Carmel Academy Parent Handbook
C a r m e l A c a d e m y P a r e n t Handbook 22001122 –– 22001133 // 55777733
Contents CONTENTS
1
MISSION STATEMENT
3
CARMEL ACADEMY VALUES AND PRACTICES
4
SCHOOL HOURS
5 5 5 5 5
KINDERGARTEN – FOURTH GRADE: FIFTH GRADE: SIXTH, SEVENTH & EIGHTH GRADES: ALL GRADES FRIDAYS:
ATTENDANCE
5
LATE ARRIVAL
6
EARLY PICKUP
6
ABSENCES
6
ILLNESS
6
VACATIONS
7
TRANSPORTATION POLICIES
8 8 8
CHANGE IN TRANSPORTATION ROUTINE PLAYDATES
8
BUS CODE OF CONDUCT
9 9
CONSEQUENCES FOR VIOLATING THE CODE OF CONDUCT LAFAYETTE PLACE – VOLUNTEER LANE LOT
7
SCHOOL CLOSINGS & DELAYED OPENINGS DRESS CODE
10
PHYSICAL EDUCATION & RECESS
14
LOST AND FOUND
14
COMMUNICATIONS
15 15 15 16 16 16 16 16 17
SCHOOL WEBSITE PARENT PORTAL E‐MAIL COMMUNICATION NEWSLETTERS AND FLIERS MESSAGES TO STUDENTS CELL PHONES MESSAGES FOR TEACHERS INQUIRIES ABOUT YOUR CHILD: WHO’S WHO AT CARMEL ACADEMY
HOMEWORK
19
STUDENT EVALUATION, PARENT/TEACHER CONFERENCES, AND PROGRESS REPORTS 20 Carmel Academy Parent Handbook 2012-2013
Page 1
TERRANOVA TESTING
21
CLASS ASSIGNMENTS/PLACEMENTS
21
22
VISITING THE SCHOOL
22
SECURITY
NON‐PARENT VISITORS ‐ STUDENTS FRIENDS AND ALUMNI ERROR! BOOKMARK NOT DEFINED. 23
CARD KEYS
TOYS AT SCHOOL
23
EMERGENCY PROCEDURES
24
NATIONAL EMERGENCY
24
CRITICAL ILLNESS OR INJURY AT SCHOOL
24
STUDENTS STAYING IN THE CARE OF NONPARENT/GUARDIAN
24
FIELD TRIPS
FOOD POLICIES NUT FREE FOODS
25 26 ERROR! BOOKMARK NOT DEFINED.
KASHRUT (JEWISH DIETARY LAWS)
26
LUNCH
26
BRINGING FOOD TO SCHOOL
27
MEAT
27
FIELD TRIPS
27
FORGOTTEN LUNCHES
27
BIRTHDAY PARTIES AT CARMEL ACADEMY
28
KINDERGARTEN
28
1ST THROUGH 8TH GRADE
28
BIRTHDAY PARTIES OFF CAMPUS
28 29
BAR/BAT MITZVAH CELEBRATIONS
HEALTH POLICIES
30
FIRST AID
30
KEEPING CHILDREN HOME
30
MEDICATION
30
ALLERGIES
31
HEAD LICE
31
PHYSICAL EXAMINATION AND IMMUNIZATION
31
RE‐ENROLLENT
32
FAMILY LIFE CYCLE EVENTS
32
FOND TRIBUTES
32
PARENT ASSOCIATION Carmel Academy Parent Handbook 2012-2013
32 Page 2
MISSION STATEMENT
Carmel Academy is an educational institution that stretches each child’s intellect and creativity; that is passionate about Jewish identity and values; that is committed to the betterment of our world and a strong bond with the State of Israel. Our faculty models it…our students live it. PORTRAIT OF A GRADUATE
A CARMEL ACADEMY GRADUATE: •
Has the ability to think critically about himself/herself, and the world at large.
•
Thirsts for learning and intellectual pursuits.
•
Pursues future educational endeavors with an excellent academic foundation.
•
Is committed to a personal Jewish life while embracing diversity in the Jewish community.
•
Connects and contributes to the broader society through social action.
CHARACTERISTICS OF PROFESSIONAL EXCELLENCE: •
Our teachers inspire students to achieve their potential in thought, word, and deed.
•
Our teachers embody our values of integrity, professionalism and intellectual pursuit both inside and outside the classroom.
•
Our teachers are enthusiastic, creative and compassionate, providing a supportive community where excellence, innovation and diversity thrive.
Carmel Academy Parent Handbook 2012-2013
Page 3
CARMEL ACADEMY VALUES AND PRACTICES
Derech Eretz – mutual respect – is a primary principle at Carmel Academy. It permeates all curricular activities, behaviors, and expectations. Students and school personnel cooperate and treat each other with mutual respect. All activities at the school, formal and informal, are viewed through the lens of menchlechkeit. Expectations are set for students to dress, behave and express themselves in ways that are consistent with these fundamental concepts.
We believe that teaching respect, care and derekh eretz are part of our educational obligations. Carmel Academy believes in a few clearly defined, consistent school rules, which are necessary components in the socialization of the young child. It is our goal to educate students to take pride in their school. It is our expectation that students will respect the tenets of Judaism as well as show respect for all staff, fellow students and school property.
Please take some time to read and explore this handbook. Where appropriate, please reinforce the school policies with your child. Our goal is to translate Carmel Academy’s philosophical orientation into our daily practices and rituals. As you read through the handbook, and familiarize yourself with our school, you will realize how special Carmel Academy can be to you and your child/ren. We encourage you to bring your talents and energies to Carmel Academy to create an even better place! Parental input and support are vital to the realization of our goals. We hope that you will be able to count on us to meet your expectations and we trust your commitment will be there for us as well.
