PLEASE SIGN, DETACH AND RETURN THIS SHEET TO SCHOOL TOMORROW.

After reviewing this handbook with your child(ren), please complete the information below, and return this form to school.

Student Name(s) _____________________________________________________________

Grade(s)/Teacher(s) ___________________________________________________________

_____ I do give my permission for my child(ren), _________________________________, to appear in media releases authorized by the administration of Hathaway School. Further, I do give my permission for my child(ren to be included in any videotaped events/activities authorized by the administration of Hathaway School.

_____ I do not give my permission for my child(ren), ___________________________________, to appear in media releases authorized by the administration of Hathaway School. Further, I do not give my permission for my child(ren to be included in any videotaped events/activities authorized by the administration of Hathaway School.

2. Student Access to Network Information (see Appendix B for School Committee Policy 5150)

We understand the Portsmouth School Department's Student Access to networked Information and agree to abide with the terms of the Policy.

Parent Signature ______________________________________________________

Child(ren)'s Signature(s) ________________________________________________

3. I have received and reviewed the information in the Hathaway School Handbook with my child(ren). We are aware of the regulations and policies.

Parent Signature ____________________________________________________

Date _________________________________________________

THANK YOU FOR YOUR COOPERATION!

Portsmouth School Department

Strategic Plan

2000-2005

Portsmouth School Department Mission Statement

Our mission is to create a comprehensive teaching and learning environment which provides opportunities for all students to reach their fullest potential, become responsible citizens, self-directed individuals and life-long learners.

Vision Statement

We are a community that provides a comprehensive educational learning environment, that fully integrates a program of academics, leadership and extra curricular activities.

We serve Portsmouth by developing motivate citizens who exhibit the highest standards of educational and social responsibility.

Reviewed: October 2000

Howard W. Hathaway School

Portsmouth, Rhode Island

Mission Statement

The mission of Hathaway School is to educate all students to their greatest potential and to inspire them to be respectful, confident and motivated life-long learners and contributing members of society, with the commitment of the community, parents, students and staff and through a challenging curriculum presented in a safe, nurturing environment.

Vision

The Howard W. Hathaway School environment will be one that stimulates and supports continuous growth through caring interaction and collaboration among staff, the community and parents.

Each student will demonstrate progressive development of the knowledge, skills and values needed to function effectively in a complex and changing world. These include:

Howard W. Hathaway School

Portsmouth, Rhode Island

Mission Statement

The mission of Hathaway School is to educate all students to their greatest potential and to inspire them to be respectful, confident and motivated life-long learners and contributing members of society, with the commitment of the community, parents, students and staff and through a challenging curriculum presented in a safe, nurturing environment.

Vision

The Howard W. Hathaway School environment will be one that stimulates and supports continuous growth through caring interaction and collaboration among staff, the community and parents.

Each student will demonstrate progressive development of the knowledge, skills and values needed to function effectively in a complex and changing world. These include:

Howard W. Hathaway School Handbook

Welcome to the Hathaway Elementary School Community.

Our mission is to create a safe, friendly, community-oriented environment, which will build a foundation for learning, will challenge and inspire our students to reach their fullest potential, and will encourage pride and respect, while developing a life long love of learning and a desire to become a contributing citizen.

This handbook is the work of staff with parent input. It is intended to communicate the information you need while you are a part of the Hathaway School community.

8:35 Students may be dropped off/buses arrive

8:50 Classes begin

11:20 - 12:15 Lunch and Recess – Grades 1 & 2

11:20 End of AM Kindergarten Session

12:20 Beginning of PM Kindergarten Session

12:20 - 1:15 Lunch/Recess Grades 3 & 4

2:50 Dismissal * (Also refer to Section 2.5 Dismissal)

School begins at 8:50 A.M. and ends at 2:50 P.M. (Kindergarten morning session is 8:50 A.M. until 11:20 P.M.: afternoon session is from 12:20 P.M. until 2:50 P.M.) This six hours of instruction is needed to prepare students for meeting the standards set by the Rhode Island Department of Education. Children being transported to school by private car should not arrive prior to 8:35 A.M. as proper supervision cannot be guaranteed.

Breakfast is available for $1.00 for children in grades 1-4. Children will eat breakfast in the cafetorium or take it to their classroom. Children are taken to the cafetorium to eat lunch. They may either purchase lunch or bring a lunch from home. If your child brings in a lunchbox or a thermos, please take the time to mark or identify these items. A hot lunch is offered daily at the cost of $1.80. Milk is available for $.50. Free or reduced breakfast and lunches are available to those families meeting the Federal guidelines. An application must be filled out and returned to the school office. Snacks may also be purchased at lunch time.

