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student/parent handbook 2011-2012 gratz brown elementary accredited with distinction a silver level positive behavior support school bronze level national recognition award from the alliance for a healthier generation 1320 gratz brown moberly mo 65270 660-269-2670 www.moberly.k12.mo.us a professional learning community · · · · · · shared mission vision and values collective inquiry collaborative teams action orientation and experimentation continuous improvement results orientation

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moberly school district s 7 14 21 28 m 1 8 15 22 29 2 9 16 23 30 t august 2011-2012 calendar f 6 13 20 27 w 3 10 17 24 31 5 4 11 12 18 19 25 26 t s dates to remember august 4 5 and 8 registration at gratz brown elementary aug 4 5 10am-6pm aug 8 8am-4pm august 12-15 new teacher work days august 16-22 teacher work days august 23 first day of school full day september 5 no school labor day september 21 mid-quarter progress reports sent home sept 26 september 30 early dismissal for homecoming parade october 20 end of first quarter october 27 early out parent/teacher conferences 2 pm 8 pm october 28 no school parent/teacher conferences 8 am 12 pm november 18 mid-quarter progress reports sent home nov 28 november 23-25 thanksgiving vacation december 22 end of first semester grades sent home jan 6 december 22 early out dec 23-jan 2 christmas vacation january 2 no school teacher work day january 16 no school martin luther king jr birthday february 2 mid-quarter progress reports sent home feb 6 february 20 no school president s day march 7 end of third quarter march 15 early out parent/teacher conferences 2 pm 8 pm march 16 no school parent/teacher conferences 8 am 12 pm march 19 no school spring break april 6-9 easter break progess reports sent home april 13 mid-quarter grades sent home april 18 may 18 ncrs commencement 7:00 pm may 20 commencement 2:00 pm may 22 early out last day of school end of fourth quarter may 23 extended contract day for staff grades distributed by 6/01 s 5 m 6 february t w 1 8 15 22 29 t f 3 s 4 2 9 7 14 21 28 10 11 12 13 19 20 26 27 16 17 18 23 24 25 s 4 11 18 25 m 5 12 19 26 september t w 7 14 21 28 t 1 8 f 2 9 s 3 10 s 4 m 5 t march w 7 t f 2 9 s 3 10 17 24 31 6 13 20 27 1 6 13 20 27 8 11 12 18 19 25 26 14 21 28 15 16 17 22 23 24 29 30 15 16 22 23 29 30 s 2 9 m 3 10 october t w 5 12 19 26 t f 7 s 1 8 15 22 29 s 1 8 m 2 9 t 3 10 17 24 april w 4 t f 6 s 7 14 21 28 4 11 18 25 6 16 17 23 24 30 31 13 14 20 21 27 28 11 18 25 15 16 22 23 29 30 5 12 13 19 20 26 27 s 6 13 20 27 m 7 14 21 28 november t w 2 9 t f 4 s 5 12 19 26 s m t 1 8 15 22 29 may w t 3 10 17 24 31 f 4 11 18 25 s 5 12 19 26 1 8 15 22 29 3 10 11 17 18 24 25 16 23 30 inclement weather make-up days day 1 may 17 day 2 may 18 day 3 may 21 day 4 may 22 day 5 feb 20 day 6 may 23 6 7 13 14 20 21 27 28 2 9 16 23 30 s 4 11 18 25 m 5 december t w 7 14 21 28 t f 2 9 s 3 10 17 24 31 late start mondays arrival schedule moberly high school 8:30 moberly middle school 8:40 north south park 9:45 gratz brown elementary 9:35 s 3 m 4 t 5 12 19 26 june w 6 t 7 14 21 28 f 1 8 15 22 29 s 2 9 16 23 30 1 6 8 12 13 19 20 26 27 15 16 22 23 29 30 10 11 13 20 27 july early-out dismissal schedule moberly high school 12:00 moberly middle school 12:15 north south park 1:00 gratz brown elementary 12:50 17 18 24 25 s 1 8 15 22 29 m 2 9 16 23 30 january twtf 6 13 20 27 s 7 14 21 28 s m 2 9 t 3 10 17 24 31 w 4 t 5 12 19 26 f 6 s 7 3 10 17 24 31 4 11 18 25 5 12 19 26 legend 00 first last day of school 00 late start mondays 00 teacher contract days 1 8 end of quarter no school/vacation 11 18 25 13 14 20 21 27 28 15 16 22 23 29 30 early-out days all mondays that school is in session are late-start days

