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WELCOME TO HEAVENLY HOST LUTHERAN SCHOOL
This handbook has been prepared to assist parents in getting better
acquainted with the purpose, operation, and policies of Heavenly
Host Lutheran School. We hope that such information will make for a
closer home and school. Only when home and school can work together
toward the same goals can the best results be achieved in Christian
Education.
Keep this booklet handy. Refer to it often. Feel free to ask
questions or request any additional information or explanations.
May the Lord richly bless the cooperation of parents, teachers, and
the administrator for an effective program of Christian education.
OUR MISSION
The mission of Heavenly Host Lutheran School is to provide our
students with Christ-centered teaching and excellent academics that
prepare them for service to God, community, and family.
HEAVENLY HOST LUTHERAN SCHOOL BOARD MEMBERS
Updated by November 5, 2009
Mr. Howard Patschke, Chairman; term expires 2011
Mrs. Susan Schultz, Secretary; term expires 2010
Mrs. Susan Colson, Treasurer; term expires 2010
Mr. Woody VanStratum; term expires 2011
Mr. Bill Baessler; term expires 2011
Mrs. Amanda Brantley; term expires 2010
Mrs. Angela Shirley, ECC Director
Rev. David McMinn, Associate Pastor
Mrs. Liz Wickersham, Principal
THE ABC's OF A SUPPORTIVE PARENT/CHILD SCHOOL RELATIONSHIP
A All - it all begins with God, Our Father. Remember the grace
your Father has given you, and remember to extend that grace to your
child.
B Be aware of the damage that you can cause by telling your
child that he or she is stupid. The child might believe your
mistake.
C Communicate the importance of education to your child.
D Do not criticize a teacher, textbook, or school in front of
your child as the child may well adopt your attitude.
E Encourage your child to discuss what happened at school
today.
F Fix your child a good breakfast each day.
G Good readers are made, not born. Read to your child for at
least 10 minutes every day.
H Help your child get organized for school the night before.
I Impress your child with the importance of good attendance.
J Join in with other parents for Parent & Teachers of
Lutheran School (PTLS) activities.
K Keep up with what is happening at your child's school.
L Lying for your child is wrong. Do not write false excuses
for a child not doing homework or missing a day of school.
M Monitor the amount and type of television your child watches.
N Never do your child's homework or projects for her or him.
Instead, help your child with homework and projects.
O Observe the work your child brings home from school each day.
P Praise something in the work that your child brings home
from school, even if you only mention how neatly it is written.
Q Quiet corners in your home encourage study. Set up a
special study area for your child.
R Request conferences with teachers or counselors when trouble
begins. Do not wait until a full-grown problem develops.
S Send a happy, well-rested, well-organized and appropriately
dressed child off to school each morning.
T Take your child to the library on a regular basis.
U Understand that learning is not always easy and that your
child may need help at times.
V Value your child as an individual. Never compare a child to
a brother, sister or another child.
W Work with your child's teacher and school. Consider
yourself a partner of your child's teacher rather than an adversary.
X X is often an unknown ingredient. It is the Xtra special
things that you do to help your child succeed in school.
Y You are your child's most important teacher.
Z Zip it all up with love for love is what gives meaning to a
child's learning and life!
Heavenly Host Lutheran Church, Cookeville, Tennessee, is committed
to a total program of Christian education. At the heart of this
program is Heavenly Host Lutheran School, NLSA and SACS accredited,
with its goal of providing a quality education in a Christian
environment.
Christian education equals growing. This includes physical,
cognitive, social, emotional, creative, and spiritual growth.
Heavenly Host Lutheran Church operates Heavenly Host Lutheran School
in response to God's love for his people by sharing the Gospel with
those entrusted to our care. Children are not discriminated against
on the basis of race, color, sex, creed, religion, or disability.
Our school's goal is to equip our students both spiritually and
academically, and enable our students to reach their full potential
as Christian individuals and responsible, productive citizens. We
want to nurture students and their families in Christian love as
they grow in knowledge, attitudes, and skills.
Christian education at Heavenly Host Lutheran School accepts
Christianity as the faith that encompasses all of life. The
education at HHLS is Bible-based. The Christian faith is taught as a
complete body of God-inspired truths, which integrates every area of
the curriculum.
Heavenly Host Lutheran School Purpose
The purpose of Heavenly Host Lutheran School is to share the
Christian faith by assisting parents in providing opportunities for
spiritual, cognitive, physical, emotional, social, and creative
growth of children in a Christ-centered environment.
Thus, we believe that by the Christian church, Christian home, and
Christian school working as a team, our children will receive the
best possible training for their future lives.
Central to every aspect of learning at our school is Christ's love.
We believe that when children learn that they are loved they also
learn to love themselves as well as others.
A Caring Community
Sharing God's love is what Lutheran Schools do best. The staff's
care for children goes beyond simple or programmed techniques. Their
caring stems whole-heartedly from their commitment to model Jesus
Christ. They teach joyfully by words and deeds. Central to every
caring act of every day in a Lutheran School is Christ's love. When
children learn they are loved by God and by others, they learn to
love Him and each other.
Parents' love and support for their children is basic to every
child's development. Pastors, teachers and other advisors play key
roles in ministering to the children as they grow academically and
mature in their faith. The network of care is genuine - and
available to families beyond school hours, because the Lord's love
is genuine and His love sets no limits. Please feel free to call the
pastor, teacher, or the administrator if you have questions. May
God grant us all wisdom and strength to do this most important work
for the children.
THE LUTHERAN SCHOOL SYSTEM
There are more than 2,500 Lutheran schools in the United States and
Canada, where 12,500 teachers are, with the blessing of the Holy
Spirit, educating over 200,000 children.
The Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod also maintains a system of
colleges, universities and seminaries throughout the United States
and abroad.
STRUCTURE OF THE SCHOOL
Below is the structure of Heavenly Host Lutheran School:
GOD
HEAVENLY HOST LUTHERAN CHURCH VOTERS
BOARD OF EDUCATION
As you will note, God is at the top. This is essential to any
successful church ministry. To God be the glory. With God steering
the way, we need not fear.
Next in line are the voters of Heavenly Host Lutheran Church, who
are in control of the entire ministry offered by the church. Several
years ago, Heavenly Host Lutheran Church chose to offer a school as
a major part of their outreach in the Upper Cumberland area.
The voters established a Board of Education to nurture and develop
the mission of the school. Policies and procedures are developed by
the Board of Education.
The Pastor of Heavenly Host Lutheran Church and the
Principal/Director are ex officio members of the Board of Education.
Members of Heavenly Host Lutheran Church also elect one member to
the board. The board elects the Chairperson of the Board of
Education. The board may recommend other board members. The Heavenly
Host Lutheran Church Council must approve these members.
The Board of Education enlists the aid of the administrator,
Christian educators, and Christian support staff to put into effect
the policies developed by the Board of Education. These workers are
charged with the responsibility of implementing the policies
developed by the Board.
