Garden City Public Schools

Transcription

1 Garden City Public Schools Inspiring Minds Empowering Achievement Building Community Calendar and Parent Guide

2 Almost Maine Garden City High School November 2013 The Jungle Book Stratford Avenue School February 2014 La BohÉme Stewart School January 2014 Annie Garden City Middle School March 2014 Legally BlondE Garden City High School March 2014

3 Dear Members of the Garden City Community: Please allow me to welcome you to the school year! Our school district calendar provides valuable information about activities that will take place during the months ahead. You will also find material about the school district in general, each of the schools, and important policies and procedures. Notes about PTA and SEPTA are included as well. In addition, I encourage you to check our newly redesigned and more user-friendly website for updates and further information. We also post news items on Twitter, and I invite you to follow our school We hope the calendar will be a very useful resource throughout the year. The coming school year will bring with it the completion of projects from the 2009 School Investment Bond and the Energy Performance Contract. Together, these initiatives have resulted in about $50 million worth of improvements to our physical plant including new roofs, new boilers, new doors and windows, new instructional spaces at three of our buildings, a new grandstand at the high school, energy-efficient lighting at all buildings, improved heating and ventilating systems, and natural gas connections to reduce our reliance on oil. We are also embarking on a security project to update our classroom door locks, install additional cameras outside and inside buildings, and align our security systems so they work together in a more seamless package. All schools begin the year with enhanced public address systems that enable us to send emergency notifications to students and staff from any part of a school building. Our school district continues to maintain its long-standing tradition of excellence. During the past months, our students once again excelled on every measure of growth and achievement. Our courses of study reflect our community s aspirations for its children: Garden City Public Schools develops and implements its own curricula and works diligently to ensure that instruction in our classrooms reflects best practices. While it is true that Garden City students perform with distinction on the many tests and assessments now required in our state, these results do not tell the whole tale. Instead, our story of achievement is represented in the sophisticated research our students conduct, wonderful performances in music, outstanding theatrical productions, creative arts displays, engaging creative writing, the extensive list of clubs, activities, and special events offered almost every day, and our award-winning athletics program and this list is by no means complete. Most importantly, a visit to any of our schools will reveal students who are engaged in meaningful academic work that builds the skills and understandings needed for success in the world beyond the schoolhouse, accompanied by a comprehensive character education program that encourages good citizenship and service to the community. The s fiscal stewardship has enabled Garden City to address the financial challenges of our times, produce prudent budgets, and maintain fiscal health. We are deeply appreciative of the community s support for its public schools. Good communication and community engagement are hallmarks of high quality schools. I hope you will participate in school activities during the next months and become part of the many special events that occur throughout the year. I also invite you to attend the Board of Education meetings that will take place on the dates posted in this calendar and on our website. Please feel free to contact me with your ideas, questions, or concerns at supt@gcufsd.net. Thank you for your continued support. Best regards for an enjoyable and successful school year! Sincerely, Robert Feirsen, Ed.D. Superintendent of Schools District Administration Administration Building 56 Cathedral Avenue Garden City, NY Robert Feirsen, Ed.D. Superintendent of Schools Dana DiCapua Assistant Superintendent for Business and Finance Fino M. Celano, Ed.D. Assistant Superintendent for Personnel Teresa Prendergast, Ed.D. Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction Rita Melikian, Ed.D. Director, Education Technology and Staff Development Lynette Abruzzo Director, Pupil Personnel Services... Page School Calendar... Page 3 Parent Guide District At a Glance... Page 17 Policies and Procedures... Page 18 Athletics, Attendance, Bicycles, Building Inspections, Home Instruction, Lunch, Pesticide Application, Physical Examinations, Registration, Reporting to Parents, Title I, Megan s Law, Sexual Harassment, Student Records and Privacy, Directory Information, Student/Parent Information Forms, Working Papers, Section 504, Title IX, and Dignity Act Building Coordinators Pupil Personnel Services... Page 21 Transportation, Attendance Areas, Closings... Page 22 Community Services, Annual Election, Budget Vote... Page 23 PTA, SEPTA... Page 24 Directory: Phone Numbers, School Hours, Principals... Page 25 Cover: This year s cover features art work created by senior Deirdre McGrath, a student in Shawn Uttendorfer s Advanced Placement Studio Art class. Deirdre used watercolors and markers to create this beautiful painting depicting a student s path through the grades from kindergarten to graduation and toward the rising sun of his or her future. Deirdre s work was selected by popular vote by the members of the PTA Executive Committee, the PTA building directors, and district administrators from this year s submissions. Deirdre will be attending Fordham University in the fall. 1