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table of contents welcome 2 greetings from gratz brown elementary 3 a professional learning community 4 gbe building goals 4 moberly board of education 2011-2012 4 superintendents 4 moberly school district mission/vision statements 5 gratz brown elementary s vision statement 6 gratz brown elementary staff directory 7 supply list 8 daily procedures 9 gbe school hours hours of supervision arrivals tardies late start dismissal from school leaving school early dismissal early departure change of procedure breakfast and lunch school emergency communication and procedures 10 vital information inclement weather and other emergency situations early dismissals school cancellation/closing information early dismissal times notification of safety or security concerns emergency drills gbe promotes success 11 character educationgratz brown student council gratz brown elementary k-kids club academic contests attendance absences absence procedure absence policy doctor and dentist appointments school calendar and updates dress code recess homework homework policies for oss homework suggestions assignment/makeup guidelines nuisance items at school safe school environment damaged property valuables gifts and solicitations room parties and treats flowers/balloons/gift deliveries communication between home and school field trips instructional team support 15 title i reading support computer technology/internet use gifted student program rainbows parent/guardian/family involvement 15 parent information and resource center pirc 16 visitors parents as partners in education pto and parent volunteers pto officers gbe pto calendar of events 2011-12 migrant education program limited english proficiency parent guardian involvement moberly school district school-wide title i parent involvement policy 18 gratz brown elementary school-wide title i 2011-2012 parent involvement plan 18 how to help your intermediate reader become a fluent reader fun activities for intermediate readers the five essential components of reading helping your child succeed as a mathematics student curriculum maps 21 maps third fourth fifth grades art music physical education computer lab counseling library/media center gratz brown elementary library media center policies and procedures 32 hours of operation behavior policy circulation procedures reading counts at gratz brown elementary student placement/instructional grouping 33 student progress evaluation and grading 33 honor roll g.b.e grading scale testing positive behavior support 33 gbe pledge school-wide expectations gratz brown elementary behavior protocol36 major offense or repeated minor offense minor offense major referral definitions minor referral definitions referral location definitions referral possible motivations definitions referral administrative decisions definitions gbe school-wide recognition matrix 39 student code of conduct 40 discipline safe school environment possessing weapons and other contraband expulsion and exemption from school attendance discipline of students with disabilities behaviors resulting in office referrals 42 transportation policy 43 mission statement parent/guardian expectations student expectations bus misconduct/discipline technology discipline plan 46 health services information 47 immunizations health information health screenings health room guidelines illness injuries medication head lice school health and wellness advisory council shwac right to know board policies 49 parents guardians right to know notification of ferpa rights designation of directory information statement of non discrimination protecting student rights student directory information promotion acceleration and retention of students retention student attendance part-time attendance expulsion and exemption from school attendance due process discipline reporting and records student suspension and expulsion alternative academic educational programs search by school personnel notification of rights protection of pupil rights amendment ppra homeless admission of nonresident students special education notice discretionary homebound instruction procedures for students claiming discrimination on the basis of race sex creed color age national origin or handicap home schooling information public complaints public law 107-110 no child left behind 55 definitions missouri department of elementary secondary education nclb complaint procedures who may file a complaint definition of a complaint alternatives for filing complaints informal and formal complaints received by the local education agency informal complaints received by the sea office formal complaints initially received by the sea office appeals decision formal lea complaints against sea complaints against leas received from the united states department of education procedure dissemination federal programs parent/guardian notification gratz brown elementary school student/parent teacher compact 59 gbe school map back cover the school handbook is subject to change during the school year as policies and statutes are updated the online handbooks will be updated with the board approved changes.

