANCE 

• Parents should make every effort to schedule appointments for their children outside of the instructional day. The district firmly believes that there is a high correlation between class attendance and student achievement. The majority of what is learned in school involves direct instruction by a teacher, the interaction between teacher and student, and the interaction among students. These activities occur in school and are missed by a student who is absent from school. What is missed cannot be made up through homework or extra assignments. 

• If a student is absent three consecutive days or has had excessive absences, the teacher will refer the student's name to the office for further investigation. Following each absence, parents are to provide an email  indicating the reason for the child's absence.

• After three days of unexcused absences, a warning notice will be sent to the parents or guardian.  

• Parents may request assignments for students who are absent by emailing the homeroom teacher no later than 10:00 AM for same day pick up from the office. Homework may be picked up prior to 2:30 PM. 

BIRTHDAYS 

• No outside birthday treats are permitted.

• Birthday treats/snacks may be purchased  from the UM Food Services Department.  Arrangements can be made with the Food Services Department to provide treats at lunch time.  

• The Food Services Department asks that you order a week prior to your child’s birthday.  

• If you would like to order birthday treats go to the UMSD Online Fee Payment Center on the www.umtsd.org website (https://uppermorelandsd.revtrak.net/classroom-catering/) and select “classroom catering” to place your order and pay at the time order is placed.  

• No class time will be used for birthday celebrations during the instructional day.  

• Birthday party invitations are not to be distributed during school time unless every child is invited to the party.  

BUS RULES AND REGULATIONS 

• The district provides transportation for elementary children who live more than one mile from the school or who must walk along hazardous routes.  

• The district will transport physically challenged children regardless of distance or hazardous walking conditions.  

• Children who ride buses are expected to conduct themselves in such a manner as not to endanger themselves, their peers, or the safe operation of the bus. 

• A student may be suspended from bus transportation by the principal for disciplinary reasons, in which case the parents are responsible for the pupil's transportation. 

• All students must ride the bus to which they have been assigned, both to and from school daily.  Due to capacity, we are unable to grant any requests for students to ride another bus.  

CAFETERIA 

• The Upper Moreland School District provides a nutritious breakfast and lunch in each cafeteria. Menus are planned by the district's Food Services Director to fulfill nutritional requirements as specified by federal regulations. 

• Each month the district website lists the offerings for the month. All items are available daily for purchase by children who bring their lunch; items sold individually will be charged as a la carte pricing. 

• Healthy snacks are also available daily for purchase during their lunchtime.  

• Any student who has depleted their lunch account will be offered a regular meal, but no snack or additional items are allowed to be charged to the meal account.  

• Emails, phone calls, and mailings will be made to families who owe money to their student’s meal account.  Please refer to the Meal Charging Policy on the school district website.

• Applications for free and reduced lunches are completed online through www.schoolcafe.com.    Until a notice of approval for free or reduced lunch has been received, parents are responsible for providing lunch or money to purchase lunch.  If you have any questions, please contact the Food Services Department at 215-830-1519. 

• Duty assistants supervise the cafeteria.  Students will be directed by the staff in matters pertaining to: traffic, clean-up operations, disposal of trash, general behavior, and dismissals.  Children are expected to conduct themselves in the same manner as would reasonably be expected of them in the dining room of their home.  Failure to obey rules and regulations will result in the loss of cafeteria privileges.  A copy of the rules related to student behavior in the cafeteria is included in this Handbook and in the Code of Conduct.  It is important for parents to take the time to review them with their children. 

CALENDAR 

• Each family will receive a district calendar during the first week of school.  Please note the schedule of holidays and special events listed on the calendar. 

• Throughout the year, additional activities and events may be added and information will be available through the district’s weekly communication and school website. 

CARE OF SCHOOL PROPERTY 

• The School Board charges each student in the schools of this district with responsibility for the proper care of school property and the school supplies and equipment entrusted to his or her use.  Students who willfully cause damage to school property will be subject to disciplinary measures.  Students and others who damage or deface school property will be prosecuted and punished under law.  Parents and guardians of students will be held accountable for students' actions. 

• The School Board will report to parents and the appropriate juvenile authorities any student whose damage to school property has been serious or chronic in nature.  