4 Barbara Trapasso President five-member, elected by the A residents for three-year terms, serves without pay in the School District, which is a political subdivision of the State of New York. Board members set goals, establish policy for the school system and carry out the directives and decisions of the New York State Department of Education. Some of their responsibilities include prescribing courses of study; reviewing, presenting and overseeing the school budget; levying taxes in accordance with law; contracting and employing staff; setting school boundary lines; providing school sites and buildings; purchasing fuel, furniture, and other necessities for use in school buildings; and providing student transportation. The is responsible for the efficient management of the schools and appoints the Superintendent of Schools as its chief administrative officer to make recommendations concerning the above activities and to carry out the decisions of the Board. The Role of the Public Angela Heineman Vice President Members of the public are welcome at all Regular Board of Education meetings, and the Board encourages the public to attend. Regular s are usually held once a month at 8:15 p.m. in a District building. Work Sessions To contact the, please boe@gcufsd.net Regular Schedule s are on Tuesdays at 8:15 p.m. unless otherwise noted. September 16, 2014 October 14, 2014 November 12, 2014* December 16, 2014 January 13, 2015 February 24, 2015 Tom Pinou Trustee March 18, 2015* Budget Adoption: April 21, 2015 Budget Vote: May 19, 2015 June 16, 2015 *Wednesday Dates are subject to change. Check the District s home web page: for up-to-date information. also are open to the public and are usually held one week prior to the regular monthly meeting. s designated specifically as Executive Sessions are not open to the public. Robert Martin Trustee Laura Hastings Trustee 2

5 AUGUST 2014 Sunday MONday TUESday WEDNESday THURSday FRIday SATURday Senior Portraits: July 24 th, 25 th, 30 th, 31 st and August 1 st 1 2 September ACT Registration Deadline am High School Cafeteria JV/ Varsity Football Begins; Bring Green Athletic Form and GC Medical Form 8 am High School Cafeteria All Other High School Fall Sports Begin; Bring Green Athletic Form and GC Medical Form High School Freshman Orientation: A-L: 10 am M-Z: 1 pm 1 pm to 9 pm High School Marching Band Camp High School Marching Band Camp 1 pm - 9 pm New Teacher Orientation 3 pm to 9 pm High School Marching Band Camp Superintendent s Conference Days for Staff 3 pm to 9 pm High School Marching Band Camp September ACT (Late Registration) Deadline

6 September 2014 Sunday MONday TUESday WEDNESday THURSday FRIday SATURday LABOR DAY SCHOOLS CLOSED First Day of School 9:30 am Stratford Class Reps 9:30 am Stewart Class Reps Middle School Fall Athletic Green Forms Due to Nurse 9:30 am Hemlock Class Reps 9:30 am Homestead Class Reps 9:30 am Locust Class Reps 7:30 pm PTA Executive Board in High School Little Theatre Middle School Fall Sports Begin 3:20 pm Middle School Athletics for All Fall Athletes in Big Gym 6:30 pm Locust Back-to-School Night 7 pm High School Fall Sports Athletic Code of Conduct for Parents/ Student Athletes Hemlock, Homestead, Locust Photo Day 6:30 pm Hemlock and Homestead Back-to-School Night 7 pm High School Senior/ Parents College Info Night in High School Auditorium Work Session 6:30 pm Stratford Back-to-School Night 5 th Grade FOCUS Kick-Off Activity 5 th Grade FOCUS Kick-Off Activity (Rain Date) October SAT Registration Deadline PTA Membership Early Bird Incentive Deadline High School Student/Faculty Photo Days in Library October ACT Registration Stewart Photo Day Middle School Photo Days Deadline 9:30 am Middle School PTA Senior Photo Make-Ups in Library Senior Biography (Rm 187) During Lunch Periods 3 pm to 4 pm Fall Sports Yearbook Photos in High School Gym Stratford Photo Day 10:15 am SEPTA General Membership in 6:30 pm Stewart 7 pm High School Garden City Public Library Back-to-School Night Back-to-School Night 7:45 am High School ACT Examination noon to 3 pm SUNY Old Westbury NCA Fall College Expo High School Club Fair, Lunch Periods (Students Only) 3 pm to 4 pm Fall Sports Yearbook Photos in High School Gym 11am to 12:30 pm High School Mini College Fair (Students Only) ROSH HASHANAH SCHOOLS CLOSED 6:15 pm Middle School Back-to-School Night CogATs Grade 3 thru Oct. 2 7 pm High School Auditorium Guidance for 9:15 am High School PTA in High School Library October SAT (Late Registration) Deadline 28 Parents of Freshmen All event dates and times listed on the calendar are subject to change. 4