Carmel Academy Parent Handbook 2012-2013
Page 4
SCHOOL HOURS Classrooms are open to receive students at 8:00 am each morning. Instruction will begin PROMPTLY at the times below. KINDERGARTEN – FOURTH GRADE: Monday through Thursday:
8:15 am ‐ 3:00 pm
FIFTH GRADE: Monday & Wednesday
8:15 am – 3:00 pm
Tuesday & Thursday
8:15 am ‐ 4:00 pm
SIXTH, SEVENTH & EIGHTH GRADES: Monday ‐ Thursday:
8:15 am ‐ 4:00 pm
FRIDAYS FOR ALL GRADES: Long Fridays
8:15 am – 3:00 pm
Short Fridays
8:15 am – 1:30 pm
Consult the school calendar for exact dates at www.carmelacademy.com
ATTENDANCE Regular attendance helps your child succeed in school. Please use the school calendar to assist you in planning vacations and medical appointments for your family. Carmel Academy strongly encourages parents to make routine appointments (medical or other) after school hours or during vacations. If your child will not be attending school or will be late for class, please contact the school before 8 am. By website By telephone By email Carmel Academy Parent Handbook 2012-2013
www.carmelacademy.com (203) 983‐3500 [email protected] Page 5
LATE ARRIVAL After 8:15 am you must: • • • •
Sign in at the GUARD HOUSE. K‐8th Proceed to park in the Visitor parking lot. Escort your child to MAIN OFFICE. Sign your child into the log and receive a pass to class
EARLY PICKUP All early pick up notification must be made to the main office NO LATER THAN 12:00 PM the day of the change by phone (203‐993‐ 3500) or by email ([email protected]) or through Carmel Academy Parent Portal (www.carmelacademy.com). You must meet your child in the office to officially sign them out. • •
All early pick‐ups MUST be completed prior to 2:15 pm No cars are allowed on campus from 2:15 to 3:15 pm
•
An Unexcused Absence is any absence from an entire regularly scheduled school day for which the absence is not excused as defined below. An Excused Absence is an absence from a regularly scheduled school day for reasons of health, including illness, incapacity or doctors’ visits. The school reserves the right to require a physician’s or other appropriate certification for absences. religious holidays court appearance funeral approved school activities, such as field trips or high school visits appointments which cannot be scheduled outside of school hours suspension or expulsion
ABSENCES
• • • • • • • •
ILLNESS Children are to be kept home if they show signs of illness and should be fever‐free for 24 hours before returning to school. • If a child becomes ill during the school day, parents will be called to promptly take the child home. • If your child has a contagious disease, please notify Carmel Academy immediately at (203) 983‐3500. Please check with your doctor before sending your child back to school. Carmel Academy Parent Handbook 2012-2013
Page 6
VACATIONS While we recognize how important family time is for all our students, we ask that you plan your family's vacations around our school calendar. It is difficult for students who are absent from school to catch up with missed work. It is also not considerate of the students who were in attendance to review topics they have already learned. Please be aware that our teachers have been instructed to move the curriculum forward regardless of how many students are absent from school. We ask that you plan your travels accordingly.
SCHOOL CLOSINGS & DELAYED OPENINGS Information about school closings or delay openings due to inclement weather or other unforeseen issues will be available from the following: • The “One Call Now” calling system will notify all families of any snow days and/or emergencies by e‐mail and/or telephone. • School closings and delays will be posted on our own website, www.carmelacademy.com, as well. • Call the Carmel Academy Closure Line (203) 983‐3599 for detailed information. School closing information will be recorded as close to 6 am as possible. Only recorded messages with a specific day and date should be considered accurate. You may also check the following: • News 12 CT • News 12 Westchester • Fox News • CBS News • WFSB (99.9FM and 99.1FM) • WABC News • WNBC News Carmel Academy Parent Handbook 2012-2013
Page 7
TRANSPORTATION POLICIES All Carmel Academy transportation policies are designed to ensure your child’s safety. A combination of private, public, and Carmel Academy buses are used to transport the children to and from the campus. Regular student transportation by private vehicle to the Carmel Academy campus is prohibited by a legal agreement with our neighbors. Please help Carmel Academy maintain good relations with our neighbors and keep your children safe by following the transportation policies. Please note: You may be entitled to transportation from your public school st district. It is your responsibility to contact them directly before April 1 of the preceding school year to make arrangements for transportation for the next school year.
CHANGE IN TRANSPORTATION ROUTINE You must advise the school of any and all changes in your child’s travel arrangements by notifying the office through the Carmel Academy Parent Portal (www.carmelacademy.com), by email ([email protected]) or by phone (203‐993‐3500) NO LATER THAN 12:00 PM THE DAY OF THE CHANGE. Please notify the office in all instances where you are changing the transportation routine (e.g. school events, sports, etc). Unless it is an emergency, we cannot accommodate any changes after 12:00 pm. PLAYDATES We understand that playdates are an integral part of your child’s school experience. With that in mind, we will make an effort to accommodate your child’s travel to a friend’s home. However, we cannot guarantee that there will be space available for your child on a playdate’s bus.*see CHANGE IN TRANSPORTATION ROUTINE ABOVE It is necessary for the parent/guardian of EACH child involved in the playdate to contact the office with this information by 12:00 PM on the day of the change. Please note: Public school district buses do NOT permit guests on their buses.