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welcome moberly school district elementary students and families dear parents/guardians hello and welcome to another exciting school year i am honored to be sharing a year with you your child and your family at gratz brown elementary as your child s principal i want to take this opportunity to introduce myself to you my name is della bell and i am a product of the moberly public schools as an employee of the moberly school district since 1992-1993 i am vested in making our school system the best that it can be as a former spartan my primary goals include instilling a commitment to excellence in our students and developing pride in our schools as a parent of both a recent mhs graduate and a second grader i am committed to positive growth and change in our schools as a quality education is the key to a successful future i am a lifelong learner and hold a masters degree in curriculum and instruction as well as an endorsement in elementary administration i have completed six semesters of coursework towards earning an executive doctor of education degree from saint louis university i believe that education is about service and i look forward to providing assistance to you during the coming year as we create a partnership to benefit your child s academic and social growth i would also like to take this opportunity to introduce you to gratz brown elementary gbe gbe is an intermediate school educating students in grades three through five we offer a rigorous curriculum based on state and national standards with opportunities for both enrichment and remediation our faculty and staff are committed to creating a positive learning environment through the implementation of the professional learning communities philosophy and by utilizing positive behavior supports pbs gbe was recently recognized for a second year as being an exemplar school for pbs at the silver level to assist with developing proficient readers and writers gratz brown is implementing a balanced literacy model which includes the use of reader s and writer s workshop to allow teachers to work with each learner at his or her ability level our curricular offerings are designed to maximize learning but it takes schools and families working together to help each child reach his or her fullest potential our mission is to work with our families to assist our students please take advantage of the friday folder weekly classroom newsletter the moberly school district webpage sis parent portal and spartan alerts to stay informed regarding your child and gbe s activities please communicate honestly openly and often we invite both constructive criticism and compliments your feedback will assist us in making continual improvements in meeting the needs of students families and patrons i am always willing to listen and assist in solving problems however i encourage you to take concerns first to your child s teacher to give him or her an opportunity to resolve your concern before bringing the issue to me sometimes a concern has not been reported and often after the teacher is made aware of the problem it is easily resolved we are fortunate to have an active and supportive parent teacher organization and it is my hope that you too will want to get involved with this group that provides many benefits for your student please attend conferences and school events to stay up-to-date on what is happening in your school please feel welcome at any time to visit gratz brown elementary of course to maintain a secure environment we ask that you access the building using our doorbell/intercom system and then check in at the office we would love to have you stop by to see firsthand the wonderful things happening at gbe additionally if you are visiting and hope to speak with your child s teacher please call in advance to schedule an appointment we value our instructional time with your child and we do our best to protect the instructional environment from interruptions again let me say that i am delighted to be your child s principal and i look forward to an outstanding year sincerely della m bell 2

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greetings from gratz brown elementary dear gratz brown elementary families i welcome you to gratz brown elementary i have been honored over the past three years to serve as the assistant principal at gbe it is with great honor and pride that we encourage our dedicated faculty parents and students to begin a new school year and be a part of the spartan way tradition i look forward to getting to know each of you as we work together to guide your child towards life long learning and achievement we have a highly qualified and progressive teaching staff that is committed to providing our students with culturally relevant and rigorous instruction using alternative curriculum and resources to enhance student learning their dedication and willingness to do whatever it takes to make sure that each child succeeds is inspiring of course being a parent is the most important role anyone can have as parents we foster every learning moment by discussing our children s goals with them in regards to academics attitude and behavior at gbe we are committed to making children and their education a top priority gratz brown elementary is truly a warm safe and inviting learning environment we strive to create an atmosphere where children are accepted and nurtured in a safe school environment our students are challenged to achieve their highest potential and become respectful responsible and productive members of society children parents staff and the community will work together to meet our goal of excellence through education my goal as the assistant principal is to provide each student with a positive and enjoyable learning experience throughout their academic years the staff and i will encourage each student to work to his/her full potential every day parents share with the school the tremendous responsibility of educating and preparing children to become adults thank you for sharing this responsibility with all of us at gbe one goal at gratz brown elementary is to assist each student to make the most of each day the faculty and staff are committed to utilizing the school-wide positive behavior system the expectations for all of our students are to be respectful responsible and safe together we can make this school year the best at gbe i look forward to another outstanding year of learning sincerely mrs andrea ambroson partners in education gratz brown is proud to have city bank citizens bank crown press sonic drive-in el vaquero mexican restaurant and art s appliance as partners in education these area businesses support gratz brown students and teachers in a variety of ways thank you partners parents and teacher organization gratz brown elementary pto is an active group meeting monthly with the school administrators to consider fund-raisers and other ways to meet the school goals a pto schedule for the 2011-2012 school year is in the parent/guardian/family involvement section of this handbook as well as the front office 3

