Elementary School Handbook
- Hours and Attendance
- Communications
- Instruction and Assessment
- Health and Medical
- Student Services
- Discipline
- Dress Code
- Food Services and Recess
- Wellness Policy
- Participation Policy/Activity Fees
- Field Trip Policy
- Transportation
- Volunteers and Visitors
- Emergency Response Plan
- Integrated Pest Management
- Miscellaneous Information
- Notice of Non-Discrimination
- Bullying Policy
- Chapter 15 Annual Notice
Hours and Attendance
SCHOOL DAY SCHEDULE
Time | Procedure |
---|---|
8: 30 A.M. | Students begin arriving - Doors open and staff on duty |
8:30 A.M. - 9:00 A.M. | Students enter school and classrooms |
9:00 A.M. | Official start of school day |
11:55 A.M. | Dismissal for AM Kindergarten |
12:40 P.M. | Official start for PM Kindergarten |
3:35 P.M. | Dismissal for all students |
*Full Day Kindergarten follows the same calendar and schedule as Grades 1‐5.
Several early dismissal/late openings are scheduled throughout the year for the purpose of parent‐teacher conferences or curriculum meetings. These dates will be noted on the Downingtown Area School District Calendar and on school newsletters.
ARRIVAL AND DEPARTURE
Unless students are attending a scheduled activity such as band, chorus, etc., please do not drop them off at school prior to 8:30 A.M. School officially begins at 9:00 A.M. Students arriving after 9:00 A.M. should report to the office accompanied by the parent/guardian and parents must provide an excuse note.
In order to ensure the safe departure of all students during parent pick-up, it is important that cars remain in the car line, until exiting the lot and parents remain in their cars.
We also recognize that a need may arise to pick up your child without prior notification. In these instances, please come to the office and sign out your child.
Pickup Patrol
PickUp Patrol is a dismissal app. A welcome email that has a link to the app and explains how to use it will be sent to you prior to the first day of school. Once you receive the welcome email, please enter your child(ren)'s default dismissal plan right away. The default dismissal plan is how your child(ren) will be going home each day. The app can also be used to make changes in dismissal including early dismissals on any given day. All changes must be entered by 2:30 P.M. each day. (Cutoff times for entering changes will differ on early dismissal days.)
CHILD ATTENDANCE
To confirm the safe arrival of our students, an automated telephone Child Attendance messaging system is used. The telephone software generates a report at approximately 9:45 A.M. each morning. Any student who has not been indicated in the attendance system as being present prior to 9:45 A.M. will be included in the report. The system will automatically call the parents of students who are on the report. Please Note: A student must physically be present in order for the attendance to be noted. Calling to indicate a student will be late will not prevent the system from calling if the student has not arrived prior to 9:45 A.M. We cannot change an attendance record until a student is physically in the building. When a student arrives after the 9:45 A.M. threshold, the student’s parent will still receive a voice mail indicating the student is absent, but the attendance officer will make the change in the attendance system to indicate the late arrival as “late excused.” A written or e‐mailed absence excuse must be received in the office within three days of a student absence. Please Note: Parents have three days to submit a written or e‐mailed absence excuse. The attendance officer has an additional three days after the three days the parent has to enter the excused absence into the system. Please give the attendance officer up to three days after submitting your absence note to change the attendance information.
ATTENDANCE GUIDELINES
Reporting Absences
The Pennsylvania Department of Education recognizes a limited number of reasons as legal excuses for missing school. When returning to school from being absent, the student must submit a written excuse to the homeroom teacher. Excuses must be submitted within three days of returning to school or the absence must be classified as unexcused/ illegal. Excuse notes are available in the school office. Excuse notes may also be handwritten or emailed to the office. The excuse must include: student’s name, homeroom teacher’s name, date(s) of absence, and reason for absence. The parent or legal guardian must sign the excuse.
If submitting excuse notes electronically, please use the Attendance e‐mail address for your school: Attendance Emails and Attendance Policy
In the event that an absence is determined unexcused, it is permanently recorded in the student’s file as illegal. By law, three illegal absences subject parents to a notice by certified mail of a potential financial penalty as determined by local courts. Our District Attendance Officer coordinates attendance matters with District Court 15‐2‐06 in Downingtown.
Excused absences are for clearly established mental, physical or other reasons. Acceptable reasons for excused absences are the following:
- Illness or recovery from an accident
- Health care
- Serious illness or death in the immediate family
- Impassable roads
- Student’s Court appearance
- Family emergency
- Observance of religious holiday
- Religious instruction
- Approved Vacation or Trips
- 4‐H or FFA
Unexcused Absences include, but are not limited to:
- Babysitting
- Missing the school bus
- Running errands
- Oversleeping/fatigue
- Hunting
- Fishing
- Attendance at games
- Employment
- Family or educational trips not approved in advance
- Car trouble
- Shopping
PROCEDURES FOR EXCESSIVE ABSENCES
Excessive Absences
The district’s Home & School Visitor and building administrator(s) will review students’ attendance records. Due to the signing of Act 138 by Governor Wolf in November 2016, the following changes have been implemented by DASD:
- Parents of a student who has accumulated 3 unexcused or illegal absences will be notified by letter of the school’s concern regarding the student’s attendance. This letter will be a warning that a meeting will be required when a student accumulates 6 unexcused or illegal absences.
- If a student accumulates 6 unexcused or illegal absences, a School Attendance Improvement Plan (SAIP)meeting will be scheduled by school administration.
- It is imperative that an excuse note is submitted within 3 days of the student’s return to school. If an excuse note is not submitted within that time frame or if an excuse is a provided that is not one of the 8 reasons for an acceptable excuse, the absence(s) will remain illegal or unexcused.
District Response To Unlawful Absences
The school is a critical part of a student’s support system, and school staff have a significant opportunity to assist students and their families to comply with attendance requirements. The parent/guardian of a compulsory school age student is subject to penalties if compulsory attendance requirements are not met.
The designated district employee will make every effort to work collaboratively with the parent/guardian to address the truancy of a student and will not initiate formal action until such efforts have been made and the student has accumulated three (3) unlawful absences during the school year.
