Margaret Mead Elementary
Parent Handbook


Table of Contents

Welcome
Emergency Policy
School Staff
School Schedule
Policies
Rights and Responsibilities
Special Programs
PTSA
Health and Safety
General Information
Transportation Safety

 


Welcome

 

Dear Parents:

Welcome to Margaret Mead Elementary School!!! It is my pleasure to be the principal at Mead, a responsibility that I treasure for the daily challenges it brings, my interactions with students, my collegial relations with staff, and my sharing of responsibility with parents who trust their children to our care. The 2007-2008 school year brings a new beginning, an opportunity to make new friends, and a renewed enthusiasm as we continue our adventures in learning at Mead Elementary School.

It is my pleasure to welcome back our returning families and extend a heartfelt welcome to all our new students and their families. Mead Elementary is a community school that takes great pride in the strong partnerships we continue to develop with parents and our community. Working side-by-side developing a safe, caring and challenging learning environment for our students has made Mead Elementary an outstanding quality school. We take pride in this accomplishment and invite our new families to become actively involved as a volunteer within the classroom, school projects, committees, and with our exceptional PTA. You are a very important contributor within our Mead Elementary family.

I want to thank you for sharing your children with us. Their enthusiasm toward learning and respect toward others is a tribute to you as their parents. They are a genuine joy to teach! Be sure to stop by, give my a call or e-mail if you have any questions, concerns or suggestions. It is great to see the corridors of our beautiful school full of children's chatter and endless energy again. 2007-2008 is going to be a fantastic year!

Sincerely,

Shawna Rothaus
Principal

 



Emergency Policy

 Snow and windstorms can wreak havoc with schools and families. During these difficult times, the Lake Washington School District will do all it can to communicate vital information to parents and students. Our top priority is the safety of students.

When emergency conditions result in school schedule changes, the district will either cancel school or start late. Stay tuned to area radio stations for announcements that will tell you which plan below will be used. Up-to-date emergency information can be found on the Internet at www.psecs.wednet.edu or www.lkwash.wednet.edu.

Schools Closed
School, Extended Day daycare, all activities including athletic events and parent meetings. If conditions change during the day, special arrangements may be made for some activities.

Late Start - Limited Bus Service
Under this plan, high schools and junior high will start one hour late, elementary schools will start one and a half hours late, and bus routes will be limited. Dismissals will be at regular times unless otherwise announced. When necessary, early dismissal times are announced before noon. Extended Daycare on time.

Canceled
Morning Kindergarten, morning special education, preschool, Quest pullout classes, and out of district transportation.

 


School Staff

 

MARGARET MEAD STAFF 2007-2008
 

K (AM) Gina Penton
K (All Day) Heidi Wilson
K (All Day) Mia Kirchmeier 
K-2 Pierina Austin
1 Diane Basch
1 Gina Eason
1 Stephanie Escamilla
1 Jaime Pace-Garney
2 Marilyn Case/ Kim Gomez
2 Liz Fisher
2 Sarah Jensen
3 Kevin Jefferies
3 Allisen Haworth/Ellen Drummond
3 Dawn Pollock
3 Miguel Viamonte
4 Renee Beluche
4 Carol Brady/Andi Zahn
4 Helen Kraft
4 Carla LeRoy
5 Ann Fitzmaurice
5 Jenny Schafer
5 Loren Turner
6 Kristian Brekke
6 Kelly Cameron
6 Lisa Holman
6 Debra Nelson
 

 

Sp. Ed. Emily Falls
Sp. Ed. Sarah Whiteside
Sp. Ed Jodi Gedansky
P.E. Louise Elston
P.E. Sharlene Durbin
Librarian Carol Becker
Music Dennis Best
Music Chris Stagg
Quest Linda Dull
Psychologist Denise Radecke
SLP Cali White
Counselor Cherri Mann
Nurse Karen Hogue/Ann Kading
O.T. Kim Sinclair
P.T.
Principal ............ Shawna Rothaus
Vice Principal ..... Doug Johnson
Office Manager.... Meg Wade/Debbie Lerner
Secretary ............. Carol Walsh
Custodians ........... Lorb Bit, Henry Chan

Instructional Assistants .... Helen Baxter, Dawn Brew, Gail Jacobsen, Cathy Kilborn, Janet Vestal, Linda Miller, Christina Worthington
Sp. Ed Para Educators .... Linda Bacon, Nathalie Fonte, Peggy Zanetti, Kathy Pelonio, Gay Lydon, Patty Menz, Niloufar Montazemi
Food Service .... Selina Lin, Ye Dai

