Parent / Student Handbook
"THE ECHO CODE"
Parent / Student Handbook
"THE ECHO CODE"
Parent
/ Student Handbook Content
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Our mission is to inspire every student to think, to learn, to achieve, and to care.
Echo Mountain Elementary School is committed to providing education to meet the needs of a diverse student body. Every learner will have the opportunity to be challenged, successful, and prepared for a future as a responsible and productive citizen.
· to develop the ability to think logically, independently and creatively;
· to communicate effectively;
· to develop appreciation for self and other people, times and cultures;
· to build responsibility to local, state, national and world communities.
A WELCOME FROM THE STAFF
We believe you will find Echo Mountain to be a positive, caring environment in which your children will have the opportunity to grow both academically and socially.
This handbook will provide you with basic information and procedures. It is for your use and reference at home. Please read it carefully and discuss it with your children. Feel free to contact the office for answers to any questions you might have.
Instruction: Kindergarten through Sixth 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
School Office 7:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Cafeteria Breakfast 8:25 a.m. - 8:55 a.m.
Playground Supervision Morning 8:45 a.m. - 9:00 a.m.
Cafeteria Lunch and Playground 10:50 a.m. - 12:50 p.m.
|
CINDY DANIEL |
School Principal |
|
BERNIECE STIMPFLE |
School Secretary |
|
MARGIE BRADLEY |
Records Secretary |
|
CARRIE ZEIGLER |
School Nurse |
| |
Front Desk |
| |
|
| BENNET MACKINNEY |
School Principal |
| ROSEMARY HAYDEN | School Secretary |
| OLIVIA WILLIAMS | Records Secretary |
| SHELLY GESKO |
School Nurse |
| MARY LAWLER |
Front Desk |
SCHOOL TELEPHONE NUMBERS
Primary
Absence Reporting (-24 hours of every day-) . . . . . . . . . . . . . 602 449-5500
Office (7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 449-5501
Fax Machine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 493-6118
Voice Messaging . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 404-1478
Voice messages left in the afternoon may not be retrieved until the next workday.
Nurse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 493-6113
SCHOOL TELEPHONE NUMBERS
Intermediate
Absence Reporting (-24 hours of every day-) . . . . . . . . . . . . . 602 449-5600
Office (7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 449-5601
Fax Machine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 485-7048
Cafeteria . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 485-6117
Voice messages left in the afternoon may not be retrieved until the next workday.
Nurse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 485-7043
A child must reach age five prior to September 1 to be eligible for kindergarten. Likewise, a child must reach age six prior to September 1 to be eligible for first grade. Children who have not received all of the required immunizations may not be enrolled in school. A birth certificate, proof of residence and valid emergency contact numbers are also required for registration. Students not enrolling in school for their very first time should present a withdraw form from their previous school.
ARRIVAL AND DEPARTURE OF STUDENTS
Echo Mountain Elementary School has playground supervision by duty aides before and after school each day. However, supervision DOES NOT begin until fifteen minutes before school starts. Therefore, we ask that you have your child leave home to arrive at school NO EARLIER than 8:45 a.m. EACH DAY. It is important that we insure the safety of each child at our school. We also require that when children leave school early for any reason, THEY MUST BE CHECKED IN or OUT FROM THE FRONT OFFICE ONLY.
Before/After-school care is available on-site through The Ram Club.
The importance of regular attendance can not be overemphasized! A child should be in school every day that he/she is physically able. It is extremely difficult to keep up with class work if attendance is not regular. The school office monitors excessive absenteeism and truancies, and Echo Mountain participates in the CUTS Program. School attendance is ultimately the responsibility of the student and his or her family. Students should remain out of school only when absolutely necessary, as much of the classroom activity can not be made-up. The benefit of lectures, field trips, discussions and other participation is lost forever to those who are absent. Regular attendance is the key to student success.
CHECKING-OUT EARLY FROM SCHOOL
A request to have a child excused from classes early should be sent with the child on the morning of the dismissal. The time and reason for leaving should be included in your request. Telephone requests can not be accepted. A child will be released only to the parents/guardian with identification unless the school has been notified in writing by the parents/guardian that they have granted permission for someone else listed on the child's emergency card, with identification, to pick up their child. When possible, medical and dental appointments should be made outside of school hours.
CLASSROOM CHANGES
Sometimes we do not accurately forecast the number of students who will live in our attendance area. When this happens we have to split homerooms to form or dissolve a section. Parents are always given an opportunity for input, but keeping an appropriate balance of student characteristics takes precedent over any individual requests.
We require that an authorized adult sign-out all students who are picked-up late (those brought back into the office after 3:15). No student will be allowed to wait on campus after that time. Students will be brought to the office, where a photo I.D. may be required to pick up a child. We are only able to release a student to a person identified on their emergency card. The Phoenix Police Department will take custody of any student when no written emergency contact person is available. Your cooperation will insure the safety of each child.