CHANGE OF ADDRESS – WITHDRAWAL 

• It is the responsibility of the parent/guardian to notify the school office of any change in address or telephone numbers. 

• In the event a child is moving out of the community, an email must be submitted to the office stating the reason for the withdrawal and when the anticipated move will transpire.  Please see the district website information tab for additional information.

CHAPERONES, CLEARANCES, AND VOLUNTEERING 

• Parents/Guardians and visitors must be on the District Approved Clearance List when participating in a school field trip or classroom activity. 

• The safety of the children is our number one priority and as such, the District has developed procedures for those wishing to become an approved volunteer.  Volunteers include chaperones on field trips or classroom activities.  To ensure the safety and welfare of our students, and to comply with current applicable state and federal laws, the Upper Moreland School District has revised some of the procedures and requirements.  Please refer to our district web page for more information on volunteering.   https://www.umtsd.org/Page/5379. 

• When chaperoning, you will be required to report to the building office and scan your driver’s license.  The information will be scanned into our visitor management system and a visitor's badge will be printed. This badge must be visibly displayed at all times while you are in the building, participating in a classroom activity, or chaperoning a field trip.  Please be sure to adhere to all clearance guidelines found on our school district webpage.  

CHILD ABUSE 

All Upper Moreland School District employees are required by law to report any suspicion of physical, mental, or sexual abuse.  We will contact appropriate agencies and cooperate with them in accordance with the law. 

CLASSROOM ACTIVITIES

• Our Home & School Association arranges seasonal classroom activities 2-3 times per year (ie. Halloween Parade/Activities and Winter Activities). .  

• HSA will send out communications regarding homeroom parents. 

• Please note:  Due to food allergies and health issues, no additional food may be brought to classroom celebrations.  Violation of this rule creates a potential health risk for our students. No exceptions to this rule are permitted. 

• Supervised arrangements will be made for any student not celebrating a particular holiday for religious or personal reasons. 

CUSTODY ORDERS 

It is imperative that a copy of all custody orders be kept on file in the school office.  Without a copy of the official court order, the safety and security of your child is at risk. These documents will be kept confidential and only shared with appropriate school personnel. 

DISCIPLINE 

• The staff of Upper Moreland Elementary School recognizes the need to maintain an atmosphere conducive to teaching and learning.  Students and parents share with the staff a responsibility to develop a climate within the school that encourages a positive learning environment. The Code of Conduct sets forth guidelines on the responsibilities of students, teachers, principals, and parents to aid in accomplishing this goal.   A list of student responsibilities is included in the Code of Conduct and in this Handbook.  It is important that parents take the time to review and discuss them with their children. 

• Disciplinary consequences will follow for those students whose behavior disrupts the educational process or who present a danger to the health, safety and welfare of the school community in accordance with the Code of Conduct.

EMERGENCY CLOSING/INCLEMENT WEATHER 

• Families will receive a notification call from the UMSD One Call Now System regarding school closings, delayed openings, and/or early dismissal. It is vitally important that school office personnel be made aware of any change to work phone numbers, cell phones, or contact information. Please send all changes in written form to school with your child. 

• The school building personnel do not make decisions regarding school closings. Therefore, it is essential that the school telephone lines remain open during weather emergencies so that important weather related information can be received by the police department, school administration, etc.  

• While weather forecasts are readily available prior to a major event, it is imperative that parents explain to their children what to do in case of an unexpected early dismissal.  It is not possible for the secretary to deliver a personal message to each student.  Therefore, each child should have a clear understanding of emergency arrangements. 

• During an emergency, please do not call the school office as the principal and secretaries are involved in implementing the changes necessitated by the school closing.  

• Families who subscribe to cable TV can ascertain information concerning school closings, delayed openings, and early dismissals by tuning into the Bears News Network, Comcast Channel 60, or on Verizon Channel 37. 

• In the event that schools close early due to an emergency or inclement weather situation, the office and teachers will follow the emergency dismissal plan you choose for your child.  In the event of a weather emergency, please refer to the list below for information. 

  • WATCH cable Channel 60 Bear News Network or Verizon Channel 37 for the most up-to-date information. 