 


 



Margaret Mead Bell Schedule

 

8:25* First Bell  
8:30* Tardy Bell  
     
10:06-10:21* AM Recess (M, T, W, Th, F) Grades 3,4,5,6
10:21-10:36*

AM Recess (M, T, Th, F)

 AM Recess (W)

Grades 3-6

Grades K,1,2

     
11:10 AM Kindergarten dismissed  
     
11:30-12:00 Lunch Grades K,1,2
12:00-12:30* Recess Grades K,1,2
     
12:00-12:30* Lunch Grades 3,4

12:30-1:00*

12:15-12:45
12:45-1:15

Recess

Lunch
Recess

Grades 3,4

Grades 5,6
Grades 5,6

     
1:37-1:52* Recess (M, T, Th, F) Grades K,1,2,3,4
     
3:00* School Dismissed (except Wednesday)  
1:30* Wednesdays only  

* Indicates a Bell
Revised 9/27/07

 


POLICIES

 

MARGARET MEAD - Diversity Policy

BACKGROUND: The mission of Margaret Mead Elementary is to provide a safe, caring and positive environment for ALL students. The full support of students, staff, and parents must be guaranteed in order to achieve this mission.

We are, as a people, more alike than we are different. We are also a school that believes in and values diversity. We know that a diverse school means people are different sizes, colors, shapes, cultures, religions, strengths, and weaknesses. All children should have the right to feel safe and supported in our school community.

POLICY: Serious hurt can be caused by unkind or unfeeling words and comments. Unkind remarks in any form, especially those that contain comments about a person's looks, race, culture, learning difference, or gender will not be tolerated. We have established a policy on diversity and kindness that all students and staff must comply with. This means "NO PUT-DOWNS." If a student makes such a remark:

• Both the student and the person spoken to will be conferenced by staff.
• The inappropriateness of the remark or behavior will be taught to the students.
• The student hurt by the remark will be counseled to help rebuild the self-esteem damaged by the remark.
• The person who made the inappropriate remark will apologize.
• Parents of all involved will be contacted immediately, the matter discussed with them, and their support at home will be sought.

PURPOSE: If we are to meet the needs of all students, we must teach them how to interact. We must provide an environment that is safe from both damaging comments and physical harm.

PARENTS: Please read and discuss this with your family. It is only with the support of families that we will achieve our goal of "Success for Every Student."

"We believe that students development occurs within an atmosphere of mutual respect and, therefore, any behavior which undermines this respect cannot be allowed. Teachers, administrators, and staff will not tolerate any behavior, which materially interferes with or is detrimental to the orderly operation of school, school-sponsored activities, or any other aspect of the educational process. Such acts shall be subject to discipline, including possible suspension and/or expulsion from school, and/or referral to law enforcement authorities."

School jurisdiction and authority includes student conduct to and from school, at school and at any school sponsored activity. Also, included in the school's jurisdiction is any off-campus student speech or activities which school authorities have reason to believe will interfere with the work of the school or impinge on the rights of other students or staff at school. The following acts are considered serious and warrant immediate referral to building administration for appropriate consequences, which may include suspension and/or referral to police.

HARASSMENT (DISTRICT POLICY BOOK- ACA AND ACAR)

All employees and students have the right to a non-intimidating environment. Harassment will not be condoned or tolerated in LWSD. Harassment of any student or employee on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, age, gender, marital status and/or disability is a serious violation of district policy. Sexual harassment by or against students and staff is also prohibited.

HUMAN DIGNITY (BOARD POLICY/LANGUAGE)

Recognizing and valuing that we are a diverse community, it is part of our mission to provide a positive, harmonious environment in which diversity is respected and encouraged.

A major aim of education in the Lake Washington School District is the development of a commitment to the core values of a democratic society. In accordance with this aim, the district strongly emphasizes a core value of mutual human respect for each person regardless of individual differences and/or, characteristics including for example, but not necessarily limited to race, gender, age, disability, physical condition, sexual orientation, ethnic group or religion. We expect this value to be manifested in the daily behaviors of students, staff and volunteers.

Appropriate consequences for violating this policy are specified in this student code of conduct.