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the staff at gratz brown elementary school affirms that every child has a right to a quality education that high academic standards must be set and that every child can and will succeed in ways that reflect his or her own aptitudes and interests these goals are accomplished through changing procedures and programs to fit the needs of learners this vision defines the purpose of a professional learning community and becomes both for teachers and students the source of daily inspiration a professional learning community is governed by six guiding principles shared mission vision and values a collective commitment to the guiding principles and beliefs of the people in the school and what they want to create is adopted collective inquiry people in the learning community question current practice take action to improve programs and procedures based on answers to questions and then reflect on the results of changes implemented collaborative teams the basic structure of the professional learning community is a group of collaborative teams that share a common purpose everyone s input is sought out and valued action orientation and experimentation people in professional learning communities recognize that learning always occurs in the context of taking action and they believe engagement and experience are the most effective teachers continuous improvement a professional learning community is always unsatisfied with the status quo and constantly trying to improve upon it results orientation a professional learning community realizes that its efforts must be assessed on the basis of results rather than good intentions a professional learning community · as a professional learning community gbe faculty will improve the performance of all students through implementing quality differentiated instructional strategies the use of pbs and response to intervention rti · gbe will use the six professional learning community plc guiding principles shared mission vision and values collective inquiry collaborative teams action orientation and experimentation continuous improvement and results orientation to enhance staff development and school climate · gbe faculty will strengthen parent and student involvement in educational programs gbe building goals moberly board of education 2011-2012 mr ken asbury mrs amy hager mr dennis mccarter mr jeff lawrence mr bobby riley mrs lisa vanderburg mr dan wilcox superintendents mrs gena mccluskey superintendent mrs kim gaines assistant mr tim roling assistant 4 mr jim johnson special services

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create a safe environment that fosters mutual respect responsibility inspire and value life-long learners the spartan way is excellence for all the moberly school district is committed to a vision of exemplary education the learning environment that we must foster will stimulate intellectual curiosity teach children how to learn and enable them to become productive and effective citizens we value the importance and contributions of the various stakeholders in our learning community this vision statement provides a blueprint of standards that the moberly school district will achieve and maintain ·enthusiastic learning environments are created that include both students and staff ·students are provided different instructional methods that address individual learning styles based on needs ·provide and maintain a positive safe orderly and supportive school environment ·strong bonds are developed and maintained between students and staff during school and outside the school setting ·have high expectations for the achievement of all students while working to meet the individual needs ·strive to grow professionally through ongoing staff development ·work collaboratively to make decisions in the best interest of students ·celebrate achievements dedication and accomplishments ·create a climate focused on student success measured by performance and facilitated by effective instruction ·develop a school culture to facilitate and nurture staff collaboration and participate in decision-making ·establish credibility by modeling behavior consistent with the vision and values of their school ·teach lifelong learning and problemsolving skills ·use community resources for the development of real world learning and application of knowledge ·ensure successful academic student performance in and out of school ·conduct regular curriculum reviews that include all stakeholders ·ensure a continuous review of best instructional practices and implementation in our schools 5 moberly school district mission district vision

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gratz brown elementary s vision statement gratz brown elementary is a partnership of staff parents students and community having a shared vision of · a school in which all students are empowered to be lifelong learners through problem solving creative thinking the use of technology and a commitment to excellence · a school that fosters full communication between all staff parents and students in a unified effort to ensure that every child receives the best education possible · a positive learning environment that supports the educational growth of both staff and students through proactive practices and needed resources · a school that is focused on student learning with high expectations for increased student achievement for all members of a diverse student population · a school that values supports and monitors collaboration · a school that teaches monitors and rewards respect responsibility and safety through the full implementation of pbs · a school that celebrates success and that serves as a source of community pride 6

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gratz brown elementary staff directory 2011-2012 principal della bell assistant principal andrea ambroson team 3a #123 alicia lunsford #124 laura quesal #125 miranda easley #127 dana ross team 4a #169 amanda power #166 jenna henton #168 debbie buckler #167 cecilia lopez team 5a #152 krystal dickinson #151 meredith clougherty #149 brian hudson special education #121 lindsay hunt #150 sharon goen #182 kimber greene #157 chris renner #158 julie wood #128 elizabeth devenport fine arts #113 kristin bell pe #174 josh maize music #173 dale heimann art 269-2670 +2123 269-2670 +2124 269-2670 +2125 269-2670 +2127 269-2670 +2169 269-2670 +2166 269-2670 +2168 269-2670 +2167 269-2670 +2152 269-2670 +2151 269-2670 +2149 269-2670 +2121 269-2670 +2150 269-2670 +2182 269-2670 +2157 269-2670 +2158 269-2670 +2128 269-2670 +2186 269-2670 +2187 team 3b #129 lisa kraus #131 gabe burris #130 gina kennison #132 kori haverstick team 4b #165 cassandra milhollin #159 anne gerlt #160 annica stone #156 agatha noble team 5b #138 sarah showalter #137 kevin morawitz #136 rebecca hess #135 andy roth title i #171 tessa rivera #170 carrie thompson #153 leigh jeffrey 269-2670 +2129 269-2670 +2131 269-2670 +2130 269-2670 +2132 269-2670 +2165 269-2670 +2159 269-2670 +2160 269-2670 +2156 269-2670 +2138 269-2670 +2137 269-2670 +2136 269-2670 +2135 269-2670 +2171 269-2670 +2170 269-2670 +2153 269-2670 +2113 269-2670 +2174 269-2670 +2173 secretaries sandi smyser melissa slater 269-2670 +2120 269-2670 +2122 other area specialists #183 maeghan gunn counselor #195 jackie st clair librarian #126 lee ann collier gifted #178 hilary myers computers #177 laura beeler star interventionist #180 francine nichols home to school liaison #194 nurse #176 debi swetnam aaep/focus room 269-2670 +2183 269-2670 +2195 269-2670 +2126 269-2670 +2178 269-2670 +2177 269-2670 +2180 269-2670 +2194 269-2670 +2176 7