BUS CODE OF CONDUCT Please review these rules with your child/ren ‐‐ it is the parents’ responsibility to be sure that their child understands the importance and consequences of responsible bus behavior. Carmel Academy Parent Handbook 2012-2013
Page 8
B US C ODE O F C ONDUCT (CONTINUED) • Enter and leave the bus in an orderly manner. No pushing, shoving or running on or off the bus. • Each student is responsible for keeping the aisles free. This means no legs, backpacks, hands, lunch boxes, etc in the aisles. • No eating or drinking on the bus. • Students are to remain in their seats with their seat belts fastened for the entire ride. Walking around the bus or moving from seat to seat is dangerous and prohibited. • No screaming or yelling on the bus. Excessive levels of noise are upsetting to the other children and make it difficult for the bus driver to focus on driving. • No physical contact among the students. • No hitting, punching, or pushing. • No grabbing each other or another’s belongings. • No profanity or disrespect of others. • No throwing things out of the bus. • No use of laptop computers on the bus for safety reasons. CONSEQUENCES FOR VIOLATING THE CODE OF CONDUCT 1st Infraction: A warning: If any child is named in a bus related incident, this will be reviewed with the bus driver and a call will be placed to the student’s parents. The student will also be seen by the appropriate grade principal and the incident will be discussed. 2nd Infraction: A 3‐day suspension from both the morning and afternoon buses. In the event of suspension, parents/guardians must provide their own transportation to the school office for the duration of the suspension. Parents/guardians will be asked to participate in a conference with their child before bus privileges will be restored. Additional infractions may result in loss of bus privileges for the remainder of the school year.
LAFAYETTE PLACE – VOLUNTEER LANE LOT
ARRIVAL: If your child misses their regular bus or is not assigned to another bus route, bring your child to the Lafayette Place stop between 7:50 – 8:10am. Our Carmel Academy busses continuously transport our students to campus at this time. Please escort your child directly to the Carmel Academy bus. If there is not a bus waiting when you arrive, please stay with your child until one arrives and escort your child to the bus. Carmel Academy Parent Handbook 2012-2013
Page 9
L AFAYETTE P LACE (CONTINUED) DISMISSAL: Shuttle buses leave the Carmel Academy campus immediately after school. They arrive at Lafayette between 3:05 and 3:15pm. Please meet your child at the bus door once the bus has stopped moving. Additional trips will be made only if there are too many students to accommodate on the first bus run.
DRESS CODE Clothes send a message. They transmit a sense of our identity, values, and self‐respect. Dressing properly for school is an extension of a student’s conduct, character, and sense of responsibility. Furthermore, it reflects their attitude toward school and learning. Please be aware that the Dress Code will be fully enforced and students are required to follow it at all times. If a student is inappropriately dressed at school, the parents will be called to bring an appropriate change of clothes. During various school and class celebrations, students are often requested to wear white shirts and blue pants or skirts. Please be sure that these items are available for your child to wear as needed. All clothing and supplies should be labeled!
All male students must arrive at school wearing an appropriate kippah, which they will wear throughout the school day. In keeping with the inclusive vision of Carmel Academy, female students are welcome to wear a kippah should they choose. Please send 5 labeled kippot & clips to school to be kept in your child's classroom/locker for use on an as‐need basis. Should your child not have a kippah, they must obtain one in the main office at the cost of $1.00 per kippah for which the family will be billed. In addition, all male visitors, including students, siblings, fathers and grandfathers, who enter the campus, are requested to show proper respect by wearing a kippah. Baseball caps or other types of hats are not permitted to be worn in school buildings. Carmel Academy Parent Handbook 2012-2013
Page 10
DRESS CODE (CONTINUED) Kindergarten ‐ Third Grade Students School dress should always be appropriate for school. For this reason the following are prohibited: •
Faded, sloppy, dirty, torn, or "cut‐off" clothing
•
Any provocative, suggestive, or derogatory messages printed on clothing
•
Any writing across the seat of pants
•
Sweatpants
•
Skirts, shorts or dresses shorter than 3” above the top of the knee
•
Leggings (unless under an otherwise appropriate dress or skirt)
•
Exposed midriff or shoulders (Sleeveless tops must be at least 2½” wide to be worn)
•
Exposed undergarments
•
Soffe‐type shorts are not allowed at any time
Footwear:
Shoes should be comfortable and sturdy to allow students to walk across campus and fully participate in all activities. All students should have footwear available that is appropriate to the season. For your child’s safety, flip‐flops, Crocs, and Heelys are not allowed. Sneakers should be worn on PE days. Shabbat:
In welcoming the Shabbat as a school community on Fridays, we request that students’ attire is in keeping with the Shabbat spirit, while not limiting the student from participating in normal school activities. Required dress for boys: dark or navy dress slacks (no jeans) and a solid white, button‐down, collared shirt. Required dress for girls: a white top and skirt or dress that conforms to the rules above. Shorts are not appropriate Shabbat attire. Carmel Academy Parent Handbook 2012-2013
Page 11
DRESS CODE (CONTINUED) Fourth – Eighth Grade Boys Short‐sleeved shirts • Polo or button‐down shirts – any solid color Long‐sleeved shirts • Polo or button‐down shirts – any solid color Sweaters/Sweatshirts • Long‐sleeved cardigans, long‐sleeved pullovers (crew or v‐neck), turtlenecks and vests in any solid color Pants • Twill, wool, khaki, cotton blend or corduroy pants • Colors: navy, dark grey, khaki, tan, brown, dark green or black Shorts • Twill, wool, khaki, cotton blend or corduroy shorts • Colors: navy, dark grey, khaki, tan, brown, dark green or black • Length: no shorter than two inches above the knee with a finished edge Shoes: • Regular sneakers, dress shoes or loafers with socks, traditional sandals with backs • No backless footwear is acceptable, due to safety concerns • Nonskid soles are encouraged for safety at recess and inside the school building • No Heelys, Crocs, or flip flops Shabbat:
•
White (solid‐colored) collared short‐sleeved or long‐sleeved shirts
• Dark‐colored pants (no denim) NOTE FOR ALL BOYS TOPS: o o
No graphic designs, no words on front/back, no logo larger than a deck of cards No undergarments can show
NOTE FOR ALL BOYS BOTTOMS: o o o
• • •
No denim No holes, rips, tears, low‐rise or other type of leg style other than straight‐leg or boot‐cut Solid colored only; no graphic designs, no words on pockets or legs
Must fit properly, not tight or baggy/oversized; underclothing must not show; waistline must fall at or close to waist Pants should be properly hemmed and not drag on the floor; frayed, torn or cutoff clothing not permitted No sweatpants
Carmel Academy Parent Handbook 2012-2013
Page 12
DRESS CODE (CONTINUED) Fourth – Eighth Grade Girls Short‐sleeved shirts • Polo or button‐down shirts – any solid color Long‐sleeved shirts • Polo or button‐down shirts – any solid color Sweaters/Sweatshirts • Long‐sleeved cardigans, long‐sleeved pullovers (crew or v‐neck), turtlenecks and vests in any solid color Pants • Twill, wool, khaki, cotton blend or corduroy pants • Colors: navy, dark grey, khaki, tan, brown, dark green or black Shorts • Twill, wool, khaki, cotton blend or corduroy shorts • Colors: navy, dark grey, khaki, tan, brown, dark green or black • Length: no shorter than two inches above the knee with a finished edge Dresses
•
Polo‐shirt dresses in solid colors are acceptable.