At the beginning of each school year that parents must fill out forms providing information: emergency medical information, travel information, early release instructions, babysitter information, free or reduced lunch eligibility and medication requirements. Forms for this information will be sent home with each child on the first day of school. These cards are vitally important to ensure the safety and well-being of your child. These forms should be filled out and returned to the school immediately.

You must inform the office in writing if your child will be cared for by someone other than yourself while you are out of town. Please make sure that all medical authorization forms have been completed and that the school has a copy before you leave.

Please be sure to keep the school office informed of any change of address, telephone, emergency contacts, so that we may ensure your child's safety and maintain contact with you.

During each week children will be exposed to various co-curricular disciplines. These include instruction in physical education, art, music and library. Information on the various programs may be obtained from your child's teacher. We make every effort to integrate these disciplines with regular classroom curricula.

The school day ends at 2:50 P.M. If you are picking up your child at the end of the school day, please do so between 2:45 and 2:55 P.M. to avoid bus problems or classroom interruptions. Regular buses are dismissed between 2:50 P.M. and 3:00 P.M. The regular pick-up dismissal procedure is outlined above (section 2.0), however, if it is necessary to pick your son or daughter up during the day for a appointment, please notify your child's teacher by note so that arrangements can be made. Students will not be released to anyone other than a parent without prior communication. It is also necessary for you to sign your child out in a book provided in the office/library for that purpose.

If an emergency situation arises that requires that the child be dismissed early, a parent or designee must come to the school for dismissal. Please do not request dismissal via a telephone call. For the child's safety, the policy is that no child well be released as a result of a phone message.

An attempt will be made to reach you if a problem or question arises concerning the dismissal of your child. (i.e., Your child states that you will be picking him/her up and the school does not have a note.) If no contact is made, your child will be dismissed under his/her normal routine. Please understand that with responsibility for more than four hundred students this policy will be strictly enforced.

Also, students may ride a bus different than their assigned bus (if sufficient room is available) and/or get dropped off at a different stop. The office must receive such a request in writing at the beginning of each day so that a pass may be issued.

Students are not to be dropped off at school before 8:30 A.M. Please have students exit your vehicle via the passenger door, directly to the sidewalk. Never drop off students so that they need to cross the road or pass between buses.

Please remember: State law prohibits passing a bus with flashing lights. You will be subject to a $500 fine.

The following dismissal procedures are in effect for students at Hathaway School:

* Normal dismissal on regular bus.

* Dismissal on same bus, but at a different stop -- Note required.

* Dismissal on a different bus than designated -- Note required. A bus pass will be issued only if space is available. Please check with the office to determine if the bus has ample room before you send in a note for dismissal on a different bus. The buses have a maximum number of students allowed to ride them. This limits the number of children who may receive a pass.

* Student is picked up at school -- Note required (Please avoid telephoning the school.)

Students who will be picked up need to bring a note to school stating the responsible person who will be in charge of picking up the student.

At 2:45 P.M. all students who are identified for pick up (appointments, Brownies, etc.) will be dismissed by the office to the School library where they must report to the duty teacher(s).

A sign out book will be kept in the Library by a teacher assigned for the purpose.

It is the responsibility of the person signing out the students to identify him/herself to the duty teacher before taking a student from the building. No children should be signed out before they are actually in the Library.

Note: If you are not known to the duty teacher, you will be asked to provide proof of identity. Please wait for your child in the library,

Children's appearance and dress should be neat and clothes should be appropriate for the season of the year. For young children, clothing which can be easily zippered, buttoned or snapped is most desirable. During winter and early spring, children should be dressed warmly enough since they will be participating in outdoor recess sessions. Hats and mittens should be worn as appropriate. If your child wears boots, shoes or slippers should be sent in a bag to wear during school hours. School Committee Policy states that hats will not be worn in the buildings.

On days when your child will be participating in physical education class, sneakers (please no black soles) should be worn. Children should not wear flip flops because they are unsafe. Girls should wear shorts or pants on these days.

Please mark or identify all garments and personal belongings. This will help identify the owners of many lost and found items.

A list of suggested supplies particular to each grade may be forthcoming at the end or beginning of the year. The school charges no supply fees and provides all necessary books.

Students are not allowed to bring balls whose size and shape allow them to fit into the eye socket. This includes tennis balls, baseballs, superballs etc. The school provides basketballs, soccer balls and jump ropes for student use.

Please do not allow your child to bring valuables to school as it is difficult to ensure the safety of such items. If small valuables are found, they will be held in the front office instead of in the lost and found area. In addition, toy weapons, radios, hand held video games, tape recorders, electronic devices, telephones, permanent markers etc. are not allowed as the school cannot be responsible for accidental damage.

Please be mindful of other students feelings when sending in invitations for birthdays. Sending invitations may cause embarrassment to some students. It is the school policy that we do not give class lists to students and parents which contain telephone numbers and addresses. We consider this information confidential.