  • LISTEN to KYW News Radio 1060 for our Emergency Number 310. 

  • TUNE your TV to one of these stations and watch for “Upper Moreland School District”: NBC Channel 10, WPVI Channel 6, KYW Channel 3, or Fox Network’s “Good Day Philadelphia”, Channel 29. 

  • VISIT any of these websites: 

• www.umtsd.org 

• www.kyw1060.com 

• www.WPVI.com 

• www.NBC10.com

EVALUATING STUDENT PERFORMANCE 

• Students are evaluated by teachers in the various subject areas. The teachers establish their expectations for the lessons taught and determine the evaluation that students receive for their work.  Students are usually graded on competency, productivity, and demonstrated performance of newly acquired skills that were assessed in that trimester.. 

• The State of Pennsylvania reports student progress in mastery of the standards using the descriptors: Advanced, Proficient, Basic, and Below Basic.  Improving academic performance for all children is an essential part of Pennsylvania’s educational system.  In keeping with this vision, the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and the School District of Upper Moreland have established academic standards that define what students should know and be able to demonstrate at specific grade levels. The four performance levels illustrate students’ achievement of the Academic Standards. The state descriptors are defined as follows:

FIELD TRIPS 

• Grade teams and departments may schedule field trips during the day to enhance our instructional program. 

• The School Board has determined that students must pay for the field trip and related transportation costs. 

• Students who receive free and reduced lunch will not be required to pay the full amount of the transportation cost.  

• Children must have a signed permission slip in order to participate in the activity. 

• In the event a child does not go on the trip, he/she is required to attend school. Provisions will be made for the child to be placed in another class for the length of the trip. 

• Student responsibilities, school rules, and procedures will be followed at all field trip locations.  

HEALTH SERVICES 

• The Upper Moreland Elementary School has two full time nurses.

• School nurses work under written orders of the school physician for first aid.  

• Care given in the school is limited to first aid in accidents and illness until a parent/guardian can be reached to take the child home, to the doctor, or to the hospital. 

• School nurses are prohibited by law to diagnose injuries or illness. Please do not send the child to the nurse for diagnosis.  The nurse will only observe the condition and refer the child for medical advice.  Decisions regarding the need for medical care rest with the parents; therefore, parents are always contacted to take the child home or to the doctor as needed.

• When a child shows signs of illness, he or she should remain at home. The child should be kept at home for at least 24 hours after a temperature elevation has subsided. 

• Upon returning to school, the student must present a note from the parents or guardians stating the dates of and the reason for absence.  A doctor’s note is required after an absence of three days or more.  If a child has had a communicable disease, please consult the district policy for re-admission. 

• Families are urged to protect their children with the school insurance group plan.  It is important that injuries and accidents in school, or on the way to and from school, are reported promptly to the nurse or school office.  Athletic injuries, which occur during physical education classes, should be reported to the physical education teacher immediately.

• Families can help with their children’s health by establishing daily routines of cleanliness, which should include checking for ticks and head lice. 

• Emergency contact information is kept for each child, providing information to assist in locating families, the family physician, or an emergency contact person. Please provide telephone numbers for two local emergency contact persons. These contacts must be aware that they would need to be available to come and pick up your child in the event of illness/injury.  It is important for parents to keep this information up-to-date in the school records. Children will only be sent home with people who have been listed as emergency contacts unless parents verify on the telephone that another designee will pick up the student on that day.  Should you have the Call Intercept/Block function on your telephone, please make sure that it recognizes the school numbers. 

HOME AND SCHOOL ASSOCIATION

The Home and School Association is sincerely interested in creating a strong partnership.  All families are encouraged to become members of the H.S.A. and are invited to volunteer and participate at events.  The Executive Board is the nucleus of the organization and consists of all officers and chairpersons of committees. The H.S.A. sponsors many activities for students and their families throughout the year. 