7 october 2014 Sunday MONday TUESday WEDNESday THURSday FRIday SATURday 9 am to 10:30 am High School Mini College Fair (Students Only) 9:30 am Stewart PTA CogATs Grade 3 9:30 am Stratford PTA High School/Middle School 1 st Quarter Progress Reports High School Seniors Current/Growing-Up Yearbook Photos Due to: October ACT (Late YOM KIPPUR 1 2 Registration) Deadline am to 3 pm NACAC College Fair at Nassau Coliseum 9:30 am Hemlock PTA 9:30 am Homestead PTA 3 pm to 4 pm High School Yearbook Club Photos 11 am to 12:30 pm High School Mini College Fair (Students Only) 9:30 am Joint Elementary Curriculum Presentation at Stratford November SAT Registration Deadline 2:30 pm Senior Panoramic Photo 7:45 am High School SAT Reasoning and Subject Tests Presentation in High School 5 6 Work Session COLUMBUS DAY SCHOOLS CLOSED 9 am to 10:30 am High School Mini College Fair (Students Only) High School and Middle School Spirit Week District-Wide Unity Day School Auditorium Family Flick Night November SAT (Late Registration) Deadline Stratford Book Fair 7 pm High School Guidance for Parents of Sophomores in High All Schools (Not High School) Photo Make-Up Day 7 pm High School Nassau County NARCAN Auditorium 9:30 am Locust PTA High School Student/ Faculty Photo Make-ups in Library 3 pm to 4 pm High School Club Yearbook Photos Middle School Winter I Athletic Green Forms Due to Nurse 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm High School Parent/Teacher Conferences High School Senior Portrait Selections Due Online/Phone to Island Photo by 11:59 pm 6:30 pm to 9 pm High School Freshman BBQ 7 pm to 8:30 pm 6 th Grade Party PTA/SEPTA Sportswear Sale Orders Deadline District-Wide Spirit Day High School Pep Rally (Students Only) 7 pm Middle School Storybook Parades: 9 am Hemlock 9:45 am Locust 10:30 am Homestead 10:45 am Stewart 2 nd Grade Halloween Program/5 th Grade Band Mini-Concert 1:30 pm Stratford Storybook Parade :45 am High School PSAT/ NMSQT Exam 7:45 am High School ACT Examination 1 pm HOMECOMING PARADE; 3 pm Football Game vs. Mepham 5