- Third Unlawful Absence
When a student has been absent for three (3) days during the current school year without a lawful excuse, district staff shall provide notice to the person in parental relation who resides in the same household as the student within ten (10)school days of the student's third unexcused absence. The notice may include the offer of a School Attendance Improvement Conference to discuss the cause of the student’s truancy and will develop a mutually agreed upon Truancy Elimination Plan (TEP) to resolve the truant behavior. The TEP can include: access to academic and social/health supports from the district and community organizations; outline of family/parent and student responsibilities; and levels of performance monitoring that include rewards and consequences. At the end of the conference all parties should sign a comprehensive TEP that is agreed to by the district representative, student, parent/guardian and/or family, and other conference participants. If the student incurs additional unexcused absences after issuance of the notice and a School Attendance Improvement Conference was not previously held, district staff shall offer a School Attendance Improvement Conference.
- Subsequent Unlawful Absence
If a student accrues six (6) unexcused absences they will be considered habitually truant and District shall refer the student to a school-based or community-based attendance improvement program or the local children and youth agency. The District may also file a citation in the office of the appropriate judge against the person in parental relation who resides in the same household as the student. Regardless of age, for a student who accumulates six unexcused absences, a School Attendance Improvement Conference is required and will be held.
Homelessness
In 1987, Congress passed the Stewart B. McKinney Homeless Assistance Act, (subsequently renamed the McKinney‐ Vento Homeless Assistance Act) to aid homeless persons. The Act defines the term "homeless children and youths" as individuals who lack a fixed, regular, and adequate nighttime residence. On December 10, 2015, the “Every Student Succeeds Act” (ESSA) was enacted, amending McKinney‐Vento.
Categories of children who are "homeless" and entitled to the protections of the federal law are as follows:
(i) children and youths who are sharing the housing of other persons due to loss of housing, economic hardship or a similar reason; are living in motels, hotels, trailer parks or camping grounds due to the lack of alternative adequate accommodations; are living in emergency or transitional shelters; are abandoned in hospitals;
(ii) children and youths who have a primary nighttime residence that is a public or private place not designed for or ordinarily used as a regular sleeping accommodation for human beings;
(iii) children and youths who are living in cars, parks, public spaces, abandoned buildings, substandard housing, bus or train stations, or similar settings;
(iv) “migratory children” who qualify as homeless under federal law because the children are living in circumstances described in clauses (i) through (iii) above. The term "migratory children" means children who are (or whose parent(s) or spouse(s) are) migratory agricultural workers, including migratory dairy workers or migratory fishermen, and who have moved from one school district to another in the preceding 36 months, in order to obtain (or accompany such parents or spouses in order to obtain) temporary or seasonal employment in agricultural or fishing work; and
(v) "Unaccompanied homeless youth" including any child who is "not in the physical custody of a parent or guardian." This includes youth who have run away from home, been thrown out of their home, been abandoned by parents or guardians, or separated from their parents for any other reason.
If you believe that you fall under one of the above-mentioned categories of children who are "homeless" and entitled to the protections of the federal law, contact your school counselor or the district’s Home and School Visitor / Homeless Student Liaison.
(Basic Education Circular, December 2016)
EXCUSE PROCEDURES FOR TRIPS, VACATIONS & SPECIAL OCCASIONS
Absences for educational trips not sponsored by the school district and planned vacations (family trips) may be excused provided prior written notification is received from the parents/guardians and approval is granted. Since regular class attendance is a critical component of a student’s educational program, the educational benefits of the trip should outweigh the negative impact of the disruption of the student’s educational program.
A request for an educational/family trip is subject to the following conditions:
- Parent/Guardian must submit a written request (Board Policy Form 204 AG 11) to the building principal on the district form, which will indicate the days of absence; destination of the trip; adult supervision; and educational value of the trip.
- If more than one (1) child in a family is taking the trip, the request for all the children must be included in the trip request form and distributed to each building principal.
- Request must be made at least three (3) days prior to the date of the trip.
- No more than ten (10) school days each school year per student will be approved for an educational/family trip, which may be extended at the discretion of the building principal.
Requests for students to be excused for more than one (1) family trip during a school year will most likely not be honored.
The building principal will notify the parent/guardian of approval or denial of the request. The building principal has the right to deny a request during the first ten (10) days, last ten (10) school days, and during standardized testing (PSSA, etc.).
The building principal has the right to deny a request at any time during the school year when, in the judgment of the principal, there is a pattern of excessive absence from school or the student is in poor academic standing.
Unauthorized absences will be recorded as illegal and students will not be permitted to make up work unless authorized by the principal.
Work missed due to approved educational tours or family trips may be made up, but the responsibility for the completion of that work will remain with students and/or parents/guardians.
After the return of an approved educational/family trip, the teacher will work with the student and parent/guardian to “bridge the gap” of missed instruction. For logistical reasons, teachers cannot be expected to prepare individual daily lesson plans for each student on an educational/family trip. The student will be responsible for submitting all completed assignments to teachers upon return to school or as indicated on the assignment sheet.
Students will not be permitted to take mid‐term or final examinations early or late due to educational trips or vacations. Parents/Guardians are discouraged from making vacation plans during the school year on a regular or yearly basis. It is understood that there is occasionally the necessity of taking a family trip during the school year, but it is believed that frequent trips are an unnecessary detriment to the education of the student.
PSSA Testing: Excuses for trips or vacations will not be granted for students in grades 3, 4, & 5 during State mandated PSSA testing as listed on the school calendar each year.
EARLY DISMISSAL DUE TO WEATHER
If school is closed, opened later than usual, or students must be dismissed early due to inclement weather, you will receive a district generated phone call. Emergency closings are also listed on the website at www.dasd.org and on district social media outlets.
Please do not call the school to inquire about the possibility of an early closing, but refer to the District website.
KINDERGARTEN PROCEDURES FOR DELAYED OPENINGS
Whenever the Downingtown Area School District has an unscheduled weather related two (2) hour late opening, both sessions of kindergarten will be held according to the following abbreviated schedule:
Kindergarten | A. M. | P. M. |
---|---|---|
Regular | 9:00 A.M. - 11:55 A.M. | 12:40 P.M. ‐ 3:35 P.M. |
Abbreviated (2-hour delayed opening) | 11:00 A.M. ‐ 12:45 P.M. | 1:50 P.M. ‐ 3:35 P.M. |
Modified (2-hour early dismissal) | 9:00 A.M. - 10:45 A.M. | 11:50 A.M. - 1:35 P.M. |
On days when the Regular Schedule is followed:
A.M. kindergarten children must be picked up no later than 11:55 A.M.