HOMELESS STUDENTS

The McKinney Vento Homeless Education Assistance Act guarantees a free and appropriate public education for all homeless children and youth.  What is the definition of a "homeless youth" under McKinney Vento? "Homeless" is defined as "anyone lacking a fixed, adequate, regular nighttime residence." Situations might include:

• Sharing the housing of other persons due to loss of housing or economic hardship

• Living in motels, hotels, trailer parks, or camping grounds due to lack of alternative adequate accommodations

• Living in emergency, transitional, or domestic violence shelters

• Abandoned in hospitals

• Living in public or private places not designed for or ordinarily used as regular sleeping accommodations for human beings

• Living in cars, parks, public spaces, abandoned buildings, substandard housing, transportation stations, or similar settings

• Living as migratory children in conditions described in previous examples

• Living as run-away children

• Abandoned or forced out of homes by parents/guardians or caretakers

• Living as school-age unwed mothers in houses for unwed mothers if they have no other living conditions

McKinney Vento ensures that students receive a free and suitable public education by removing barriers to school enrollment and full, basic, daily participation in school activities, including:

• Immediate enrollment

• Free and reduced school lunch

• Help from the school with any necessary enrollment documents

• Help from the school setting up transportation service (if the student qualifies)

• Help from school with getting basic uniform clothing

• Help from school with basic school supplies

• Help from school with any basic clothing needs

• Help from school with basic high school graduation needs and expenses

Additional information can be found by visiting the PA Education for Children and Youth Experiencing Homelessness or by contacting the district Homeless Liaison.

HOMEWORK

Homework is a vital part of the learning process as it provides a means to reinforce what has been learned in class.  Homework is assigned to all ability levels of students to ensure that it reinforces both the material and thinking processes developed in class.  Homework is a learning opportunity for the student in subject matter and time management skills, both of which engender educated and responsible adults.  

Homework is given for various purposes. It is designed to help students support their classroom learning by completing work, preparing for new concepts, practicing and applying learned skills, and extending the knowledge into new applications and demonstrations of mastery. The following chart indicates the amount of time a student in each grade should expect to be working on assignments each night.  There may be nights when less or more time is needed to complete work as this chart represents the average expectation.  

Grade Amount of time on most nights

K 5-10 minutes including independent reading

1 10-15 minutes including independent reading

2 15-20 minutes including independent reading

LIBRARY-MEDIA CENTER 

The Upper Moreland School District maintains comprehensive collections of print and non-print materials to enhance the children's instructional program.  The schools have a modern library for the students' use that also has opportunities for students to use technology to obtain information from the Internet.  Children are scheduled to visit the library during their scheduled unified arts period.  Students will be able to borrow a book from our library and are responsible for returning the book in order to check-out other books.

LOST AND FOUND 

Students are responsible for safeguarding their personal belongings.  The school maintains a Lost and Found box, which is located in the Cafetorium.  In the event a child loses something, he or she should always check the Lost and Found box at the school.  Parents are urged to mark their children's clothing, school bags, lunch boxes, and other items with the student's name and classroom number. 

MEDICAL & DENTAL EXAMINATIONS 

In accordance with the School Health Act of Pennsylvania, the following medical records are required: 

Medical Examination - upon original entry into school, in the 6th Grade, and in the 11th Grade. 

Dental Examination - upon original entry into school, in the 3rd Grade and in the 7th Grade. 

Visual Screening - in Kindergarten through 12th Grade and through teacher/parent request. 

Height and Weight measurement - in each grade every year. 

Hearing – Kindergarten through Grade 3 and at teacher/parent request. 

MEDICINES 

The administration of medicine to students by the nurse may be authorized only in emergency cases and only upon the completion and filing of the forms giving permission to administer the medicine, as noted by the physician’s and parents’ instructions. All medicines must come to school in the original container and be kept in the nurse’s office.  Parents must bring the medication(s) directly to the nurse.  Students should not bring these medications to school.

No medication is to be brought to school unless it is a prescription drug for special medical conditions. These emergency medications may be sent to school if the following rules are met: 

• Send a note from a doctor stating the name of the medication and how it is to be given (dosage, time to be given, reason for medication, length of time medication is to be administered). The medication must have the prescription label on the container. 

• Send a note from the parent or guardian giving approval for the medication to be administered at the school. 

• The medication must be kept in the nurse’s office. Please notify the nurse of any changes in the medication. 