8 november 2014 Sunday MONday TUESday WEDNESday THURSday FRIday SATURday Secondary LISFA Festival NO CLASSES 4 Achievement Report th Grade Party 7 8 VETERANS DAY SCHOOLS CLOSED pm to 9 pm ALL SCHOOLS Parent/Teacher Conferences High School Winter Sports Begin: B/G Fencing, Wrestling High School Winter Sports Begin: B/G Basketball, Bowling, Track, Rifle, B Swim, G Gymnastics December SAT (Late Registration) Deadline 7 pm High School Financial Aid Night in High School Library 9 am to NOON ALL SCHOOLS Parent/Teacher Conferences ELECTION DAY Stratford Blood Drive 7 pm High School Library 4 th Annual College Major Night 9 am and 10:15 am Stewart 3 rd Grade Thanksgiving Program 3 pm to 4 pm High School Gym Winter Sports Yearbook Photos 7 pm High School All Winter Sports Athletic Code of Conduct for Parents/Students Stewart Book Fair High School Athletic Green Form Due to High School Nurse Middle School Winter I Sports Begin 3:20 pm Middle School Sports All Winter I Athletes in Big Gym Work Session & Student Stewart Blood Drive 9:20 am High School Breakfast for Champions in High School Library 7:30 pm SEPTA General Membership in High School Library District-wide Early Dismissal December SAT Registration Deadline 9:15 am High School Library High/Middle School PTA High/Middle School End of 1 st Quarter 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm Primary Schools Parent/Teacher Conferences 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm Elementary Schools Parent/Teacher Conferences 3:30 pm Senior Citizens: High School Theatre Production Dress Rehearsal/ GCTA Coffee 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm Middle School Parent/Teacher Conferences THANKSGIVING DAY December ACT Registration Deadline PTA Reflections Submissions Due 7 pm to 8:30 pm Secondary LISFA Festival High School Senior Yearbook Ads Due Online: 7 pm to 8:30 pm 8 th Grade Party THANKSGIVING RECESS SCHOOLS CLOSED :45 am High School SAT Reasoning and Subject Tests 7 pm High School Fall Theatre Production December ACT (Late Registration) Deadline 9 am and 10 am Stratford 3 rd Grade Thanksgiving Program PTA/SEPTA Sportswear Sale Pick-Up in High School Cafeteria (12:30 pm - 4 pm) 22 6

9 December 2014 Sunday MONday TUESday WEDNESday THURSday FRIday SATURday 7 pm High School Juniors and Parents College Information Night 1 Stewart Craft Days - Lunch Hour 9:30 am Stratford PTA 3 pm to 4 pm High School Winter Sports Yearbook Photos in High School Gym Middle School Book Fair 9:30 am Stewart PTA 7 pm Middle School Winter Concert at High School NYSSMA All-State Winter Conference in Rochester, NY 1 st Trimester Elementary/Primary Report Cards 7:45 am High School SAT Reasoning and Subject Tests 2 3 (Chorus) NYSSMA All-State Winter Conference in Rochester, NY 7 9:15 am and 10:45 am Homestead Winter Festival - 1 st Grade Work Session 9:15 am and 10:45 am Homestead Winter Festival - Kindergarten Stewart Holiday Craft Fair 7 pm Stratford Winter Concert at High School (5 th Grade Band/ Orchestra/4 th Grade Chorus) 9:15 am High School PTA 7 pm Stewart Winter Concert at High School (5 th Grade Band/Orchestra/4 th 9:15 am and 10:45 am Hemlock Winter Festival - 1 st Grade High School/Middle School 2 nd Quarter Progress Reports 7 pm Middle School Winter Concert II at High School 9:15 am and 10:45 am Hemlock Winter Festival - Kindergarten 7 pm to 10 pm 11 th and 12 th Grade ACT Examination (Not Offered at GCHS) Grade Chorus) (Band/pm Jazz) Winter Wonderland :30 am Locust PTA 9:30 am Homestead PTA HANUKKAH 9:15 am Locust Winter Festival - 1 st Grade 9:15 am Locust Winter Festival - Kindergarten 7 pm Middle School Winter Concert III at Middle School (Orchestra/am Jazz) 9:30 am Hemlock PTA 7 pm High School Winter Concert I Late Deadline for High School Senior Advertisements High School Seniors Name Stamping Due (Yearbook) (Chorus/Orchestra) CHRISTMAS DAY January SAT Registration Deadline HOLIDAY RECESS SCHOOLS CLOSED HOLIDAY RECESS SCHOOLS CLOSED