All children have the right to be educated in a safe and nurturing environment. Therefore, each school will enforce a policy of Zero Tolerance for weapons and violence in schools.

If your child is absent, please call the school at 683-0500 or fax information to 683-0525 between the hours of 8:00 A.M. and 9:00 A.M. If you know that an absence will be necessary ahead of time, please send a note to school. A child who has been absent from school must present a written excuse briefly explaining the reasons for the absence upon his/her return. The note should be given to the child's teacher. When a child is late arriving at school, he/she must be signed in at the office prior to reporting to his/her classroom to assure accuracy in attendance records. Your cooperation in following these guidelines is greatly appreciated. These policies are intended to ensure the safety and welfare of the children.

If a child is absent for more than one day, the parent may request to have homework sent home. If this option is desired, the parent, on the second day of the absence, must make this request by calling the school by 10:00 A.M.

In the event of inclement weather or some other unusual occurrence, a school cancellation may occur. Cancellation announcements well be made over the following radio/television channels.

Radio: WADK AM 1540 WHJJ AM 920 WSAR AM 1480 WPRO AM 630

WPRO FM 92.3 WHJY FM 94.1 WRX FM 103.7 WBRU FM 95.5

Television: Channel 6 WLNE Channel 10 WJAR Channel 12 WPRI

There may be some days when the start of school is delayed. Morning kindergarten classes will be cancelled on a day where a delayed opening is required. However, afternoon kindergarten classes will usually occur as scheduled. Please listen carefully to radio/television announcements as occasionally weather conditions worsen and a delayed opening announcement may be changed to a school cancellation announcement.

Schools may be dismissed early in the event of a developing adverse weather condition. Such an occurrence will also be announced on radio and television stations. On the first day of school, a slip will be sent home, asking the parent to identify the desired method of dismissal on an unexpected early dismissal. These instructions are maintained in the office and are followed in the event of an early dismissal. Please discuss the desired method with your child. Dismissal on these days will occur in the normal sequence (high school students first, followed by middle school students, and then elementary school students). It is difficult to predict the actual time your child will arrive home on these days, as buses are usually delayed due to weather conditions.

School Committee Policy requires that all non-school personnel must check in at the school office anytime they enter the building, for any reason. After signing in, visitors will be issued a badge. Please help by abiding by this policy, as it is in place to ensure the safety of the children.

If you are visiting or transporting your child to or from school, please do not block the circle in front of the building. Also, please remember to follow normal driving regulations in regard to buses that may be loading or unloading at the time of your visit. State law does not allow you to pass a school bus with flashing lights. This law included buses in front of the school picking up students.

Laidlaw Transportation (683-5130) is the company responsible for transporting our students. With the review and approval of the Portsmouth School Department bus routes and schedules are compiled.

Your son or daughter is expected to ride on his/her assigned bus each day unless prior arrangements and space determination has been made with the Hathaway School main office by sending a note for your child to receive a bus pass to ride a different bus or get off at a different stop. Video cameras are in use on all K-12 buses.

There is a delicate balance between meeting the needs of the group by maintaining social order and meeting the unique needs of each student. We believe that the best decisions are based on a value system that maintains the dignity of each student. Behaving responsibly is more valued than behaving obediently.

We advocate a discipline model that is structured, but does contain a certain amount of flexibility.

Our program principles are:

* Effectively deal with student behavior.

* Always treat students with dignity.

* Integrate discipline with effective teaching.

3.9 CARE OF SCHOOL PROPERTY

Students are expected to take reasonable care of school property. Students are held accountable for damaged or lost books. Defacements of school property will result in disciplinary action. Students will be financially responsible for damages.

3.10 EXPECTATIONS FOR BEHAVIOR

Schoolwide Expectations:

* Movement in and around the school is achieved by walking quietly.

* All children are expected to use appropriate manners (i.e., excuse me, thank you, etc.) and show respect for others in the school community.

* All children are expected to address school personnel by their appropriate titles (Mr., Mrs., Ms, Dr.).

* Appropriate use of school facilities and materials is encouraged and expected.

* A quiet signal (one arm raised, hand forming L with two fingers) is taught and used consistently throughout the school community to gain attention from our children. * Children are expected to look directly at the leader and listen quietly.

Cafetorium Expectations:

To ensure a safe and pleasant lunch, the following procedures have been established:

* Children are expected to show general school aides (GSA) respect and follow their directions.

* Children sit with their classmates at an assigned table.

* Children place their jackets on adjoining seats during lunch.

* For the first ten minutes of lunch, children eat with minimal talking. This is to allow time for the children to eat their lunch.

* The QUIET hand signal is used to alert children to listen to instructions or to lower the noise level.