PERSONAL ITEMS OF VALUE 

Parents are urged to help their children understand that they are not to bring items of value (either monetary or sentimental) to school.  This includes headsets, cell phones, or other electronic devices or toys.  Children are not permitted to use cell phones on school property. The district cannot be responsible for the security of such items. Therefore, students are requested to bring to school only those items that are essential for their educational activities. 

PHOTOGRAPHY 

Each year a photo is taken of your child for our school records and possibly for media communications. We realize that there are reasons why a family might not want their child’s picture published or shared with the public. This includes the newspaper, school publications, our website, Bears News Network (BNN) and other social media platforms.  If this applies to your situation, please feel free to write a letter to the school principal.  A copy of your letter will be sent to the Community Information Network at the District Administration Building, indicating that your child should not be photographed for the purpose of being included in a publication or videotape production. Please include your child’s name, grade, age, and homeroom teacher’s name.  This request should be done on a yearly basis.  Of course, your wishes will be respected. 

PROMOTION AND RETENTION 

It is the policy of the School Board that each child moves forward in a continuous pathway of achievement and growth that is in harmony with his/her own development.  This pathway is aligned to a system of grade levels and the instructional objectives established for each established by the School Board.  A student will be promoted to the succeeding grade level when he/she has completed the course requirements at the presently assigned grade and demonstrated the degree of social, emotional, and physical maturation necessary for a successful learning experience at the next level. 

Communication between parents and teachers throughout the school year is crucial.  Review of students’ progress by our Child Study Team will help us in assessing students’ performances.  Every effort will be made to remediate student difficulties before he/she is retained.  Parents and teachers will be involved in this decision.  Policy 215 provides the Superintendent with the final responsibility for determining the grade placement promotion or retention of each student.  

RECESS 

In addition to the lunch period, a recess time is scheduled.  Supervision is provided by the duty assistants.  As a matter of safety and for legal reasons, parents are not to join students in the recess yard.  A copy of the rules related to student behavior during playground and indoor recess is included in this Handbook and in the Code of Conduct.  It is important for families to take the time to review them with their children. 

REPORT CARDS AND CONFERENCES 

Since the education of the child is of mutual concern to the parent and the school, open lines of communication are encouraged.  Times are scheduled in the fall and in the spring for families to have conferences with teachers. These conferences are designed to review student progress, discuss social and emotional issues, and set goals for continued growth.  Communication with families throughout the year is essential to students' success in school.  To arrange to meet with a teacher throughout the year, please write a note, e-mail, or telephone your child’s teacher to set up an appointment.  Report cards are issued at the end of each trimester.

SAFE SCHOOLS DRILLS

Safe Schools drills will be practiced regularly throughout the year.  

Lockout Drills –  Students and staff members who are inside the school building will not be impacted by this drill.

Lockdown Drills – These drills will be performed during the school year, and will involve all students, staff members, and visitors.  Training and guidance will be provided by the Upper Moreland Township Police Department.

Active Threat Drills – These drills may involve staff only and/or students, staff, and visitors.  Training and guidance will be provided by the Upper Moreland Township Police Department; at each building, drills will be carefully designed by our Student Services staff to ensure that they are developmentally appropriate.

**Lockdown and Active Threat Drills will be announced to parents and community members in advance.  

Fire Drills – Once a month, during the school year, in accordance to the law, we will hold a fire drill. Other emergency and weather related drills are conducted periodically, as well. Children are expected to follow the directions of the principal, assistant principal, and teachers during these drills.  A safety plan has been developed to ensure student and staff safety.  

SCHOOL ATTENDANCE IMPROVEMENT PLAN (SAIP) CONFERENCE 

A school-family conference will be utilized to discuss the cause(s) of a student’s unexcused absences or latenesses to develop a mutually agreed plan to assure regular school attendance.  Maintaining open communication between the student, family, and school will facilitate positive outcomes.  The Student Attendance Improvement Plan provides the opportunity to identify, understand, and explore issues contributing to a student’s absent or tardy behavior.  The SAIP will provide documentation between the school and the student’s family of a “good faith” effort should future action be required, i.e., referral to the County Children and Youth Agency and citation to the magisterial district judge.