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supply list third grade 1 1 1 60 1 6 2 1 3 8 1 1 2 4 1 1 1 1 box crayons 24 count or less box markers box colored pencils #2 wooden pencils pair scissors pointed glue sticks boxes facial tissue 200 count each 5 x 8 supply box space maker pkg loose-leaf notebook paper wide lined 3-pronged pocket folders 2 blue 2 orange 2 red 2 green yellow high lighter clipboard pkg pencil top erasers mead composition books wide rule pkg index cards 3x5 pkg dark dry erase markers 1 3 ring binder with clear plastic front sleeve vinyl 3 prong pocket folder 36 2 1 1 1 2 1 1 4 2 6 4 1 2 1 1 fourth grade #2 wooden pencils pink erasers not art gum box colored pencils box crayons 24 count or less pair pointed scissors packages of loose-leaf wide lined notebook paper highlighter box for art supplies glue sticks boxes facial tissues 200 count each folders 3-hole pronged pocket 1 red 1 green 1 blue 1 yellow 1 orange and 1 purple spiral wide lined notebooks for journal use composition notebook pkgs of 3x5 index cards container of sanitizing wipes pkg dark dry erase markers fifth grade 1 1 1 1 2 3 5 pair of scissors plastic school supply box package of colored pencils 12 pk glue stick composition notebooks wide-lined spiral notebooks 3-pronged solid colored pocket folders 1 blue 1 red 1 yellow 1 purple and 1 green these items will be kept by the teacher and used for the entire class 48 #2 wooden pencils 2 large boxes of facial tissue 200 count each 1 bottle of glue 1 pkg pencil-top erasers standard not scented 2 pkgs wide ruled notebook paper 3 pkgs index cards 3x5 1 pkg dry erase markers 2pk black no trapper keepers or pens please select any of the following items to bring these items will be kept by the teacher and used for the entire class hand sanitizer extra #2 pencils quart size plastic bags disinfecting wipes please choose 1 or more of the following items to be kept by the teacher and used for the entire class hand sanitizer disinfecting wipes postit notes quart size plastic bags sharpie markers please select any of the following items to bring these items will be kept by the teacher and used for the entire class hand sanitizer extra #2 pencils sandwich size plastic bags dry erase markers glue sticks note cards individual classroom teachers may require additional supplies and additional supplies may be needed 2nd semester moberly public school registration dates august 4-5 and 8 2011 at gratz brown elementary 3rd 4th and 5th grade open house august 22 6:00­7:30 p.m 8

