East Side Intermediate School

2015-2016
Staff Handbook

Our Vision
Our Vision is for East Side Intermediate School to be a child
centered, family friendly, data driven school that represents and
appreciates a diverse population and fosters collaboration among parents,
staff and students to provide a quality education to each student served.
Our Mission Statement
East Side Intermediate students will achieve proficiency through a
balanced curriculum, which includes Reading, Writing, Math, Science and
Social Studies, which will prepare them to begin sixth grade.
Sandra Humphreys, Principal
Mandy Bell, Assistant Principal
Dorothy Jackson, Guidance Counselor
(731) 772-1233
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East Side Intermediate

School
Organizational and Procedural Plans

I.

SECTION I GENERAL INFORMATION

A. School Arrival and Departure Procedures:

1. Teachers
Regular school hours for teachers are from 7:45 a.m. to 3:15 p.m.
According to the Haywood County Education Association, under normal
operations, the required in school day for teachers shall consist of fifteen
minutes prior to and following the pupils day. Therefore, teachers must
scan their JiffyPass to sign in by 7:45 a.m. Teachers will also use their
JiffyPass to sign out each day in the office. Teachers must always sign
out before leaving the campus for any reason.
Remember to check your mailbox after you sign in, during your planning,
and before you leave school each day. Any absence without notice, except
in the case of a verified emergency, shall be considered as insubordination
possibly resulting in suspension and/or dismissal. At 7:45 a.m., teachers
should be standing at their door ready to greet students upon their arrival.

2. Staff [Teachers Assistants/Secretary]

Regular school hours for paraprofessionals are assigned by the principal.
Non-certified personnel must personally sign in/out each day. This is a
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legal record of attendance and it documents the hours worked by

employees. Staff members must always sign out before leaving for any
reason.

3. Students
Students will eat breakfast from 7:00 a.m. until 8:00 a.m. Also, students
will utilize any free time for study hall. Students will be allowed to read
silently, complete class work/homework, etc. in the gym prior to dismissal.
Students will be dismissed to the classroom from the gym promptly at 7:45.

B. Homeroom:
Homeroom business is to be taken care of from 7:45 a.m. to 8:05 a.m. [i.e.
money collection with cash receipts, restroom breaks, attendance, etc.].
Teachers must encourage their students to take care of their
responsibilities before the instructional day begins.
1. Attendance
Attendance should be entered in PowerSchool by 8:30. A student will be
considered tardy after 8:00 a.m. If a student comes to your class after 8:00
a.m. without a tardy slip, send him/her to the office to get one. This
ensures that the attendance for that day is accurate. Teachers are
responsible for keeping an attendance record book for their students.
2. Truancy
The teacher should give referrals of students considered to have truancy
problems directly to Mrs. Jackson. A child is considered to have a truancy
problem if there are 6 or more unexcused absences. However, teachers
should report any childs name to Mrs. Jackson when they have missed 3
consecutive days. The secretary can then run an attendance report. This

will enable us to check for any students with excessive absences. The
guidance counselor will inform the principal if intervention is needed.
3. Lunch Count
More information about the procedure for the lunch count will come later.
4. Restroom Breaks Schedules
Work with teachers in your area to devise a schedule for restroom breaks
for the entire day. Make certain restroom privileges are not denied
unreasonably. NEVER use restroom privileges as a punishment.

C. Restroom Procedures:
Students must be monitored while in the restrooms. ALL male students
must use the stalls. Restroom monitors should be used to help monitor
restrooms. Teachers should monitor restrooms closely to insure that
everything is kept clean and orderly. Students should be encouraged but
not forced to pick up paper in restroom and hallway areas. Teachers should
check the restrooms before leaving.

D. Hallways:
Students must be supervised at all times in the hallways. Students must be
quiet and lined up on the right side of the hallway. Classes should move to
and from the classroom in a quiet manner. Teachers are responsible for
walking students to auxiliary classes. Auxiliary teachers are responsible for
returning students to their homerooms. ALL teachers should position
themselves so that their classroom as well as the hall can be monitored
any time there is a scheduled movement of students.

E. Student Supervision:

Under NO circumstances is it permissible for any child or group of children

to be left unsupervised. If the teacher finds it necessary to leave the room,
the teacher in the next room may be asked to monitor the students or call
to the office for assistance. Should an accident or discipline problem occur
while students are unsupervised, the school/teacher is almost always in a
NO WIN situation.

F. Cafeteria:
Each class will have a designated area to sit in the cafeteria. Teachers will
receive a lunch schedule with seating areas indicated. To help keep an
orderly cafeteria, the following are expected:
1. Teachers will walk the students to the cafeteria line.
2. Students are to remain at the assigned table until the lunch
monitor directs the class to line up to put their trays away. Only lunch
monitors can give students permission to be out of their seats.
Students are encouraged to remember to take care of all lunch needs
before being seated -- milk, napkins, eating utensils, condiments, and
any extra food needed.
3. Students should not sell items [candy, chips, etc.] or share food.
4. No one other than the cafeteria employees will be allowed in the
extreme back, cooking area of the kitchen during lunch hours for
health and safety reasons.
5. Teachers are to pick students up from the cafeteria ON TIME
using the lunch schedule. It is absolutely essential that students do
not have to stand and wait for their teacher after they have been lined
up.