* Due to the poor acoustics, as well as, the large number of children in the cafetorium at one time, children are asked to use an inside voice when talking in the cafetorium.

* All children are expected to raise their hand to ask for assistance from the lunch aides.

* Children are expected to walk at all times in the cafetorium.

* Children will be dismissed, by class, at the end of the lunch period. At that time, they throw trash away and line up for dismissal.

Recess Expectations:

In order to maintain a safe outdoor play environment, the following procedures have been established:

* Children are expected to show GSAs respect and follow their directions.

* Children entering and exiting the building are expected to do so in a quiet and orderly fashion.

* Children must get permission from a GSA to return to the building separate from their class.

* At the end of recess, the GSAs will signal the children to form lines to return to the building. Children are expected to form orderly lines quickly and quietly.

* Certain areas of the playground may be designated for specific use. Children will be informed of those designations.

* No sharp objects (pencils, pens, scissors, etc.) are to be brought outdoors to play area.

* For all our children's safety, any ball small enough to fit in eye socket is not allowed on school property.

* Baseballs and bats are not allowed on the playground.

* Only soft footballs (Nerf) and "tag" football games are allowed.

* Fighting, wrestling, 'horseplay', misuse of equipment, throwing any objects, or climbing the fence or trees is not allowed and will result in disciplinary action.

* Appropriate and safe play is essential.

Play Fair games, which support non-competitive behaviors and team building, are taught through our physical education program and reinforced by guidance activities. These games are encouraged and often facilitated by staff on the playground during recess time.

Indoor recess:

* Children are expected to play quietly in their classroom areas.

* Running and 'horseplay' behaviors are unacceptable and will result in disciplinary actions.

* The general school aides supervise children in their classrooms. Board games and computer programs are made available by the teacher.

3.10.1 CONSEQUENCES FOR STUDENT'S BEHAVIOR

Children learn to be responsible members of a community by being given certain expectations and choices. When children make choices, they are held accountable for the choices they make -- both appropriate and inappropriate choices result in consequences.

Children are recognized by staff for appropriate behavior in a number of positive ways; positive verbal recognition, positive cues (smile, pat on the back, thumbs up signal) and special treats (stickers, certificates, etc.)

When a staff member cites inappropriate behavior by a student, the staff will do one or more of the following:

* Provide a verbal warning to the student concerning the inappropriate behavior.

* Redirect the student to end the negative behavior and/or prevent the student from getting involved in a negative situation.

* Provide a time-out to allow the student to refocus and correct a negative behavior. A pre-designated area will be identified to students at "time-out" area. Student will be expected to sit quietly in time-out until directed to rejoin the group by the adult.

Certain behaviors will be brought to the principal's attention by bringing the student directly to his/her office. These serious infractions include throwing of objects on playground (i.e., rocks), deliberate injury to another student, verbal abuse, using physical means to address a situation. If a child is sent to the office for any of the above-mentioned behaviors, parents will be notified and the principal will make them aware of consequences which at times may result in a suspension (see Enforcement of Zero Tolerance for Violence and Weapons policy in handbook).

3.11 ENFORCEMENT FOR "ZERO TOLERANCE" AND WEAPONS POLICY

The Portsmouth School Department has adopted a Zero Tolerance policy for its schools. Any student found to be in possession of a weapon, or involved in an aggravated assault will be subject to immediate disciplinary action. (School Committee policy #5700) Further information on this and all school department policies can be obtained in the main office.

Elementary age children and their parents are reminded that Zero Tolerance includes children in possession of toy guns, plastic knives, pocket knives and sling shots. Please monitor your children's possession of these items.

3.12 HOLIDAY/BIRTHDAY PARTIES

Each teacher establishes his/her own policy on the scale and/or frequency of "classroom parties". Please direct all inquiries to the classroom teacher prior to the event.

3.13 FIRE DRILLS/EVACUATION PLAN

Fire drills occur on a regular basis. State law requires each school to conduct fifteen such drills each year. Children are given instruction on building exit procedures. Children are expected to behave in a calm orderly manner during these exercises. Please review with your child the importance of such exercises and emphasize the need for responsible behavior.

The Portsmouth School Department acknowledges the need to be prepared to address crisis situations that might arise in school. A Crisis Management Plan which clearly stipulates what is to be done and by whom is available in the Hathaway School office.

3.14 LOST AND FOUND

There is a "lost and found" box in the school. Any misplaced belongings are usually put in the box. If our child loses any article, he/she should do the following:

Unclaimed items are donated to charity at the end of each quarter.