DANGEROUS WEAPONS

Summary of the Lake Washington School District Policy:

Possessing, using, transferring or transporting any object that could reasonably be considered a firearm or a dangerous weapon: and possessing any exploding item or device that would be capable of producing bodily harm, damage to property or disruption of the educational process. Violation of this rule is considered so serious to the safety and welfare of both the student who violates it and others in the District, and such a disruption to the educational process, that emergency expulsion will always be immediately enacted. By law we are required to notify the local law enforcement agency of a violation of this rule. Also, by law, in the case of possession of a firearm we are required to expel the student. The duration of the expulsion will be at least one school year and may be permanent.

EXCEPTIONAL MISCONDUCT

Any conduct which materially and substantially interferes with the educational process is prohibited.

However, the following infractions have been judged to be so serious in nataure and/or so serious in terms of the disruptive effect upon the operation of the school(s), that students may be subject to an emergency expulsion (EE) and/or suspension (short term or long term) for a first-time offense. Because each situation is handled individually, administrators have the discretion to use other alternative forms of discipline if they so decide. This may include restitution for property damage or loss and/or restitution to victims if appropriate. All of the following acts are specifically prohibited on school grounds, school-sponsored transportation, (including authorized school bus stops), at school events off school grounds, or off-campus if disruption effects result at school. Law enforcement may be informed.

VIOLATION DEFINITION CONSEQUENCES
Firearms Possession, threat to use or use of a firearm 1st Offense:
  • EE
  • Permanent expulsion from the LWSD
  • ROA (referral to an outside agency)
  • Conference
  • Police Contact
Other Weapons and Explosives Possesion, threat to use or use of other dangerous weapons (or replica weapons) i.e. knives, BB guns, paintball guns, martial arts weapons, explosives, incapacitating agents, laser device or other item which can inflict or threaten substantial harm or which can be perceived by others as a weapon 1st Offense:
  • EE
  • STS to LTS
  • ROA (referral to an outside agency)
  • Conference
  • Police Contact
2nd Offense:
  • EE
  • LTS
  • ROA (referral to an outside agency)
  • Conference
  • Police Contact
Immediate Danger and Disruption If a student's presence poses an immediate and continuing danger to the student, other students, school personnel, or an immediate and continuing threat of substantial disruption to the educational process, that presence is not permitted. 1st Offense:
  • EE, STS - LTS or Expulsion
  • ROA (referral to an outside agency)
  • Conference
  • Police Contact
Disruptive Behavior Behavior that materially or substantially interferes with or is detrimental to the orderly operation of school, school sponsored events or any other aspect of the educational process. Behavior or activities occurring off-campus that cause or threaten to cause a substantial disruption ot the educational process or impinge on the rights of the students or staff at school may be subject to discipline. 1st Offense:
  • EE, STS or LTS
2nd Offense:
  • EE, STS or LTS
Drug/Alcohol
Possession
Use
Paraphernalia
Possession, use, or being under the influence of drugs/alcohol on school grounds or during school sponsored events; including prescription drugs beyond a daily dose and over the counter drugs in quantities that are suspect and capable of causing serious harm. 1st Offense:
  • EE, STS/LTS and Assessment
2nd Offense:
  • EE/LTS
Drugs/Alcohol
Sell
Buy
Transfer
Transfer or sale on school grounds or during school sponsored events. Includes illegal drugs, controlled substances, and combinations or amounts of over-the-counter drugs that could be seriously harmful. 1st Offense:
  • EE/LTS
Threats To express an intent to inflict injury or cause harm, to intimidate verbally, use of hand signs, in writing or on comptuer. Words or actions intended to inflict mental or physical harm are not allowed. 1st Offense:
  • STS, LTS
  • and/or EE
2nd Offense:
  • LTS and EE
Harassment, Intimidation, Bullying, Disrespect Harassment (verbal, physical, visual)/ Intimidation/ Bullying/ Disrespect: Derogatory remarks, phrases, gestures, teasing etc., which demeans the race, ethnic background, gender or individuality (e.g., character, sexual orientation, physical appearance) of a person, or inappropriate touching. Also: words, actions or electronic communication that create a hostile environment or disrupt school operations. 1st Offense:
  • Conflict Mediation and/or STS, LTS, EE
2nd Offense:
  • IHS, STS, LTS , EE
3rd Offense:
  • STS, LTS , EE
Sexual Harassment Unwelcome sexual comments, jokes, innuendoes, complaints, cartoons, pranks and/or other verbal, visual or physical advances, unwanted touching, stalking, or gestures specific to an individual's gender. 1st Offense:
  • Conflict Mediation and/or STS, LTS, EE
2nd Offense:
  • IHS, STS, LTS, EE
3rd Offense:
  • STS, LTS , EE
Assault Inflicting physical harm. 1st Offense:
  • EE /LTS, Police Report

HOMEWORK POLICY

Margaret Mead Elementary believes that homework is an important extension of classroom instruction. It provides the following opportunities within a learning experience:

Practice:

This is the most common type of homework and the most simple. It is given to help students practice specific skills so that mastery is attained. Material is presented by the teacher in class and a homework assignment promotes practice by the student, either at school or home. This also includes students reading silently or aloud and/or parents reading to children.