10 January 2015 Sunday MONday TUESday WEDNESday THURSday FRIday SATURday NEW YEAR S DAY HOLIDAY RECESS SCHOOLS CLOSED SCHOOLS RE-OPEN Senior Assembly: High School Alumni Return Day (Students Only) February ACT Registration Deadline (Not Offered in NYS) 12 noon Tilles Center NMEA All-County Festival Concert - Division I 11 am Tilles Center NMEA All-County Festival Concert Division II 3:30 pm Hillwood Commons Jazz Concert Division III - V; Instrumental and Vocal Jazz Work Session 7 School Auditorium Division III MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR. DAY SCHOOLS CLOSED 9:30 am Joint Primary PTA at Locust January SAT (Late Registration) Deadline Middle School Winter II Sports Begin 3:20 pm Middle School for All Winter II Athletes in Big Gym 18 Concert II (Bands) (Gray Cast) pm Stewart/Stratford 5 th Grade Parents Only Human Growth and Development 7 pm 12 th Grade First Skit Night Scoliosis Screening at High School 4 pm - 8 pm Mandatory High School All County Rehearsal Middle School Winter II Athletic Green Form Due to Nurse 7 pm Middle School Incoming 6 th Grade Parent Orientation and World Language/Music Fair at Middle School 6:30 pm High School Open House for All 8 th Grade Parents/Students in High 9:30 am Middle School PTA Kindergarten Registration at Hemlock (for All Primary Schools) 7 pm High School Winter 12:40 pm Stewart Opera (Maroon Cast) 7 pm Stewart Opera High School and Middle School Midterm and NYS Regents Exams Stewart Opera (Make-up Date) February ACT (Late Registration) Deadline 8 pm Tilles Center NMEA All-County Concert High School/Middle School End of 2 nd Quarter 10:15 am SEPTA General Member at Garden City Public Library 2 pm Tilles Center NMEA All-County Festival Concert - Division IV 7:30 pm Tilles Center Division V SAT Reasoning and Subject Tests (Not Offered at GCHS) 25 at Stewart

11 February 2015 Sunday MONday TUESday WEDNESday THURSday FRIday SATURday High School Sophomore Teens on the Job Shadow Day Stratford Musical 7 pm ACT Examination (Not Offered at GCHS) 7:30 pm 12 th Grade Parent Skit Night Rehearsal Stratford Musical Make-Up Dates Stewart Book Swap March SAT Registration Deadline 7 7:30 pm 12 th Grade Parent Skit Night Rehearsal Budget/Work Session 7:30 pm SEPTA K-12 Information in High School Library PRESIDENTS DAY WINTER RECESS SCHOOLS CLOSED SCHOOLS RE-OPEN High School Athletic Green Form Due to Nurse LISFA Elementary Rehearsal and Concert through March 1 st Budget/Regular 7:30 pm 12 th Grade Parent Skit Night Rehearsal 7 pm Parent University Night for K-12 Parents at 7 pm - 10 pm High School 12 th Grade Party High School 26 Parent Skit Night

12 March 2015 Sunday MONday TUESday WEDNESday THURSday FRIday SATURday LIFSA Elementary Rehearsal and Concert High School Spring Sports Begin: B/G Lacrosse, Track, Baseball, Softball 9:30 am Stewart PTA March SAT (Late Registration) Deadline CogATs Grade 4 Stratford Book Swap 9:15 am High School PTA 7:30 pm SEPTA General Membership in High School Library 3:15 pm Senior Citizens: High School Theatre Production Dress Rehearsal/GCTA Buffet Dinner 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm High School Parent/ Teacher Middle School/ High School 3 rd Quarter Progress Reports Middle School Career Day (Period 1-2, Students Only) 9:30 am Stratford PTA Conferences pm High School Spring Musical 7 12 noon to 4 pm All County K-12 Art Exhibit at Adelphi University High School Spring Sports Begin: Tennis 7 pm High School Spring Athletic Code of Conduct for Parents/Students 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm Primary School Parent/Teacher 9:30 am Homestead PTA Budget/Work Session 7:45 am High School SAT Reasoning Test Only (Subject Tests Not Offered) End of PTA Membership 8 Conferences Conferences Drive 14 High School Spring Sports Begin: B/G Golf, G Badminton 7 pm PTA Primary Reflections Awards at 9 am to NOON ALL SCHOOLS Parent/Teacher Conferences PTA CPR TRAINING DAY NO CLASSES 9:30 am Locust PTA Budget/Regular 9:30 am Hemlock PTA 3 pm to 4 pm Spring Sports Yearbook Photos in High School Gym 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm Middle School Parent/ Teacher 9:30 am Middle School PTA 3 pm to 4 pm Spring Sports Yearbook Photos in High School Gym 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm Elementary Parent/Teacher April ACT Registration Deadline NYSSMA Piano Only at Great Neck North High School 7 pm Middle School Spring Musical 2 nd Trimester Elementary/ Primary Report Cards Hemlock Conferences Middle School Athletic Green Forms Due to Nurse 9 am and 10 am Stratford 2 nd Grade Vocal Concert April ACT (Late Registration) Deadline 7 pm Stratford Third Grade Science Fair School Auditorium Auditorium Middle School Spring Sports Begin 3:20 pm Middle School Spring Sports for All Athletes in Big Gym 7 pm PTA Elementary Reflections Awards at 7 pm Middle School Grade 6 into 7 Parent Making the Accelerated Choice in Math and Science in Middle 7 pm Middle School Band Spring Concert at Stratford High School 31 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm High School Auditorium 2 nd Annual K-12 Transition and Support Services Fair 7 pm High School Tri-M Induction Ceremony in High School 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm Middle School Family Bingo Night (No Drop-offs) 10