3.15 HOME/SCHOOL COMMUNICATION

All notes sent to school should be directed to the classroom teacher who will forward the information to the appropriate personnel. If at any time you need to contact your child's teacher, either write a note directly to the teacher or leave a phone message for the teacher with the office. It is school policy not to interrupt a classroom for telephone messages except in an emergency. It is often difficult to reach teachers during the school days and they will generally return phone calls during their planning periods, before or after school hours. Please let the teacher know where you can be reached.

In the event that a parent/teacher conference is desired, it is best to arrange a time that is convenient to both you and the teacher so that the teacher will not be taken away from the classroom during school activities. We encourage any parent who may have questions about a child's progress to come in for a conference with the teacher or principal.

There are occasions at Hathaway School for which a photographer from the media is present to take pictures of our children. Frequently, such photographs include children as part of a group and are printed in media without children's names. Sometimes, children may be identified in these photographs. Additionally, there are times when video events in the classroom at Hathaway School. Videotaping is done to record special events so that parents who could not attend can view the events at home with their child. Videotaping also provides a visual record of activities happening during the children's school year. We may also video the teachers and children engaged in learning activities from time to time for our professional development use. A form will be sent to you at the beginning of the school year so that you may indicate your preference regarding your child's inclusion in any videotaping or media releases. Please be sure to complete the form and return it to your child's teacher.

3.16 OPEN HOUSE

An open house is scheduled early in the school year in order for the teachers and students' families to have the opportunity to meet one another. This time will be used to get acquainted with your child's teachers and school environment. Historically, this is a appropriate time to bring the family to school to visit and meet old friends.

3.17 GUIDANCE

The school counselor serves many roles within the school community at Hathaway School. These include being an advocate for students, a facilitator between teachers, parents, and specialists, as well as, being another person within the school building that students can go to if they need help or advice. During the school year, the counselor goes into classrooms to present lessons and discussions on subjects such as social skills, personal safety and community. Small group counseling, one to one counseling and parent conferences are also part of the counselor's role.

3.18 PARENT RESOURCES

A growing collection of materials of interest to parents is located in the Parent's Section of our school library. Books and tapes on parenting, child development, learning problems and book selection guides are included. Parents are invited to visit the library and check out these materials for use at home.

3.19 TRANSFERS

In the event that you are leaving Hathaway School community during the school year, please advise the school office as far in advance as possible so that your child's records may be ready for transfer or pick up. Records cannot be released until the final day of enrollment.

3.20 VIDEOTAPING/MEDIA RELEASE

There are occasions at Hathaway School for which a photographer from the media is present to take pictures of our children. Frequently, such photographs include children as part of a group and are printed in media without children’s names. Sometimes, children may be identified in these photographs. Additionally, there are times when we video events in the classrooms at Hathaway School. Videotaping is done to record special events so that parents who could not attend can view the events at home with their child. Videotaping also provides a visual record of activities happening during the children’s school year. We may also video the teachers and children engaged in learning activities from time to time for our professional development use. A form will be sent to you at the beginning of the school year so that you may indicate your preference regarding your child’s inclusion in any videotaping or media releases. Please be sure to complete the form and return it to your child’s teacher.

4.0 ACADEMICS

All of the Portsmouth elementary schools' subjects are oriented toward the development of basic academic skills. The Open Court Correlated Reading and Language Arts Program is used in grades 1-3 in the elementary schools. It has three main purposes: 1) to teach children to read and write independently, 2) to acquaint children with outstanding literary selections, and 3) to provide meaningful correlation of all the Language Arts. To achieve these goals, the Open Court Program utilizes an intensive synthetic phonics approach. Chapter books and the Six Traits of Effective Writing are also used to develop language arts skills.

The elementary mathematics program utilizes various texts, teacher made materials and exercises that promote the concepts contained in the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics Standards (NCTM) which emphasizes problem solving and the use of manipulatives. A copy of the NCTM standards is located in the Hathaway School library.

Social studies and science are implemented in the elementary grades in accordance with the kindergarten through grade twelve curricula and as with the mathematics program, strive to attain the concepts and standards as created by the various national groups who are developing the standards. The science program uses a hands-on, inquiry based approach called Kits in Teaching Elementary Science (KITES). The curriculum focuses on the process -- "doing what scientists do".

Copies of the various curricula can be viewed in the school library.

Computers are an integral part of your child's education. Computers are located in Kindergarten through Grade 4 classrooms. Grades K-4 use PC computers with a variety of age-appropriate software connected to curricula. The library has several stand-alone personal computers that are used by various classes for research purposes.

Each elementary school has an excellent collection of children's literature. Students are taught library science and are encouraged to borrow books. Each student is responsible for the care and return of the borrowed books. In the case of lost books, students will be assessed for the loss. In addition, our Librarian provides a variety of literacy enrichment opportunities for our children.