•
Dress hem must be no shorter than two inches above the knee
Skirts/Skorts
• • •
Twill, wool, khaki, cotton blend, corduroy skirts or skorts Colors: navy, dark grey, khaki, tan, brown, dark green or black Denim skirts are acceptable. Must be dark‐wash (no light color or acid‐wash).
•
Length: no shorter than two inches above the knee Shoes/Socks/Tights: • All sock and tight colors and appropriate patterns are acceptable • Regular sneakers or loafers with socks, traditional sandals with backs, or dress shoes (no or very low heels) with socks or tights o No backless footwear is acceptable, due to safety concerns o Nonskid soles are encouraged for safety at recess and inside the school building o No Heelys, Crocs, or flip flops Shabbat • White (solid‐colored) short‐sleeved or long‐sleeved shirts • Dark‐colored pants OR dark‐colored skirt (no denim) Carmel Academy Parent Handbook 2012-2013
Page 13
DRESS CODE (CONTINUED) NOTE FOR ALL GIRLS TOPS: o
No graphic designs, no words on front/back, no logo larger than a deck of cards
o
No undergarments may show; must be long enough so that no midriff shows even when arms are raised
o
No plunging necklines, open backs or halter tops
NOTE FOR ALL GIRLS BOTTOMS:
o
No holes, rips, tears, low‐rise or other type of leg style other than straight‐leg or boot‐cut
o
Solid colored only; no graphic designs, no words on pockets or legs
o
Must fit properly, not tight or baggy/oversized; underclothing must not show; waistline must fall at or close to waist
o
Pants should be properly hemmed and not drag on the floor; frayed, torn or cutoff clothing not permitted
o
No sweatpants or leggings
Physical Education & Recess Physical Education (PE) is scheduled twice per week. In order to derive maximum benefit from physical education activities, students should wear comfortable pants and sneakers on the days scheduled for PE. Outdoor recess will be held whenever possible; therefore, appropriate outdoor clothing and shoes or boots are required on a daily basis. Remember to label all items. When weather does not permit outdoor recess, recess is held indoors.
LOST AND FOUND Found items of clothing are kept in the box in the basement in the Lower School (Building 14). To prevent permanent loss, please label your child's clothing, lunch boxes and other property with his/her name and class. Items in the lost and found box will be kept until December 15th and July 1st at which time they will be donated. Carmel Academy Parent Handbook 2012-2013
Page 14
COMMUNICATIONS We believe that our parents are our ambassadors. We invite you, as our ambassadors and partners, to have an open dialogue with us about your children’s and family’s experiences. As a community, we strive to conduct all of our communications in the spirit of derech eretz (mutual respect). We will steadfastly work with every family. However, in rare cases, if communications become excessively discordant, we reserve the right to re‐evaluate whether the family and School remain a good match and to counsel the family to make other arrangements for the following school year.
School Website For updated information, visit our school website at www.carmelacademy.com on a regular basis.
Parent Portal The MyCarmel School Portal on the school website provides secure online access to your: •
Household, Personal, and Student Information*
•
Emergency Contact Information*
•
Student Schedules, Homework Assignments, Attendance, and Report Cards*
*Access to this information is limited to your login on the portal. It is not accessible by any other households in the system.
Online Parent/Student Directory: Use of the information in the Directory is to facilitate communication within the Carmel Academy community. Use of the information contained in the Directory for commercial purposes is strictly prohibited. MyCarmel Parent Portal access is on the Carmel Academy website (http://www.carmelacademy.com). Carmel Academy Parent Handbook 2012-2013
Page 15
COMMUNICATIONS (CONTINUED)
E‐Mail Communication Carmel Academy uses e‐mail distribution lists extensively. Parents will receive e‐mails that include information about upcoming events, summary of classroom activities, special projects, etc. It is your responsibility to keep your contact information up‐to‐date via the MyCarmel Parent Portal.
Newsletters and Fliers Newsletters and fliers will be e‐mailed periodically to highlight upcoming events and keep the entire school community informed of activities occurring in all grade levels. In addition, other written communications may be sent home in your child’s backpack. Please check and empty backpacks often.
Messages to Students Urgent messages from parents/guardians will be delivered promptly to your child. However, parents must realize that a request to deliver a message to a child interrupts the classroom. Please plan your arrangements in advance and inform your child/ren before they come to school.
Cell Phones Students are not permitted to use personal cell phones during the course of the school day. Cell phones must be turned off and kept in student lockers or backpacks during school hours.