DISCIPLINE: SWPBS cafeteria rules will be taught and reinforced by all

employees. These rules will be posted in the cafeteria. Teachers should
teach and re-teach these rules at every opportunity. Consistency is vital.
a. The first time a child breaks a cafeteria rule, the child is warned,
the teacher is notified, and the teacher sends home minor rule
infraction form with the child to notify parents of the situation. The
note should be signed and sent back to the teacher to be kept in
the childs file.
b. The second time a child breaks a cafeteria rule, he/she is
removed from the table assigned to his/her class and must sit, in
isolation, at a separate table. The same procedures for teacher
and parent notification are used.
c. The third time a child breaks a cafeteria rule, he/she must move to
the separate isolation table and his/her parents are called by the
teacher. The same procedures for parent notification are used.
Administrative decision will be made for discipline.
Please discuss the above rules with your students. Please stress good
table manners. Students are responsible for keeping the table and floor
clean in their assigned areas.
Any cafeteria behavior will be dealt with according to the seriousness of the
misconduct, whether it be a quiet, but serious warning or removal from the
cafeteria until the matter is settled. When a student reaches a level of
misbehavior that warrants an office referral form, the homeroom teacher
will receive a copy [kept on file] to assist in determining general conduct on
the report card and daily progress report.

G. Student Transportation:

1. Buses
a. Safety: Procedures to ensure safe conduct:
1. Students will walk to and from the bus loading area.
2. Students will not return to their classroom in the afternoon upon
leaving to board their buses.
3. Student will ride only the bus to which they are assigned unless a
written consent from a parent/guardian is on file.
4. Bus riders will ride the bus home unless written notification is
received from a legal parent/guardian and signed by an
administrator.
5. Students who behave inappropriately will be loaded last.
6. Students who miss their bus are the responsibility of the
homeroom teacher.
2. Car riders:
Car riders will begin moving to their area at 2:50. A child who is not
ordinarily picked up as a car rider must bring his/her teacher a note from
the parent or legal guardian before he/she can be sent to the car riders
loading zone. A child who does not have a note will be sent home by
his/her usual means of transportation. Students will not be allowed to
come to the office to call parents about transportation except in emergency
situations.
** A list or chart showing the usual means of transportation for each
student should be posted in the classroom by the door. This list
should include the names of the student and their bus numbers as
well as those students who are car riders, walkers, etc.

H. Faculty/Staff Communication:

1. Faculty Meetings:
A faculty meeting will be held on a designated Tuesday afternoon at 3:00
p.m. when necessary. Please arrive PROMPTLY. Tuesday afternoons
should always be reserved whether or not a meeting is scheduled.
Tuesday afternoons may be used for committee meetings and cross-grade
level collaborative meetings when a faculty meeting is not scheduled.
Teachers will be notified when a meeting is scheduled. Any faculty notes
from the principal are to be kept to be used as reference. If you miss a
faculty meeting please ask your teaching partner for their notes.
2. E-mail
It will be EXTREMELY important for teachers to check e-mails daily.
Important information from the local or district, faculty notes, etc. will be
communicated via e-mail. E-mails may require a response or simply be of
an informative nature. Weekly agenda should be read by Monday @ 8:00
a.m. It is also recommended that you print a copy of the agenda for
reference purposes.

I. Student Information:
1. Accumulative Records
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Student accumulative records and files are not to be REMOVED from

the office. An accumulative folder is prepared for any student transferring
within a week of enrollment. Included in this folder are academic records
from previous schools, health forms and any other pertinent information.
Only authorized employees [i.e. teachers, administrators] have access to
the accumulative records. Student teachers are not permitted to view
accumulative records. Teachers should not remove these records from
the office area.
2. Attendance Reporting
Teachers should keep an accurate attendance record on a daily basis.
When a student is absent, he/she is required to bring a written excuse from
a parent/guardian. All excuses should be turned into the office the day they
are received so the information can be entered into PowerSchool. The
excuses will be returned to teachers for their records.
Student sign in/out during the day is maintained in the office. In the event
that a student is tardy, a parent or guardian must sign him/her in through
the office. A student who needs to be checked out early must also be
signed out through the office. The person signing the student out of school
must be on the approved list. Identification will be required. If a child
brings a note from home stating that he/she will be leaving at a given time,
the child should remain in the classroom until called from the office when
the parent arrives. Everyone picking up a student must be on the
emergency contact list in the office.

J. School Pictures:
Individuals and group pictures will be taken each year. Times will be
scheduled at the discretion of the principal. Specific guidelines for the
collection and accounting of money from such sales will be given to you
during those sales.

K. Safety and Health:

Make safety and health a prime consideration at all times.
Please adhere to the following:

1. Recess
The state mandates all students in grades K-5 have at least a 20 minute
recess per day. Recess schedules are in your class notes section. Do
NOT take your students outside if there is any type of weather advisory.
Recess breaks will be monitored and changed if necessary. If weather
does not permit going outside, please give the students a 20 minute break
in the classroom. This would be a GREAT time to use GoNoddle.com.
Talk with your class concerning playground safety. The teacher is
responsible for the students assigned to him/her at all times unless
the students are under the direct supervision of another teacher.
Make sure all students know the safety rules. The teacher should circulate
so proper monitoring takes place. Teachers should not grade papers or
become so involved in conversation that student safety is jeopardized.
Football is not allowed at any time.
2. Student Medication
NO student is allowed to take any kind of medication at school until the
parent signs a form and brings the medication to the office in its original
container. Only office personnel will give students medication. All
medication is kept in the office. All medication should be dropped off and
picked up by parents. Students are not to have medication on the bus or in
classrooms. Inhalers are permitted to be kept with the student. Students
are to inform teachers as to when the inhaler is needed and the teacher
should document the date and time used.
Teachers should NEVER give a student any personal medication [e.g.
aspirin] even if you think the childs parent would approve.