Prcparation:
The intent of the second category is to prepare students for the next class meeting. Students may be asked to read ahead in a text, to make notes or answer questions, to study material, to complete assignments not finished in class.

Extension:
Extension assignments ask the student to go beyond simple recall of knowledge. Concepts or skills are applied instead of new situations.

Creativity:
These are usually long-range assignments requiring several days to weeks to complete. Students are required to integrate many skills in the process of completing the final product.

The amount of homework varies from grade level to grade level and from day to day. It also increases as students progress to higher grades. A rule of thumb is 10 minutes of homework per day multiplied by the grade level.

Example: Grade 1 = 10 minutes
Grade 2 = 20 minutes
Grade 3 = 30 minutes
Grade 4 = 40 minutes
Grade 5 = 50 minutes
Grade 6 = 60 minutes

TEXTBOOK APPROVAL

All books, which are used in the district in sets of five or more, are subject to approval by the Instructional Materials Committee. The committee meets regularly throughout the year and reviews these materials according to set criteria for quality and appropriateness. If approved, materials are authorized for classroom usage.

GRIEVANCE PROCEDURE

The Lake Washington School District Board of Directors has approved a process for airing complaints, concerning school personnel. Any act or failure to act on the part of a school employee is grievable. The process is:

  1. The grievance, either oral or written, should be presented first to the person whose action or failure to act is being grieved. Resolution should be sought at that level (parent to teacher, for example.)
  2. If a solution is not forthcoming at step one, the grievant may direct complaint to the building principal or appropriate administrator. Staff should be informed to assist the parent in moving the grievance to the next level. This assistance would probably be viewed by the grievant as being very open and fair. It also assures that the staff person's view of the matter is provided to the principal in the context of the grievant's side of the story.
  3. If there is no resolution at the level of the parent and principal, the grievant may pursue the complaint to the appropriate director.

The Lake Washington School District #414 complies with all federal rules and regulations and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex or handicap. This holds true for all students who are interested in participating in the educational programs and/or extra curricular school activities. Inquiries regarding compliance procedures may be directed to Title IX Officer, PO Box 97039, Redmond, Washington 98073, 425-702-3460.

TOBACCO-FREE ENVIRONMENT

It is the policy of the Lake Washington School District to prohibit the use of tobacco products on public school property. For purposes of this policy, the term "tobacco" shall include any kind of lighted pipe, cigar, cigarettes, or any other lighted smoking equipment or material, or the chewing or sniffing of a tobacco product. Staff, student, parents, contracted personnel and visitors are prohibited from using tobacco products on school property.

DRUG-FREE SCHOOLS

Under the Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act, this school must be totally free of unlawful drugs and alcohol violations. The law says discipline can include prosecution for illegal acts, as well as expulsion for students and loss of job for school employees. The Lake Washington School District fully supports the Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act. It is expected that all students and employees will follow the regulations and policy prohibiting possession, use or distribution of drugs and alcohol on school property or as a part of any school activity. All students share an opportunity to participate in the drug and alcohol education and prevention curriculum. Services are available within this area for students who are involved with drugs or abusing alcohol. Resources can be found by contacting school staff, your family doctor, or "helpline" telephone numbers:

24-hour Crisis Clinic 461-3222
Drug and Alcohol Hotline 722-3700 or 1-800-562-1240

STUDENT CONDUCT (DISTRICT POLICY BOOK-JFC-R)

Students shall respect the law and the rights of others. Students who are in violation of laws or rules on or off school property or at school-supervised events are subject to disciplinary action in the following areas: alteration of records, cheating, attendance, alcohol, chemical substances and tobacco products, disruptive conduct, damage or theft of property, extortion, assault or causing physical injury, leaving campus during school hours without permission, loitering, vulgar or lewd conduct, and/or weapons and dangerous instruments.

ACCEPTABLE COMPUTER USE AT MARGARET MEAD

Margaret Mead Elementary promotes computer ethics as well as compliance with laws. No misuse of a computer is allowed, including no illegal copying of software, no opening of unauthorized files, and no access to system folder or control panel. Parent permission is required before a student may use LakeWashington On-Line or the Internet. Giving out names of phone numbers, inappropriate language or racial slurs is prohibited. Violators may lose privileges and parents will be required to replace damaged equipment or software.