SCHOOL HOURS 

Children may arrive at school between 8:20 and 8:35 AM.  Parents are reminded that there is no supervision provided until 8:20 AM, unless the children are enrolled in the Extended Program through the YMCA.  This program is for the children of working parents/guardians with an early work schedule. 

It is expected that children walking to school will arrive no earlier than 8:20 AM.  All children are expected to be seated and ready to begin their day by 8:35 AM.   The instructional school day is from 8:35 AM – 2:45 PM.  

School personnel are assigned to the hallways to ensure student safety.  Students will be allowed to proceed to their classroom when the first bell rings.  For the safety and security of our student population, no parent is permitted to escort their child to the classroom.  Furthermore, at the end of the school day, parents should not go directly to the classroom to pick up any child.  

STUDENT DRESS CODE 

The School Board recognizes that each student’s mode of dress and grooming is a manifestation of personal style and individual preference.  Each student, however, is expected to demonstrate cleanliness, propriety, modesty, and a good sense of attire and appearance. Tee shirts bearing offensive and inappropriate slogans, messages, or language will not be permitted as they create disorder and disrupt the educational program at Upper Moreland Primary School. 

STUDENTS' RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES 

All children between the ages of six and twenty-one residing in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania are entitled to a free and full education in the schools. Commensurate with the right to a free and full education is the responsibility of the school to ensure that all students receive a quality education. Students' responsibilities are to: 

• be aware of all rules and regulations for student behavior and conduct themselves in accordance with them 

• dress themselves so as to meet fair standards of safety, health, and common standards of decency 

• assume that, until a rule is waived, altered, or repealed, it is in full effect 

• protect and take care of the school's property 

• attend school daily, except when excused, and be on time for all classes and other school functions 

• make all necessary arrangements for making up work when absent from school 

• pursue and attempt to complete the course of study prescribed by state and local school authorities 

• be aware of and comply with state and local laws 

• assist the school staff in running a safe school for all students enrolled there 

TARDINESS 

The morning schedule at Upper Moreland Primary School is as follows: 

8:25 AM First bell – students should report to homeroom 

8:35 AM Second bell – all students should be in homeroom ready to begin class 

Students late for homeroom must obtain a late pass from the office.  A student is late to school when the student arrives after the bell for homeroom.  A lateness is considered excused for medical emergencies, legal proceedings, or unexpected critical family emergencies.  Excused lateness requires the proper medical or legal verifications. Continual lateness is a serious matter and will be referred to building administration.  Chronic lateness may result in a parent conference.  The parent or guardian may also be summoned to appear before the District Court if lateness continues. 

VISITING THE SCHOOL 

Parents and community members are invited to visit Upper Moreland Primary School during Meet the Teacher Night, Parent/Teacher Conferences, special events, and informally throughout the school year.  For the protection of our children all parents and visitors must use the front main entrance to enter/exit the building and follow these procedures: 

• Ring buzzer and, when asked, state your reason for entrance. 

• When the door lock is released, report immediately to the office after entering the building. Be sure that anyone who may have entered with you comes to the office as well. 

• Sign in, present photo identification, and receive a Visitor’s Badge to go into any area of the building. 

• Always wear the Visitor’s Badge and be sure it is visible. 

• Go only to the areas where permission is granted. 

Unnecessary interruptions disturb the learning process for all of the children. Therefore, forgotten items should be brought to the office.  Please do not ask office personnel to interrupt the teacher to indicate that a forgotten item has been delivered to the office.  These items will be taken to the child at a time when it does not disturb the class. 

VOLUNTEERS 

Parents are encouraged to volunteer in our school.  Numerous opportunities exist through active involvement in our Home and School Association.  Please refer to our school  web page for more information on volunteering and the approved clearances procedures. 

WAYS TO HELP STUDENTS IN SCHOOL 

Directing the wholesome growth of children is the joint responsibility of both parents and school personnel. Parents may help in the following ways: 

• attend parent/teacher conferences and discuss at that time any problems involving your child 

• guide your child in doing "their own work" and encourage the child to do their best within the broad range of capabilities 

• provide additional cultural experiences which can enhance the child's school studies 

• make certain that your child is dressed properly and warmly each day for not only his school activities, but also for recess, which will be scheduled outside as often as possible 

• join the Home and School Association and attend the meetings 

• provide a study area or room free from all distractions of radio, TV, or other family noise for doing homework 

• remember that all children are different and members of the same family may differ in academic standing. 