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3. Smoking
Smoking is prohibited anywhere on school property. This also includes
electric cigarettes.
4. Hygiene
There is a growing concern with the possible exposure to blood borne
pathogens, hepatitis, etc. Everyone is urged to practice preventative
methods such as proper hygiene, keeping protective gloves handy at
recess in case of injuries, etc.
5. Emergency Plan
Refer to the Crisis Intervention Plan. Each classrooms individual
evacuation plan should be posted inside the classroom adjacent to the
door. If you are in a room that does not have a plan posted, please alert
the principal at once. In case of an emergency or drill, the teacher must
have his/her roll book and red/green cards in hand when taking the
students to the designated area. Teachers are to remain calm during all
tornado warnings and crisis situations for the safety of students and all
personnel in the building. Teachers are to remain with students before,
during, and after any tornado warning or emergency situation.
6. Dismissal Schedule Due to Power Failure
In the event that we have a power failure, afternoon dismissal should be
conducted according to announcements made by the principal and/or
persons standing in the hallways to relay messages down the halls.
Students will be dismissed using the normal dismissal schedule.
The administration will make every effort to send around a note reminding
teachers/staff of this plan. However, if there is a failure, students should be
reminded to be very quiet in an effort to listen for their transportation group
to be called.
7. Visitors

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ABSOLUTELY, NO parent or other visitor [i.e. former student, spouse, etc.]

is allowed in classrooms or other areas past the office without a Visitors
Pass. If someone should come to your door without a Visitors Pass,
please tell him/her tactfully to go back to the office to sign in and get a
Visitor's Pass. Explain that this is a school safety policy and we are able to
screen those who are allowed to come to your classroom. This is not only
a safety procedure but also an alternative to eliminate interruptions to your
instructional program. This is addressed in the student handbook.
8. General Safety
a.

Students, faculty, and staff are NOT to use tables, desks,

bookshelves, etc. as ladders. Most employees injuries are the
result of falls, cuts, and improper lifting.

b. Under NO circumstances will students be allowed in electrical areas

where there is high voltage.
c. For safety purposes, all teachers and staff are to park vehicles in
designated parking spaces ONLY.
d. If your classroom is to be anywhere other than what the schedule
indicates, please notify the office. This will enable us to find your
class quickly.
e. For safety reasons, all window coverings must be fireproofed.
f. Students should not be allowed in the teachers work area or lounge.

L. Clean and Orderly School:

1. Food
Food must be kept in the cafeteria or teachers lounge in order to control
pests. Please do not allow food to be eaten in the classrooms. The
exceptions would be 1) parties (must be pre-approved by administration);
2) food being used as part of a lesson; 3) eating in classroom as a reward.
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Extra precautions will be taken for these events by the custodial staff to
insure that the area is free of potential pest problems.
Everyone is encouraged to help keep the lounge/teachers work area neat
and clean [e.g. microwave, refrigerator, tables]. All food stored in the
refrigerator should be removed before leaving on Fridays. Items left
without prior notice will be discarded after 3:30 p.m. every Friday.
Teachers are allowed a beverage [i.e. non-alcohol] in the classroom when
students are not present. Beverages must be in a proper container that is
washed daily. We will have to eliminate this privilege if it becomes a
problem or causes pest problems due to unsanitary conditions. Teachers
should not have drinks in the hallways, etc. as this may give visitors the
wrong impression. Hot drinks [i.e. coffee, coca, tea, etc.] should only be
transported in by an adult.
2. Animals
Hamsters and other grain feeding pets will NOT be allowed in the
classrooms. Unwanted animals are attracted to the pets food. At this time
only fish aquariums are allowed in the classroom for pet centers.

3. Maintenance
All maintenance request should be emailed to assistant principal. Please
help foster the students habit of picking up litter behind himself/herself in
the cafeteria, restroom, etc. In order for our campus to maintain an
appearance of pride, it takes everyones effort. Remember, this is our
home away from home!
Classrooms should be kept clean. Students should be taught to take pride
in their school/classroom. Do not allow them to throw paper on the floor
and not pick it up. Classrooms, hallways, restrooms, etc. will be checked
for cleanliness during the day.

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4. Cell Phones
Cell Phones should be turned to vibrate, silent, or off during your
instructional time. Use professional discretion in your personal use of your
cell phone. They should never be used during your instructional time. A
cell phone should not ring while in the building. Texting and communication
with your cell phone during your instructional time is also prohibited.