13 April 2015 Sunday MONday TUESday WEDNESday THURSday FRIday SATURday Transportation Application Deadline for Parochial/Private Schools for SCHOOLS CLOSED SPRING RECESS SCHOOLS CLOSED PASSOVER SNOW MAKE UP DAY IF NEEDED EASTER May SAT Registration Deadline SPRING RECESS SCHOOLS CLOSED SCHOOLS RE-OPEN Budget/Work Session 7:45 am High School ACT Examination pm High School Library High/Middle School PTA Reflections Awards Kindergarten Screening NYSESLAT Speaking Exam through May 15 th May SAT (Late Registration) Deadline 5:30 pm to 8:30 pm NCA Spring College Expo at Hofstra Budget Adoption PTA Deadline for School Supplies/Plant Sale Orders PTA/GCTA Race for a Cure Nassau BOCES Budget 21 High School Library Vote NYS ELA Assessments Grades 3 through 8 High School/Middle School End of 3 rd Quarter Kindergarten Screening Stewart/Stratford Book Fair 9:20 am High School Breakfast for Champions in High School Library 6:30 pm to 8 pm High School Advanced Placement Art Reception in NYS Math Assessments Grades 3 through 8 PTA Annual Dinner Kindergarten Screening High School Staff Appreciation Day 7 pm Stratford Spring Concert at Stratford (Instrumental) Parent University Night (Snow Date) 7 pm High School Spring Concert I at High School (Women s Choir/Chamber Choir/Wind Symphony/ 3:30 pm to 5:30 pm High School Cafeteria Afternoon Tea for Senior Citizens and Past Wind Ensemble) 29 Parents 30 11