DISMISSAL OF STUDENTS
For student safety, please pick-up your child OUTSIDE of their classroom. Middle school students are allowed only to pick up siblings at the flagpole north of the office. Any change in a child's normal routine should be addressed in writing and sent to the child's teacher the day before. For student safety, changes are not taken over the phone.
Students will not be allowed to use the phone to make arrangements to go home with a friend. For student safety, these arrangements MUST BE MADE AND CONFIRMED THE DAY BEFORE.
It is ESSENTIAL that all parents complete and return an Emergency Card for each student. Please fill in all the information, including work numbers and names of people who will assume responsibility for your child in the event of an emergency if you are unavailable. This card serves as a record of any medical problems, allergies, and doctor's name, in the event of an accident or illness. IF a home or work PHONE NUMBER CHANGES, please notify the school immediately. Your child's welfare may depend on keeping the Emergency Card accurate.
Change of residence and telephone number: Parents are requested to submit changes of address or telephone number so that our files have accurate information. A telephone number where parents may be reached during the school day is required.
Students may be suspended from school attendance if there is no working emergency phone number on file in the office.
EMERGENCY FIRST AID and ILLNESS
When a student becomes ill or is injured at school, he/she will be evaluated and/or treated by the school nurse. Written notification of treatment is sent home with the student. The parents will be contacted to pick up the child if it is necessary for the student to go home or to a doctor. No child will be sent home alone or released without an adult. No child will be released to anyone who is not on the Emergency Card.
Students whose absences (excused or not) total 9 or more per semester are considered "excessive." When absences have materially affected a student's academic progress, his/her parents may be required to present a written doctor's excuse for each subsequent absence, and he/she may be retained in his/her current grade due to the negative effect on skills or grades. This is monitored quarterly; therefore, parents will receive notice of excessive absenteeism when absences exceed 4-per grading period.
EXCUSES and ABSENCES
The parent or guardian should call the school at 449-5500 or 449-5600 before 9:00 a.m. of the DAY OF THE ABSENCE to report when a child is going to be absent. Paradise Valley Unified School District Policy states that parents should call in excused absences by 10:00 a.m. of the same day a student is not in attendance. Extending that time up for extenuating circumstances will be considered on a case by case basis. We also accept notes in advance for planned absences. An administrative conference will be required when attendance is materially affecting student performance.
FREE and REDUCED BREAKFAST/LUNCH PROGRAMS
Many students qualify for free or reduced prices for lunch and breakfast. New forms must be submitted every year, and we encourage parents to complete an application form to see if you qualify for this program.
The Paradise Valley USD Governing Board recognizes the need for practice at home to improve academic skills. As such, our school has a plan for students in every grade that requires them to do some homework. For specific guidelines about minutes allowed per evening, contact your child's classroom teacher.
INJURY INSURANCE
The school district does not pay medical expenses of students injured at school, but does send home information concerning the purchase of accident insurance. The school does not act as the agent, nor does it carry accident insurance on students. The cost is low and there are several options available. Therefore, parents are encouraged to evaluate this coverage, especially if they have no other medical insurance.
LIBRARY BOOKS
Hundreds of books are available to help supplement our students' learning. Library books must be returned before any students go on vacation or withdraw from school. Lost books must be paid for at full replacement value.
State Law controls dispensing medication to children by school nurses. Paradise Valley USD, in order to comply with the law, provides forms that must be completed prior to dispensing any medication. The form for prescription medication must be signed by both physician and parent before the medication can be dispensed. Over-the-counter medication (aspirin, Tylenol, etc.) can be dispensed with written parental permission. All medication must be received in the original container. This procedure insures that pupils who must have medications during the school day receive the prescribed medication in the prescribed manner for the protection of the pupils and school personnel. Students are not allowed to carry or administer medication themselves.
NURSE
A registered nurse is assigned to our school on a full-time basis. The nurse is prohibited from treating an illness or injury that has taken place other than when the student is under the school's supervision.
NUTRITION PROGRAMS
Breakfast is available for $1.00 in the Cafeteria or Large Multipurpose Room each day from 8:15 to 8:50 a.m. Lunch, including milk, is $1.75. Milk alone is $.25. Snacks are available for an additional $.50 each. Students are encouraged to pay into their lunch accounts before school on Mondays and Tuesdays.
A social worker is available to assist students and families with social, emotional and/or family needs. Referrals may come from students, parents, teachers, administrators, and others. We maintain a food and clothing supply to assist our families in need. This supply is dependent upon voluntary contributions. Please contact our social worker or nurse if you have questions, concerns, or requests.
TEACHER SELECTION
Students are placed in classrooms based upon a variety of factors: ability, level, boy/girl ratios, number of students, social factors, etc. New students to Echo Mountain are placed on a tentative basis until an appropriate placement can be determined. Students are placed in the spring of each year for the following school year. We do not accept requests for specific teachers, but parents may give input in selecting a successful classroom environment for their child(ren).