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II. SECTION PROFESSIONAL INFORMATION

A. Professionalism:
1. Personal Appearance
During the school year, administrators, teachers, teacher assistants, and
office personnel are required to follow a basic dress code. The purpose
and intent of the dress code is to assure that the school system staff
projects a professional image to the students, the public, parents, and other
employees.
All teachers and staff members are required to wear staff ID tags at all
times while on school grounds.
The dress code is, but not limited to, the following:
No denim bottoms, this includes jeans, pants, skirts, dresses, or
capris. Denim jackets may be worn.
Dresses or skirts should be at/or just above the knee.
Leggings/jeggings are permitted; however, they are not to be worn as
pants. Tunics or dresses worn with leggings/jeggings should fit
loosely and must be at an appropriate, professional length.
Jogging/yoga pants are not appropriate during the school day.
No graphic T-shirts will be permitted; however, each Friday (Spirit
Fridays) you may wear a HCS or East Side t-shirt.
Sandals may be worn, but rubber flip flops are not appropriate (i.e.,
Old Navy flip flops).
Tennis shoes will only be allowed on Spirit Fridays unless you have a
written note from a doctor on file at the beginning of the year.
Friendly reminders will be given to individuals who do not adhere to the
dress code policy. After three friendly reminders, a formal meeting with
administration will be mandatory.

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2. Evaluation
A professional folder on each teacher will be maintained in the office. It will
include evaluations, professional plans, documentation of
involvement/violations [i.e. PTO meeting attendance, extra-curricula
activities, participation in staff development, informal observations, etc.].
3. Organization
Teachers should set a good example for students by keeping their desk
and classroom organized. Remember, organization is a vital skill in
assisting the students in developing good study habits.
4. Confidentiality
Exercise confidentiality in regard to school business and students at ALL
times. We may have parent volunteers and parent substitutes throughout
the building [i.e. TEACHERs LOUNGE] at all hours of the day. Our
business should remain our business. Remember, you are a
professional and professionalism is expected from all.
5. Conference with Administrators
The administrators welcome conferences with staff. However, just as your
day is very hectic, so is the administrators day. Please show the
administrators the courtesy of asking the secretary of their availability
before coming to their office. This will ensure that you have the
undivided attention of the administrator. If you have
questions/concerns that are not urgent, please leave a note or email the
administrator.
6. Teacher Concerns
If a teacher has a concern regarding school issues or system requirements,
please check with the principal before calling the district office. Sometimes
it might be more appropriate for the principal to request an answer for a
concern from individuals from the district office. Otherwise, this gives an
impression of a communication breakdown within the school.

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All maintenance problems should be reported to the assistant principal and

all technical problems should be reported by using the HCS Ticket System.

7. Deadlines
Teaching in itself is a full time job. Unfortunately, it also has a great deal of
paperwork. Deadlines are very important. Administrators give teachers
deadlines because they themselves have deadlines under which to work. It
makes the school look ineffective if our deadlines are not met. Therefore,
teachers are required to have items turned in by the deadlines given.

8. Phones
No personal long distance phone calls should be placed without permission
from administration. The secretary and/or designee are responsible for
answering the phone. The telephone rings should be answered promptly.
When answering the phone, you must greet the caller and give him/her
your name and the name of our school.
9. Team Work
We are working together for the same goal -- providing the best education
for our students. If teachers have disagreements, those disagreements
should not be expressed in front of parents or students. Also, a teacher
should never discuss another teachers style/personality with parents or
recommend a particular teacher to teach the parents child. Teachers

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should not confront a student in the presence of anyone other than the
childs parent/legal guardian with the exception of the principal.

10. Data Focus Collaborative Planning and Reflection

It is important that teamwork is involved in collaborative planning and
reflection. Working as a team will help to make a difference for all East
Side students.

11. Professional Conduct/Public Relations

Teachers and staff are sometimes tempted to have a negative attitude or
make negative comments about teachers, staff, administration, students or
parents. Let me encourage you that if a problem exist that needs to be
addressed bring it to the attention of administration. Anyone can complain,
but it takes a professional to take positive steps to solve problems. You
should never criticize a parent or student to anyone else. Your professional
reputation is at stake anytime you utter critical words about anyone else.
Never yell or scream at a student for any reason. If you feel you need a
break from a student, please allow your assistant, the counselor or school
administration to help you.
12. Student Behavior
Students bring a variety of experiences, behaviors, and emotions that can
sometimes be difficult to understand and to deal with. They often come
from environments that are completely foreign to many of us. Please
remember that it is vital that we give our best to these students especially
the ones that need it the most. The love and attention that you give may be
all that some of them need to find great success in their futures. Please be
careful how you put your hands on students and how you speak to them.
You can use firmness always wrapped in kindness. Never argue, yell or
berate a student for any reason. You must take the adult role always.

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13. School-Wide Positive Behavior Support (SWPBS)

SWPBS will help us to reframe our thinking from what to tell the students
not to do to teaching the students the appropriate behavior in all strategic
areas of the school. We will reward those who do the right thing and we
will give consistent consequences to those who do not follow the rules. We
need your full support during this implementation process.
14. School Sponsored Activities/ Fundraisers
Fundraisers help provide needed supplies for the school. Please
encourage your students to participate fully. A teachers attitude will make
a tremendous difference in the students attitude toward the event.
15. Gum Chewing
Our school is a gum-free school. All faculty and staff must model this for
students by not chewing gum as well.