UPPER MORELAND ELEMENTARY PROGRAMS

AUDIOLOGIST 

Children with special hearing problems may be given instruction in lip reading and speech by the county audiologist.  Instruction is usually provided once or twice a week, depending upon the need.  Requests for service must be made through the school nurse. 

ENGLISH LEARNERS 

A teacher meets with non-native English-speaking students who have limited proficiency in English to develop their listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills.  Students are tested for qualification to the ELD program and their progress is monitored throughout the year. 

HEALTH SERVICES 

General Information 

The Upper Moreland School District provides several health services, including hearing and vision screening tests and height and weight measurements. Physical examinations (at the time of original entry into school and grades 6 and 11) and dental examinations (at the time of original entry into school and grades 3 and 7) are required by state law.  Parents may have the exams needed after the original entry performed by their family physician and dentist or at school by the district's doctor and dentist.  A report is sent home if any test indicates that further medical evaluation would benefit the child. You may contact the nurse directly at (215) 325-1400.

School nurses work under written orders of the school physician for first aid.  School nurses are prohibited by law to diagnose injuries or illness.  Please do not send the child to the nurse for diagnosis.  She will only observe the condition and refer the child for medical advice. Decisions regarding the need for medical care rest with the parents; therefore, parents are always contacted to take the child home or to the doctor as needed. 

When a child shows signs of illness, he or she should remain at home. The child should be kept at home for at least 24 hours after a temperature elevation has subsided.  Upon returning to school, the student must present a note from the parents or guardians stating the dates of and the reason for absence.  A doctor's note is required after an absence of three days or more. If a child has had a communicable disease, please consult the district policy for re-admission. Parents are urged to protect their children with the school insurance group plan.  It is important that injuries and accidents in school, or on the way to and from school, are reported promptly to the nurse or school office.  Athletic injuries, which occur during physical education classes, should be reported to the physical education teacher immediately. 

Parents can help with their children's health by establishing daily routines of cleanliness, which should include checking for ticks and head lice. 

Emergency contact information is kept for each child, providing information to assist in locating parents, the family physician, or an emergency contact person. If possible, please provide a telephone number of a local emergency contact person such as a friend, neighbor or nearby relative.  It is important for parents to keep this information up-to-date in the school records. 

Care given in the school is limited to first aid in accidents and illness until the parent can be reached to take the child home, to the doctor, or to the hospital.

MEDICINES 

The administration of medicine to students by the nurse may be authorized only in emergency cases and only upon the completion and filing of the forms giving permission to administer the medicine, as noted by the physician’s and parents’ instructions. All medicines must come to school in the original container and be kept in the nurse’s office.  Parents must bring the medication(s) directly to the nurse.  Students should not bring these medications to school.

No medication is to be brought to school unless it is a prescription drug for special medical conditions. These emergency medications may be brought to school if the following rules are met: 

• Send a note from a doctor stating the name of the medication and how it is to be given (dosage, time to be given, reason for medication, length of time medication is to be administered). The medication must have the prescription label on the container. 

• Send a note from the parent or guardian giving approval for the medication to be administered at the school. 

• The medication must be kept in the nurse’s office. Please notify the nurse of any changes in the medication. 

HOMEBOUND INSTRUCTION 

The Upper Moreland School District's standard method of homebound instruction is through a school-home connection.  All requests for homebound instruction are sent to the school principal, who will then forward the request to the Student Services Office for screening.  Such a request requires School Board approval. 

LIBRARY 

The Upper Moreland School District maintains comprehensive collections of print and non-print materials to enhance the children's instructional program. The schools have modern libraries for the students' use. Children visit the library on a weekly basis to exchange books and to be instructed in library skills.  Author, title, and subject databases catalog library materials, and instruction is given to students on how these catalogs can be used to help them find materials they wish to read.  Moreover, all materials are carefully checked out and into the library; notices are issued to students who are tardy in returning materials.  