4.1 HOMEWORK

Homework is an important part of your child's education. Research indicates that a child's achievement is directly affected by time spent doing homework. It is felt, however, that over-extending a young child with too much homework is unwise. Considering these facts, homework is given at the discretion of the child's teacher. In general, homework is usually limited to approximately ten minutes multiplied by the grade level, on school nights only. Homework is utilized for the following reasons:

* To assist a child who needs extra reinforcement of material understood in school;

* To assist a child to catch up due to absence;

* To encourage and enlighten a student with creative research or thinking assignments to reinforce classroom instruction;

* To let parents know the types of instruction being implemented in the regular daily program;

* To provide an opportunity to organize a creative long term project connected to a special topic of interest

* To install discipline and regimen outside the structured school environment.

Parents are encouraged to provide enriching experiences such as reading stories to their children, having their children read books to them and write in their journals, bringing their children to the library and taking their children to visit people and places in the area to expand their children's experiences and vocabulary.

4.2 REPORT CARDS/GRADING

In Kindergarten, student progress is reported by means of parent-teacher conferences and written reports at the conclusion of the second and fourth quarters. In Grade One, student progress is reported by conferences at the end of the first quarter and by report cards at the completion of the other three quarters.

In Grades 1-4, the students are evaluated in the following areas: reading, language, handwriting, mathematics, social studies, science, art, physical education, music and library. In addition, conduct, effort and general development are assessed.

In Grades 2-4, the reporting of pupil progress is communicated by cards at the conclusion of each quarter. Traditional letter grades combined with a check system are utilized.

4.3 STANDARDIZED TESTING

Standardized testing is administered to students in Grades 3-4 each year. These tests measure the reading, math and language areas. In addition, a President's Physical Fitness test is administered each spring for grades 1-4.

Test scores along with teacher observations and report cards are used to assess the student's academic performance in his/her current grade. Scores are also used as part of a matrix in determining qualification for certain programs such as RIPPS (remedial reading) and Project Talent (the gifted and talented program).

During the testing period, parents are encouraged to send their children to school everyday (unless illness and family emergency prevents this). A good night's sleep and a healthy breakfast are also recommended to help the students do their best.

4.3.1 NEW STUDENT TESTING

The Guidance Counselor may test new students soon after they arrive at Hathaway School in the areas of Language Arts and Mathematics. This is done in order for us to best evaluate each child's needs. Wherever possible we will use prior school's records for this purpose.

4.4 SPECIAL EDUCATION

Special education services for the school and the Town of Portsmouth are provided by the Newport County Regional Special Education Program. The Program provides services for the communities of Portsmouth, Middletown, Tiverton and Little Compton. The purpose of the regional program is to provide a full continuum of special education services within the region for children with disabilities. Further information can be obtained by calling 683-3570 to receive an informational booklet outlining these services.

4.5 REMEDIAL RESOURCES

As part of the Portsmouth School System, Reading Instruction and Pupil Personnel Services (Project RIPPS) employs reading specialist, instructional aides and guidance counselors to provide help to students who are having difficulty in reading and who qualify for the program. The program exists in all three elementary schools. It uses a uniform selection process to determine which students will receive help. Individualized assessment and computer assisted instruction are two techniques used by the reading teacher to provide service to children. Parents of selected students are kept informed and are encouraged to work cooperatively with the program staff.

Project RIPPS is supported with federal, state and local funds. Additional information about the program is available at each elementary school.

4.6 PROJECT TALENT

Project Talent is a specially designed program which is conducted in each elementary school. At the K-1 level, resource services are available to the classroom teachers for those students who are potentially high academic achievers.

The Grade 2-4 program provides students who have been identified as academically talented, with a wide variety of experiences designed to stimulate their curiosity, develop their independent skills for individual research and demonstrate their creative ability in expressing their newly acquired knowledge at a level which is deeper and more intensive than that which is normally available in the classroom. Additional information may be obtained at each elementary school.

4.7 PRIMARY DEVELOPMENTAL PROGRAM

The Primary Developmental Program places children in school according to their developmental age rather than using only a child's date of birth. The program evaluates a child's ability to cope physically, socially emotionally and academically in the school environment.

All children are evaluated prior to Kindergarten entry. They are then monitored throughout the Kindergarten year. After completion of Kindergarten, recommendations are made to parents concerning the placement of their child.

4.8 STUDENT ACCESS TO NETWORKED INFORMATION

In order to match electronic resources as closely as possible to the approved district curriculum, district personnel will review and evaluate resources in order to offer home pages and menus of materials which comply with board guidelines governing the selection of instructional materials. In this manner, staff will provide developmentally appropriate guidance to students as they make use of telecommunications to conduct research and other studies related to the district curriculum. Prior to gaining access, all students will be informed by staff of their rights and responsibilities as users of the district network.