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daily procedures gbe school hours school hours 8:35 a.m 3:35 p.m officehours:7:35a.m 4:05p.m hours of supervision students coming to school before 8:05 a.m or remaining after dismissal at 3:35 p.m are not supervised by school personnel as students arrive after 8:05 a.m they must come into the building and go directly to their designated location after school is dismissed students must leave the school grounds and go directly home or to their designated location because we want all students to be safe it is highly recommended that parents arrange for before or after school care if the parent can not provide supervision prior to 8:05 a.m or after 3:35 p.m arrivals students may begin arriving at 8:05 a.m breakfast is served from 8:05-8:30 a.m it is the parents responsibility to see that their child does not arrive at school before entry time tardies a child who is not in the classroom at 8:35 a.m is considered tardy and must report to the school office before being admitted to class since school is a child s place of business we strongly encourage the habit of punctuality and regular attendance habitual tardiness/unexcused absences will be considered cause for disciplinary action by the school and may include a report to juvenile authorities late start on monday late starts students who ride buses will arrive at 9:05 a.m and classroom learning will begin at 9:35 a.m students who need supervision prior to these times may enter the building beginning at 7:45 a.m breakfast will be offered for students beginning at 9:00 a.m from 7:45 9:00 a.m students will rotate between learning activities focusing on reading writing and math dismissal from school gbe is dismissed at 3:35 p.m daily students who ride buses will be dismissed through the front doors those students who are walkers will be dismissed to the south doors under adult supervision parents picking up students are encouraged to follow arrows through the south parking lot going around the school and should pick up their child from the gym doors students are not supervised after 3:35 p.m and parents are responsible for ensuring that students are supervised directly following dismissal leaving school students are not allowed to leave the school campus during school hours for any reason without the knowledge and consent of the school office permission to leave the school grounds will only be granted upon the written or verbal request from the student s parent/guardian phone requests to allow the child to leave will only be accepted when school personnel can assure the identity of the caller additionally students will only be dismissed to those individuals authorized/listed on the registration card unless a parent gives written consent or calls the office again this is for the safety of our students early dismissal the district calendar indicates days of early dismissals and late starts due to various events see inside front of handbook on early dismissal days school will dismiss at 12:50 p.m lunch will be served before students leave school please arrange for after school care for both scheduled and unscheduled early dismissals resulting from inclement weather early departure when a child is to be excused early it would be in the best interest of your child s safety if you adhere to the following procedure 1 parents or guardians should pick up the child 2 report to the office and we will have your child meet you there 3 if you are unable to pick up your child send a note to the teacher/office indicating the time you want your child excused parents are asked to make such requests for legitimate reasons only 4 during dismissal procedures parents are not to request their child be called to the office change of procedure parents/guardians should send a note if a child is to do something other than his/her normal routine before after or during the school day we need to know where your child is going how they are to get there whom they are going with etc because we want our students to be safe we will not deviate from the normal routine without written or verbal consent phone calls can be accepted if positive identification of the caller can be assured by school personnel 9

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breakfast and lunch breakfast schedule lunch schedule 8:05 8:30 a.m 10:50 a.m 12:50 p.m full price child 60 adult $1.00 full price child 85 adult $1.50 reduced price 25 reduced price 25 a breakfast and hot lunch program are provided in all buildings for students in the moberly public school district the lunch schedules for regular and early dismissal days are provided to parents by classroom teachers to allow planning for parents/guardians to join their child for lunch or breakfast we invite all parents/guardians to come to eat with their child parents may bring or purchase a lunch our cooks prepare extra portions of the #1 lunch choice therefore parents wanting choice #2 or #3 should send a note to order that selection at the beginning of the day notes are always helpful and our cooks appreciate knowing how much food to prepare it is also helpful if you provide small bills or correct change when going through the lunch line to pay for an adult lunch we look forward to seeing you at lunch students may choose to pack their lunches if packing a lunch you are asked to consider a balanced nutritious menu soda pop and other carbonated beverages are not permitted in packed lunches free and reduced price meals are available for those who meet the income guidelines established by the united states department of agriculture applications for our meals assistance program may be picked up at any school office families who qualify for this program may apply anytime during the school year this information is kept confidential students who receive free and reduced price meals are treated the same as children who purchase meals in the operation of child nutrition programs no child will be discriminated against because of race sex color national origin age or handicap school emergency communication and procedures vital information it is very important for emergency and administrative reasons that every student maintains up-to-date records at the school office notify the school immediately if you have a change of address or any other important information such as phone number emergency contact marital status etc during the school year each student is required to have the following current information on file at the school office 1 parents guardians name 2 complete and up-to-date address 3 home phone and parents/guardians work phone 4 name address and phone number of a person to contact in case parent/guardian cannot be reached 5 physician s name and phone number 6 medical alert information inclement weather and other emergency situations early dismissals when it is necessary to close school due to inclement weather or other emergencies the local radio stations kres kwix kzzt kirk and television station komu 8 will be notified immediately following the decision in times of bad weather listen to the radio in order to hear such announcements do not call the school as phone lines cannot handle the large influx of inquiries school cancellation/closing information kres 104.7 fm kwix 1230 am kzzt 105.5 fm kirk 99.9 fm television station komu 8 the spartan alert system is also utilized to inform parents of inclement weather closings and school events you may sign-up at http my.textcaster.com/servepopup.aspx?id=1067 in the event of an early school closing students will be sent home by their regular mode of transportation unless school is notified differently please make sure your child knows where he/she is to go in case of early dismissal in the case of early school closing the following is a list of each school with their early dismissal time early dismissal times middle school/ncrms 12:15 p.m vocational center/sr high 12:00 noon south park/north park 1:00 p.m gratz brown elementary 12:50 p.m 10