GUIDELINES FOR PERSONAL STUDENT WEB SITES HOUSED ON PRIVATE SERVERS:

Students are encouraged to be involved in creating and maintaining their schools' official Web sites. the District has established the following guidelines for students who choose to create personal Web sites on private servers.

  1. It is important to have a thorough understanding of the rules, terms and conditions established by the host provider especially as it relates to content and language. If these are not posted on the host site, an email should be sent requesting them.
  2. The sites need to be closely monitored by the site initiator and/or manager (webmaster) to assure that everyone contributing to the site follows the rules, terms and conditions established by the Internet Service Provider.
  3. School names, mascots, colors and the school or school district's website designs are legal trademarks of the school district and cannot be used without permission.
  4. These websites need to be clearly identified as personal websites that are not associated with Lake Washington School District or an individual school.
  5. If material posted to a website is illegal, obscene, defamatory threatening, disruptive or harassing to other students or staff and/or the educational process, the District may contact the Internet Service Provider and website initiator/manager (webmaster) to ensure appropriate and legal expression. Legal and/or disciplinary action may also be taken by the District in appropriate cases to prevent further abuses. Student webmasters or contributors may be disciplined by school authorities for authorizing such material either themselves or jointly with others, for aiding and abetting others to publish such material, or by knowingly permitting such material to be posted or to remain posted on the website without taking timely and adequate steps to prevent or remove the material.

PARENT RESPONSIBILITY

Parents, who choose to support and facilitate their child's academic progress through homework, give their child an advantage over those who do not. Educators know through both research and practical experience, that parents who play an active role in their child's educational progress provide an opportunity for achievement that cannot be matched by classroom instruction alone. In our busy world finding this daily niche of time and energy to supervise homework can be a challenge, however, this is one of the most important gifts you can give your child. The results will last a lifetime.

GENERAL GUIDELINES FOR HOME STUDY

  1. Establish a quiet study place. Have a flat writing surface where materials are easily accessible. The place should be well lighted and free from distractions such as T.V., radio, or people talking.
  2. Establish a consistent time to study, preferable not too late in the evening. Make this a habit in your home.
  3. Provide supervision and guidance. Check to see that your child understands directions, and then have him/ her do one or two examples while you watch. If you're unable to be nearby during this time, check assign­ments later. Your interest demonstrates to your child the value and importance you place on the work.
    Monitor television viewing and video games. Less is best.
  4. Monitor extracurricular activities. When homework consistently competes with too many outside commit­ments, the quality significantly decreases.
  5. Parents model reading. Read orally to your child and encourage him/her to read for leisure.
  6. Value education and regard effort. The goal of homework is for practice of skills, the development of good work habits, and the opportunity for parents to share and expand upon their child's learning.

Check with individual teachers regarding their homework make-up policy.

FAMILY VACATIONS

Family vacations are special, but we ask that you please consult the school calendar when making your vacation plans. Student achievement and classroom attendance are positively related. We urge you to plan family vacation during school breaks. When a student is missing school for a family vacation, we ask that instead of assignments from school, the child write a journal about the trip, read library books, do math related to the experiences they are having. When your child returns, he/she and the classroom teacher will be able to review work missed. Please do not ask teachers to pre-plan individual lessons based on missed classroom instruction.

DOG POLICIES

Lake Washington School District Policy regarding Dogs and Schools

The presence of dogs in and around schools is a controversial subject give the unique relationship between people and dogs in general and between kids and dogs in particular. While there are benefits to be derived through the interaction between children and animals, we also need to be aware of the risks associated with the presence of dogs on campus. Within the past two years we have had instances of people being bitten by dogs both in school and on the grounds. Indoor air quality, including odors, can be affected due to animal dander that is present with any fur animal; dander that can be transported throughout the building by the HVAC system. According to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology, allergies induced by dog and cat contact are estimated to occur in approximately 15% of the population. The presence of a dog may cause a student who has allergies to have a reaction that is detri­mental to the health of the child as well as the child's educational experience. Service dogs play an important role in assisting people in their daily lives. While these dogs are by their nature very friendly and well-behaved, they still carry with them the same environmental issues as any other fur-bearing anima.

In order to ensure our schools are safe and comfortable for all inhabitants, the district has developed the following requirements regarding dogs in and on school grounds.