Messages for Teachers Parents may call the office to leave a message for their child’s teacher. A notice of your call will be delivered to that teacher before the end of the school day. Teachers will return phone calls made to them by parents in a timely fashion. Please feel free to e‐mail the teachers with concerns, questions or to share positive feedback. All staff and faculty emails follow the following format: [email protected] Carmel Academy Parent Handbook 2012-2013
Page 16
COMMUNICATIONS (CONTINUED) INQUIRIES ABOUT YOUR CHILD: WHO’S WHO AT CARMEL ACADEMY All inquiries regarding educational or social issues should begin with the appropriate classroom teacher. Please allow the teacher 24 hours to respond to your inquiry. If, after collaborating with your child’s teacher, you would like to consult with an administrator, please refer to the following list of staff members and their responsibilities: Nora Anderson, Head of School (for appointments call Kim at ext. 511) • Overall oversight of School Kim Stewart, Executive Assistant to the Head of School ext. 511
• •
Scheduling for Head of School Registrar
Bobbie Powers , Director of Educational Resources ext. 510
• • •
Provide overall guidance to the families of students with special needs Facilitate the processing of referrals and services and preschool screenings Coordinates and leads Carmel Academy’s Child Study Team
Jeff Kilstein , School Psychologist ext. 544
• • • • •
Student support and guidance (individually, in small groups and whole classrooms) Parent Support Crisis Intervention Implementation of social skills programs Parent‐Teacher liaison
Tali Aldouby‐Schuck , Director of Judaic Studies Professional & Curriculum Development ext. 516
• • • •
Judaic Studies Curriculum Judaic Studies Professional Development Judaic Studies Student Assessments Judaic Studies Educational Approach
Cindy Mann , Director of General Studies Professional & Curriculum Development (via email only) [email protected]
• • • •
General Studies Curriculum General Studies Professional Development General Studies Student Assessments General Studies Educational Approach
Carmel Academy Parent Handbook 2012-2013
Page 17
COMMUNICATIONS (CONTINUED) Rabbi Seth Braunstein , Director of Religious Experience ext. 502
•
School policies on hashkafa (Jewish outlook), kashrut, celebrations, or any other matters of religious practice.
•
T’fillah (prayer)
Sarah Millman , Office Manager ext. 500
• • • •
After school programming support
•
Communicate with prospective families
•
Create yearly admission calendar
•
Lead families through the Admissions process from recruitment to enrollment
Updating student and parent information (phone numbers, emails, class lists) Collecting and organizing payments and forms (lunch, afterschool) Organize daily transportation changes
Daneet Brill , Director of Admissions ext. 503
Risa Vine , Director of Finance & Operations ext. 507
• • • • • • •
Tuition Assistance Tuition Payment Programs Parent and Faculty Policies Technology Budget and Operations Management Facilities Transportation
Seth Young , Director of Development ext. 508
• • • •
School's development, marketing, and communication efforts Donor relationships Fundraising outreach Erev Tov Dinner Dance
School Nurse ext. 545
• • • • • • •
Student allergies, asthma, chronic medical conditions Contagious illness, i.e. Flu, Strep throat, Fifth's disease, Chickenpox, Lice, etc. Guidelines for staying home when ill Vaccinations required for school entry Medications administered at school Medications administered on overnight field trips. Mandatory health forms: Physical and Immunization Form, Medication Authorization Form, Allergy Action Plan.
Carmel Academy Parent Handbook 2012-2013
Page 18
COMMUNICATIONS (CONTINUED) Philip Goldberg, Physical Education Teacher ext. 560
•
Physical Education Curriculum
•
Recess Coordination
•
Interscholastic sport team scheduling
•
Interscholastic sport team transportation
HOMEWORK Homework assignments are given for many different reasons. Some work is given to provide reinforcement or practice for skills learned in class or that provokes thought for use in class discussions or writing assignments. Other assignments permit a student to explore a topic in greater depth on his/her own, according to the individual child's interests. Teachers always have a purpose and a motive behind an assignment. Homework is an important part of the learning experience and it is the responsibility of the student to complete assignments on time, which also helps them in the learning of organizational and time management skills. •
Kindergarten students will not be assigned regular homework. However, reading and special creative projects may be assigned.
•
Students in 1st through 8th grades will be assigned homework on a daily basis
•
Beginning in 3rd grade, students will be assigned longer‐ term projects.
•
For Kindergarten through 5th grade, there will be no written homework assignments on Fridays or over Jewish holidays.
Carmel Academy Parent Handbook 2012-2013
Page 19
HOMEWORK (C ONTINUED) 6 TH – 8 TH GRADES: • Teachers may give assignments over the weekend or long term projects that may extend over a period during which some holidays may fall. • Teachers are aware of each other’s assignments to avoid excessive amounts of work. • All homework is posted daily on each teacher’s website. Carmel Academy views homework as a tool of reinforcement, extension, and enrichment of the learning experience. Homework may be customized to the individual student; therefore, not all students may receive the same homework. Parents will be advised of the school's vision on this topic at Back‐To‐School‐Night. If your child finds the homework assigned too difficult, or spends an unusually long time struggling with an assignment, we request that you report the situation to the teacher. Unless otherwise specified, homework is not contingent on parental help. One of the objectives of Carmel Academy is the development of responsibility in young students. If a child is absent, it is her/his responsibility to make up schoolwork missed. In the event of a planned absence, the student must arrange to get the required homework and textbooks from their teachers. Homework will be due on the day following the student's return to school. In the event of illness, individual circumstances can be discussed.