B. Teacher Absences:
1. Substitutes: When a teacher is unable to meet classes for any reason,
the following procedures shall be observed:
a. The teacher shall notify the principal by 9:00 p.m. the previous
evening or between 5:00 - 6:30 a.m. the day of the request to be
absent. If the principal is not contacted during the given times, the
teacher is expected to report to work. A substitute teacher will not
be secured for teachers that call after 6:30 a.m. No text
messages please.
b. The principal shall secure a qualified substitute teacher who
has been approved by the director of schools.

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When a teacher assistant is unable to attend school for any reason, he/she
must call the principal. No text messages please. The principal will notify
the teachers the assistant works with each day. The teacher assistant must
go to the office the day of return to sign his/her absentee leave.

2. Substitute Notebook
In order to make the work of the substitute teacher as satisfactory as
possible, the regular teacher shall make available:
a. Daily schedule [academic and supervisory],
b. Class rolls, and
c. Lesson plans and other information for the days activities
(extra plans and activities kept in the office in case of
emergency).
d. Make sure you have enough work to keep students busy for
the day(s).

C. Change of Address:
The secretary and personnel department should be contacted at any time
during the year in which a change of address or phone number occurs.
This is to ensure that all correspondence and mailed pay checks reach the
appropriate destinations. Also, please be sure to notify the district office
personnel of payroll if there are changes in your address and/or phone
number.

D. Teachers Lounge:
The teachers lounge and work area are available for staff use before and
after school and during breaks. The lounge and work area are an adult
only area. Students are not allowed in these areas for any reason.
Soft drinks and snacks are available in these areas. It is the responsibility
of each of us to keep these areas neat and free of clutter. Lunch trays,
glasses/cups, and silverware must be returned to the cafeteria.
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E. Cancellation of Classes:
Classes may only be canceled with the approval of the principal. When
possible this will be done through writing/e-mail or an announcement will be
made. Time on task is the number one way to improve our test scores.
Therefore, the time spent on other school activities will be limited.

F. Accidents on the Job:

In order to qualify for benefits based on an accident on the job, an
employee must give notice of the accident to the secretary on the day the
accident occurs, unless the employee is prevented by disability from the
accident from giving such notice.

G. Classified Personnel Duties and Responsibilities:

1. Secretary
The secretary is the first person many come in contact with; therefore, it is
essential that the secretary greet each individual and assist him/her in a
manner that exhibits professionalism. The secretary will ensure the
following:
a. Assist administration, faculty/staff, parents, visitors, students, and
central office personnel with pertinent information.
b. Deliver messages to the appropriate individual.
c. Answer incoming calls as promptly as possible.
d. Be sure all transportation changes are delivered to the classroom
each day before 2:40 p.m.
e. Assist with student scheduling.
f. Perform clerical duties assigned by the principal.
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g. Make informative calls regarding excessive absences.

h. Input data regarding student discipline referrals.
i. Create daily attendance reports.
j. Perform other duties related to the instructional program as may be
assigned by the principal or director of schools.
2. Educational Assistants
The Educational Assistants role is to assist in the implementation and
coordination of the instructional program.
The following is a list of performance responsibilities:
a. Participate in planned professional development activities related
to assigned duties.
b. Reinforces learning of inclusion students in the regular classroom.
c. Provides drill and reviews activities with individual students or
small intervention groups.
d. Monitors seat work activities while the teacher is occupied with
small groups.
e. Perform other duties related to the instructional program as may
be assigned by the administrator or director of schools.
3. Maintenance Staff
The custodial staff will ensure the following:
a. Garbage cans are emptied as needed.
b. Floors are swept, vacuumed, mopped as needed.
c. Bathrooms are stocked with toiletries and hand sanitizer [at all
times]
d. School grounds are free of trash and litter [at all times]
e. Perform other duties related to the instructional program as may
be assigned by the principal or director of schools.
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III. Section INSTRUCTIONAL INFORMATION

A. Classroom Instruction:
Teachers will differentiate their instructions based on the needs of the
students in their classrooms. Lessons will be taught in whole group as well
as small groups. Hands on activities will be used on a daily basis as well
as centers.
How does a classroom based on respect look and sound?
I.

Organized Classroom
A. Neat, orderly
B. Organized conversation
C. Efficiently busy
D. Task-centered noise
E. Workable seating arrangement

II.

Safe Environment/Climate

III.

Student Displays at Eye Level

IV.

Warm, Inviting Atmosphere

A. Pleasant place to teach/learn
B. Comfortable
C. Feeling of family -- all accepted

V.

Active Participation
A. Non-threatening learning environment
B. Freedom to express ideas, etc.
C. Cooperation/communication
D. Creative interactions/brainstorming
E. Creating an atmosphere of inquiry

VI. Expressions/Attitudes
A. People smiling
B. Positive reaction to visitors entering classroom
C. Use of good manners, teacher models/corrects behaviors
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D. Sense of humor evident

VII. Teacher Circulating and Interacting with Students
VIII. Student-centered/Open-minded
A. Teacher accepts each student as individual with value
B. Love evident
C. Reachable learning goals based on the individual

IX. Teacher and Students in Harmony

A. Great student/teacher rapport
B. Evidence of respect for personal space
C. Students respecting each other
D. Patience shown for all situations
E. Discipline without oppressions -- responsibility assigned and
carried out
F. Rules/consequences fairly, consistently administered

B. Daily Review/Warm-Up:
All teachers should have some type of warm-up activity for their class.
Therefore, as soon as students enter the classroom an activity is waiting for
them. This should help with transition misbehavior and it is also
supported by brain-based research.