FINANCIAL SUPPORT OF THE SCHOOL
Financial support for the operating costs of the school is derived
primarily from the payment of assessed tuition and fees. Current
information concerning these fees is available through the school
office. Prompt payment of tuition allows us to keep the school
financially healthy. Per contract 1.5% per month is added as a late
fee. If your account becomes delinquent, your student may be asked
to leave; however, your financial obligation under your signed
contract is still due and payable.
Heavenly Host Lutheran congregation also provides for the financial
support of the school through its voluntary membership
contributions. Thrivent Financial for Lutherans annually matches
funds donated by church and school members. This commitment to the
school is a ministry of the members of Heavenly Host Lutheran Church
in an attempt to keep tuition fees as low as possible to enable more
families to take advantage of the program. Continued growth and
expansion of the school is made possible through the efforts of many
interested parties. An active parent/teacher organization (PTLS)
raises funds for support of school growth, classroom support,
library development, etc. Some parents and families of HHLS
students make regular gifts to the school. All these financial
resources are necessary to enable HHLS to continue expansion and to
continue to add enrichment programs for its students.
ADMISSION AND ENROLLMENT
Enrollment policies are set by the Board of Education. The order of
consideration for enrollment is as follows:
1. Children of Heavenly Host Lutheran Church members
2. Those currently enrolled in Heavenly Host Lutheran School
and Childhood Center
3. Siblings of those enrolled in Heavenly Host Lutheran School
and Childhood Center
4. Those from the community who request enrollment
Heavenly Host Lutheran School admits students of any race, color,
national or ethnic origin to all rights, privileges, programs, and
activities generally accorded or made available to students at the
school. It does not discriminate on the basis of race, color,
national, or ethnic origin in administration of its educational
policies, admission policies, scholarship program, or any other
school-administered programs.
Steps in the Admissions Process
1. Complete the application form and make an appointment to visit
the administrator. The student should be part of this visit if at
all possible.
2. Meet with the administrator.
3. The State of Tennessee requires the following records and
information for admission:
a. Student Social Security Number
b. Immunization Certificate (Green Card)
c. Medical Examination (Green or Blue Card)
d. Transcript/Grade Card
e. Registered Certificate of Live Birth (not mother's copy)
4. The following are required by Heavenly Host Lutheran School for
admission:
a. Signed Parent�s Contract for Admission
b. Student Enrollment Form
c. Medical Release Form
d. Emergency Card
e. Payment for registration
**Records must be complete within 30 days of enrollment
Each student will be required to re-enroll every year, with a non-
transferable, non-refundable registration fee.
Enrollment Probation
All students applying for enrollment in Heavenly Host Lutheran
School are automatically placed on probation. The Board of Education
will have an opportunity to review records, application forms,
family background, or other information. The student may attend
school, with the understanding that he/she may be removed from the
classroom for almost any reason, until the Board approves
enrollment.
AIDS/ARC/HIV POLICY
Heavenly Host Lutheran School will continue its existing enrollment
policies as it relates to all students, including any child testing
positive to the Human Immune Deficiency Virus (HIV), testing
positive to HIV and evidencing AIDS-Related Complex (ARC), or
testing positive to HIV and evidencing symptoms of classic AIDS.
Heavenly Host Lutheran School, as it demonstrates its care and
concern for all students and evaluates its program as it relates to
each child, will make a decision regarding enrollment in the spirit
of the Gospel and its service to people. Any case of HIV-, ARC-, or
AIDS-infected child will be considered individually in the following
manner.
If a child who has AIDS, ARC, or tests positive for HIV seeks
admission to the school, a pre-enrollment conference including the
child's parents, physician, probable teacher, administrator, the
pastor of Heavenly Host, Board of Christian Education members, and a
representative from the congregation with a medical background to
determine:
a. AIDS-induced impairment of the child's mental function.
b. Psychological impairment manifested in the potential for possible
aggressive behavior and the potential exposure of others to infected
blood.
c. The immunization status of the child.
d. The necessary limits on the child's curricular and extra-
curricular school participation.
With the above information, the school will determine whether or not
the child is to be enrolled.
In addition, the following guidelines will be followed:
1. Each enrolled child is expected to meet immunization
requirements of the school for
the protection of the student body and staff. Because children with
HIV, ARC, or AIDS are highly susceptible to infections, procedures
shall be established which certify that such a child has been
examined by a doctor before attending school or returning to school
after an illness. An infected child must continue to be under a
doctor's supervision in order to assess periodically whether the
child should remain in school.
2. As part of the health and/or religion curriculum the facility
will provide appropriate instruction about AIDS and its prevention.
3. As appropriate in the religion curriculum, teachers will
emphasize the compassion of Christ to the sick, the promise of
divine care for those who place themselves at risk in the service of
others, the hope of the Resurrection in the presence of terminal
disease, and the celebration of the new life in Christ through
faith.
4. The school will maintain a supply of latex gloves, and will
instruct staff and other persons in procedures that will protect
them as they respond to open wounds. The school will also maintain
the highest standards of cleanliness in rest rooms, waste disposal,
and janitor's closets through adequate cleaning procedures, and the
use of proven disinfectants.
All records (personnel's and children's) are confidential, except as
federal and state law requires inspection by specific authorities.
Disclosures of information regarding children's developmental
progress, physical or mental conditions (handicaps) or family
circumstances are treated carefully and confidentially, shared only
with those who have a need to know in order to provide care for the
child.
ARRIVAL AND DISMISSAL
Students should arrive between 7:45 and 8:00 A.M. Students arriving
before 7:45 A.M. are charged a caretaker's fee. Early bird care
begins at 7:30 A.M. The school building opens at 7:30 A.M. No
student should arrive before 7:30 A.M. Children arriving before
7:30 A.M. should wait with their parent. Students arriving after
8:00 must be escorted into the building and signed in at the office.
Dismissal is at 3:00 P.M. Please call if an emergency situation
necessitates a late pick-up. Parents should pick up their children
between 3:00 and 3:30 P.M. A late charge will be assessed for those
students being picked-up after 3:30 P.M.
Faculty and administration discourage early pick-ups. Early
dismissals may be subject to an unexcused tardy.
In the event that a student needs to leave before his/her scheduled
dismissal time parents are required to sign their child out in the
school office. Someone in the office will be responsible for getting
the child from the classroom. Parents are not to go to the classroom.
Specific instructions for arrival and dismissal will be given at
orientation.
Be aware of children being ANYWHERE on the church or school grounds.
Be especially aware of children getting in or out of vehicles on the
right (passenger side). Please do not attempt to go around a
vehicle when a child is getting out/in on the passenger side.
A maximum speed of 5 mph should be observed at all times while on
school grounds. Please drive as though your own child might be in
the drive-around area.
Please do not leave your car unattended in the drive-around area.
Please do not park under the school/church's covered entrance.
Please do not engage in conversations with teachers during arrival
and dismissal. The teacher's focus is on the safety of children and
efficiency of arrival/dismissal at this time. Please make other
arrangements to speak with your child's teacher at a more
appropriate time.
A student re-entering the school during pick-up time should be
accompanied by an adult.
STUDENT LATE PICK-UP
Any student who is still at school at 3:30 P.M. will be escorted to
HHLS After-School Care. The charge for this 'drop-in' service is
$10.00 per child per day, regardless of the amount of time the
student is present for After-School Care on that day.