  • Dogs are not allowed in the school or classroom unless they are serving as a bonafied service dog to a staff member, parent, child or visitor. In such cases, an up to date vaccination record must be provided for the animal.
  • Service dogs in training are not to be kept in school district buildings except for those that have already commenced training. (Upon completion of that training, no new service dogs in training are to be brought into the school district buildings.)
  • Parent should be advised that dogs are not allowed in the school. Dogs are also not allowed on school grounds during the hours in which school children are Present,
  • King County Code requires that dog bites will be reported to the King county Health Department and the dog may be placed in quarantine for 10 days.
  • During non-student hours dogs must be leashed in accordance with King County Code 11.04.230.

 


RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES

 

VISITING STUDENTS

In an effort to maintain continued and consistent focus on student learning, we ask that only students currently enrolled at Margaret Mead Elementary School attend class anytime during the school day unless prior permission has been obtained from the Principal.

PARENTS RIGHTS & RESPONSIBILITIES

We are part of a team and for your child to be successful, we need to work together.

  • Please make school a priority and check daily assignments and notices sent home.
  • Send your child to school rested, well-fed, cleanly groomed and with nutritious snacks and lunches.
  • Adhere to the Homework Policy.
  • Attend conferences

CALLS & VISITATIONS

  • Families are notified of conference time in advance.
  • Conference time is approximately 20 minutes.
  • Other conferences or calls are encouraged and are scheduled upon teacher or parent request
  • Calls to teachers are best placed between 8:00 - 8:25 AM, after 3:05 PM or a message left to
    return your call.

CONFERENCE SCHEDULE

November 16, 19 & 20 Fall Conferences
March 24 & 25 (optional) Spring Conferences

Students are dismissed at 11:30 pm during conference week.

 


SPECIAL PROGRAMS AT MARGARET MEAD ELEMENTARY

COUNSELING PROGRAM

Each elementary school has a counselor who works with students, staff and parents. The elementary school counseling program is a part of the total school program and complements student's learning in the classroom. It is child­centered, preventative and developmental.

Our program encourages student's social, emotional, and personal growth at each stage of their development to maximize school success. The school counselor consults with parent, teachers, and other professionals, and coordi­nates services for children. Outside referrals or resources are provided by the counselor if requested by parents. The counselor can be reached by calling your school.

EXTRACURRICULAR MUSIC
Band and strings instruction is offered to the intermediate students.

PATROL
The safety patrol consists of fifth and sixth graders lead by a staff advisor. No matter what the weather, school patrol members are watching and assisting other Mead Elementary students in crossing our streets.

Plan a safe route walking to and from school. Go over the route with your child explaining traffic hazards and safe crossing. Select the safest and most protected route, choosing crossings carefully. Remind your child to be considerate of people and property along the walking route.

MORNING ANNOUNCEMENTS
Helping with morning announcements is one of the ways students can be of service to their school and learn leadership skills. Each classroom gets a chance to help with the Pledge and morning announcements.

BIG/LITTLE BUDDIES
Primary and intermediate classrooms pair up for instructional sharing.

CHOIR
Students in 4th, 5th, & 6th grade practice after school and perform several times during the school year.

 


HEALTH AND SAFETY

ACCIDENT OR ILLNESS

If a student becomes ill or is seriously injured at school, first aid will be administered and the parents or name listed on the emergency card will be called immediately. It is important that sick or injured students are picked up as soon as possible. For more serious head injuries, a parent is always called and a form letter is sent home.

STUDENT ABSENCES AND LATE ARRIVAL

  • Please leave a message on the school attendance line (425-868-2899), which will be available between 3:30 p.m. and 9 am to report a child's absence or late arrival.
  • If your child is absent and we have not received a call or note from you safe arrival will attempt to contact you regarding the absence.
  • Children who arrive late must report to the office for a "Late Arrival Slip." Attendance records are kept in the office and your child will be considered absent for the whole day if they do not get their "Late Arrival Slip" before going to class.

The first bell rings at 8:25 AM. Students are to be in their seats and ready to learn when the 8:30 AM bell rings. Students who come late to school miss out on important directions and instruction given at the beginning of the clay.

Truancy and Unexcused Tardiness is unacceptable. Persistent occasions of these may result in the student having to "make up" the time missed.

BUS CONDUCT FORM PROCEDURE

  • Tickets may be issued by drivers for infractions of bus rules or any other misconduct.
  • Students are to bring tickets to the office and meet with the principal who will discuss the problem and consequence
  • The principal may ask for a meeting with parents, bus driver and Supervisor of Transportation if deemed necessary.