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Teachers should include a Daily Analogy/ Problem of the Day from the
math series or other resources [i.e. internet, workbooks, etc.] Classroom
discussion should follow after students are finished. Take some time to
interact with the students in a nonacademic atmosphere. This is also a
good time to teach good behavior and discipline.

C. Lesson Plans/Grades:
All teachers are asked to submit lesson plans to the designated lead
teacher every Monday by 8:00 a.m.
Nine-week grades must be finalized 3 days prior to the printing of the report
cards which will be printed at least 2 days prior to the distribution date.
Exact dates will be provided. A minimum of two grades per subject per
week are required. Lesson plans will be assessed upon informal/formal
visits and observations.

D. Resource Speaker:
All classroom presentations by resource persons should be approved by
the principal. A brief summary of the presentation should be filed with the
principal at least one week before the presentation.

E. Instructional Videos:
Any video shown to students which has not been checked out of our school
MUST be cleared by the principal. This protects the teacher in case of a
parental complaint. It is important that the video has instructional value and
the rating is appropriate for the students. [Is the entire movie necessary to
prove the objective of the lesson?]. Be prepared to give that information to
the administrator upon request. PLEASE refrain from showing videos or
TV for filler. There is enough material to cover without ever showing a

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video. However, videos can be exciting for students when used

appropriately.

F. Duplicating:
Each teacher will be receiving 2,000 copies per month. Each teacher will
have copier code to use for your copies. A designated paraprofessional will
be assigned to make copies during the day. Please do not make a habit of
sending students to the copy room to have copies made for the teacher on
the spot.

G. Laminating:
The laminator is located in the copy room. A designated paraprofessional
will be assigned to laminate during the day.

H. Field Trips:
All field trips must have an educational value. Field trips forms are
available upon request from the secretary. Complete the field trip form at
least four weeks in advance of the date of the event. If the request is
made with less advance notice, it may not be considered. The requesting
teacher must:
1. Complete proper information on the form.
2. Formulate a permission slip. The permission slip must tell who,
what, when, and where. There should be information concerning
needed lunch accommodations, proper dress, and chaperones. If
allowing students to take lunch, you must provide a space on the
permission slip for parents to request a sack lunch from the
cafeteria.
3. Turn in the field trip request to the principal along with
a rough draft permission slip for students. After the principal
has approved the request, it is sent to designated person at the
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central office for final approval. The requesting teacher will

receive a copy of the districts approval in his/her mailbox.
4. Buses and lunches will be taken care of by the assistant principal.
Teachers should not contact Mr. Emerson nor Mrs. Turner to
make arrangements for their field trip.
5. Coolers must be provided for milk and possibly other beverages.
The cooler needs to be delivered to the cafeteria one day prior to
the field trip.
6. A copy of the Student Information sheet needs to be taken on field
trips. If a chaperone attends, he/she must complete a Field Trip
Volunteer Application form.
7. Make arrangements with the secretary for needed medication
allowances during the field trip. This is very important!!!!
8. The cost for students riding the bus on a field trip will be a flat fee
of $3.00. The cost for extended trips may increase. Two classes
are permitted to ride on one bus.
**Keep in mind that consumption of food and drink is NOT allowed on
the bus.

I. Discipline:
Every teacher must follow the SWPBS discipline plan. The students and
parents must be aware of your expectations and the consequences that will
follow if these requirements are not met. Display your rules in a positive
form in your Beginning of the Year parent letter. It must be understood
that a plan is followed to insure that no childs behavior interferes
with the instructional process. A copy of the SWPBS discipline is in
the parent/student handbook. There must be consistency in
implementing this plan. Do not be rigid, the purpose of this plan is to
teach students the appropriate behavior not to send them to the

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office. Use every opportunity to teach and re-teach students

appropriate behavior in every area of the building. Reward the
students who exemplify consistent positive behavior. Room
organization, instructional planning, challenging activities, and on-task
expectations are very important in creating positive classroom
management.

Guidelines for developing classroom rules, rewards, and

consequences:
1. SWPBS Rules are specific (observable).
Come prepared.
Act respectfully.
Take responsibility.
Stay safe.
2. Classroom rules must be in keeping with school-wide rules.
3. Keep it simple.
4. Consequences must be meaningful to the students and are often
something that they do not like. Collaborate with your team
member(s).
5. Rewards must be something that motivates the students.
6. The discipline program must be administered consistently.
7. Classroom rules, rewards, and consequences shall be posted in
the classroom.
Once you send a student to the office with a discipline form, you have
relinquished all rights to decide on the discipline for that student. The
discipline of that student will be left up to the school administrator.

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Corporal punishment shall be reasonable and administered with an

instrument approved by the principal, and another professional employee
must be present to witness.