ATTENDANCE
All students of Heavenly Host Lutheran School shall meet minimum
attendance standards. Elementary minimum attendance is established
at 90% of the school calendar. To constitute a full day, a child
must be in attendance a minimum of 4 hours.
Regardless of a student's academic standing or reasons for absences,
no student will be promoted when excessive absences have been
accumulated. Days present for transfer students will include those
obtained in Heavenly Host Lutheran School and all other schools for
the year or semester. At the end of each month, attendance and
dismissal patterns will be reviewed to determine academic impact.
If necessary, a conference will be scheduled.
Exceptions to the Minimum Attendance Standards
The Board of Education recognizes that exceptional circumstances
beyond a child's control may arise which will result in failure to
meet the minimum attendance standards.
The parents/guardians of any child who is subject to failure under
the provisions of this policy may be notified. The parents will also
be notified of their right to apply for a waiver of the policy. The
parent's appeal must be in writing, and must explain in detail why
the student was hindered from attending the required number of
school days.
Upon receipt of an appeal, the administrator may appoint a hearing
committee to consider the parent's written appeal and may consider
the student's academic record, standardized and other test scores,
and written excuse notes for the absences. Upon receiving
recommendation from the committee, the administrator may issue or
deny the waiver. Unfavorable decisions may be appealed in writing by
the parent to the Board of Education.
Absences from School
An absence occurs when a student is not in attendance for 4 hours at
Heavenly Host Lutheran School. Absences are discouraged, but will be
recorded as an excused absence by the administrator for personal
illness, death in the family, or approved extra-curricular
activities. With prior approval from the administrator, other
reasons may be acceptable. Please notify the school before 8:15 A.M.
explaining the reason for absence. If the office has not been
notified by 8:15 A.M. concerning the absence of a child, an attempt
will be made to determine the cause of absence. Upon returning to
school, a written explanation of the absence must accompany the
child. A written note is not required if we have received prior
notice.
Excuse notes from parents should clearly state the reason the
student has been absent. Notes from professionals should state the
period of time the child was required to be absent from school.
Failure on the part of the parent/guardian to provide some form of
notification of the absence will result in an unexcused absence. In
the event that some form of notification is not received, the parent
will be contacted.
The school strongly discourages children leaving school early for
appointments, recreational activities, and lessons. Early dismissals
will be subject to a tardy, which may be unexcused.
In the event that a child leaves the school grounds for any reason
during the instructional day, the person responsible for the child
must sign the child out in the office and HHLS staff will be
responsible for escorting the child to the parent.
Students will make up all work not completed due to excused absences
from school. Incomplete work will be made up by a time designated by
the teacher. Make up work for vacations and trips may be assigned
selectively at the teacher's discretion. All tests missed during
trips and vacations will be taken upon the student's return to
school.
Tardiness
School begins promptly at 8:00 A.M. An announcement will be made
at 7:59 A.M. notifying students of the time. A student who is not
in his/her seat with the required materials at 8:00 is late and will
be marked TARDY. A parent must accompany the child to the office and
sign them in. School personnel will see that the child gets to the
classroom. Faculty and administration discourage early pick-ups.
Early dismissals may be subject to an unexcused tardy. The office
will determine if the tardy is excused or unexcused.
The administrator may contact the parent of a student who has 4
tardies in a 9-week grading period.
When a student has accumulated 6 tardies in a 9 week grading period
the administrator will request a conference with the parent.
Eight (8) unexcused tardies in a 9-week grading period constitutes
an unexcused absence.
Please notify the office by 8:15 A.M. concerning student's late
arrival. If the office has not been notified by 8:15 A.M. concerning
the tardiness of a child, an attempt will be made to determine the
cause of the tardiness.
BOOK FAIRS
Book Fairs are held each year. These Book Fairs will feature books
from Scholastic, Concordia, or other comparable vendors. Proceeds
will help to build school and classroom libraries. Volunteers will
assist with the book fairs. While every effort will be made to see
that books are appropriate, books will not be censored by the
school; this is considered to be a parental responsibility.
CELEBRATIONS
Classrooms may celebrate these holidays and events:
1. Fall
2. Christmas
3. 100 Day
4. Valentine�s Day
5. End of the year/field day
The Christmas party and Valentine's Day party will be held from
1:30 - 3:00 P.M. The Fall party, 100-Day party, and End of the Year
party may be held off premises. Volunteers need to meet with the
teacher and follow the guidelines set by the classroom and the
school.
CHAPEL
Chapel will be held on a weekly basis. Parents are welcome to
attend. Students are to wear dress uniforms. Please refer to
the 'Dress Code' section of this handbook for appropriate chapel
dress. Please refrain from flash photography or video camera use
during chapel services. Arrangements can be made to take pictures
after the service.
CLASSROOM MEETINGS
There will be a classroom meeting conducted for parents at the
beginning of the school year. Other meetings may be held at the
teacher's discretion. The purpose of the meeting will include, but
not be limited to, familiarizing parents with classroom procedures,
curriculum, and expectations. Classroom meetings are for the PARENTS
ONLY.
CONFERENCES
A fall conference will be held with your child's homeroom teacher to
discuss student progress. Teachers of specific subject areas or
parents may request a conference at any time. Please refrain from
discussing issues and concerns with teachers during the school day,
which begins at 7:30 A.M. These conferences may be held before or
after school hours, or on designated conference days. Specific dates
will be announced to you either by the school's monthly newsletter
(Heavenly Headlines) or through the individual teacher's weekly
newsletter. Every effort will be made to arrange a time convenient
for the parents.
As a courtesy to teachers, phone calls should be made no later than
8:30 P.M. Parents are encouraged to visit the school and
classrooms. Please make prior arrangements through the office.
Please sign in and notify someone in the office when you come to
visit so you can be escorted to the classroom.
If a question concerning classroom policy or procedure should arise,
parents should contact the teacher, in writing or by phone, for an
appointment.
CURRICULUM
HHLS curriculum is chosen to meet or exceed the guidelines set forth
by the State of Tennessee. Parents may view the curriculum at
classroom meetings or other pre-arranged times.
HHLS strives to be creative in the preparation and presentation of
all areas of class work. HHLS also seeks to meet the needs of the
various learning styles and developmental stages of each child in
the classroom. Field trips and resource people will be used to
enhance the course of study. At HHLS, Christ will be in all that we
do, including the curriculum.
DISCIPLINE
The goal of discipline at Heavenly Host Lutheran School is to teach
students self-control, Christian attitudes, orderliness, and
efficiency, rather than to punish them. Teachers interact with
students in accordance with the teachings and philosophy of Christ.
Teachers consider actions acceptable for certain stages of growth.
Teachers redirect actions when necessary, and stop any behavior or
conduct that interferes with teaching activities. Students are
taught to love, serve, and respect one another's rights and
privileges.