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notification of safety or security concerns notification of safety and security concerns to parents/guardians by the district may include 1 written notice 2 information to local media see radio list 3 personal parent contact emergency drills safety is important to our school monthly fire drills will be conducted in addition to periodic earthquake tornado and intrusion drills gbe promotes success character education character education goes along with building a professional learning community and positive behavior supports through a focus on developing good character traits or virtues in our students monthly character traits are taught in classrooms throughout the building the goal is to assure that all students on leaving school will have developed a keen sense of personal and civic responsibility character traits are taught both by word and deed the aim of gratz brown elementary school is to use these tools to build a better world for children august/september respect october cooperation november responsibility december compassion january perseverance february honesty march self discipline april positive attitude may patience gratz brown student council gratz brown elementary student council is a group of 5th grade students who take an active role in our school the group is comprised of two students from each 5th grade classroom students are selected by their classmates at the beginning of the school year students are encouraged to nominate and vote for classmates who exhibit good character are fair and have leadership potential student council has participated in fund-raising activities helped plan our annual gbe field day helped with implementation of new ideas in our school and participated in spirit day for the map test students have a 5th grade teacher sponsor the group meets twice a month before school stuco members are expected to attend meetings actively participate follow gbe rules and communicate with the student body gratz brown elementary k-kids club k-kids is the youngest and fastest growing service organization for elementary students worldwide k-kids is designed for students in grades 1 through 5 ages 6 to 12 k-kids is a student-led community-service organization which operates under school regulations and draws its members from the student body k-kids is unique because it s sponsored by the moberly kiwanis club composed of leading business and professional people of the community faculty sponsors will also be involved in assisting the gbe k-kids club the k-kids pledge as a k-kid i promise to serve my neighborhood and my school i will show respect toward my environment and i will try to make the world a better place in which to live the k-kids motto is we build and its objectives are · to provide opportunities for working together in service to school and community · to develop leadership potential · to foster and develop strong moral character · to encourage loyalty to school community and nation academic contests gratz brown elementary students participate in academic contests in order to showcase academic performance our students have the opportunity to be involved in several competitions including the mctm elementary student mathematics regional contest the cmu middle school math and science competition and the renick spelling bee as well as several poetry and essay contests conducted throughout the year 11

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attendance/absences attendance is a vital part of your child s education the board of education shall provide free public education to all students who are residents of the school district and who are between the ages of five and 21 years therefore all enrolled students should make every effort to arrive at school on time and to remain at school for the duration of the school day absence procedure if a student is absent please call the front office to leave a message for the attendance secretary or send a letter in with your child on the day they return to school to verify the absence absence policy all absences are classified as either verified or unverified a verified absence is for one of the following reasons 1 personal illness 2 illness in the family 3 quarantine for contagious disease 4 death in immediate family 5 observance of a religious holiday and is supported by a note from the parent and/or doctor that must be received within two school days of returning to school an unverified absence will be counted for all other reasons and is not supported by a note from the parent within two days of return to school accumulatingexcessivecombinedverifiedandunverifiedabsenceswillalsoresultinareferraltothejuvenileoffice attendance letters are sent to families when students miss 5 7 and 10 days whether it be for excused or unexcused reasons when a student misses 5 unexcused days of school the home school communicator will contact the family either through a home visit or phone call to establish the reasons for the absences and to offer possible services after 7 unexcused absences the student will be enrolled in the school s attendance club facilitated by the school counselor when a student misses 10 or more unexcused days of school or has a percentage of attendance lower than 80 the school will notify the randolph county juvenile office for assistance with persistent attendance problems when your child is absent from school it is his/her responsibility to make up all assignments and tests this is done by contacting the teacher for those assignments if you would like to pick up your child s school work please contact the school office in the morning and plan to pick up the homework at the end of the school day when your child is going to be absent for an extended period of time please contact the office or classroom teacher so plans can be made to arrange assignments students are usually granted one day to complete assignments for each day missed working together and communicating will create a quality education for all students especially during times of absence doctor and dentist appointments students are expected to make every effort to schedule doctor dentist and other appointments outside of school hours should it be necessary to visit the doctor dentist or other appointments during school hours the absence will be counted as an excused absence for attendance purposes school calendar and updates the school calendar for the current year can be found on the inside cover during the year in-service days are scheduled for professional development of staff and for parent/teacher conferences we appreciate your cooperation with the scheduling of the in-service days please keep in mind that inclement weather may result in school cancellations and consequent changes in the school calendar the calendar can also be modified by school board action at anytime during the school year these changes are rare occurrences and you will be notified by your child s school if any changes are recommended and approved by the board thank you for your cooperation dress code the moberly public schools district encourages all students to dress in a manner that reflects good taste and a style appropriate for regular school day attendance students are expected to dress in a fashion which will not 1 disrupt the educational process 2 constitute a health or safety hazard 3 promote the proliferation of gang-related activity or 4 violate civil law or district policy the school administration recommends that each student be well groomed clean and neatly dressed at all times recognizing that some students will abuse dress privileges the following limitations will be enforced 1 extreme brevity of attire will not be acceptable examples short shorts excessively short skirts low cut shirts form fitting clothing i.e biker shorts bare-midriff clothing upon raising arms the students midriff is exposed halter-tops tube tops unless covered by appropriate outer garments etc all shirts must cover the waistband 12