The school phone is for business and is not to be used to make personal arrangements. THESE SHOULD BE MADE BY THE PARENT AT HOME BEFORE THE SCHOOL DAY. Children with a legitimate reason may use the phone with a note from their teacher. Special instructions can not accepted by the school office over the telephone.
TEXTBOOKS
All textbooks are loaned to students free of charge. STUDENTS ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR LOST AND DAMAGED BOOKS, HOWEVER, AND WILL BE EXPECTED TO PAY FOR THEM. Students are urged to take good care of books to avoid an assessment at the end of the year. Many books cost in excess of $ 40.00 each.
Law prohibits the use of tobacco by ANYONE on school grounds or at school activities.
TRANSFERRING TO ANOTHER SCHOOL
It will become necessary for some of you to leave our school during the year. Please notify your teacher and the office in advance so that we may help make your transfer speedy and efficient. Library books and texts must be returned before leaving.
TRUANCY
Unexcused absences or tardies are considered truancies, and students can be disciplined according to school district guidelines. FAILURE OF PARENTS TO REPORT AN ABSENCE is what constitutes a truancy. Echo Mountain began participation in OPERATION A.I.M., program in 1997, and changed to the CUTS Program in 2000. The program has highly structured cumulative procedures for combating truancy. The Juvenile Justice System has partnered with our school district in encouraging good school attendance. It is for the children's protection that these policies are in place, and we appreciate parental cooperation and support.
VISITORS AT SCHOOL
Parents are always welcome to visit. BEFORE visiting a classroom, both visitors and volunteers must check in through the school office. This is for the protection of your children and is required by state law. When possible, please schedule an appointment with a teacher prior to a visit to school. This will aid in your being able to accomplish the purpose of your visit with the least disruption to everyone's instructional day.
Repeat violators of these procedures will be issued a trespass warning or citation.
SCHOOL-STUDENT-PARENT LEARNING COMPACT
SCHOOL COMMITMENT
Echo Mountain School is committed to providing a quality education to meet the needs of a diverse student body. Every learner will have the opportunity to be challenged, successful, and prepared for a future as a responsible and productive citizen. Our goal is to inspire every student to think, to learn, to achieve, and to care. Therefore, we will:
1. treat each child with dignity and respect
2. invest our time and energy in the belief that every child can be successful
3. acknowledge that parents are vital to the success of this school and its students
4. assure every student access to quality learning experiences appropriate to their development, in a safe environment
5. assure regular communication of clear expectations for performance to both students and parents
PARENT COMMITMENT
We realize the importance of working cooperatively with the school. We want and expect our child to have the best possible education. We, therefore, join with Echo Mountain School by providing an appropriate learning environment in the home and will:
1. encourage our child to demonstrate respect for him/herself, school personnel, classmates, and school property
2. provide adequate space and sufficient time for our child to do homework and monitor homework completion
3. encourage our child to read daily
4. send our child to school regularly and on time
5. encourage our child's participation in extracurricular activities
6. attend school functions and conferences
STUDENT COMMITMENT
I understand that I am responsible for my learning and behavior. I will:
1. follow the Echo Code including the rule for "Make Your Day"
2. arrive at school on time each day unless I am ill
3. set the goal of being the best I can be
4. assume responsibility for all of my choices
5. have the materials necessary to successfully complete my daily school and homework assignments
State law prohibits USE of TOBACCO products on school grounds or at school events
To facilitate effective communication between school and home, we use the following: teacher and school newsletters, student/parent handbooks, school marquee, reminder notes, parent-teacher conference nights, parent nights, curriculum nights, site council meetings and HASA meetings.
CONFERENCES (PARENT-TEACHER)
Parents are encouraged to confer with their child's teacher. Individual parent-teacher conferences are scheduled at the close of the first and second quarter for parents of students, kindergarten through sixth grades. Dates for the current year are on the insert. Teachers will discuss the student's progress report with the parent at these conferences. A conference with a teacher or staff members may be requested at any time by a parent. Appointments should be arranged between the teacher and parent.
For conferences with the principal, social worker, psychologists, etc., the parent should contact the school secretary to arrange an appointment. It is our hope that communication lines will be kept open all year and that neither parent nor teacher will wait until parent conference time if a problem or question arises.
STUDENT PROGRESS REPORTS
Written grades and/or progress reports to parents of students in grades one through six will be issued every 9-10 weeks. Kindergarten, P.E., art and music written reports shall be issued at the close of each semester and conferences will be held with parents as scheduled or as needed. Midterm reports will be issued each quarter.
PARENTAL RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Parents or legal guardians of a student being considered for an evaluation for possible placement in special education must be fully aware of their legal rights under IDEA, Education of the Handicapped Act, and Arizona State Board of Education Standards for Public School and State Supported Institutions.