The parents will receive an information letter and copy of Bus Conduct Form.

Parents shall sign the Bus Conduct Form and make sure it is returned to the principal.

Bus riding privileges may be reinstated by the principal with the issuance of a riding pass, which is to be given to the bus driver.

CLOSED CAMPUS POLICY

We at Margaret Mead Elementary are concerned about the safety of your child. We operate under a "closed campus" policy. This policy requires the parents sign students in or out in the office for any of the following:

  • Parents taking children out of school
  • Students leaving the building or grounds

Students are not allowed to leave school grounds during school hours if not accompanied by an adult. For obvious safety reasons the office cannot be responsible for sending a child home upon request.

Parents and visitors must sign-in at the office when you come into school and wear a visitor badge or name tag.

EARLY DISMISSAL

We discourage early dismissals from school and request that doctor or dental appointments be made before or after school. If any early dismissal is necessary, we request that a written excuse be sent to the teacher that morning.

Parents MUST SIGN THE STUDENT OUT in the office.

EMERGENCY INFORMATION

It is imperative that the office has up-to-date phone numbers where parents can be reached during the day. An orange emergency card is included in the first day packet. Complete a card for each student and return to school immediately. Please complete the special medical and custody information of the back of the card that is applicable to your child. If you should change work or home phone numbers during the year, please notify the office. If you plan to be out of town while your children are in school, the office needs the following information: your child's name, teacher's name, who is responsible for them in your absence, their phone number, how long you will be gone and (if possible) an out­of-town number to reach you.

IMMUNIZATION

Washington State Law (RCW 28A.3-118) requires that all school children must meet minimum immunization requirements on the day of the opening of the new school year. These requirements are:

  • Four doses of DPT-, DT, TD vaccine with last (lose at or after age 4)
  • Two doses of live measles vaccine at or after age 1 (starting in September 2000). The 2nd vaccine must be given to students in grades 1-5 prior to entering 6th grade.
  • One dose of rubella vaccine at or after age 1
  • One dose of mumps vaccine at or after age 1
  • Three doses of OPV with last dose at or after age 4
  • Three doses of the Hepatitis B vaccine will be required for all children entering Kindergarten.

BICYCLES

Bicycle Policy
Margaret Mead Elementary requires that each bicycle owner file an application for permission to ride his/her bike to school. Students in grades three through six may ride bikes to school.

Although we try to minimize the risk, the school would like parents to be aware that neither the school nor the Lake Washington School District can take the responsibility for lost, stolen, or vandalized bicycles, either while on school property or while enroute to and from school.

We encourage bicycle riding as long as it is done safely. We hope you will cooperate with us in enforcing the Marga­ret Mead Elementary bicycle rules. We reserve the right to withdraw the student's privilege of riding his/her bike to school if he/she does not obey the rules. Skateboards, skooters and rollerblades are prohibited on school grounds.

SCHOOL ARRIVAL TIME

Busses arrive between 8:20 and 8:25 AM
Students should not arrive earlier that 8:15 AM
Please be aware that we have no student supervision before 8:15 AM

STUDENT MEDICATION

Washington State Law requires a physician-signed medication form (available in the school office and most doctor's offices) to be completed for all medication administered to students at school. This applies to both prescription and nonprescription drugs. Our district nurse suggests that if your child is on antibiotics to be taken three times a day, that they should be given before school, after-school and at bedtime; thus, avoiding medication at school. If your child has a severe allergy, special medical needs or is on daily medication, please notify the office immediately. All medication must be brought to the office in the original; container by the parent or guardian, do not send the medication to school with your student.

 


GENERAL INFORMATION

 

DRESS CODE

To help foster a positive attitude and respect for the learning environment, students are expected to display personal cleanliness, neatness, and appropriate attire. It is difficult to include all combinations of inappropriate clothing ­ common sense must prevail. The wearing of inappropriate clothing may result in a call home. Staff judgement will be used on new clothing trends.

1 . Tank tops with spaghetti straps, jeans with holes, muscle shirts, cut-off shirts that expose a bare midriff, short shorts, spandex are examples of clothing more appropriate for after school or the beach. They are not considered appropriate attire for school.
2. The fingertip rule will apply to the wearing of shorts and skirts. Length cannot be above fingertips when hands are held at side.
3. The wearing of clothes, which relate in any way to gangs, sex, or profanity, will not be allowed.
4. To support our prevention policy for alcohol and other drugs, we prohibit students from wearing apparel and jewelry which promote drug, alcohol or tobacco use.
5. Children's shoes need to be safe for stairs, PE, (athletic shoes for PE class) and playground activities. Loose­fitting shoes that may cause a child to trip and/or fall are not appropriate.
6. Please wear clothing appropriate to the weather. (Coats should be worn in inclement weather.)