PHYSICAL EDUCATION 

The Upper Moreland School District believes in the total education of the child and provides instruction in physical education for students beginning in Kindergarten.  Activities are designed for the developmental level of the child.  All students are required to participate in the elementary physical education program.  Children must wear sneakers in physical education classes for safety purposes since this type of footwear provides better footing for these activities.  Parents requesting that a child be excused from physical education class, must present a written request from the physician stating the medical reason that the child should not participate. 

PROGRAM OF STUDY 

The Upper Moreland School District offers a comprehensive instructional program using the most modern instructional strategies.  Each child is instructed in a planned program of language arts, reading, writing, spelling, mathematics, social studies, science, physical education, business technology, health, music, Spanish, art, STEM, and library science.  It is impossible in the context of this booklet to detail the total program.  Information is provided for each child's particular grade level during the Meet the Teacher Night in September. 

PSYCHOLOGICAL AND GUIDANCE SERVICES 

A school counselor and psychologist are available to consult with students, staff, parents, and other agencies concerning all matters that affect a child's academic, social, or emotional growth.  They also serve on the school's Child Study Team.  Children who are not working up to their potential or who are displaying behavioral problems or adjustment problems to the school are referred to the guidance counselor and the Child Study Team.  The Team works with children (individually and in small groups), teachers, and parents to maximize the chances of the child having a successful school experience. 

READING SPECIALIST 

The reading specialist works with various groups of children to teach specific skills utilizing research based interventions.  Children who are having difficulty in learning to read may be referred to a district reading specialist for evaluation and instruction.  

SPECIAL EDUCATION 

The Upper Moreland School District offers a continuum of special education services. Students thought to be exceptional are referred to the school psychologist for further testing.  Parents are contacted and are involved throughout the entire process.  For students who are gifted or who have special learning difficulties, an extensive program of special education is provided by the district.  A teacher is available to work with the identified gifted students on experiences that enhance their problem-solving and creative abilities.  The special education program is highly individualized and provides for the educational needs of each child. 

SPEECH AND LANGUAGE CLINICIAN 

A speech and language clinician is available for children.  The clinician does initial screening, provides instruction for children with speech problems, and makes referrals to other medical agencies.  Children usually receive the services of the speech and language clinician once a week in small group sessions. 

TEACHER QUALIFICATIONS   

Parent Right to Know Information as Required by The Elementary and Secondary Education Assistance (ESEA) [Section 1112(e)(1)(A)]and the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) [Section 1112(e)(1)(A)].

Your child attends Upper Moreland Elementary School, which receives Federal Title I funds to assist students in meeting state achievement standards. Throughout the school year, we will be providing you with important information about this law and your child’s education.  This letter lets you know about your right to request information about the qualifications of the classroom staff working with your child.

At Upper Moreland Elementary School, we are very proud of our teachers and feel they are ready for the coming school year and are prepared to give your child a high-quality education. As a Title I school, we must meet federal rules related to teacher qualifications as defined in No Child Left Behind. These rules allow you to learn more about your child’s teachers’ training and credentials. We are happy to provide this information to you. At any time, you may ask:

• Whether the teacher met state qualifications and certification requirements for the grade level and subject he/she is teaching,

• Whether the teacher received an emergency or conditional certificate through which state qualifications were waived, and

• What undergraduate or graduate degrees the teacher holds, including graduate certificates and additional degrees, and major(s) or area(s) of concentration.

You may also ask whether your child receives help from a paraprofessional. If your child receives this assistance, we can provide you with information about the paraprofessional’s qualifications. 

The Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) which was signed into law in December 2015 and reauthorizes the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1956 (ESEA) includes additional right to know requests.  At any time, parents and family members can request:

• Information in policies regarding student participation in assessments and procedures for opting out, and

• Information on required assessments that include

• subject matter tested, purpose of the test,

• source of time it takes students to complete test, and

• time and format of disseminating results 

Our staff is committed to helping your child develop the academic knowledge and critical thinking he/she needs to succeed in school and beyond.  That commitment includes making sure that all of our teachers and paraprofessionals meet applicable Pennsylvania state requirements.