P.M. kindergarten children may be dropped off beginning at 12:25 P.M.
On days when the Abbreviated Schedule is followed:
A.M. Kindergarten children must be picked up no later than 12:45 P.M.
P.M. Kindergarten children may be dropped off beginning at 1:35 P.M.
On days when the Modified Schedule is followed:
A.M. Kindergarten children must be picked up no later than 10:45 A.M.
P.M. Kindergarten children may be dropped off beginning at 11:35 A.M.
Communications
COMMUNICATION GUIDELINES
Parents need to know the best avenues to use in addressing concerns they feel are important with regard to their child(ren)’s total educational experience at school. Solutions to problems can usually be easily addressed when the channels of communication are straightforward and the communication itself is confidential.
Examples of typical concerns are as follows (but not limited to): curriculum, behavior, discipline, social/emotional, medical, recess, homework, and family situations.
Steps to be taken are listed below:
- Concerns should be addressed initially with the classroom teacher and/or the teacher directly involved with the particular situation.
- If not satisfied with the result, communication with the building principal would be appropriate.
- If the problem is not resolved after a reasonable period of time, oral and written communication could be made with the Assistant Superintendent.
PHONE MESSAGES
Parents who wish to speak with teachers over the telephone should call and leave a message with office personnel. Teachers will be notified and will return the call as soon as possible. Please do not expect teachers to be called to the phone to speak with you. During most of the school day, they have supervisory responsibilities. A general rule of thumb is that a response will be provided within 24 hours.
EMAIL MESSAGES
Parents are encouraged to send teachers emails with questions or concerns, however, be aware that an immediate response is seldom possible. Teachers check their emails during the day when possible. A general rule of thumb is that a response will be provided within 24 hours.
CONFERENCES
A conference may be initiated by either the parent or the teacher. When requesting a conference, please call, email, or send a note directly to the teacher. In this manner, a mutually convenient time can be established for the conference. Please do not expect a discussion with a teacher unless prior arrangements have been made.
In addition, “Parent‐Teacher Conference Days” are scheduled at various times during the year. However, you may request a conference in the spring if deemed necessary.
STUDENT TELEPHONE USE
In general, pupils are not permitted to use the school telephones. However, in cases of emergency, pupils may request use of the telephone located in the main office.
Instruction and Assessment
The elementary instructional program is consistent across all 10 elementary schools in the Downingtown Area School District and is coordinated by teachers, the principal, and the staff of the District Office. Our goals are to provide appropriate academic experiences and social nurturing to allow children to develop a sense of positive self-worth as well as academic skills in order to become critical thinkers, problem solvers and positive contributors to society. English Language Arts (reading, writing, speaking, and listening), Mathematics, Science, and Social Studies are a part of each grade’s core curriculum. In addition, children receive weekly instruction in the special area subjects of Art, Library, Physical Education and Health, Music, and iDesign.
ENCORE SUBJECTS
Instruction is provided in music, art, physical education, iDesign, and library. All students have Art, Music, and Library one time per cycle and Physical Education two times per 6-day cycle, except half day kindergarten which has PE three times per cycle. All DASD schools operate on a 6‐day cycle using letter days A through F on a full rotation system. For example, if Tuesday is an “A” day and school is closed due to weather, when the students return on Wednesday, it will be “A” day.
STUDENT RECORDS / TRANSFER OF RECORDS
The official student records are maintained in the school office and are the property of the school district. Typically, these folders contain documents for which parents have copies: report cards, attendance, conference reports, and samples of children’s work. In the event that a parent wishes to review the contents of their child’s cumulative record folder, they may do so by arranging for a conference with the guidance counselor or principal.
Prior to changing schools, a transfer of records card must be completed by the school office. Please provide the school office with adequate advance notice in order that correct forms will be available. Upon notification from the receiving school, we will immediately forward copies of all student records to the new school.
Health and Medical
EMERGENCY CONTACT INFORMATION
At the beginning of each school year, every student will receive an Information Verification sheet which must be verified by a parent and returned to the School’s Office. Addresses, phone numbers, email addresses and emergency contacts will be asked to be verified for accuracy. If during the year, changes occur with telephone numbers or persons to contact, please notify the school. Your cooperation is appreciated.
PHYSICAL EXAMINATIONS
Physical examinations are given by the school physician to children in kindergarten, first grade children who did not attend kindergarten, and to any new Pennsylvania students. Parents will be notified of examination dates. Parents may elect to have these examinations done by a family physician. A Commonwealth of Pennsylvania school examination form may be obtained from the school nurse for this purpose.
DENTAL EVALUATIONS and DENTAL HEALTH EDUCATION
Dental evaluations are given by the school Dental Hygienist to students in Kindergarten and Third grade. In some classrooms, children will be given dental health instruction by the school district’s dental hygienist. It is our hope to establish sound dental practice and knowledge through the Dental Health Program.
VISION, HEARING & SPEECH SCREENING AND THERAPY
Vision screening is conducted annually for students in K-5. Hearing screening is conducted annually for students in K-3. Students requiring speech, vision or hearing therapy receive special services provided by qualified professionals.
ADMINISTERING MEDICATIONS
Medication of any kind, including prescriptions, aspirin, and over the counter products are not to be in the possession of students, but maintained and dispensed from the nurse’s office. It is important that medications be in the original containers. Parents must bring medications to the nurse’s office rather than giving students that responsibility.
NON-PRESCRIPTION and PRESCRIPTION MEDICATIONS must be in the original container and requires an accompanying note from the parent and the physician stating:
- Student’s full name, grade and teacher
- Name of medication and dosage with a current date
- Time(s) that medication is to be administered
- Date(s) that medication is to be administered
- Illness / condition requiring medication
- Signature of parent/guardian and health care provider
FIRST AID AND ILLNESS
Injuries occurring at home cannot be treated by school personnel. First Aid is defined as immediate temporary care given in case of accident or sudden illness. First Aid will be given by the school nurse or nurse’s assistant. Children should not be in school when they are ill or when they are not well enough to participate in class. Fever and vomiting should have subsided for at least 24 hours to prevent spread of infection.