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p. 15

shorts skirts and shirts are defined by length if a student s fingertips are not longer than the hem of the leg edge then the shorts skirts are too short all shoulder straps must be 2 in width for both shirts and dresses 3 hats bandannas sunglasses and other forms of headgear shall not be worn within the school building and are to be removed upon entering the building 4 forms of clothing that must not be worn in school a advertisement of alcohol tobacco drugs and other types of controlled substances b inappropriately suggestive c demeaning to others d profane or obscene e specifically relate to gang-type activity 5 no excessively baggy clothes will be permitted all pants must be pulled up on the waist at all times 6 appropriate shoes should be worn to allow for participation in classroom and physical education activities 7 no other disruptive attire any time a student is dressed in such a way that the educational process is being disrupted the student will be referred to the building administrator who will make the final determination as to the appropriateness of the student s dress recess it is the belief that periods of fresh air and exercise are necessary for children to perform their best all pupils have a scheduled recess period each day on the playground or in case of extreme inclement weather in their room or in the gymnasium parents/guardians are reminded to dress children so they are prepared to go outside for recess during cold weather parents/guardians who do not wish their children to go outside for recess due to illness or injury should send a note the note should specify the reason for the child s exclusion from recess and the days the child is to remain inside this is for the purpose of recovering from an illness or injury only all children are expected to participate in recess unless they are ill or injured students who request not to participate in recess for an extended period will be required to present a physician s statement homework homework is important it is an extension of the learning that takes place in school homework provides practice that reinforces classroom learning and provides opportunities for independent study research and creative thinking parents/guardians can help their children by arranging a quiet comfortable place for the students to work and by seeing that assignments are completed homework requests for students who are absent may be made before 9:00 a.m and picked up at the end of the school day sometimes it takes longer to gather materials to be sent with the assignments individual teachers will provide parents with homework policies homework policies for oss to ensure that the educational program is free from disruption or interference the staff of gratz brown elementary school endorses a policy of disciplinary action that is prompt consistent firm fair predictable and commensurate with the offense committed the first objective of our policy is to help each child develop self-regulated behavior and the second is to ensure the right of each child to a safe and orderly learning environment students who have earned out of school suspension may request their assignments for no credit to keep up with what is happening in their classes homework suggestions homework is an important part of a child s learning the purpose of homework is to provide additional practice to prepare for future lessons and to encourage the child to work independently parents can help their children by emphasizing the importance of homework reserve a specific time and turn off the television show an interest in your child s assignments but do not do the work for them understand that the school expects the homework to be completed neatly and returned promptly homework amounts vary from grade to grade therefore we encourage you to set aside a minimum study time each evening this time could be used for daily assignments review test preparation long range assignments or reading students who have been absent are expected to make up all missed work if a student will be absent for more than 1 or 2 days be sure to contact your child s teacher by note or phone so that you can make arrangements to come for the missed assignments assignment/makeup guidelines students may make up all of their assignments under the following conditions 1 students are responsible for getting their work from the teacher 2 students have one day to turn in makeup work for every day they have been absent unless alternative arrangements are made with the teacher due to extenuating circumstances 3 if a student is in attendance for part of a day he/she is responsible for getting and turning in assignments in the classes that are missed when due 13 2.

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