As much as possible, access to the network will be designed to point students to resources which have been reviewed and evaluated prior to use. While students may be able to move beyond those resources to others which have not been evaluated by staff, they shall be provided with guidelines and lists of information particularly suited to the learning objectives.

Students may pursue electronic research only if they have been granted parental permission and have submitted all required forms. Permission is not transferable and may not be shared.

4.8.1 RULES FOR SCHOOL NETWORKS AND INTERNET USE

Students are responsible for appropriate behavior on school computer networks, just as they are in a classroom or a school hallway. Communications on the network are often public in nature. General school rules for behavior and communications apply.

The network is provided for students to conduct research and communicate with others. Access to network services is provided to students who agree to act in a considerate and responsible manner. Parent permission is required for minors. Access is a privilege, not a right. Access entails responsibility.

Individual users of the district computer networks are responsible for their behavior and communications over those networks. It is presumed that users will comply with district standards and will honor the agreements they have signed.

Network storage areas may be treated like school lockers. Network administrators may review files and communications to maintain system integrity and ensure that students are using the system responsibly. Users should not expect that files stored on district servers will always be private.

During school, teachers of younger students will guide them in accessing appropriate materials. Outside of school, families must bear responsibility for such guidance -- as they also must with information sources such as television, telephones, movies, radio and other potentially offensive media.

The following are not permitted:

* Sending or accessing offensive messages or pictures.

* Using obscene language.

* Harassing, insulting or attacking others.

* Damaging computers, computer systems or computer networks

* Violating copyright laws.

* Using passwords of others.

* Trespassing in others' folders, work or files.

* Intentionally wasting resources

* Employing the network for commercial purposes.

Sanctions:

* Violations will result in a loss of access.

* Additional disciplinary action may be taken at the building level in accordance with existing practice regarding inappropriate language or behavior.

* When applicable, law enforcement agencies will be involved.

Policy Adopted: 10/22/96

The Rhode Island Department of Education requires that we provide AIDS instruction and Family Life and Sex Education in grade Kindergarten through Grade 12. A letter outlining these topics is sent to you through a letter from the Superintendent of Schools at the beginning of each school year. State law provides you with the opportunity to remove your child from either of these instructional programs by notifying the school in writing.

The school nurse at the elementary level teaches selected health classes to Grade K-4.

Some of the areas covered are:

The nurse also coordinates the Health Education Program such as

Copies of the entire health curriculum are available in each school office for you to review. Any questions regarding health services should be directed to the school nurse/teacher.

Elementary school nurse/teachers are employed by the Portsmouth School Department. The primary role of the health office is to provide first aid to children in the event of accident or illness. The nursing staff dispenses medications as required by a physician's order (ref. Paragraph 5.4). To provide the best care possible, it is important that parents communicate with the nurse in regard to any health conditions a child may have such as chronic illnesses, allergies, etc. Together, parents and the nursing staff can form a "front-line" team to keep each child healthy and well.

Children participate in several screening programs each year. Screening allows potential problems to be identified. It is important that screening is not confused with testing. Children who may be identified as suspect of having a problem as a result of screening are referred for further testing. The screening procedures performed are:

* Dental: A dentist inspects each child's teeth and gums annually. This is meant to be a learning experience for the children and should not replace a visit to the child's dentist.

* Vision: All children are screened for distance vision by the Snellen method. This is also done on an annual basis. Volunteers play a major role in supporting this program which is supervised by the SNT.

* Hearing: Hearing screening is done each year by the State of Rhode Island Hearing Center. Children in Grades K, 1 and 3 are screened. Children who are new to the State of Rhode Island are also screened during the year that they enter school. Children with hearing problems are followed closely.

5.2 EMERGENCY/MEDICAL INFORMATION

Emergency cards are sent home with each student on the first day of school. These are to be completed (both sides) and returned to school immediately. These cards are vitally important as they enable school staff to contact a parent, neighbor (or designated contact person) or the physician in the event of a medical emergency. Please be sure that the person designated to be the emergency contact person is willing and available to pick up your child and care for him/her if you cannot be reached. You must inform the office of any changes.

5.3 ILLNESSES AND ACCIDENTS

If a child should become ill at school, the child will be held in the Health Office and then released to the parent or person designated as the emergency medical contact by the parent. Children should be kept home if they have had an oral fever of 100 degrees Fahrenheit or more within the past 24 hours. After an illness, children can be returned to school once they have maintained a normal temperature (98.6 degrees F) for at least 24 hours.

5.4 MEDICATION

The Portsmouth School Department medication policy states that in order to dispense medication in school it must always be accompanied by a doctor's order. Changes in dosage must be made in writing by the child's physician. Medication not prescribed by a doctor cannot be given at school, this includes over-the-counter medication.