Paradise Valley Unified School District No. 69 assumes the responsibility of informing parents of their due process rights pertaining to evaluation and placement procedures for special education programs and services. As a participating parent, you must be made aware that informed consent is required. This information is available through our school office or the Special Education Department.
SCHOOL-WIDE STUDENT MANAGEMENT
SUPERVISION
As noted in the Paradise Valley USD Parent/Student Handbook, the Governing Board charges the school staff with the responsibility for enforcing the rules of conduct, establishing consistency in their enforcement, and maintaining a safe and appropriate learning and behavioral environment. Students should be aware that the entire Echo Mountain staff, including administrators, teachers, duty aides, and office, custodial and cafeteria personnel, have accepted the responsibility of providing a safe and successful learning environment for all. Mutual respect between students and all adults on campus is common practice and compliance with authority is expected.
EXPECTATIONS
The following expectations cover behavior in the classroom, behavior around campus, and behavior on the bus. Our school uses a philosophy called "Make Your Day." We ask you to discuss these rules with your child, as we will at school, and we ask for your support in enforcing them. Students are expected to come to school each day ready to learn in an environment free from distraction. Teachers expect to be able to teach without distraction. Interfering with the learning or well being of another is unacceptable.
Governing Board Policy defines Disorderly Conduct as use of profanity, obscene behavior, unsafe behavior, or any conduct, which is in any way disruptive to the educational process of the school. Defiance of Authority is defined as refusing to comply with a reasonable request of school officials. Disorderly Conduct and Defiance of Authority will not be tolerated and may result in suspension or expulsion.
CONDUCT
Consistency, cooperation, and acceptance of responsibility, are key components of our student management system. Student dress, personal appearance, and conduct shall not disrupt nor distract from instructional procedures, school sanctioned social functions, or the disciplinary control of teachers in any way. The conduct a student demonstrates at school is usually a result of his or her past experiences. It is important for teachers and administrators to understand each individual student so that discipline is fair, reasonable, and fits the circumstances. Action taken should lead to a good learning situation. Our goal is to help students become good decision-makers in the areas of self-control and social relationships.
Although Echo Mountain does not have a "uniform" code for student dress, personal appearance and conduct will not be allowed to: endanger the safety or well-being of any student; disrupt or distract from instructional procedures or school sanctioned functions; or disrupt or distract from the disciplinary control of the staff in any way. Some clothing is not allowed for health safety, and legal reasons. Clothing that is disruptive to classroom learning is not allowed. Students at Echo Mountain were surveyed and actually helped develop the following dress code:
· Clothing with indecent phrases, suggestive images (violent or sexual), or illegal substances are prohibited.
· Clothing associated with gangs, gang colors, or gang symbols is prohibited. Shoelaces should match and must be standard tied.
· Shirts or blouses that expose the chest, abdomen or other private areas are prohibited. Shoulder straps must be greater than a two-finger width and must not drop greater than a palm's width below the axial area of the arm, scoop or v-necks may not drop below the line connecting the axial point of the arms.
· Short shorts are not allowed. The hem of the short must be longer than the thumb-length of the student when their arms rest at their sides. Cutoffs are also not permitted.
· Under clothing is not to be worn showing out or on top of outerwear.
· Suspenders, chains, or belts that are hanging are not permitted.
· Clothing should be the appropriate size of the student. The waistband of pants should be to fit - not over sized, or sliding down the hips. All over sized clothing will be tucked in - no exceptions. EXCESSIVELY over sized clothing is not permitted:
NO BAGGING and NO SAGGING
· Excessively visible makeup and/or tattoos are not permitted.
· Earrings (hoops) big enough to catch somebody's finger (pinky tip) are not permitted.
· Hats or caps are not permitted.
Students who violate the dress code will be asked to change their attire in the nurse's office, and may call home for a change of clothes or use those provided by the school. The home and the school need to cooperate in the matter of acceptable dress. The school is in one way just like the student's work place, and students who are most appropriately dressed for learning will do a better job.
1. Students will be courteous and respectful to other students and adults. They will use appropriate proper language.
2. Students will travel throughout the school in a safe and orderly manner. They will carry passes when outside their classrooms without a teacher.
3. Student behavior will demonstrate proper consideration for themselves and others.
4. Students will use all school materials and equipment in the manner for which they were designed. Vandalism and/or destruction of school property may result in suspension or expulsion. Parents and appropriate agencies will also be contacted and students will be responsible for damage costs.
PLAYGROUND BEHAVIOR EXPECTATIONS
Students are supervised on the playground 15 minutes before school and during lunch recess. All school rules and the Echo Code of Conduct apply on the playground. Duty Aides are the adults in charge and are instructed to give office referrals to students choosing to be defiant or dangerous to themselves or others. Students who are disruptive will have their behavior reported to their homeroom teacher.