When a child exhibits any of the following symptoms, he/she should be kept at home. Some general guidelines are:
For Fevers:
- A child running a fever of 100 degrees or higher should stay home.
- A child running a fever of 99+ degrees may have trouble keeping up with normal activities and may well become sick before the day is over.
- A child with a low-grade fever (99+ degrees) combined with other symptoms and discomfort should stay home.
- The rule of thumb is: “Fever free for 24 hours without medication”
Other reasons to keep a child home:
- Severe OR persistent coughing
- Very congested
- Very runny nose
- Unexplained rash
- Contagious disease/infection
- Contagious skin disorder
- Head Lice
Please alert staff if your child has been exposed to chicken pox, head lice, or any other communicable diseases. Children with communicable diseases will be excluded from school. Please be reminded that school health services do not include medical diagnoses. A private physician must make these.
If it should become necessary to contact you about your child, the procedure is to first attempt to contact someone at your home phone number. If there is no answer, then the work and/or cell number will be called until you are notified. Please remember to update your work, cell or home phone number in case of changes. Also, make sure you add an alternate person to be called in case you cannot be reached.
HEAD LICE GUIDELINES
The school nurses in the Downingtown Area School District will follow the guidelines of the American Academy of Pediatrics, the National Association of School Nurses, and the Centers for Disease Control concerning the treatment and containment of head lice by implementing the following procedures in the event that a confirmed case of head lice for a student.
Guidelines:
- Upon report or discovery of live head lice, the School Nurse will privately check the affected child’s head for live head lice.
- If live head lice are found, the School Nurse will call the child’s parent and request that they take their child home.
- The School Nurse will advise on evidence-based treatment options and/or refer them for to their health care provider.
- The affected child may return to school after treatment of live head lice, and will report to the school nurse to be approved for school attendance.
- Children may not remain in school if a significant number of live head lice are found, but they are permitted to remain in school if nits (head lice eggs) are found.
- If the student has siblings in the school district, the School Nurse will check the siblings for any live head lice.
- At the elementary level, a letter will be sent home to parents in the child’s homeroom alerting them that a case of head lice was discovered and advising them to check for head lice and to treat if live lice are discovered.
- Instructions in the letter should ask that if child is treated for head lice at home, the parent should contact the school nurse. The school nurse will then check that student’s head upon return and follow the recheck policy.
- The School Nurse will re-check the affected child’s head a week after treatment and follow the aforementioned guidelines if live head lice are found.
LATEX ALLERGIES
Our school is a “latex safe” environment. As such, latex products, particularly latex balloons and latex gloves are not permitted in the school.
NUT ALLERGIES
For students who have serious allergies to peanuts or other nut products, we provide a “nut free” table in the cafeteria. It is the child’s responsibility to select this table for lunch. Please do not send unshelled nuts to school with your child. As nuts are removed from the shell, they may release material in the air that could trigger an allergic reaction.
ACCIDENT INSURANCE
Special Student Accident Insurance may be purchased by parents for students attending Downingtown Area Schools. Details of this policy are available on the district’s website under parents, district forms and information, student accident insurance.
Student Services
CORE TEAM
Core / Help Team The Core Help Team consists of special education teachers, Literacy Specialists, School Counselor, Psychologist, the ESL teacher, school principal, and school nurse. Each elementary school offers an educational service that seeks to maximize individual student success in the general education classroom. When students experience difficulty academically, socially, and/or behaviorally, they are recommended to the Core / Help Team by a classroom teacher, parent, or member of the Instructional Core Help Team.
The Core / Help Team process involves the following steps:
- Evaluate data that identify a student’s need for academic, social, and/or behavioral support
- Determine the strategies needed to assist the student
- Plan and implement the intervention strategies through a continuum of services
- Monitor the effectiveness of the intervention strategies
- Continue intervention plan if student experiences success as determined by the expected rate of improvement OR Alter intervention plan if student does not experience expected rate of improvement.
- Act as a liaison to communicate with other district and/or community services as needed.
- Communicate progress regularly with parents.
STUDENT ASSISTANCE PROGRAM (eSAP)
School Board Policy #236 provides the guidelines to be followed by District schools in their implementation of Student Assistance Programs. While secondary schools have had SAP for a number of years, state law mandates that all schools, including elementary schools, have a SAP team.
The Student Assistance Program (SAP) is a systematic process using effective and accountable professional techniques to mobilize school resources to remove the barriers to learning and, when the problem is beyond the scope of the school, to assist the parent/guardian and student with information so they may access services within the community.
The Student Assistance Program (SAP) shall provide assistance in:
- Identifying issues that pose a barrier to a student’s learning and/or academic achievement.
- Determining whether or not the identified problem lies within the responsibility of the school.
- Informing the parent/guardian of a problem affecting the student’s learning and/or academic achievement.
- Making recommendations to assist the student and the parent/guardian.
- Providing information on community resources and options to deal with the problem.
- Establishing links with resources to help resolve the problem.
- Collaborating with the parent/guardian and agency when students are involved in treatment through a community agency.
- Providing a plan for in-school support services for the student during and after treatment.
Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS)
A District initiative includes the implementation of Multi-tiered System of Supports (MTSS). This is a process used for identifying those students at specified grade levels who are struggling in school and then providing differentiated instruction and intervention to address their needs. Part of the process involves screening all students three times per year to identify students who are at grade level (Benchmark or Tier 1), slightly below grade level (Strategic or Tier 2), and those well below grade level (Intensive or Tier 3), as measured by screening assessments such as Aimsweb+.
Following the screening assessments, students’ individual Tiers are identified and an instructional plan is implemented for them. Tier 2 and Tier 3 students will be grouped for additional teacher guided instruction designed to improve their skills. Some of these students will receive this instruction with teachers other than their homeroom teacher. They will, however, continue to receive their regular instruction with their assigned teacher.