Students are expected to:
A. Be respectful to adults D. Come to class
prepared for the day
B. Be kind and respectful to fellow students E. Complete work
neatly and turn in
on time
C. Be respectful of school property F. Think safety
first
Consequences
Kindergarten - 2nd Grade Third - Fourth Grades
I. Warning** I. Warning**
II. Time Out (age appropriate) II. First Demerit/10
minutes lost privileges
III. Loss of Privilege III. Second Demerit/15
minutes lost privileges/
Note sent home
IV. Student phones parent IV. Third Demerit/meet with
principal
V. Student sent to principal�s office V. Fourth Demerit/30
minutes of after school
detention
**Automatic move to step III for willful intent to harm others or
school property or inappropriate language.
**Automatic move to step II for second consecutive offense of not
coming to school prepared for the day (third and fourth grades only).
Each classroom teacher will use his/her discretion in
administering/modifying this discipline plan. [Kindergarten and
first grade will apply this plan in morning and afternoon periods.
Second, third, and fourth grades] will apply this plan to a full day.
Rewards will include but are not limited to positive notes sent
home, phone calls home, and choice of center time.
Middle school students will be expected to follow a set of rules
established by the teachers. A demerit system has been implemented
as follows:
1 demerit - student goes to the principal's office and calls to
inform the parents
2 demerits - Student spends an entire day in the Principal's office
3 demerits - Principal holds a conference with the teacher and
parent to determine further action which could include detention,
suspension, probation, or other suitable penalty.
Demerits will accumulate throughout one school week.
Detention must be served the day it is given. Written verification
from the doctor's or dentist's office will be required for
rescheduling detention. Detention will not be rescheduled for
lessons, sports, haircuts, parties and the like. Missed detention
will be subject to an in-school suspension.
Severe clause - Per state law, teachers and administration have the
right to immediately remove a student from the premises when
threatening or carrying out violent acts. Such acts will not be
tolerated and will be subject to permanent dismissal from the school.
Behavior Probation
Realizing that attitudes influence behavior, Heavenly Host Lutheran
School places great emphasis on the student's attitude. Believing
that attitudes affect not only the student but also his/her peers,
HHLS reserves the right to dismiss a student for negative attitudes.
If counseling and discipline have failed to make a positive change,
a probation period may be imposed. The length of the probation is at
the discretion of the administration. The reasons behavior probation
is placed on any individual student includes, but are not limited
to:
1. Consistently breaking school rules
2. Using language that is considered foul, slanderous,
disrespectful, or blasphemous
3. Failing to complete assignments over an extended period of time
4. Committing acts of violence against any person or property
5. Consistently displaying negative attitudes toward school and/or
others
6. Behaving in a way that brings adverse publicity to the school
DRESS CODE
Students are required to wear uniforms purchased from Dennis Larose
School Uniforms with the exception of HHLS t-shirts, HHLS
Hooded sweatshirt, belts, socks, and shoes. It is the responsibility
of the parent/guardian to see that their child is properly dressed
for the school day. A written reminder will be sent for the first
uniform violation. Failure to comply with the HHLS dress code will
result in the parent�s being called to bring proper clothing.
DRESS UNIFORM: Each child will need at least one complete DRESS
UNIFORM. Solid colored shoes are to be worn with the dress uniform.
Shirt and blouse sleeves must be worn down and buttoned.
*Other uniform pieces required for all students are khaki pants and
a navy polo shirt. While only one navy polo shirt is required, it
is suggested that students have both long and short sleeves due to
seasonal changes.
*Field trips will require either dress uniforms or khaki pants with
navy polo shirts. This decision will be based on the nature of the
field trip and is left to the discretion of the teacher. Students
not in compliance with the required uniform will not be allowed to
attend the field trip.
*Shoes that fasten or tie are required for the sake of safety.
Western style boots, clogs, open-toe shoes, open-backed shoes, shoes
with elevated heels, and shoes with lights wheels, and/or sound
effects are not permitted. Socks must be worn at all times. In the
event that these guidelines are not followed, parents will be called
to bring another pair of shoes.
*Non-uniform sweatshirts, sweaters, and jackets may not be worn in
the school building. Hats, bandanas and do-rags (head scarves) are
not to be worn in the building.
*Shorts/skirts/skorts must fall to the fingertips or no more than 3
inches above the knee.
The Administration reserves the right to make decisions concerning
dress code and appearance as needed.
Girls Uniforms
K-3
Girls Dress Uniform (K-3) Warmer Weather
Drop waist jumper in plaid
White round-collared blouse, short sleeve
Socks: white, black, or navy (long or short socks)
Shoes (preferred dark dress shoes, clean crisp tennis shoes
allowed)
Girls Dress Uniform (K-3) Cooler Weather
Drop waist jumper in plaid
White round-collared blouse, long sleeve or short sleeve
Navy Cardigan sweater
Shoes (preferred dark dress shoes, clean crisp tennis shoes
allowed)
Socks: white, black, or navy (long or short socks)/or
Tights: black or navy
Shoes (preferred dark dress shoes, clean crisp tennis shoes
allowed)
Girls Daily Wear (K-3) Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday Cooler Weather
Khaki, navy or plaid items - pant, skirt, or skort
Solid polo shirts long or short sleeve (colors: navy, red, green,
light blue, pink, white)
Chambray shirt (buttoned and tucked or used as a jacket over white,
navy or red plain T-shirt)
Socks
Shoes
* Plaid may only be worn with navy, red, green or white polo shirts
* Chambray will not be allowed with plaid
Girls Daily Wear (K-3) Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday Warmer Weather
Khaki, navy or plaid items - pant, capri, skirt, skort or short
Solid polo shirts short sleeve (colors navy, red, green, light blue,
pink, white)
Chambray shirt (buttoned and tucked or used as a jacket over white,
navy or red plain T-shirt)
Socks
Shoes
* Plaid may only be worn with navy, red, green or white polo shirts
* Chambray will not be allowed with plaid
Girls Casual Friday (K-3)
Khaki, navy or plaid items - pant, capri, skirt, skort or short
(season permitting)
Blue Jeans if earned
Any Heavenly Host Lutheran School T-Shirt
Polo shirts long sleeve or short sleeve (colors: navy, red, green,
light blue, pink, white)
Chambray shirt (buttoned and tucked or used as a jacket over white,
navy or red plain T-shirt)
Socks
Shoes
* Plaid may only be worn with navy, red, green or white polo shirts
* Chambray will not be allowed with plaid
* T-shirts will not be allowed with plaid
Girls Uniforms
Grades 4-5-6-7-8
Girls Dress Uniform (4-5-6-7-8) Warmer Weather
Plaid skirt # 13455 or plaid skort
4th Graders may wear either the plaid jumper OR skirt/skort
White button-down oxford shirt, short sleeve (tucked in)
Socks: white, black, or navy (long or short socks)
Shoes (preferred dark dress shoes, clean crisp tennis shoes
allowed)
Girls Dress Uniform (4-5-6-7-8) Cooler Weather
Plaid skirt #13455 or plaid skort
4th Graders may wear plaid jumper OR skirt/skort
White button-down, long sleeve or short sleeve (tucked in)
Socks: white, black, or navy (long or short socks)/or
Tights: black or navy
Navy vest
Shoes (preferred dark dress shoes, clean crisp tennis shoes allowed
Girls Daily Wear (4-5-6-7-8) Monday, Tuesday, Thursday Cooler Weather
Khaki, navy or plaid items - pants, or any skirt, or approved skort
#13455 (plaid front-flap skort no longer available)
Polo shirts short sleeve (colors navy, red, green, light blue, pink,
white)
Chambray shirt (buttoned and tucked or used as a jacket over white
navy, or red plain T-shirt)
Socks
Shoes
* Plaid may only be worn with navy, red, green or white polo shirts
* Chambray will not be allowed with plaid
Girls Daily Wear (4-5-6-7-8) Monday, Tuesday, Thursday Warmer Weather
Khaki, navy or plaid items - pant, capri, skirt, short or approved
skort .