To minimize group intimidation, students are not allowed to mill-about the playground in large groups. In order for students to learn to utilize this time wisely, we have adopted the concepts from the "Healthy Play is a Solution" Program. Activities may take place on the playground or in the classroom which help foster cooperation, responsibility, learning rules, and socialization. We emphasize that we PLAY TO HAVE FUN and that THE MOST IMPORTANT PART OF THE GAME IS THE PEOPLE. Two rules of play apply:
1. If anyone gets injured (and this may occasionally happen), the closest person to the injured person or the one who accidentally or deliberately caused it, must stay with that person until he/she feels ready and able to play again. This is THE essential rule for teaching compassion.
2. Players wanting to argue may do so verbally for as long as they like, but must do so outside the boundaries of the game. Of course, proper language, no threatening, and no hitting are guidelines that must be followed. When both people agree to stop arguing they may return to the game.
(Borrowed with permission from Spencer Gorin and Charlie Steffens, CREATIVE SPIRIT, 1993.)
CONFLICT RESOLUTION
Teams of students are trained to help other students on the playground with problem solving and conflict resolution. This allows students to use the Make Your Day philosophy outside of the classroom and resolve situations without being disciplined from the office. Students who refuse mediation will be addressed through the school-wide conduct plan.
Behavior that interferes with safety on the bus is dealt with through the bus referral process. Bus drivers are not trained in the MAKE YOUR DAY Program. Since bus riding is a privilege, and the safety risk is so great, the disciplinary philosophy is different. These referrals go through a separate set of steps. Students are suspended from bus privileges for increasingly longer periods when behavior is inappropriate. You may also refer to the Paradise Valley USD Parent/Student Handbook for transportation policies.
As stated in the Paradise Valley USD Parent/Student Handbook, "the school bus is an extension of the school and the same rules apply regarding discipline and general conduct. Additionally, students must remain properly seated, keep the aisle clear and insure that all parts of their body (e.g.,hands, heads, etc.) remain inside the bus. Specific rules regarding school bus conduct are posted on each bus and available from each school. Violations of rules or safety are grounds for denial of bus transportation privileges or other discipline." We appreciate the assistance of parents in sending your child to the bus stop only a few minutes before the bus arrives unless you are able to supervise them.
BUS EXPECTATIONS
Although all students are not bus riders, a great number of students do ride a bus to school. The following are important bus rules every child should follow:
Before the bus arrives (at the bus stop):
1. Leave home on time each day.2. Walk facing traffic if there are no sidewalks.
3. Arrive at the pick-up spot five minutes before the bus.
4. Wait off the roadway, not in the street.
5. Stay off people's private property, including lawns.
Boarding the bus:
1. Wait for the bus to come to a full stop.2. Be polite and take your turn getting on the bus.
3. Use the handrail and board quietly.
Conduct on the bus:
1. All classroom conduct expectations apply and follow the directions of the driver.2. Be courteous and talk quietly so that the driver is able to hear traffic sounds. Profane language or yelling is not to be used.
3. Do not eat or drink on the bus.
4. Keep the bus clean. Do not litter.
5. Cooperate with the driver. Drivers need to keep their minds on driving and their eyes on the road: so do not talk to the driver unless it is an emergency. Do not tamper with any safety device or any other equipment.
6. Smoking (any tobacco or controlled substance) is not permitted.
7. Do not be destructive or deface the bus.
8. Walk to your assigned seat and keep arms, feet, and schoolbooks out of the aisle. Instruments and field equipment, such as basketballs, must stay in cases or bags. Do not stand or move around while the bus is moving.
9. Keep hands, feet, and head inside the bus. Do not throw anything out the windows.
10. Drivers are authorized to assign seats at any time.
Leaving the bus:
1. Do not leave your seat until the bus comes to a full stop.
2. Take your turn; don't crowd in front of others.
3. Exit quietly and use the handrail.
4. Watch your step.
CONSEQUENCES FOR INAPPROPRIATE BUS BEHAVIOR
If any student fails to follow these rules, the bus driver will write a bus conduct referral. For each referral, the student will conference with an administrator then take the referral home for parent signature (to be returned the following school day). Additional consequences are as follows:
Please note that any step may be bypassed if the situation warrants a more serious consequence.
For safety reasons and Governing Board policy, students in kindergarten through second grade MUST NOT ride bikes to school.
3rd-6th grade students must obey the following rules:
TRANSPORTATION
The District Transportation Department is responsible for bus schedules, bus and items lost on the bus. For any questions, please contact the District Transportation office at 449-2259. To ensure safe transportation for your child, all school rules apply on buses and at bus stops. Continued unsafe behavior will result in suspension of bus privileges.