Over the course of the intervention plan, Tier 2 and Tier 3 students are progress monitored to determine if growth is occurring as a result of the intervention. During and following the intervention program, results from the progress monitoring will be reviewed to determine the success of the intervention. Following a specific intervention period, students may move to a different tier, remain in their current tier and continue to receive the same intervention plan, or remain in their current tier and receive a different intervention program. The decision will be based solely upon the results of the progress monitoring data that has been collected over the intervention period.
Parental involvement is key to a student’s individual success. Therefore, communication with the parent/guardian will be made as deemed necessary to insure student success and progress.
RECORDING DEVICES
To accommodate special needs as required by State and federal law, certain students in your child's classroom might have the right to audio record, or to receive teacher- made audio recordings of discussions that occur during instructional activities. These recordings could include the voice of your child. The child making the recording or for whom the recording is made will use the recording solely to support his or her ability to access and retain educational information. The recording will be destroyed when it is no longer necessary for that purpose. Recordings shall not be maintained by or otherwise considered educational records of the District for any purpose. The use of audio recordings in the classroom will be limited to students with disabilities who are unable, as a result of their disabilities, to record information independently in written form when such information is required to aid memory or learning and when audio recording is identified as an adaptation or accommodation on the individualized educational programs (“IEPs”) or Section 504 accommodation plans of such students. The audio recording device shall only be used when necessary to capture spoken or written information in the classroom that nondisabled peers would be expected to record in written form. The use of audio recordings shall be for the sole use of the student for the educational use stated in his or her IEP and shall not be shared with any third party. All recordings are the property of the Downingtown Area School District, and the use of such recordings for any purpose or in any manner other than as described in these guidelines is strictly prohibited. All recordings will be erased or destroyed when no longer necessary for educational purposes and shall not be maintained as, or otherwise considered, educational records of the District for any purpose.
Discipline
CODE OF STUDENT CONDUCT
The Code of Student Conduct provides District information regarding attendance, bus and playground rules, internet policies, and student discipline and can be found in Board Policy 200 Series, under the Parents tab or individual school backpack pages.
Dress Code
The Downingtown Area Elementary Schools are primarily concerned with three important issues:
- Safety Standards - Personal appearance styles and all items of wearing apparel and accessories must conform to minimum safety standards as to not endanger the well-being of any pupils or any person within the school environment. “Clogs” and shoes without heel support or with wheels are not considered safe and are therefore prohibited.
- Health and Cleanliness - Clothing and dress should be conducive to promoting personal health and cleanliness. The children are permitted to wear shorts of a conservative length. "Short-shorts" and midriff tops are unacceptable. Straps on tank tops should be as wide as an adult finger.
- Non-interference with the Educational Program - Apparel and accessories must be appropriate to the time and place, in that a pupil's total appearance does not result in any degrading or distracting consequences that would interfere with the educational process within the school environment. Shirts, hats, etc. with inappropriate, obscene, or suggestive language or graphics cannot be worn to or at school. On special occasions, such as field trips or Field Day, we may request specific clothing appropriate for the event.
A breach of the Dress Code, as outlined above, may result in any of the following: 1) Parent called to bring appropriate clothing; 2) Child isolated from peers; 3) Child sent home for remainder of day; 4) Suspension.
Food Services and Recess
BREAKFAST PROGRAM
We are pleased to announce that students will have the opportunity to eat breakfast at school. Students may enter the cafeteria starting at 8:30 a.m. Students will be encouraged to finish eating and get to their classrooms by 9:00 A.M. Breakfast is free again this school year and it does not need to be pre-ordered.
LUNCH PROGRAM
The cafeteria provides a varied lunch menu for students and for planning purposes, parents must preorder lunch for their student(s) by the night before at the latest. The elementary school lunch price is $2.50 and payment is required to complete the on-line transaction. If you prefer to pay for your child’s lunches on a daily basis, your child will also use the PaySchools Central System. The system works like this:
Each student is issued a personal identification number (PIN) that will remain the same throughout your child’s enrollment in elementary school. A picture of the student is taken and imported in the PIN database. Your pre-payment money is deposited into the student’s account. The deposits can be made in cash, or by check made payable to DASD CAFETERIA ACCOUNT. Deposits can also be made through your account with PaySchools Central. If a student’s account reaches a zero balance, the student would then require cash for breakfast. Students who receive free or reduced lunches will follow the same procedures as outlined above. Their automatic debits would be made at a free or reduced lunch rate. If your child receives free or reduced price lunches, our system will provide complete confidentiality.
Students’ accounts can be set up with a “meals only” or “meals plus snack” spending restriction. During lunch service, the student will approach the cashier and enter the PIN on the keyboard. The student’s account and photograph will appear on the cashier’s computer screen. The cost of the student purchases will automatically be deducted from the child’s account balance, without the need for the daily exchange of cash.
RECESS
Weather permitting, students are provided with twenty minutes of recess time each day. Recesses are supervised by at least two staff members.
Anytime it is 25 degrees or above (with wind-chill included), the playground is relatively clear, and there is no precipitation, we will have outdoor recess. Children should wear coats, hats, and gloves to go outside during the cold weather.
We will have indoor recess anytime the temperature falls below 25 degrees, actual temperature or with wind-chill. We appreciate the cooperation of parents in sending children dressed properly for the outdoors.
Wellness Policy
The Downingtown Area School District School Board Policy No. 246-AG-9 on Student Wellness addresses concerns around student obesity, nutrition, exercise, and overall wellness.
A summary of the Policy is below. For more detailed information and questions and answers, please refer to the Wellness page on the District web-site.
The DASD Wellness Policy has established the following guidelines relative to food:
- Food MAY NOT be used as a reward unless it is a component of an individual student's educational program.
- Food items MAY NOT be provided for birthday celebrations.
- Food MAY be used as part of the curriculum using the following nutritional guidelines:
- Water, 100% fruit juice or milk.
- Are moderate in sodium content.
- Provide minimal to no trans fatty acids.
- Provide items that contain >2 grams of fiber/serving.
REWARDS/CELEBRATIONS/SCHOOL EVENTS
- District schools will not use foods or beverages, especially those that do not meet established nutrition standards, as rewards for academic performance or good behavior, and will not withhold food or beverages, including food served through school meals, as punishment.
- District schools will not distribute foods or beverages that do not meet established nutrition standards.