Polo shirts short sleeve (colors navy, red, green, light blue, pink,
white)
Chambray shirt (buttoned and tucked or used as a jacket over white
navy, or red plain T-shirt)
Socks
Shoes
* Plaid may only be worn with navy, red, green or white polo shirts
* Chambray will not be allowed with plaid
Girls Casual Friday (4-5-6-7-8)
Khaki, navy or plaid items - pant, capri, skirt, approved skort or
short (season permitting)
Blue Jeans if earned
Any Heavenly Host Lutheran School T-Shirt
Polo shirts long sleeve or short sleeve (colors: navy, red, green,
light blue, pink, white)
blue chambray shirt (buttoned and tucked or used as a jacket over
white,
navy or red plain T-shirt)
Socks
Shoes
* Plaid may only be worn with navy, red, green or white polo shirts
* Chambray will not be allowed with plaid
* T-shirts will not be allowed with plaid
Girls Gym Clothes (5-6-7-8)
Gray T-Shirt (HHLS or plain with no logo of any kind)
Black or Navy Sweat Pants or Shorts (plain; no logo of any kind)
Socks
Athletic Shoes
Girls Other Approved Items (K-8)
Sweatshirt (navy)
Hooded zip up sweatshirt (navy)
Fleece Jacket, Pullover or Vest (red)
Boys Uniforms
K-8
Boys Dress Uniform (K-8) Warmer Weather
Khaki pants or shorts with belt
White button-down oxford shirt, short sleeve (tucked in)
Socks
Shoes (preferred dark dress shoes, clean crisp tennis shoes
allowed)
Boys Dress Uniform (K-8) Cooler Weather
Khaki pants with belt
White button-down oxford shirt long sleeve, or short sleeve (tucked
in)
Navy vest
Socks
Shoes (preferred dark dress shoes, clean crisp tennis shoes
allowed)
Boys Daily Wear (K-8) Monday, Tuesday, Thursday Cooler Weather
Khaki or navy pants
Polo shirts long sleeve or short sleeve (colors: navy, red, green,
light blue, pink, white)
Chambray shirt (buttoned and tucked or used as a jacket over white
navy or red plain T-shirt)
Socks
Shoes
Boys Daily Wear (K-8) Monday, Tuesday, Thursday Warmer Weather
Khaki or navy pants or shorts
Polo shirts short sleeve (colors: navy, red, green, ight blue, pink,
white)
Socks
Shoes
Boys Casual Friday (K-8)
Khaki or navy pants or shorts (season permitting)
Blue Jeans if earned
Any Heavenly Host Lutheran School T-Shirt
Polo shirt long sleeve or short sleeve (colors navy, red, green,
light blue, pink, white)
Chambray shirt (buttoned and tucked or used as a jacket over white,
navy or red plain T-shirt)
Socks
Shoes
Boys Gym Clothes (5-6-7-8)
Gray T-Shirt (plain; no logo of any kind)
Black or Navy Sweat Pants or Shorts (plain; no logo of any kind)
Socks
Athletic Shoes
Boys Other Approved Items
Sweatshirt (navy)
Fleece Jacket, Pullover or Vest (red)
Hooded zip up sweatshirt (navy)
ADDITIONAL DRESS CODE INFORMATION
FOR ALL STUDENTS
'Out of Uniform' Days
When students are not in uniform while attending HHLS, they will be
expected to adhere to the following dress code.
Shirts
1. No muscle shirts or tank tops (boys).
2. No low-cut tops.
3. No form-fitting clothing.
4. Shirts must be long enough to cover the back and belly when
arms are raised.
5. No spaghetti straps.
6. Sleeveless tops are permitted, but no underclothing can show.
Shorts/Slacks/Skirts
1. Shorts/skirts must fall to the fingertips or no more than 3
inches above the knee.
2. Slacks/jeans/pants/shorts, etc., must have no holes.
3. Pants must fit appropriately at the waist with no
underclothing showing.
All Clothing
1. No 'inappropriate' writing on the clothing; i.e., no racist
or sexist remarks, no advertising for beer, cigarettes, etc.
2. All clothing must be size-appropriate, neither too baggy nor
too tight.
3. No flip-flops. Shoes must be firmly attached to the feet.
The same footwear guidelines apply on non-uniform days as on uniform
days.
EMERGENCY DRILLS AND PROCEDURES
Fire drills
Fire drills will be conducted monthly. An exit map will be posted in
the classroom. Teachers are responsible for establishing classroom
fire drill procedures and making children familiar with them.
Children will be counted and roll called as needed. Hallway doors
will be closed, and bathroom doors will be opened. If a fire drill
occurs while class is outside, the teacher will gather the children
in a safe location, and determine the presence of children in each
class.
Tornado Drill
Children will move to designated areas and follow tornado procedure.
Safety Plan
The school has developed a Safety Plan. Copies are in the school
office and library.
FACULTY DEVOTIONS
The faculty sets aside 7:30-7:45 A.M. each day for personal
devotions. At 7:45 A.M. the teachers go to their respective
classrooms, and teacher supervision of children begins. Children
arriving before 7:45 A.M. will report to Early Bird Care. A fee
will be charged for care of children before 7:45 A.M.
FEES
All families are required to sign and fulfill the terms of the
contract for the payment of all tuition and registration fees. You
will receive a monthly statement that includes any balances due and
the following month's tuition fee. It may also include unpaid
lunches, Early Bird care, and late pick-up charges. Accounts will be
reviewed each month.
BEGINNING WITH THE 2009-2010 SCHOOL YEAR, HEAVENLY HOST WILL REQUIRE
ALL STUDENT TUITION TO BE PAID BY AUTOMATIC DRAFT FROM THE
PARENT/GUARDIAN BANKING ACCOUNT. FORMS ARE PROVIDED IN THE
REGISTRATION PACKET FOR YOUR CONVENIENCE.
Tuition and fee payments are to be made by the first of each month.
A late charge may be added as per contract to delinquent accounts.
In the event that such tuition and fee payments are not made in
accordance with the agreement, the school administration may enforce
all of the following:
A. The Board of Education may suspend the right of the students to
receive reports and records, pending payment to the school of
delinquent fees.
B. At its sole option, the Board of Education may suspend or
terminate the attendance of any student when payment of fees is in
arrears by an amount equal to 20% (2 months) of the yearly tuition
and has not been received by the school within five (5) school days
after the mailing of a request for payment at the address given on
the registration form.
For information pertaining to the registration fees, contracts, or
other questions regarding fees, contact a board member.