J. Parent Communication and Conferences:

1. Parent Conferences:
Parent conferences may be scheduled before or after school or during the
teachers planning time. Parents will not be permitted to come to a
classroom for a conference while the teacher is conducting class. No
teacher should conference with a parent in the hallway while he or she has
students. It is your responsibility to direct that parent back to the office. A
secretary will take a message and/or phone number and the teacher can
make arrangements for a conference later. All teachers should return
phone calls/messages within a 24 hour time-frame. It is imperative that
teachers follow these guidelines so that the school can have a united front
when dealing with difficult situations. All parent conferences should begin
and end on a positive note. Airing out differences or just listing incidents to
support that there is a problem is not a productive conference. This usually
just creates multiple problems which lead to behaviors such as frustration,
hostility, etc. among those involved. Once a problem has been identified,
the purpose of a conference is to come together as a team to devise a plan
to manage or solve the problem.
The principal should be informed if it is felt that a problem is going to be
reported to the office. If a problem is reported to the principal prior to the
classroom teacher, the parent will be referred back to the teacher when
appropriate.
Suggested Guidelines for Parent/Teacher Conferences
Purpose: to get information, to give information, to solve problem
1. Come to the conference prepared.
Be familiar with the topics to be discussed
Review records, if necessary
Have examples of the students work available

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2. If a parent initiates the conference, be sure to know why. If you initiate

the conference, be sure the parent knows why.
3. Begin the meeting on a positive note. Try to make a positive statement
about the child, his/her work, behavior, attitude, etc.
4. Ask the parent to tell you something the child does well or something
that he/she likes to do.
Ask if there is anything you need to know to better help the child.
5. Be an active listener. Use rephrasing or summarizing techniques. For
example, begin your sentence with Did I understand....

6. Ask for the parents suggestions. For example, What works at home?
The parent will then feel a part of the problem-solving process.
7. Have some suggestions in mind. Nothing is more frustrating to a parent
than to feel as though there is nothing that can be done to help his child.
8. Get a commitment from the parent. Learning is a partnership. Decide
what responsibility everyone will have and what you will do if the problem
isnt resolved.
9. Discuss only one student. Stay away from discussions about other
students.
10. Include both parents, if possible.
11. Before the conference ends, summarize the main points.
12. Document what happened, who was there, and the course of action to
be followed.
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13. Together, inform the child of what was decided and his role in it.
2. Documentation
Document, document, document any communication with a parent or
guardian -- even phone calls. This will eliminate many miscommunications.
There are times when it is important for parents to sign the minutes of the
conference--discussion of retention, plan of action in dealing with a
behavior problem, etc. It is the teachers responsibility to contact the
parent if a students grade falls from a C to an F, A to a C, all As to
some Bs, etc. Parents appreciate this and are more likely to support your
program and work with you in helping the student improve rather misplace
the blame.
The principal will always back the teacher 100% if he/she has followed
the correct procedure. When the teacher does not follow the correct
procedures, it is more difficult for everyone involved. However, the
principal will accept any errors made on behalf of the school.
3. Written Communication
Any communication sent home with most or all students must be approved
by the principal or assistant principal FIRST. Once it has been approved, it
can be sent home. This includes informational letters, field trip permission
slips and etc. Teachers should NEVER send home a note requesting
money for gifts, recognition programs, etc. without PRIOR approval.
4. Positive Phone Calls
Each teacher is strongly encouraged to make a positive phone call to each
of his/her students parents within the first two weeks of school. This sets a
positive, caring tone that encourages a supportive rapport between the
parent and teacher. It initiates an attitude of team effort needed to insure a
successful school year for the child. The call helps build a positive
foundation which will assist the teacher when a possible conflict with a
student arises later in the year.

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5. Beginning of the Year Letter

Teaching teams will be responsible for writing a beginning of the year
parent information letter. Included in the letter will be such things as
teacher expectations, SWPBS plan, communication plan, homework,
routine tests and etc. Always begin and end communication with a positive
note. It should be typed and saved on a computer in case changes need to
be made. These letters should be given to the assistant principal for
approval before being sent home.

6. Student Work
Each teacher is expected to send home weekly grade reports and behavior.
Your routine should be spelled out in your Beginning of the Year Letter. Do
not allow students to check other students work. That is the teachers
responsibility.
It is also vital to maintain a filing system where individual student work is
kept. This file may be needed in a conference, M-Team meeting,
determination of grade placement for the following year, etc.

K. Legal Documents:
Anytime there is a question about correct grade placement, student
instructional needs, teacher competence, etc., the grade book and lesson
plan book serve as a legal reference. These are considered legal
documentation for up to five years as proof to any questions that could
arise in the present or future. Take this information very seriously when
keeping these records.

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1. Grade Book
Once class rolls are fairly stabilized [wait for principals directive], teachers
should begin to set up grade books. In order to make a valid assessment
regarding students performance, teachers should have a total of eighteen
[18] grades per subject for every student in their class each nine weeks.

L. Special Education:
1. S-Team Program
This is a school-based, problem-solving group. The group is made up of
the requesting teacher, any specialty or support teachers needed, the
guidance counselor [if needed] and the principal. The purpose of the
program is to discuss specific needs of teachers and students, to offer
consultation, to provide continuous support, and to secure information,
resources, and training. A Support-Team Process Guide is located in the
principals office. Consult the guide to determine if this program could
possibly meet those needs required for helping a student. If a teacher
would like to request S-Team services, an Educational Support Team
Referral Form must be completed. Turn the form in to the principal.
Information forms will be given to the teacher to fill out, along with
directives as to what other information is needed at the meeting. Once the
informational forms have been completed, turn those in. Finally, the
principal will review the S-Team informational forms, and then a meeting
will be scheduled. Any teachers or personnel involved will be given an Steam Meeting Form, indicating the date, time, and place of the conference.
The form will also list other persons who will be part of the team.