- Foods and beverages offered or sold at school-sponsored events outside the school day, such as athletic events and dances, are encouraged to offer healthy alternatives in addition to more traditional fare.
OTHER SCHOOL BASED ACTIVITES
- Drinking water shall be available at all meal periods and throughout the school day.
- Students shall have access to hand washing or sanitizing before meals and snacks.
- Students and parents/guardians may be involved in menu selections through various means.
- The district shall provide appropriate education to all staff on the components of the Student Wellness Policy.
- Goals of the Student Wellness Policy shall be considered in planning all school based activities.
- The district shall support the efforts of parents/guardians to provide a healthy diet and daily physical activity for children by communicating relevant information through various methods.
- Although food may be included for direct instruction, it cannot be used as a reward or punishment.
BIRTHDAY CELEBRATIONS:
Birthdays are a special time for students and we need your support. While many families enjoy special food treats at home, in accordance with the DASD Wellness Policy and our School Health Committee, no food items will be allowed at school for birthday celebrations. This practice will help support healthy alternatives for celebration, reduce interruptions in class time, and will help protect the large number of children who have a variety of food related allergies. Any food items sent in for birthday celebrations will be returned home. Alternatives to food related items include pencils, stickers or other small, school-related items. Each grade level may have their own suggestions for ways to celebrate birthdays.
Balloon deliveries or other extravagant deliveries or “surprises” are not permitted during school hours.
Participation Policy/Activity Fees
PARTICIPATION / ACTIVITY FEES
Students involved in a program that uses transportation or teacher services beyond the contractual day will be assessed a participation fee. Academic clubs tied to outside competitions and tutorial activities will continue to be funded by the District. Specific information will be included on the permission forms for each activity.
Please visit our Activity Fees page for more specific details.
Field Trip Policy
FIELD TRIP POLICY
A field trip is defined as any trip by students away from school premises.
Students on field trips are subject to the rules and regulations established in the Code of Student Conduct, including the Dress Code.
Fees for participation in field trips may be assessed by the district. Credit card payments shall be accepted in accordance with Board policy.
FIELD TRIP CHAPERONES
Parents/Guardians, other adult volunteers, and/or district employees who serve as chaperones on field trips are subject to Board policies, administrative guidelines, and rules and regulations pertaining to their conduct and responsibilities.
When serving as a chaperone for district field trips, all adults are prohibited from using tobacco products in the presence of students, consuming alcoholic beverages, and using illicit drugs during the duration of their assignment as chaperone.
For the safety of all children leaving school premises and in accordance with Board policy, the Superintendent may direct that appropriate screening processes be applied to assure that adult chaperones for field trips are free of criminal history and convictions for any offenses involving children.
As per Downingtown Area School District Policy 121 - Field Trips and 231 – Social Events, chaperones leaving school premises shall be required to provide the following:
- An original criminal history report (Act 34) – every 5 years
- An original child abuse history clearance (Act 151) – every 5 years
- Proof of a Tuberculosis Exam (one time only)
- Self-Reporting forms submitted annually
To access the necessary forms, please refer to the Volunteer page on our website.
Obtaining clearances does not guarantee a parent or guardian will be selected to chaperone a field trip. Field trip supervision requirements will be followed as indicated in Downingtown Area School District Administrative Guideline #4 of Policy #121 – Field Trips. Examples of chaperones include parents or guardians of students who attend field trips and are not Downingtown Area School District employees.
- Clearances must not be dated more than one (1) year prior to the date of submission.
- Clearances will be submitted directly to the building principal for review and approval.
- Clearances with any remarks from the reporting agency must be forwarded to the Superintendent’s designee for final review:
MEDICATION/MEDICAL CONDITION
If a student with a specified medical requirement is participating in a field trip, arrangements shall be made in advance to transport, dispense and/or administer approved medication. All medications and supplies must be sent from home. Send only a single dose of medication for the trip in the original container, and give it to the teacher for your child to self-administer.
Transportation
School bus service is provided through the contractors in accordance with the transportation policies of the DASD. Policy and Administrative Guidelines #810 provide details regarding walking zones, procedures for requesting a transportation change, alternate bus assignments due to child care and bus stop and bus riding rules.
Students are assigned to a bus and bus stop location as part of the registration process. Confirmation of bus number and stop is mailed to parents in late August. Long term requests for changes in bus stop or bus route must be directed, in writing, to the:
Downingtown Area School District
c/o Supervisor of Transportation
540 Trestle Place
Downingtown, PA 19335
Due to the capacity of each assigned bus, we cannot give open permission for students to ride a bus to or from school other than the one to which they are assigned. Emergencies are the only exception and need to be approved by the Principal in advance.
KINDERGARTEN TRANSPORTATION
Transportation is provided for Kindergarten students one way. Children in the A.M. session will be transported to school and children in the P.M. session will be transported home with Grade 1-5 students.
BUS RULES AND REGULATIONS
- Children should arrive at the assigned bus stop 5 minutes before scheduled pick-up times. Parents are responsible for their child’s conduct at the bus stop both before and after school.
- Children should exhibit orderly and appropriate behavior while at the bus stop and on the bus.
- Children should respect the property adjacent to the bus stop, respect the safety and property of other students, and follow all directions and guidance provided by the bus driver. The bus driver has the same authority as a classroom teacher.
- Children may ride only their assigned bus and board and depart only from their assigned bus stop, unless the Principal has approved a change.
- Children should enter the bus and take their seats without disturbing others.
- Children should remain in their seats while the bus in motion.
- Children should speak in a normal tone of voice while on the bus. No shouting is permitted.
- Children should not throw items on the bus or from the bus.
- Smoking, eating, drinking, or chewing gum on the bus is prohibited.
- Children should keep the bus clean and orderly.
- No items can be placed in the driver’s compartment, doorway, or aisle of the bus, or under seats. These areas must be kept clear to exit in case of emergencies.
- Animals are NOT permitted on the bus.
- Large musical instruments or school projects are not permitted on the bus unless they can be held on the student's lap.
- Objects that endanger other students are strictly prohibited. Such objects include, but are not limited to firearms, knives, metal stars, ice skates, glass objects, etc. Possession of dangerous objects may result in immediate suspension of bus privileges and other discipline.