Non-Sufficient Funds Checks (NSF)
Returned check may be charged a $50.00 fee. After two (2) NSF
returned checks, future payments must be made by cash, money order,
or cashiers check.
FIELD TRIPS
Field trips will have a specific, educational purpose. Many
worthwhile opportunities for educational trips are available as an
extension of the curriculum. Students are expected to attend field
trips unless there is a medical reason for non-attendance. Careful
planning is always necessary before leaving the school grounds. Each
teacher is responsible for his/her students. This responsibility is
shared with adult chaperones/drivers.
A signed written permission form is required prior to each trip. The
permission form will include a trip description, location, dates,
times, uniform requirements, number of seat belts for children, and
driver and chaperone requests. Verbal permission from parents will
not be accepted. Other arrangements will be made for the supervision
of children without written permission while the class is on the
trip. Every effort will be made to give adequate notice for a trip.
However, opportunities may arise that call for spontaneity and
flexibility. All parents who are driving for a school-sponsored
event must have a completed volunteer driver form on file with the
school.
The primary concern of the teachers and administration is the safety
of the students.
Each driver/chaperone is responsible for the students in his/her
vehicle, and he/she is responsible for monitoring the students'
safety and behavior for the duration of the field trip. Because of
this responsibility, siblings (of any age) will not be permitted on
field trips. Teachers should be informed of both positive and
negative student behavior during the field trip.
ALL STUDENTS MUST WEAR SEAT BELTS WHILE BEING TRANSPORTED.
While on field trips, students, teachers, and parents are
representing Heavenly Host Lutheran School. Students are to behave
appropriately and safely. Administration reserves the right to
revoke future field trip privileges for students exhibiting
inappropriate behavior.
GUIDELINES FOR PARENT CHAPERONES
1. If a parent is planning to attend a field trip, s/he must
sign up on the field trip permission note and talk to the teacher
about attending.
2. Parent chaperones must stay with the group and supervise the
assigned children at all times.
3. Parents should follow the dress code for 'Out of Uniform
Days,' as stated in this Handbook.
FIELD TRIPS -- School Board Policy 1/26/05
Given the limited time that teachers have to interact with
students, it is of critical importance that such time is used in the
most productive ways possible. As a result, both traditional
classroom as well as non-classroom activities such as field trips
are to be planned in order to meet this objective. Classroom
activities are typically driven by the curriculum provided. In
order to assist in providing direction for the use of student time
in conjunction with field trip activities, the following guidelines
are to be utilized.
Purpose: Field trips stimulate and enhance academic learning in
conjunction with curriculum standards. Field trips require extra
time and effort from teachers and parents. Field trips may be
planned for one of the following reasons:
1.1. To complete or compliment a unit of study
1.2. To launch a unit of study
1.3. To network or team together with students from other schools
1.4. To attend special events
Guiding Principle: All participants on a school trip will at all
times act as ambassadors for Christ and for Heavenly Host Lutheran
School.
2.1 While representing our school community, participants will
conduct themselves courteously and responsibly. Participants will
demonstrate respect for themselves, others, and others' property.
1. The Principal is responsible for ensuring that all field trip
activities provided by the school are integrated with the curriculum
currently being taught.
2. In approving field trips the principal will consider the impact
such trips have on the completion of the yearlong instructional
objectives for each individual class. In addition the principal
will attempt to schedule field trip experiences which are not
duplicative for students as they proceed through the various grade
levels in the school.
3. The principal will develop an integrated field trip experiential
calendar by October 15 of each school year. The calendar should
include: date of activity, grade/class involved, learning activity
involved, and learning outcomes expected.
The testing schedules for criterion-referenced testing, norm-
referenced testing, functional testing, and final exams are to be
primary considerations in planning.
Student Behavioral Expectations
3.1. At all times students will:
3.1.1. Demonstrate respect for all rules and regulations
3.1.2. Cooperate with those in authority
3.1.3. Respectfully pay attention to instructions, information,
guided tours, and visual presentations.
3.2. Any student who fails to meet these expectations, or who
demonstrates dangerous or anti-social behavior will be sent home
immediately at his/her parent's expense.
Trip Leadership
4.1. A school staff member shall be designated as trip leader and
shall be responsible for implementation of field trip policy.
4.2. For overnight field trips, the leader will communicate with the
school at least twice each day. All unforeseen changes will be
reported immediately to the school secretary who will inform the
school administrator and parents.
4.3. Staff members responsible for trip will carry a cell phone,
first aid kit, parent permission forms, emergency medical forms, and
emergency phone numbers.
4.4. Student to Adult supervision ratios - the following ratios will
be strictly observed
4.4.1. Kindergarten 5/1
4.4.2. Grades 1-3 6/1
4.4.3. Grades 4-6 8/1
4.4.4. Grades 7-8 10/1
4.4.5. Students with special needs may require 1/1 supervision. This
decision is left to the teacher and/or school administrator.
4.5. Adult chaperones will include teachers, administrators,
parents, or legal guardians.
4.6. All students must be directly supervised 24 hours per day.
Adults must remain with the group at all times.
4.7 While cell phones are good for emergencies, they can cause
distractions while driving and participating in field trips. Please
use good cell phone etiquette such as reducing or terminating ringer
volume, screening calls, using voice mail, talking quietly when you
have to talk and not using the phone while you are driving.
FUND-RAISERS
The parent group (P.T.L.S.) sponsors many fund-raisers to support
activities or special needs for the school.
GRADING PROCEDURES/REPORTING
The school year at HHLS consists of 180 days divided into (4) nine-
week grading periods for kindergarten through eighth grade. Progress
reports are issued the Friday following the close of the grading
period. Additionally, mid-term progress reports are issued at
the "mid-point� of each grading period (first grade and above).
Parents are encouraged to communicate with teachers regarding
student progress.
Kindergarten will use the following grading system.
Behavior/Skill consistently evident
Behavior/Skill developing
Not evaluated.
First and second grades will use the following grading system.
Percentages will be given for Reading, Math, Spelling and English.
S (satisfactory), N (needs improvement), and I (improving) will be
used in all other areas.
Third, fourth, fifth, sixth, seventh, and eighth grades: All major
subject areas will be graded on a percentage scale. Elective
classes will be reported using S for satisfactory, I for improving,
and N for needs improvement.
Grading procedures and policies will be discussed at classroom
meetings.
HOMEWORK
Homework for all children at HHLS should include nightly reading by,
and/or to the child. Homework expectations will vary according to
grade level. Teachers will inform parents of specific homework
requirements during the classroom meetings.
POLICY ON ELECTRONICS
1. Students MAY NOT bring electronics to school. This
includes, but is not limited to: Palm pilots, CD players, Gameboys,
and cell phones. If approved by the teacher, students will be
allowed to bring calculators for math class.
2. In an emergency, if a parent needs to get in touch with a
child who is on a field trip, the parent may call the school. The
school will then contact one of the adults on the trip who has a
cell phone.
3. Any time prohibited items are brought to school, the item
will be confiscated and demerits may be issued.
HEALTH POLICY
Children are to be free of vomiting, diarrhea and fever FOR 24 HOURS
WITHOUT THE AID OF MEDICATION BEFORE RETURNING TO SCHOOL.