STUDENT EVALUATION, PARENT/TEACHER CONFERENCES, AND PROGRESS REPORTS We believe that regular communication regarding a student’s progress is essential to the educational process. Student evaluation is an ongoing interdisciplinary process that integrates curriculum, methodology, and assessment. A student's evaluation is a reflection of the student’s ability to learn the curriculum and methodology and is diverse in nature. The process includes informal evaluations, authentic assessment through a variety of projects, students' portfolios containing various types of products of learning, regular classroom tests, running records, etc. Evaluations are communicated to students and parents in several different ways: Carmel Academy Parent Handbook 2012-2013
Page 20
S TUDENT E VALUATION (CONTINUED) • Teachers hold regular meetings with students to provide feedback on how they are doing, as well as inquire about areas of difficulty. • Teachers communicate with parents by telephone and email on an as‐needed basis. It is consistent with the vision of Carmel Academy that parents be partners in the educational process. Parental input and follow‐through are essential to your child’s success. Progress reports (November and March) and detailed written evaluations (January and June) are provided to parents. However, we encourage you to request additional feedback from your child’s teachers at any time. • Parent/Teacher Conferences – November and March/April – Two official Parent/Teacher conferences are scheduled for each student at which time assessments and evaluations are shared with parents. A portfolio assessment will be available for parental review at these sessions. You will receive instructions on how to schedule these conferences using our parent portal. Additional parent/teacher conferences can be scheduled as requested by the teacher, parent, or the school administration. TERRANOVA TESTING TerraNova testing for 3rd‐8th grade students is conducted in June. TerraNova results are used by Carmel Academy to assess and revise curricula and to evaluate individual student achievement and needs. The test results for your child/ren are available for review by appointment after August. CLASS ASSIGNMENTS/PLACEMENTS When making class assignments, the school carefully considers each student individually as well as the make‐up of the class as a whole. Our goal is to place every child in the class that will maximize his or her educational and social growth. Carmel Academy Parent Handbook 2012-2013
Page 21
VISITING THE SCHOOL Our goal is to foster an open and inviting school for our parents and extended families. There are many opportunities to spend time in your child's classroom. Parents are encouraged to visit classes, programs, and holiday celebrations. Often parents will make arrangements with the teacher to come in and share a special skill with their child's class. Throughout the year, parents will be invited for special programs such as a class skit, a celebration, a workshop or an interactive program. Please check school communications regularly for updates and verifications of dates and times of these important grade‐wide and school‐wide events. We understand parents’ desire to have siblings share these wonderful experiences. However, a few years ago we changed the nature of the ceremonies to be more of a shared parent‐child experience than a performance. Each ceremony comes with hands‐ on‐centers and activities that are not conducive to sibling participation. Therefore, we will be upholding our policy of inviting adults only and no siblings will be permitted to leave class to attend these ceremonies. We thank you for your understanding. We do ask, however, that you do not enter your child's classroom unless you have made prior arrangements with the teacher or with the school office. Your unexpected presence, even for a few moments, can disrupt the group and frustrate the children as well as the teachers who have planned a lesson. This policy is in the best interest of your child's learning environment. Please remember that all male visitors should wear a kippah while on the Carmel Academy campus. (See Dress Code section) SECURITY All visitors to the campus must check in with the guard at the entrance. You will be instructed to sign in and will be given a visitors badge. Please remember to return your badge when leaving. Student late arrivals and early departures must check in/out at the main office. (For details, please see the section entitled “Late Arrival/Early Pickup.”) Carmel Academy Parent Handbook 2012-2013
Page 22
V ISITING THE S CHOOL (CONTINUED) NON‐PARENT VISITORS ‐ STUDENTS, FRIENDS, AND ALUMNI We love to see alumni when they are off from their current school. If a former student or alumni would like to visit Carmel Academy, we ask that the family contact us at least one (1) week in advance for approval and to make arrangements and notify teachers. However, children that are unaffiliated with Carmel Academy may not attend classes with current Carmel Academy students (unless they have received permission from the Head of School). Please be sensitive to this policy. In addition, no unaffiliated persons are allowed to travel on Carmel Academy buses. KEY CARDS Fourth through Eighth grade students are issued a key card for building access. It is the student’s responsibility to keep the card on his/her person at all times when on campus. If a key card is lost, it is imperative that the school be notified immediately so that the card can be deactivated. A replacement card key may be obtained at a cost of $25 which will be billed to the family. Student key cards must be returned at the end of the school year to avoid a $25 charge. TOYS AT SCHOOL Children may not bring toys (electronic or otherwise) for use in school anytime unless there is a request to do so from the teacher. In the event that a student brings a toy for the bus ride, it should remain in his/her backpack during the school day. The school is not responsible for any items lost, stolen or damaged. Please label all items.
Carmel Academy Parent Handbook 2012-2013
Page 23
EMERGENCY PROCEDURES NATIONAL EMERGENCY In the event that there is a national emergency, please know: • We will take care of your child/ren for as long as needed. This could be overnight and/or could potentially involve relocating to another site. • We will make parent notification a priority, second to the protection of your child/ren and use resources available (phone and internet). However, if these are not functioning, we urge you to remember that your child/ren will be taken care of until we are able to contact you and safely return your child/ren to you. • Student/s will only be released to you or the individuals listed on your emergency contact form. Please update these forms regularly on the MyCarmel School Portal on the Carmel Academy website to ensure they are always current. CRITICAL ILLNESS OR INJURY AT SCHOOL • The Carmel Academy school nurse will be consulted immediately. • In the event that a child requires emergency treatment, an ambulance will be called and every effort will be made to contact the student’s parents/guardian and/or emergency contacts. A school employee will accompany the child at all times until a parent or guardian arrives. STUDENTS STAYING IN THE CARE OF NON‐PARENT/GUARDIAN During parental absence, please provide the school office with a signed letter with the following information: • Dates of your absence. • The full name of person/s responsible for your child/ren in your absence. • All contact information for the persons responsible for your child/ren. • An explanation that this person has permission to make all decisions (including medical) related to your child/ren. • The telephone number(s) and email where you can be reached. • All information regarding allergies, medical prescriptions that may be needed, any medication each child is taking at that time. • Pediatrician’s name and telephone number. Carmel Academy Parent Handbook 2012-2013
Page 24
FIELD TRIPS Field trips are an integral part of the school program. They enrich the curriculum, reinforce concepts and help maximize children’s educational experiences. These trips may include, but are not limited to, museums, planetariums, ecological centers, local farms, special concerts, exhibits, performances and community institutions. In keeping true to our dual curricula, we seek an appropriate balance between secular and religious destinations. We also seek a combination of community service activities and pleasure trips. Every child is expected to join this enriching dimension of the school program. Numerous trips will take place during the course of the school year. Parents will be advised in advance about the nature of each trip, transportation used, and any additional costs. •
• •
•
Please make sure that Carmel Academy has the general Field Trip permission slip covering your child’s attendance on all field trips throughout the year on file. This form is sent to families each summer. A signed hard copy is required for each student. A copy is available to download here. Parents will be sent a permission slip before each field trip with specific information about that excursion. Kashrut – the laws of keeping kosher – and our tree nut and peanut aware policy must be observed on trips. At times you may be requested to provide a disposable dairy or pareve lunch for your child. Please note that all boys must wear a kippah on field trips. Girls may choose to do so as well.