- Seatbelts must be worn at all times on those buses or school vehicles fitted with seatbelts.
- Missing the bus and not attending school is NOT a legal absence or reason for being tardy.
WALKERS
With the exception of District designated walkers, students will not be allowed to walk unless their parents escort them. Parents walking their children to/from school need to follow the same arrival and dismissal procedures as students being transported by their parents.
BIKE RIDING
Students may ride bicycles to school if they follow the following conditions:
- written permission by parent/guardian and approved by the Principal
- a commitment to wearing a helmet for every ride
- following the route authorized by & practiced with their parent/guardian
- following rules of the road
- riding single file
- using a well-maintained bicycle
- using a bike lock is advised as the school district is not responsible for stolen bikes
Volunteers and Visitors
VOLUNTEERS
We welcome the assistance of volunteers in our schools and appreciate their support. More information about how to become a volunteer and associated requirements can be found on our volunteer page
The presence of volunteers in the classroom creates issues of sensitivity and confidentiality for all volunteers. To uphold the credibility of this valuable program, it is imperative that volunteers:
- Do not discuss the performance and behavior of individual children either inside or outside the school.
- Avoid discussing teachers and/or teaching methods.
- Discuss any concerns with the Volunteer Coordinator or Principal.
- Act in a professional manner.
We ask that all volunteers:
- Sign in and out every time they enter and leave the building. (This is for safety in case of fire as well as knowing who is in the building at all times for safety purposes).
- Fill out an emergency information card.
- Wear a designated ID while in the building and turn it in when leaving.
- Call the school office as soon as possible if unable to volunteer on assigned day.
- Be consistent and reliable with time.
- Avoid visiting or wandering through instructional areas that could distract children and teachers.
- Do not bring younger children to school when volunteering.
- Classroom volunteer time is at the teacher’s discretion.
- Wear appropriate, tasteful attire that will not interfere with the educational focus.
- Never interrupt teachers or instruction in the classroom.
- Keep the Faculty Room reserved for staff members, please.
- Contact classroom teachers to receive instruction on the use of any classroom equipment and see the Volunteer Coordinator (or building aide) for instruction with other school equipment. Please give staff members priority when operating the copy machine or other office equipment.
- Check with assigned teacher for specific instructions for the day.
- Become familiar with school policy as outlined in this handbook.
- Expect respect and appropriate behavior from students. Please report any problems to the teacher in charge.
- Be an example to children by observing all school rules in a professional manner.
- Avoid disruptive talking in the hallways.
- Communicate with the teacher if uncomfortable with a specific task. We want your experience to be positive and rewarding.
- Have fun working in our school.
VISITORS
Visitors, including parents, must secure permission and make arrangements with the principal or teacher prior to any visit in an area of the building or school grounds. Visitors, including parents, are also required to check in at the main office, have your driver’s license run through our Raptor system, and wear a visitor badge before reporting to an area of the building or school grounds.
For reasons of liability, elementary aged children are not permitted to visit unless accompanied by their parents, and only with the approval of the teacher(s) involved, as well as the principal.
Emergency Response Plan
All staff members are informed of the master emergency plan designed for all possible emergencies.
Emergency procedures fall into three categories: on-site evacuations, off-site evacuations and “take shelter” drills. Every school in the Downingtown Area School District has a detailed action plan for dealing with a variety of emergencies. The plan is reviewed annually with the staff. A key feature of the emergency plan includes periodic drills for each type of emergency response. The school schedules regular fire drills to comply with the Pennsylvania School Laws. In accordance with the law, the school will conduct not fewer than an average of one fire drill each month.
During the winter months, drills are conducted with individual classes, making every effort to conduct the drill on the best day for temperature and weather conditions. Similarly, drills are conducted to practice the appropriate procedures for a severe weather emergency and safe school drills. Please note that during emergency procedure drills, access to the building may be temporarily denied until conditions are determined to be safe.
Integrated Pest Management
The Downingtown Area School District uses an Integrated Pest Management (IPM) approach for managing insects, rodents and weeds. Our goal is to protect every student from pesticide exposure by using an IPM approach to pest management. Our IPM approach focuses on making the school building and grounds an unfavorable habitat for these pests by removing food and water sources and eliminating their hiding and breeding places. We accomplish this through routine cleaning and maintenance. We routinely monitor the school buildings and grounds to detect any pests that are present. The pest monitoring team consists of our building maintenance and office. Pest sightings are reported to our IPM coordinator who evaluates the “pest problem” and determines the appropriate pest management techniques to address the problem. The techniques can include increased sanitation, modifying storage practices, sealing entry points, physically removing the pest, etc.
From time to time, it may be necessary to use chemicals to manage a pest problem. Chemicals will only be used when necessary. When chemicals are used, the school will try to use the least toxic products when possible. Applications will be made only when unauthorized persons do not have access to the area(s) being treated. Notices will be posted 72 hours prior to application and for 48 hours following the application. A schedule of pest control applications is posted on the front entry door of the school. If you desire a list of pesticides to be used and their EPA registration numbers, please submit your request in writing. Parents or guardians of students enrolled in the school will be notified of specific herbicide applications made on school grounds, including athletic fields and recreational areas. If a chemical application must be made to control an emergency pest problem, notice will be given. Exemptions to this notification include disinfectants and antimicrobial products; self-containerized baits placed in areas not accessible to students, and gel-type baits placed in cracks, crevices or voids; and swimming pool maintenance chemicals.
Miscellaneous Information
CHANGE OF ADDRESS / TELEPHONE
Any change of address within our school boundaries can be handled by our office personal with verification of the new address. A new telephone number should be changed via the parent portal.
BRINGING TOYS TO SCHOOL
Students must have the permission of the teacher to bring toys from home. In general, the practice of bringing things from home is discouraged unless needed for instruction. In addition to detracting from the learning process, toys get in the way at lunch time and can be lost or damaged during recess or bus rides. The school assumes no liability for lost, stolen, or damaged items from home.