STUDENT RECOGNITION
Part of our school philosophy is to frequently reinforce and recognize appropriate student behaviors. Some of the programs at our school are:
GOLDEN RAM CITIZENSHIP RECOGNITION
Part of the Make Your Day philosophy is that appropriate behavior should be the "norm," not the exception. Golden Ram Citizenship certificates are earned by students who "Make Their Day" EVERY day of the quarter, with the exception of kindergarten and first grades. This doesn't mean that their behavior has to be "perfect," as students may choose to not earn all of the points possible and still Make Their Day. First grade students make the transition from kindergarten to second grade. They may earn a Golden Ram Citizenship certificate when they choose not to make their day for no more than 3 days the first quarter, 2 days the second quarter, 1 day the third quarter, and every day the fourth quarter. These students are positively recognized in their classrooms and at the Citizenship Celebration each quarter.
RAM ACHIEVEMENT AWARDS
Students in kindergarten through second grades can earn a Ram Achievement Award for high achievement or improvement in academic areas. Eligibility is at the teacher's discretion, but the number of awards is limited.
HONOR ROLL and PRINCIPAL'S LIST
Students earn Honor Roll and Principal's List recognition through academic achievement. Students in grades 3 through 6 must average "B" or better to be on the Honor Roll. Students in grades 4 through 6 must earn an "A" average without any "below satisfactory" marks in citizenship ratings in order to be considered for the Principal's List. Students with D's or F's, including special areas, are not eligible.
CLASSROOM INCENTIVES
Teachers select special students on a regular basis to help with special responsibilities. Teachers provide a range of incentives to help motivate students to do their individual best as part of their classroom plan. These incentives are usually earned in progressive or cumulative steps.
FACILITY USAGE
Anyone wishing to use Echo Mountain facilities or grounds must make a request through the school office or through the Community Education Department at the District Office. Insurance is required for facility usage.
LOST AND FOUND
The school cannot assume the responsibility for your losses. However, we will make every effort to help locate lost articles when reported. Further, there is a Lost and Found wagon in the Multipurpose Room that houses lost articles that have been found and turned in. Due to the large number of unclaimed items, those remaining one week after the close of each school semester are donated to charities.
HASA
Our school has an excellent parent group: The Echo Mountain (HASA). Elected officers help the organization perform tasks that make Echo Mountain School a better part of your family's life. Parents are encouraged to join and participate. HASA newsletters will give you information on how to join or contact officers. Your time and effort show your children you really care about their education.
The Principal meets with the Site Council eight times throughout the school year. The purpose is to discuss goals, school concerns and possible solutions. The meetings are open to the public, and everyone is invited to attend. For information on meeting dates, call our office.
SMOKING AND TOBACCO USAGE
Law prohibits the use of tobacco by ANYONE on school grounds or at school activities.
VOLUNTEER PROGRAM
Echo Mountain Elementary School needs your time and talent. As a volunteer, you assist our staff and students in achieving their educational goals. If you can help in any way, please notify the office or classroom teacher. ALL volunteers are required to sign for a volunteer booklet, even if they are only chaperoning a single field trip. This helps to cover them for accidents or emergencies while helping the school. Volunteers, just like any visitor, need to sign in at the office before reporting to the classroom.
SCHOOL-WIDE STUDENT CONDUCT PLAN
DISTRICT-WIDE DISCIPLINE
Please refer to the Paradise Valley USD Parent/Student Handbook for a summary of policies, procedures and definitions for offenses and administrative actions. Consequences will be consistent with existing consequences present in the Echo Mountain and Paradise Valley Unified School District discipline policy.
One goal of Echo Mountain Elementary School is to provide a safe and secure learning environment for its students. Echo Mountain teachers use discipline plans designed around the MAKE YOUR DAY philosophy: no student has the right to interfere with the learning, safety, or well being of others. The plan is organized to help students make decisions, which result in fair and reasonable consequences instead of punishments. A plan of steps and points is used in every area of the school. Although the philosophy is broad, the formal expectations for our students have not changed:
CLASSROOM CONDUCT PLAN
When a student chooses to continue behavior that interferes with the learning, safety, or well being of others, the teacher may move them from the instructional group to step one, to two, to three, or to four. These steps are all explained in the Make Your Day plan. Teachers will share their expectations with students and parents each semester.
When a student reaches STEP-FOUR, they are required to call their parent to request their parents' help in resolving the situation with their teacher. Parents are required to meet and conference with the teacher as soon as possible, because the student is not allowed to return to the classroom until completion of a successful conference. When a parent, or their guardian, does not attend this conference, and the student has been waiting outside the classroom for more than a full instructional day, the consequence for the infraction is considered to be an in-school suspension, and a parent conference will be required for readmission at the start of the next school day.
When a student chooses STEP 4 or 5, they also choose to "NOT make their day."
DISCIPLINE REFERRALS: STEP-FIVE CONSEQUENCES
Referrals are used district-wide. They may be written by any school authority. Students who severely disrupt the classroom or playground will be referred to the office for the appropriate consequences. These behaviors are either STEP-FIVE of the MAKE YOUR DAY Plan, or are so severe that they must be handled outside of the classroom plan. All acts of violence are automatically considered STEP-FIVE.