LOST AND FOUND

A lost and found is maintained in the school. Many valuable articles remain unclaimed and are given to charitable organizations. Proper identification of coats and other articles of clothing will help to assure the return of lost articles. Personal items (toys, electronic toys. etc.) are not to be brought to school. The school cannot be responsible for loss or damage of student's personal items.

SCHOOL TELEPHONE AND MESSAGES

To alleviate classroom interruptions and protect learning, students are not called to the phone, however, urgent messages will be communicated to them. Please discuss after-school arrangements in the morning before school starts. To properly conduct the business of the school, it is necessary to restrict pupil use of the school telephone. Permission to use the phone will be granted in cases of emergency or legitimate school business. All arrangements for after school social activities or various appointments need to be made with your child before leaving school. Interrupting classes to deliver personal messages disrupts student learning.

STUDENT SUPERVISION AND RECESS

Mead Elementary students are supervised during the school day in the classroom, on the playground, and in PE, music and library classes. However, we do not provide supervision before or after school. Therefore, to insure the safety of your children, we ask that students arrive at school no earlier than 8:15 AM unless they are enrolled in special programs, and that they leave the school grounds immediately after the 2:45 PM dismissal bell. All students are expected to participate in recess activities. Students well enough to return to school following an absence are able to go outside for short periods, providing they are protected by appropriate clothing. Students returning from an extensive illness or surgery, or those who are under doctor's orders, are given special consideration.

LUNCH

Our school has an electronic meal purchase system that will be used in the lunchroom. Lunch money may be sent in any amount or in the amounts suggested below. When your child purchases lunch or milk the money is automatically deducted from your child's account. To add money to your child's account, simply send cash or check made out the Lake Washington School District or Mead Elementary indicating your child's name and teacher's name on the envelope and check. The funds will be deposited to your child's account. We are able to accept VISA or MasterCard as a convenient method of payment. Please call Food Services office at 702-3393 for credit card deposits. Applications for free/reduced lunches are available in the school office.

Individual lunches = $2.25
20 lunches = $45.00
Milk = $.50
Adult Lunch = $3.00

All prices are subject to change

SCHOOL DISTRICT NUMBERS

Mead Elementary 425-868-0760
Safe Arrival 425-868-2899
Fax 425-868-4721
Resource Center 425-702-3200
Public Information 425-702-3300
Health Services 425-882-8170
Transportation 425-882-5120
Quest 425-702-3238
Special Education 425-702-3201
Food Services 425-702-3393
Inglewood Junior High 425-868-2300
Eastlake High School 425-836-6600

 


 

TRANSPORTATION / SAFETY

Drop Off and Pick Up

Please consider that we are looking at the overall safety of all children. We need to work together not only looking at our own children and their ability to get to school safely but those who may not have parents in attendance or may not make wise choices for themselves. We decrease the risks to the children by following procedures and not making exceptions.

Please follow the proper drop off and pick up procedures as stated below.

  • Pull forward as far as you can (three cars at a time in loading/unloading area).
  • Do not drop-off/ pickup children anywhere except in the loading/unloading area. Keep your doors closed until you reach the loading/unloading area. This is for safety reasons. You will save very little time by doing it another way.
  • The pass through lane is only for those who need to park.
  • If you are loading/unloading you may only move into the pass through lane at the loading/unloading area.
  • If you park in the front lot please use the crosswalk to return to your car with your child.
  • If your child is delayed for some reason do not park and stop in the loading lane. Make another loop around.

If this is not clear or if you have any questions about this, please contact: Mrs. Rothaus.

  • We all need to work together to improve the safety of our children. Set a good example for your children. Follow the rules. Tell those who drive your children to school what the procedure is. Discuss the procedure with your children.

East Sammamish Park

  • Parents who use the Park seem to be overall pleased with this drop off/ pick up point. Please remember to pull forward so those children do not have to walk on the slippery grass when entering or departing your vehicle. Also let your friends know how convenient this location is. The more children and parents that use the site the safer it will be.

216th between Mead and Sahalee Gate

  • Sammamish Police patrol this street and will ticket those who park and or stop in the area posted "NO PARKING ZONE".

 


Last updated Sept. '07

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