FOOD POLICIES CARMEL ACADEMY HAS A “TREE NUT & PEANUT AWARE” POLICY. THIS POLICY APPLIES TO ALL EVENTS ASSOCIATED WITH CARMEL ACADEMY BOTH ON AND OFF CAMPUS. To provide for the safety of our students and staff, Carmel Academy makes every effort to prohibit the introduction of any food containing tree nuts and peanuts. Parents are required to follow these rules when sending any food to Carmel Academy whether for private or public consumption. Carmel Academy Parent Handbook 2012-2013
Page 25
FOOD POLICIES (CONTINUED) TREE NUT AND PEANUT FREE FOODS You may choose to send in factory baked products to school. However, if the label reads “may contain traces” OR HAVE ANY TREE NUTS OR PEANUT LISTED AS AN INGREDIENT, the food is NOT PERMITTED ON CAMPUS. KASHRUT (Jewish dietary laws) •
• •
•
All food and snacks students bring to school must be certified kosher and must be either dairy or pareve (neither meat nor dairy). No meat (including poultry), meat products or shellfish are allowed to be brought into school by any individual. Any food that is to be served in classrooms or other school functions must be bought commercially and NOT prepared at home. All processed foods and baked goods brought to school for general consumption must bear a recognized kashrut certification on its label and be commercially sealed with the original seal intact.
The list of kosher symbols (hechshers) below is NOT all‐inclusive; therefore please call the Carmel Academy office if you have any questions. Accepted hechsher symbols for Carmel Academy functions include:
NOTE: As of this printing, there are no hechshered (certified kosher) Dunkin Donuts in Westchester or Fairfield counties, nor does Dunkin Donuts follow our tree nut aware policy. Please do not send food from any Dunkin Donuts to school.
LUNCH Carmel Academy serves prepared lunches on a daily basis to students whose parents agree to a prepaid contract. The lunch menu will be posted on the Carmel Academy website (www.carmelacademy.com) Carmel Academy Parent Handbook 2012-2013
Page 26
L UNCH (CONTINUED) • Students who choose to bring their own lunch must bring a dairy or pareve (neither dairy nor meat) lunch and a beverage in keeping with the kashrut and allergy policy stated above. • PLEASE LABEL YOUR CHILD’S LUNCH BOX with their name and grade – often they look alike • Blessings are said together before and after meals. • For reasons of both health and kashrut, students may not share food. • We ask that you send healthy lunches (no candy or gum please). Please do not send food or beverages in glass or other easily breakable containers. • Please ensure that your child can open and close all containers and packaging provided in their lunch box. • Due to kashrut and safety issues, there will be NO use of a microwave.
Bringing Food to School All packaged food (including bakery items) must be tree nut and peanut‐aware and be certified kosher in a factory‐sealed package per the above list of certifications and regulations. If you have any questions, please call the school office. * This same rule applies for field trips.
Meat
Any food containing meat or meat ingredients is not permitted on campus except for school‐sponsored, previously announced, and carefully supervised occasions.
Field Trips
Field trips are an extension of school and as such ALL food brought from home as well as, food purchased on the trip, must be kosher ‐ dairy or pareve ‐ and tree nut and peanut aware.
Forgotten Lunches
If your child forgets lunch, he/she need not panic. There is enough food on hand for such situations. If you are able to drop off a forgotten lunch, please bring it to the office and it will be delivered to your student. Your child's name and class should be clearly marked on his/her lunchbox, since there are many identical lunchboxes! Carmel Academy Parent Handbook 2012-2013
Page 27
BIRTHDAY PARTIES at CARMEL ACADEMY Kindergarten
Please work with your child’s teacher to plan a very simple in‐school birthday party. Light refreshments which meet the kashrut and allergy policy standards and are provided by you may be served.
1st through 8th grade A simple snack may be sent either on the day of or close to a child’s birthday. If you need snack suggestions, please contact your child’s teacher. * NOTE: We encourage you to serve light nutritional treats. All food sent to Carmel Academy must be tree nut and peanut aware and be certified kosher in a sealed package per the above list of certifications. • • •
We also ask that you check with your child’s teacher for any additional food allergies in that particular class. If you have any questions, please consult the school office. Please check the school website to verify if a meat lunch is being served on the celebration day; this requires that a pareve (non‐dairy) refreshment be served. Home baked goods are NOT permitted.