Our procedures are progressive in nature, and consequences are based both on the number of disruptions and the severity. A referral may also be made to the school nurse, psychologist and/or the school social worker for the victim and perpetrator(s) in cases involving sexual misconduct. The psychologist shall assist in determining if other related services are necessary.
ADMINISTRATOR ACTION PLAN
The school administrator action on a discipline referral can range from a conference to an out of school suspension, or a recommendation for long-term suspension or expulsion, depending on the student infraction. Serious infractions are handled through the Administrator Action Plan. Most STEP-FIVE student behaviors will warrant an out-of-school suspension as a consequence.
Parents who elect to use the administrative action instead of step four conferences will be choosing to have their children suspended from school. The progressive frequency of Step 4 or 5 referrals will determine the type and length of suspension.
For suspensions of three or more days, we recommend placement in our Alternative Education Center. Parents are required to provide transportation there, but trained teachers closely supervise students.
The Governing Board directs the administration to develop and maintain standards of student conduct and advise students and parents of those standards. Students shall comply with those standards, pursue the required course of study and submit to the authority of the staff of the district. Due process procedures are adhered to in all cases involving suspension and/or expulsion. The superintendent, principal, or their guardian are given the authority to suspend students for good cause, while only the Governing Board may expel a student.
Any weapon, facsimile of a weapon, or object used as a weapon will be automatically considered a STEP-FIVE disciplinary infraction and is subject to suspension or expulsion. In some cases, either the school, or the victim may bring criminal charges against the perpetrator.
ROCK THROWING
Rock throwing is prohibited on campus or to and from school. If a student chooses to pick up a rock, it is assumed the intent is to throw the rock. This will be treated as a violation of the policy on weapons. Rock throwing which causes injury is automatically considered STEP-FIVE and will result in suspension.
FIGHTING
Use of physical force and/or retaliation with physical force may result in suspension or expulsion. Fighting, intimidating and/or provoking a fight is prohibited on campus, as well as to and from school. Fighting is automatically considered STEP-FIVE and will result in suspension or may be grounds for expulsion.
A student who is using, under the influence of, or in possession of; or who in any way provides, gives, sells, or offers any form of alcoholic beverage, illegal or dangerous drug substance, drug paraphernalia or look-alike, or any substance being represented as an illegal or dangerous drug, is automatically considered STEP-FIVE and subject to suspension or expulsion (as stated in Board Policy). Use, sale, or possession of tobacco of any kind (including cigarettes) on school property or at school events is also prohibited and automatically considered STEP-FIVE. Incidents involving any of the noted Forbidden Substances will result in parents being contacted and referrals to appropriate agencies.
These rules APPLY TO ALL ADULT VISITORS while our campus, although it is a criminal offense when applied to adults (not a Step 5 conference).
OTHER PROHIBITED ITEMS AT SCHOOL
Non-school related items are subject to loss or damage and could be disruptive in the classroom or on the playground. Items not connected with the school program include, but are not limited to: laser lights, pagers, radios, video games, skates, skateboards, toys, candy, gum, etc., are prohibited and should be left at home. Handballs, bats, and HARD baseballs are not to be brought to school. These items will be confiscated.
Policy Statement: Students attending Echo Mountain Elementary School have the right to attend school without fear or harm, threat, intimidation or harassment… AND THAT RIGHT SHALL BE PROTECTED. If you have reason to believe a child is being harassed, please contact a school administrator immediately.
HARM: Echo Mountain students shall not kick, strike or be physically aggressive to any other person while on school grounds or during school time. Any object designed or intended to do harm to another person will not be tolerated at school.
THREAT: Echo Mountain students shall not threaten to harm any other person for any reason while on school grounds and/or during school time. This includes direct or indirect suggestion of harm for any reason. Extortion will not be tolerated at school. Extortion is defined as demanding something of value in exchange for relief from harm.
INTIMIDATION: Echo Mountain students shall not engage in any activity that frightens another student or makes a student uncomfortable in the school setting. Large groups of students are not allowed to approach other students for this reason.
HARASSMENT: Echo Mountain students shall not bother or annoy another person physically, verbally or visually. This includes the use of offensive language, symbols, gestures, touching, etc., or any unwanted sexual advances. Students are asked to tell the person to stop, and report the harassment immediately to a teacher or administrator.
SEXUAL MISCONDUCT
Echo Mountain students shall not engage in any activity that indicates touching of private areas of the body, whether unwanted or consensual. Sexual misconduct should be immediately reported to a teacher or administrator. School officials are required to report sexual misconduct or abuse.
PROHIBITED USES of ELECTRONIC MEDIA
The district network is provided for students to conduct research and communicate with others. Access to network services is given to students who agree to act in a considerate and responsible manner. Signatures are required from both parent and student on the enclosed Internet Student User Agreement and Parent Permission Form. (Colored insert)
It is expected that users will comply with district standards and will honor the agreements they have signed. Beyond the clarification of such standards, the district is not responsible for restricting, monitoring or controlling the communications of individuals utilizing the network.