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The S-Team members will study and discuss the information gathered by
the requesting teacher in regard to a student. The team will try to
determine the major problem from which possibly all the other problems
stem. After a brainstorming session, a plan will be devised that will focus
on targeted areas. A follow-up meeting will be scheduled to discuss the
status of the problem since the S-Teams plans were implemented. The
team will then determine what steps need to be followed at that point.
2. IEP Program
After a student has been referred to the S-Team and a remediation
program has been implemented for a reasonable length of time with little or
no noticeable progress made, he/she should be referred for a
comprehensive psychological evaluation. The principal will make prudent
assessments before any student is referred for a psychological evaluation.
Please be aware of the time frame from which the special education
services operate. There are only forty school days from the time of formal
referral to evaluate, score, and write the evaluation, develop the IEP, and
begin providing services. DO NOT make promises over which you have no
control, such as promising to have a child evaluated psychologically by a
certain time or informing the parent that the psychologist is too busy to see
a child. All referrals must be submitted no later than mid April.
The IEP Team consists of the students teacher, inclusion teacher, principal
and/or designee, parent, and possibly instructional supervisors and/or
evaluating psychologist. All IEP Team members will be given prior notice of
a meeting.

M. Textbook Distribution Procedures:

1. Textbooks will be distributed during the first week of school. Teachers
should report to the storage room in the gym to pick up textbooks.
2. The teacher should write all students names in the textbook in ink.

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3. The teacher should complete a Textbook Inventory Form provided by

administration.
4. Students are responsible for all textbooks and must pay for any textbook
that is damaged or lost. Parents will be required to sign an agreement
stating they shall be responsible for the textbooks received and used by
their children. All agreements must be kept on file.
4. If a student loses a book, report it to the assistant principal. Please
check with the school office for the cost of the book. Inform the parent of
the cost of the book. When the student brings the money, turn in the
money to the secretary/bookkeeper and inform the assistant principal or the
building level textbook coordinator. Students will not be issued another
book until they pay for the lost book[s].

N. Requests for Classroom Visits:

All requests by parents to visit in the classroom must be submitted to the
principal. The principal will accompany the parent/guardian.

O. Parent Volunteer Guidelines:

Parent Volunteers are an important extension of the classroom. Please
familiarize yourself with the following guidelines to continue to build an
excellent relationship with our volunteers:
1. All parent volunteers must be pre-approved by administration.
2. Give volunteers adequate notice if there is a change on your
schedule.
3. Volunteers are not to be used as teachers, but rather as a tutoring
assistant.
4. Volunteers should not be left to supervise a classroom.
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5. Make sure volunteer involvement is meaningful.

6. Give clear directions and adequate time for preparation.
7. Whenever possible, volunteers should be assigned to a classroom
and/or grade level in which they do not have children enrolled.
8. Volunteers should not grade papers, record grades, or have
access to a teachers grade book.
9. Be sure the volunteers assistance is confined to the requested
activity and for the requested time period.

P. Classroom Appearance:
Each classroom should be arranged in such a way as to insure optimum
learning conditions. The interactive bulletin boards and wall displays
should be changed regularly to reflect the areas being studied and the
students work. When displaying work, please include the objective and
SPI for the assignment.
In accordance with OSHA regulations, windows and doorways should not
be blocked with classroom furnishings.
For security purposes, all doors and windows must be locked at the close
of the school day. Also, chairs must be stacked to permit proper cleaning
of the classroom.
No furniture/electronic equipment may be removed from a classroom
without the approval of the principal. Inventories must be kept current.

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Q. Auxiliary Classes:
Each class is scheduled for a designated period weekly. As classes are
scheduled back-to-back, it is essential that you are on time. A class roll
should be provided to the instructor by the first week of school. This roll
should be updated as students enter and transfer to other schools.
Schedules may vary due to special holiday activities and programs.
a. General Information: P.E. classes are scheduled to promote fine and
gross development. A spirit of cooperation, sportsmanship, and
responsibility should be outgrowths of a successful physical education
program.
b. Fine Arts: Art and music help our students to become well rounded
adults. Many of our students will have exceptional talents in the fine arts.
Please support these teachers in their endeavors to teach our students the
importance of refining their talents in music and art.

R. Recess
a. A thirty-minute recess is indicated on each classroom schedule. This
time may be spent indoors or outdoors. Each teacher should make every
effort to adhere to his/her scheduled recess time. If you plan not to be at
your designated area, please let the office know where you will be.
b. Statistics indicate that most accidents occur during recess and outside
P.E. times. Playground rules should be frequently reviewed in each
classroom. The first weeks of school will determine your procedures and
expectations for the entire year.

S. Guidance and Support Services:

The school guidance counselor will provide guidance/counseling to
students in groups, classroom settings, and individually. Teachers who feel
a child needs support services should complete a School Counselor
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Referral Form. The counselor will collaborate with the principal and
teacher to determine which services may be needed.

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