5.5 HIV INFECTED STUDENTS AND EMPLOYEES

School Department policy stresses the need for confidentiality and the right of HIV infected persons, their family and the nurse to make the decision as to who needs to know. It also reflects an understanding of the responsibility of all individuals to stop the spread of infection, not by infringing on the rights of those who are HIV infected, but by faithfully practicing Standard Health Precautions and participating in ongoing opportunities for HIV/AIDS education.

A copy of the Rhode Island Department of Elementary and Secondary Education and the Rhode Island Department of Health on HIV Infected Students and Employees Policy and the Portsmouth School Department Policy on HIV Students and Employees can be obtained at the school office.

5.6 IMMUNIZATIONS AND PHYSICAL EXAMS

A physical examination by a qualified physician is required within six months of entering the Portsmouth School System and in Grade 4. Evidence and dates of immunizations against Diphtheria, Tetanus, pertussis (DPT), Polio (OPV), Measles and Mumps are required by Rhode Island State Law. In addition, the State of Rhode Island is requiring lead testing for students entering schools. Please check with the school for any current information. Your family doctor can best advise you about immunization and can provide a certificate indicating the dates when they were given.

5.7 STUDENT INSURANCE

A school insurance plan for individual student accident protection is available to those who choose to enroll their children. Applications are sent home at the beginning of the school year and are available during the year upon request.

Many opportunities are afforded parents to participate in the Hathaway School community. The level of participation depends on several factors including available time and interests. Early in the year, you will be receiving a form that will allow you to volunteer for the activities in which you might have an interest. Listed below are several groups that perform a valuable service to our students and the school.

6.1 THE HATHAWAY PARENT ASSOCIATION (HPA)

The Hathaway Parent Association is an active component of our education program at Hathaway School which involves parents in numerous activities. The HPA offers several avenues for your participation including fundraising to support field trips and enrichment programs, communication which develops the Hathaway Hornet to keep the community informed of what is happening at the school, outreach which is an attempt to link the school with local businesses and a strategic planning team which will work with the school to implement the school improvement plan that will move our school forward to benefit all children through the use of a strategic planning model.

6.2 VOLUNTEERS IN SCHOOLS (VIS)

Portsmouth Schools actively seek individuals to work in and between its schools in a variety of capacities. Included in this list are opportunities to tutor students, utilize your clerical skills, staff the school's publishing room, participate in the school-home reading program, work with the health services to do screenings (including Kindergarten screenings) and help with school registration. The major purpose of this organization is to support the school community including teachers, administrators, students and parents.

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6.3 FUNDRAISING

The Portsmouth School Committee recognizes that certain school activities are supported by fundraising by students and/or their families. The School Committee is concerned that such fundraising activities be conducted in a manner so as to assure the safety of the participant. In addition, the School Committee is concerned that such activities do not detract from the educational mission of the schools.

All fundraising activities must be sponsored and controlled by the schools. Building principal approval and regulation of such activities are required. All organizations which employ students and/or school staff in such an activity must abide by the rules.

Any fundraising activity which is to be conducted beyond school grounds must receive written approval of the Superintendent. Schools may not conduct any fundraising activity which encourages student door-to-door solicitation; all fundraising activities outside of school grounds must have notice to parents of this prohibition. Group solicitation of three or more high school students may be permitted if approved by the building principal and Superintendent.

6.4 ROOM PARENTS

Each year room parents (usually one parent per classroom) are solicited to assist our teachers with activities such as room parties, organizing volunteers for field trips and contacting parents for classroom needs and activities.

Teens Leading Children (TLC): Under the direction of the school nurse and the Child Development Instructor at Portsmouth High School (PHS) students from PHS participate in the Teen Leading Children Program. This four week program targets fourth grade children and is a substance abuse prevention peer education program in place since 1990.

Feinstein: The children at Hathaway participate in the Alan Shawn Feinstein Good Deeds program. The program encourages children to perform kindnesses, both at school and at home; to show respect for others; and to give of themselves to the community. Projects are done on an individual, a classroom or a schoolwide scale. Some examples are: cards for the elderly, filling holiday baskets and contributing of food to animal shelters.

Charlton Memorial Hospital: Charlton Memorial Hospital and Hathaway School formed a business community partnership in 1995. Since then Charlton has provided financial support to various programs which reinforce student achievement.

Fire and Safety: Members of the Portsmouth Fire Department volunteer their time to provide fire prevention and fire safety classes to all students K-4. The fire fighters also bring the fire truck to school during Fire Prevention Week in October.

Potter League for Animals: Third Grade students enjoy a six to eight week class on animals taught by a volunteer from the Potter League Animal Shelter. This class addresses the domestication of animals, animal safety, choosing a pet, pet care, overpopulation and the importance of spaying.

A parent section of Community Resources available to your family is located in the Hathaway School Library.