Acceptable uses of the Paradise Valley Unified School District electronic information resources include:
Network storage areas may be treated like school lockers. Network administrators may review files and communications to maintain system integrity and insure that users are using the system responsibly. Users should not expect that files stored on district servers will be private.
Within reason, freedom of speech and access to information will be honored. During school, teachers of younger students will guide them toward appropriate materials. Outside of school, families bear the same responsibility for guidance as they exercise with information sources such as television, telephones, movies, radio and other potentially offensive media.
Consistent with Board policy and procedures on student discipline (5.4.1), copies of which are available in school offices, the following are not permitted:
Violations may result in a loss of access as well as other disciplinary or legal action.
Echo Mountain opened during the 1980-81 school year under the direction of Dr. Krebs, with about 500 students. For the first semester, primary grade students were taught at Palomino and intermediate grade students were taught at Campo Bello. Construction of the original site, now the East Instructional Building, was not completed until January of 1981. The East Multi-use Building was added in the 1983-84 school year as enrollment began to top 1100.
The following year, 1984-85, the school went on double sessions. Students were divided into two attendance areas. The Echo Mountain area attended classes in the morning until noon, and the Eagle Ridge area attended classes in the afternoon. Mrs. Dewalt began as the assistant to supervise the second session. Dr. Krebs went to Eagle Ridge when it opened in 1985-86, and Mrs. Dewalt became the principal of Echo Mountain. This meant a big drop in enrollment and the end of double sessions.
In the 1986-87 school year, Echo Mountain was honored with the National PTA Advocates for Children Award. They were the first Arizona unit to ever win this national award. The school population continued to grow, and it was clear that new space was going to be needed to handle the influx of families. New additions were opened in 1988 to help relieve the pressure of this growth. This included what is now the Administration and Support Building, the Large Multi-purpose Building, and the West Instructional Building.
Echo Mountain was recognized as one of the A+ Elementary Schools in the State of Arizona in 1989. The following year, in 1990, Echo Mountain was again recognized as an A+ School by the State of Arizona, and went on to earn a National Blue Ribbon School award from the United States Department of Education. In addition, Echo Mountain earned recognition as an Arizona Exemplary Fine Arts Site by the Arizona Department of Education in 1992.
Growth continued and portable classrooms had to be added to the campus just south of the main buildings. In 1991-92 enrollment peaked at 1,600 with 13 buses transporting students around what is now the Echo Mountain and Cactus View Elementary attendance areas. Mrs. Dewalt went to Cactus View when it opened in 1992, and once again enrollment dropped down to around 800 students.
Dr. Cianfarano became the principal in the 1992-93 school year and remained through 1995-96, when enrollment climbed to over a thousand students. This rapid increase once again meant that some areas of the school had to be redesigned for classroom space. A well-equipped science lab was added in 1993. This resulted, after some growing pains, in the hands-on science lab that Echo Mountain students continue to experience to this day.
Mr. Freeman is the school's current principal. The school has focused on creating a safe and caring learning environment. This led to the implementation of the Make Your Day student conduct program in the fall of 1998. The school was recognized for excellence in educating students of diversity with the Dreams Do Come True Award in the spring of 2000. The school has been able to maintain above average achievement while the student population has become more diverse. We look forward to continuing to create a place where children know that adults will support them and where they can achieve!
The Make your Day Program was implemented at Echo Mountain at the start of the 1998-99 School Year. The spring of 1997 we formally surveyed students about their perceptions of the effectiveness of their school. The students indicated a strong discrepancy between the level of respect they expected from other students and the level at which that respect for other students actually existed.
In 1996-97 the number of disciplinary referrals in the office exceeded 500, and the following year, 1997-98, there was only a small drop. In 1996-97 we raised our expectations and accomplished the goal of making students accountable to all adults on campus, rather than just the homeroom teacher. In 1997-98 we became aware that students were continuing to misbehave when they thought there was no adult near by. We started looking for a way to address this in our 1998-99 student management plan.
A team of teachers interested in this problem researched different programs and surveyed the staff. Parents were also surveyed in the spring of 1998. Staff members visited other Make Your Day schools, listened to presentations from staff at other schools that are using the program, and voted in support of starting the program. The program was explained to the site council, and at a spring PTSA meeting. The entire staff, including aides, teachers and administrators, receive ongoing training in the use of the program.
The challenge for future years is to refine the implementation of the program. Our goal is to assure that students and parents truly feel that allowing steps and assessing points are used to help students define their choices, rather than punish them. We expect this challenge to remain until everyone is as concerned about the learning of every other student, as they are about their own wants and needs.
SCHOOL SONG
Echo Mountain,
Echo Mountain,
We're the best around.
We are proud of blue and silver.
We never wear a frown.
Echo Mountain,
Echo Mountain,
Cubs are what we are.
We're the best of all the rest.
We are the stars.