BRINGING ELECTRONIC DEVICES TO SCHOOL
Students must have the permission of the principal to bring electronic devices such as electronic book readers (ie. a Kindle, a Nook, etc.). If these items are allowed for use during reading, they must be used for reading. Accessing games, music, or social media sites on these devices will not be permitted and will result in them not being allowed in school for the remainder of the year. Devices such as personal Ipads, MP3 players, and electronic games are not permitted in school. Cell phones are to remain in book bags during school hours and must be turned off. Photos are recordings of students are not permitted on personal devices. If a cell phone goes off during the school day, it will be sent to the office and will need to be retrieved by the parent. The school assumes no liability for lost, stolen, or damaged electronic devices sent from home.
PRIVATE PARTY INVITATIONS
Private party invitations are NOT to be handed out in school or on the school bus unless the ENTIRE class is invited. Many children have their feelings hurt and get upset when they find out they are not invited to a private party, particularly when it becomes the main focus of conversation during lunch and recess times. In turn, this can develop into inappropriate behavior and lack of academic progress in the classroom.
Notice of Non-Discrimination
Downingtown Area School District shall not discriminate in their educational programs, activities or employment practices based on race, color, national origin, sex, disability, age, religion, ancestry or any other legally protected classification. This policy is in accordance with state and federal laws, including Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, Sections 503 and 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, The Age Discrimination Act of 1975, the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 and the Pennsylvania Human Relations Act. Information relative to special accommodation, grievance procedure, and the designated responsible official for compliance with Title VI, Title IX, and Section 504 may be obtained by contacting the Director of Human Resources, Downingtown Area School District, 540 Trestle Place, Downingtown, PA 19335, phone number 610-269-8460.
Bullying Policy
Book: Policy Manual
Section: 200 Pupils
Title: Bullying/Cyberbullying
Code: 249
Status: Active
Adopted: November 9, 2011
Last Revised: October 13, 2021
Purpose
The Board is committed to providing a safe, positive learning environment for district students. The Board recognizes that bullying creates an atmosphere of fear and intimidation, detracts from the safe environment necessary for student learning, and may lead to more serious violence. Therefore, the Board prohibits bullying by district students.
Definition
- Substantial interference with a student’s education.
- Creation of a threatening environment.
- Substantial disruption of the orderly operation of the school.
Bullying, as defined in this policy, includes cyberbullying.
School setting means in the school, on school grounds, in school vehicles, at a designated bus stop or at any activity sponsored, supervised or sanctioned by the school.[1]
Authority
The Board prohibits all forms of bullying by district students.[1]
The Board encourages students who have been bullied to promptly report such incidents to the building principal or designee.
The Board directs that complaints of bullying shall be investigated promptly, and corrective action shall be taken when allegations are verified. Confidentiality of all parties shall be maintained in accordance with applicable law and regulations, consistent with the district’s legal and investigative obligations. No reprisals or retaliation shall occur as a result of good faith reports of bullying.
Every report of alleged bullying that can be interpreted at the outset to fall within the provisions of policies addressing potential violations of laws against discrimination shall be handled as a joint, concurrent investigation into all allegations and coordinated with the full participation of the Compliance Officer and Title IX Coordinator. If, in the course of a bullying investigation, potential issues of discrimination are identified, the Title IX Coordinator shall be promptly notified, and the investigation shall be conducted jointly and concurrently to address the issues of alleged discrimination as well as the incidents of alleged bullying.[2][3]
When a student’s behavior indicates a threat to the safety of the student, other students, school employees, school facilities, the community or others, district staff shall report the student to the threat assessment team, in accordance with applicable law and Board policy.[4][5]
Delegation of Responsibility
Each student shall be responsible to respect the rights of others and to ensure an atmosphere free from bullying.
The Superintendent or designee shall develop administrative guidelines to implement this policy.
The Superintendent or designee shall ensure that this policy and administrative guidelines are reviewed annually with students.[1]
The Superintendent or designee, in cooperation with other appropriate administrators, shall review this policy every three (3) years and recommend necessary revisions to the Board.[1]
District administration shall annually provide the following information with the Safe School Report:[1]
- Board’s Bullying Policy.
- Report of bullying incidents.
- Information on the development and implementation of any bullying prevention, intervention or education programs.
Guidelines
The Code of Student Conduct, which shall contain this policy, shall be disseminated annually to all students.[1][6][7]
This policy shall be accessible in every classroom. The policy shall be posted in a prominent location within each school building and on the district website.[1]
The district may develop and implement bullying prevention and intervention programs. Such programs shall provide district staff and students with appropriate training for effectively responding to, intervening in and reporting incidents of bullying.[1][8][9]
A student who violates this policy shall be subject to appropriate disciplinary action consistent with the Code of Student Conduct, which may include:[1][7][10]
- Student conference.
- Parental conference.
- Referral for counseling.
- Exclusion from school-sponsored activities.
- Detention.
- Suspension.
- Expulsion.
- Referral to law enforcement officials.
Legal
- 24 P.S. 1303.1-A
- Pol. 103
- Pol. 103.1
- 24 P.S. 1302-E
- Pol. 236.1
- 22 PA Code 12.3
- Pol. 218
- 24 P.S. 1302-A
- Pol. 236
- Pol. 233
20 U.S.C. 7118
Pol. 000
Pol. 113.1
Chapter 15 Annual Notice
Chapter 15 Annual Notice
Downingtown Area School District
540 Trestle Place, Downingtown, PA 19335 Phone: 610.269.8540 Fax: 855.329.3273 www.dasd.orgRobert J. O'Donnell, Ed. D Superintendent
Annual Notice to Parents
22 Pa. Code Chapter 15
In compliance with state and federal law, the Downingtown Area School District does not discriminate against protected handicapped students. Also in compliance with state and federal law, the Downingtown Area School District will provide to each protected handicapped student without discrimination or cost to the student or family, those related aids, services or accommodations which are needed to provide equal opportunity to participate in and obtain the benefits of the school program and extracurricular activities to the maximum extent appropriate to the student’s abilities. In order to qualify as a protected handicapped student the child must be of school age with a physical or mental disability which substantially limits or prohibits participation in or access to an aspect of the school program.
These services and protections for “protected handicapped students” are distinct from those applicable to all eligible or exceptional students enrolled (or seeking enrollment) in special education programs.
For further information on the evaluation procedures and provisions of services to protected handicapped students, contact the building principal of your student’s attendance area.