BIRTHDAY PARTIES OFF CAMPUS
Ours is a small school community where we encourage students to show respect and care for all. In addition, as parents, we are the primary role models for our children. At Carmel Academy, we expect that: • No parties be planned for Shabbat, Friday afternoon immediately preceding Shabbat, on any Jewish holiday or erev chag (eve of Jewish holidays). No parties should be scheduled on Jewish holidays or Shabbat. Please pay particular attention when scheduling parties for Friday afternoon or Saturday evening to make sure they do not conflict with Shabbat. For example, if Shabbat begins at 6:15, we urge families to end Friday afternoon birthday parties by 4:15 PM. • If a party is scheduled to begin after Shabbat or a holiday, please allow at least one hour after the end of Shabbat/chag for travel after Havdalah. Carmel Academy Parent Handbook 2012-2013
Page 28
BIRTHDAY PARTIES OFF CAMPUS (CONTINUED)
•
• •
•
• • • • •
When planning an out of school party, please invite either all students in your child’s class or all the girls or the boys in your child’s class/grade. We cannot stress how hurtful it is for one or two children to be excluded from a schoolmate’s celebration. This can often serve as a good time for a discussion with your child about respecting the feelings of others. For invitations to be distributed at school, all students in the class must be invited. Only certified kosher and allergy aware food should be served, as per the Kashrut and Food Allergy Policy sections of this Handbook. This will reinforce the principle that no child is left out of any celebration. Any food served at a party, including pizza, cake and candies – either in or out of school – should meet the same standards of kashrut and food allergy policies the school observes for communal celebrations. That standard is: all food should be marked with the sign of a professional kashrut organization, as indicated in the kosher (hechsher) symbol list above. Please be sensitive to the needs of highly allergic children. When transporting children to a party after school, please be discreet to avoid hurting the feelings of any children in the same grade who are unable to attend or not included. All involved parents must make arrangements for transportation with the office by 12:00 pm on the day of the party. Please contact the office to ensure there are enough available seats on the Carmel Academy buses before using them for transportation. If you must bring a birthday gift to school, please do so as discreetly as possible.
BAR/BAT MITZVAH CELEBRATIONS • • • •
Our middle school students care deeply about sharing in each other’s Bar and Bat Mitzvah celebrations. A complete list of requirements regarding B’nei Mitzvot can be found on the website. As soon as you schedule a Bar/Bat Mitzvah, please fill out the b’nei mitzvah form on the website. A list is maintained and shared with the appropriate families on the website, so that scheduling conflicts can be minimized.
Carmel Academy Parent Handbook 2012-2013
Page 29
BAR/BAT MITZVAH CELEBRATIONS (CONTINUED) •
The school will contact you regarding the assigned date for your child’s in‐school morning celebration.
Bar/Bat Mitzvah celebrations should follow our school’s overall out of school party policies for both invitations sent and food served. Local accommodations should be offered and arranged for classmates who do not travel on Shabbat. Certified Kosher (hechshered) food must be provided for those who require.
HEALTH POLICIES First Aid Minor first aid will be given in the school to students in need, and the parents will be notified as necessary. In the event that a student becomes ill in school, parents/guardians will be contacted at the emergency numbers you provided. Please keep your emergency contact information up‐to‐date via the MyCarmel Parent Portal on the school website. Parents must provide the school with their cellular phone numbers and/or beeper numbers. For more serious medical needs, please see the policy section entitled “Emergency Procedures”. KEEPING CHILDREN HOME •
Children are to be kept home if they show signs of illness.
•
A child should be fever‐free for 24 hours before returning to school.
•
A child should have not been throwing up for 24 hours before returning to school.
•
If a child becomes ill during the school day, parents will be called to promptly take the child home.
•
If your child has a contagious disease, please notify the school promptly at (203) 983‐3500. Please check with your doctor before sending your child back to school.
MEDICATION ACCORDING TO THE STATES OF NEW YORK AND CONNECTICUT, IT IS A LAW THAT IN ORDER TO ADMINISTER ANY MEDICATIONS DURING SCHOOL HOURS, WHETHER IT IS A PRESCRIPTION OR NON‐PRESCRIPTION MEDICATION, A WRITTEN AUTHORIZATION WITH THE DOCTOR’S SIGNATURE MUST ACCOMPANY THE MEDICATION. Carmel Academy Parent Handbook 2012-2013
Page 30
HEALTH POLICIES (CONTINUED) MEDICATION WILL BE DISPENSED BY AUTHORIZED SCHOOL PERSONNEL ONLY IF: • Medication is in the originally labeled pharmacy package. • The package is labeled with the name of the medication, the proper dosage, and the child’s name. • A medication form, signed by the doctor and specifying time, dosage and the last date the medication is to be administered, must accompany the medication. • All medical forms may be downloaded from the MyCarmel Parent Portal or by clicking here.
Allergies
Carmel Academy has an allergy management system in place. Each student who has a serious allergy must have an allergy action plan form on file with the school. If your child’s allergy treatment changes during the school year, it is imperative that you provide the school with an updated allergy action plan.
Head Lice
Carmel Academy has a “no‐nit” policy. School‐wide lice screening programs may be scheduled periodically. If it is discovered that your child has head lice, you will be called to pick him/her up. Upon return to school your child must go directly to the nurse’s office for examination. Any nits will be considered a sign of an incomplete treatment, and you will be asked to take your child home and complete the nit removal process.
Physical Examination and Immunization
Physical exams are required for all students. By law, all students must have the necessary immunizations or they will be excluded from class. Please ask your pediatrician to fill out the medical forms that were sent to you before the new school year. Parents may obtain proper immunizations for their children from private physicians or through local city public health departments. Forms are available on the MyCarmel School Portal or by clicking here.
Carmel Academy Parent Handbook 2012-2013
Page 31
FAMILY LIFE CYCLE EVENTS Carmel Academy is a small and nurturing community. The professionals, as well as the parent body, would like to share your family’s joys as well as their sorrows. In the event of a simcha, death, or sickness in your family, please contact the school office.
FOND TRIBUTES The Fond Tribute program enables people to be honored, memorialized, thanked or congratulated, while honoring our school. The person honored by the “Fond Tribute” will receive a card acknowledging the gift. Please contact Susan Safir at [email protected]
PARENT ASSOCIATION Our active PA is a vital link between the school and the parent. Your involvement is necessary for the enrichment of our ongoing programs and meeting essential fundraising goals. Please look for information from the PA regarding wonderful, exciting events and meaningful committees that you might join.
RE‐ENROLLENT Carmel Academy prides itself on being fiscally responsible. To that end, all prior balances due must be settled prior to re‐enrollment. No family with an outstanding balance will be allowed to re‐enroll for the next academic year. Carmel Academy Parent Handbook 2012-2013
Page 32