For the safety and health of all, HHLS has the option to ask the
parent to pick up a child that is determined too ill to be at
school. Children with the following illnesses are not permitted to
attend:
Chicken Pox: until the last crop of blisters has dried into scabs.
Generally six days after the onset of the rash.
Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye): until the physician has been contacted
and medication has been administered for 24 hours.
Giardiasis: until the child receives a medical examination, has
started treatment, and has physician approval to return to the
school.
Head Lice: until the child is nit free.
Impetigo: until sores have been treated with an antibiotic and
covered. If sores persist or spread, the child is excluded until
there is physician approval to return to the school.
Measles: until 4 days after the rash appears.
Mumps: until 1 week after the swelling begins.
Pertussis (Whooping Cough): until 5-7 days after antibiotic
treatment begins.
Pinworms: until after the treatment has been started.
Respiratory Infections/Respiratory Illness: until child is fever-
free for 24 hours without the aid of medication
Ringworm: until 24 hours after treatment begins.
Rubella (German Measles): until 5 days after treatment is completed.
Scabies: until 24 hours after treatment is completed.
Strep Throat/Scarlet Fever: until 24 hours after treatment begins
and fever is gone.
Temperature: until child is fever-free (100 deg. or less) for 24
hours without the aid of medication
Please let the teacher know when your child is not feeling well so
that we may be on the alert for other symptoms.
Prior arrangements should be made to have an emergency contact
person. The procedure for sick children is as follows:
1. The office will attempt to contact the parent or emergency
contact person.
2. If contact cannot be made within one hour, the administrator
assumes responsibility for the care of the child.
3. In emergency situations, it may be necessary for the school to
call 911 or transport the child to the emergency room.
INTERNET USAGE
Purpose: The purpose of this policy is to set guidelines for
Internet Usage on the HHLS Campus
Scope: This policy applies to all HHLS students.
Responsibility: The HHLS Teachers and Administrator have direct
responsibility for administering this policy
Policy: HHLS students will participate in projects throughout the
year using the internet. A teacher must supervise all internet
usage. These projects will be directed for educational purposes and
curriculum support. Guidelines for internet usage are as follows:
Students May:
- Visit approved Internet sites. Teacher�s written approved
web sites must be posted at the computer station in order for
students to visit approved sites.
- Use the internet for educational purposes only during school
hours. Other teacher-approved sites may be visited before and after
school, only with teacher permission
Students May Not:
- Visit sites deemed inappropriate by the teacher/administrator
- Send or receive e-mail or instant message
- Construct personal web pages
- Share passwords
- Use the internet to copy software or plagiarize
- Reveal personal information
Violations and Consequences: If a student finds him/herself on an
inappropriate site accidentally, he/she MUST notify the teachers
immediately.
If a student intentionally visits an inappropriate site:
- 1st offense will result in a visit to the principal�s
office, and suspension from internet use for the remainder of the
calendar year.
- 2nd offense will result in appearance before the school
board for behavioral probation and possible suspension from school
for a period of time established by the board and/or the
administration.
Lesser violations will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
LIBRARY
Students will attend library on a weekly basis. Children will be
allowed to check out one book for a period of one week. Books will
be due back before library time the following week. Books lost or
damaged will be charged to the student (minimum twenty dollars
hardback-ten dollars paperback processed). Checkout privileges will
be suspended until the book is either returned or replaced.
LIBRARY -- Challenged Literature
Purpose: To create an avenue for questioning literature
being used in the HHLS library.
Scope: The policy applies to all HHLS students.
Responsibility: The administrator and the school librarian.
Policy: If a piece of literature in the HHLS library is
challenged by a student, parent, or faculty member, he/she must:
1. Present the material to be challenged to the librarian.
2. Obtain a challenge form from the librarian
2. Complete and return to librarian.
The librarian presents challenge form to the principal and arranges
a meeting with parent, principal and librarian to discuss the
challenge and reach an agreement as to the dismissal or approval of
the literature.
If an agreement cannot be reached - the challenge is presented with
a recommendation to the school board by the principal.
The school board makes a final judgment concerning the challenge.
LUNCH/SNACK
Parents are encouraged to send healthy, nutritious snacks with their
child. The purpose of snack is to maintain energy levels, and to
maintain daily requirements for nutrition.
Lunches and milk may be purchased by ordering in advance from Terri
Sergio Catering. Milk is served with lunch. Drinks for snack must
be brought from home. A menu will be sent home and is to be
returned to the homeroom promptly. Payment to Terri Sergio must be
made by check only. Specific costs are determined at the beginning
of each year.
Parents may send a sack lunch/drink/snack with their child at any
time. Please send a lunch that your child can manage independently.
If you are sending a lunch from home please include the needed
condiments and utensils. The school does not provide these items.
Those not buying milk are responsible for providing their own drink.
Students will not be allowed to refrigerate or microwave snacks,
drinks, or lunches. The use of cold packs is recommended for sack
lunches and drinks. Please do not send glass containers. Juice
pouches, squeeze bottles, drink boxes, or any labeled, reusable
plastic container with a lid is acceptable. All other containers
and carbonated beverages are prohibited. Please label all personal
items from home with your child's name.
If a child forgets his/her lunch, or does not have a lunch at the
scheduled lunch time, a lunch will be provided for him/her.
HHLS expects children to use appropriate manners and behavior in the
lunchroom. The first 10 minutes of each lunch period will be silent
to allow ample eating time. Music may be played during this time.
Parents are welcome to come and have lunch with their child at
school. Prior arrangements need to be made for your own lunch. If
parents choose to take their child off premises for lunch, the
student must return before classes resume or an unexcused tardy will
be given.
Fast food meals/hot meals brought in that day by parents are
discouraged and will not be eaten in the lunchroom. A designated
area will be set aside for the parent and child to eat together.
Fast foods/hot meals are defined as:
1. Food from drive-up windows, such as Taco Bell and McDonalds
2. Chinese food or other hot food in restaurant containers
Cold sandwiches, such as Subways, or soups are allowed. The
guideline to follow is: if the item can be purchased the day before
and packed in student lunch boxes, it is acceptable for the
lunchroom.
In honor of a child's birthday, a parent may choose to provide a
snack during the regular snack time.
MEDICATIONS
Students who are under a doctor's care and need to take prescribed
medicine during the school day are to follow the medication policy
of the school. It is most desirable for medication to be
administered in the home or at the physician's office rather than at
school. However, any student who is required to take medication
during the regular school day must comply with the following
regulations.
1. All medications which are physician prescribed must be
accompanied by written orders detailing the name of the student,
date, name of the medication, dosage, and the time interval the
medication is to be taken.
2. The parent or guardian must request in writing, via the
medication form, that the school comply with the physician's
medication order. This note should include phone number(s) in case
of question or emergency. Be sure to sign the permission note.
3. Medication is to be brought to the school medicine box by the
parent or guardian (NOT THE STUDENT). The medication must be in its
original container appropriately labeled by the pharmacy or
physician. Means of dispensing the medication must also be provided
by the parents or guardian when appropriate, i.e. spoon, measuring
cup, etc.
4. The teaching staff will not administer medication to students nor
allow students to self-administer medication. Cough drops, however,
may be kept in the teacher's desk in a labeled container for the
student.
5. Aspirins will be administered by parents only.
6. All medication, including Rolaids and anti-itch creams will be
kept secure by the school office, not on the child's person, desk,
locker, or by the teacher. Prescribed asthmatic inhalers are the
exception to this rule.
7. Parents are responsible for removing any unused medication from
the school office at the end of the treatment regime, or it will be
discarded.
8. The administration reserves the right to make medication
decisions based on specific concerns.
PARENTS AND TEACHERS IN LUTHERAN SCHOOLS (PTLS)
HHLS enjoys a very active, supportive parent group. By having a
child enrolled at HHLS parents are automatically members of this
group. The support, encouragement, and involvement of PTLS are
of great benefit to our school. PTLS meetings are held on a
regular basis.
PARENT/STUDENT GRIEVANCES
If a student and his/her parent feels aggrieved on account of any
policy of the Board, the administrator, or a teacher, the parent
shall use the following procedure:
- If the grievance is with a teacher, contact the teacher
immediately and discuss the problem with the teacher. The teacher
is expected to solve the problem.
(For a variety of reasons, some parents are reluctant to confront
teachers directly with their concerns about classroom practices.
They prefer to discuss these matters with the administrator. The
administrator should first encourage such parents to speak directly
with the teacher. Many parents, however, will refuse, citing a
variety of reasons. In such situations, administrators should ask
the teacher to use the Matthew 5:23-24 principle, which
says, �Therefore, if you�remember that your brother has something
against you�go and be reconciled to your brother�� Administrators
should lovingly make teachers aware of the complaints registered by
parents and urge them to follow Matthew 5 by going to the parents or
students they have offended.
- For all other grievances � including unresolved teacher
grievances � contact the school administrator and set forth in
detail, either written or verbally, the action or policy that is the
basis for the grievance. The administrator will be responsible for
solving the problem.
- If the grievance is not settled within a reasonable time -
the parent and the administrator will mutually agree on the
timeframe - the parent shall contact the Board chair. The Board
chair may either refer the matter back to the administrator or may
set a meeting between himself, the administrator, the parent and
other appropriate parties.
- If the grievance is still not settled, the parent may file a
written statement with the Board and request a meeting with the
whole Board. At the next regularly scheduled Board meeting � the
Board chair may, at his/her discretion, call for a special Board
meeting - the Board will meet with the parent and all parties
involved in the dispute.
- Following the conference, but not later than the next
regularly scheduled meeting, the Board will communicate its decision
in writing, together with supporting reasons, to all parties in
interest. The Board decision is the final step in the procedure
In Administering this policy:
- A parent and/or student will never appear before the Board
without the offending person's also being present and given a chance
to defend him/herself.
- No reprisals of any kind will be taken by any party to this
procedure against any party in interest, any witness, or any other
participant in the procedure.
- The procedure above is the sole and only course available to
any aggrieved person.
- All parties concerned will treat the grievance as
confidential information.
- All grievances will be processed as rapidly as possible.
Definitions
- Grievance: any event or situation that affects the
conditions or circumstances of a parent and/or student, allegedly
caused by misinterpretation or unfair application of established
policies or regulations
- Parent and/or student: the person(s) making the claim and
any person who might be required to take action, or against whom
action might be taken, in order to resolve the problem.
RETENTION
The school board, administration, and the classroom teacher have the
final say concerning retention. A final core average of 70%, across
the curriculum, will be REQUIRED for promotion to the next grade.
SAFETY
Parents should constantly remind their children of the need to
practice good rules of safety at all times. Children should be
conscious of the need for safety in the school building as well as
on the school grounds. A member(s) of the faculty and/or staff is
always on supervisory duty during school hours.
Written permission (from a parent) is required for anyone, other
than the parent, taking a child off school grounds. Students should
always be signed-out in the office when leaving the school grounds
during the day.
Parents must provide written notification of any pending legal or
domestic situation that could affect the safety and welfare of their
child.
As required by law and local code, the school will exercise routine
drills to prepare for fire and tornadoes.
General Safety
Running, ball throwing, chasing or rowdy conduct will not be
tolerated inside the building. This includes school hours and school-
sponsored events held after school hours.
Shoes that fasten or tie are required for the sake of safety.
Western style boots, clogs, open-toe shoes, open-backed shoes, flip-
flops, and shoes with heels are not permitted. In the event that
these guidelines are not followed, parents will be called to bring
another pair of shoes.
HHLS has a zero tolerance policy for any weapons on campus. Under
no conditions may toy guns, rubber band shooters, bows and arrows,
knives, or any other weapon-like objects be permitted. Likewise, the
school discourages using any objects in a weapon-like manner.
Visitors
All visitors must sign-in at the office immediately upon arrival.
The school reserves the right to ask any visitor to leave.
This policy should not be interpreted as a deterrent to visitors. It
is intended to help maintain the safest and best educational
atmosphere for our students.
For further information, see the Safety Plan in the school office.
SCHOOL PICTURES
School pictures will be taken each year. Both individual and class
photographs will be taken.
SEVERE WEATHER DAYS
HHLS will follow Putnam County exactly on every severe weather day.
Closings and/or delayed openings announced for the Putnam County
School System will be followed exactly. A message will be recorded
on the school's answering machine. Parents are to use their own
discretion on getting children to and from school. Any absence
attributed to weather will be considered an excused absence.
TEACHER GIFTS
If you would like to remember your child's teacher in a special way,
please consider a gift that can be shared in the classroom such as
books and classroom materials. Wish lists may be available from the
classroom teacher. Gifts/gift certificates from Book Works,
Schoolhouse Supply, and Discovery Depot are always appreciated.
TELEPHONE CALLS
Any parent who finds it necessary to call their child is encouraged
to call the office and leave a message. Messages will be given to
the student as soon as possible. Phone calls will not be
transferred into the classroom. Children will not be called to the
phone except in an emergency. Parents who wish to contact teachers
are asked to do so after regular school hours except in cases of
emergency. Any other use of the phone by children will be limited
as well.
VOLUNTEERS
There will be many opportunities for volunteering at HHLS.
Volunteers are used in many capacities. A list of
those 'opportunities' will be provided throughout the school year.
ODDS AND ENDS
Unless special arrangements have been made with the teachers, pets
should not be brought to school.
Toys are not to be brought to school. This includes cosmetics, hair
care products, electronic devices, trading cards, and laptops. There
may be times when the teacher will give special permission to bring
items as they relate to a unit of study. This permission from the
teacher will be in written form.
Students should not bring money to school unless requested.
Invitations to special celebrations and birthday parties are to be
mailed unless all students in the class are to be invited.
Teachers should be creative in determining teams. Suggestions are:
color of hair, shoe style, etc.
Please label with your child's name all personal items that are
brought to school, including clothing.
Please be prepared to respond on the end-of-the-year survey as to
other information that would have been helpful or sections that need
clarification in this handbook.
Solicitations of any kind are not allowed on school grounds.
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