14 May 2015 Sunday MONday TUESday WEDNESday THURSday FRIday SATURday Stratford Book Fair 9:15 am High School PTA and Thank You Breakfast 7:45 am High School SAT Reasoning and Subject Tests 24 MOTHER S DAY 3 4 Middle School Auditorium 5 6 Elementary: 7 pm to 8 pm 7 (9 8 9 th and 10 th Grades) Work Session in High School Auditorium14 Appreciation Luncheon :15 am Locust 1 st Grade Spring Sing 7 pm Parent Orientation Incoming 2 nd Grade 9:15 am and 10:45 am Hemlock 1 st Grade Spring Sing 7 pm Middle School Chorus Spring Concert at High School 9:15 am and 10:45 am Homestead Kindergarten Spring Sing 7 pm Middle School Orchestra/AM Jazz Spring Concert at Middle School MEMORIAL DAY SCHOOLS CLOSED Memorial Day Parade 9:15 am Locust Kindergarten Spring Sing 5:30 pm to 8:30 pm NCA Spring College Expo at Hofstra University 7 pm Middle School Student/Parent Sports Current 6 th thru 8 th Grade in 9:15 am and 10:45 am Hemlock Kindergarten Spring Sing Homestead Staff Apreciation Luncheon Budget Public Hearing/ BOARD ELECTION and BUDGET VOTE 6 am -10 pm 7 pm Jazz Night at High School High School AP Exams High School AP Exams Middle School ABC Expo Hemlock Staff Appreciation Luncheon Open Houses: Primary: 6:30 pm to 7:30 pm NYS Science Performance Test Grades 4 and 8 District Art Exhibit at High School - 3 pm to 9 pm 9:30 am Middle School PTA and Thank You Breakfast 7 pm High School Spring Concert II (Choir/Orchestra/ 9:30 am Hemlock PTA and Thank You Breakfast Locust Staff Appreciation Luncheon 7 pm High School National Honor Society Induction in 8 th Grade Band/Late Night Jazz at Music in the Parks Symphonic Band) High School Auditorium SCHOOLS CLOSED SNOW MAKE UP DAY IF NEEDED 6 pm to 8:30 pm Middle School ABC Expo Parent Open House 7 pm Middle School 8 th Grade Art Reception NYS Science Performance Test Grades 4 and 8 June SAT (Late Registration) Deadline 9 am and 10 am Stratford 3 rd Grade Spring Festival Concert 7 pm High School Science Research Symposium in High 9:30 am Incoming 2 nd Grade Orientation (Students Only) 7 pm High School Mandatory Prom/Graduation for Parents and High School Seniors 1:15 pm Incoming Kindergarten Orientation 7 pm High School Senior Awards Ceremony in High School Auditorium (Recipients School Library Notified By Mail) NYSSMA All State Jazz/Vocal Jazz, Uniondale High School June SAT and ACT Registration Deadlines PTA Plant Sale Pick-up 10:15 am SEPTA General Member at Garden City Public Library 7 pm to 10 pm High School Spring Fling NYSSMA Festival Area 6 at Mineola High School High School/Middle School 4 th Quarter Progress Reports 9:15 am and 10:45 am Homestead 1 st Grade Spring Sing Stewart/Stratford Staff June ACT (Late Registration) Deadline SCHOOLS CLOSED SNOW MAKE UP DAY IF NEEDED NYSSMA Guitar Only at Uniondale High School F.O.C.U.S. Activity Science Day 9:30 am and 10:30 am Stewart Beginners Concert Middle School Staff Appreciation Luncheon 2 12

15 June 2015 Sunday MONday TUESday WEDNESday THURSday FRIday SATURday Grades 4 and 8 Written NYS Science Tests Special Education Service Request Deadline for Parochial/ Private Schools Due by June 1 st 11 am Hemlock 1 st Grade Picnic 6:30 pm GAA/BAA Senior Athletic Awards Banquet 8 th Grade (Incoming High School Freshmen) ID Card Photos Geometry Common Core Regents Exam 9:30 am Homestead PTA and Thank You Breakfast 11 am Hemlock 1 st Grade Picnic (Rain Date) 7 pm Middle School National Junior 9 am Stratford 5 th Grade Select Chorus Vocal Concert 11 am Hemlock Kindergarten Picnic Middle School Moving-Up Ceremony (Students Only) 7 pm High School Grades 9-11 Award Ceremony in High School 7:45 am High School SAT Reasoning and Subject Tests Miracle Club Walkathon 9 am to 2 pm PTA School Supply Pick-Up in Middle Honor Society Induction in Library School Cafeteria 6 High School Auditorium 9:30 am All Schools General PTA at Stratford 7 pm High School Evening at the Pops 9:30 am Stewart PTA and Thank You Breakfast 11 am Hemlock Kindergarten Picnic (Rain Date) FLAG DAY FATHER S DAY 7 Stratford 2 nd and 3 rd Grade Olympics Locust Kindergarten Field Day and Ice Cream Social 7 pm Stewart Spring Concert (Jazz Band/Orchestra/5 th Grade Band) High School/Middle School Last Day of Classes High School/Middle School End of 4 th Quarter Senior Class Trip Locust 1 st Grade Field Day (Rain Date) Stratford 2 nd and 3 rd Grade Olympics (Rain Date) Locust Kindergarten Field Day and Ice Cream Social (Rain Date) 3 pm Girls; 3:30 pm Boys High School Sports Physicals at High School Work Session Stewart Field Day: 8:45 am 2 nd Grade 10:30 am 4 th Grade 12:45 pm 3 rd Grade Stratford 4 th and 5 th Grade Olympics (Rain Date) Locust 1 st Grade Field Day 3:30 pm Boys Middle School Sports Physicals at Middle School 7 pm Middle School Service Award Ceremony High School/Middle School Final Exams and Regents PTA Summer Reading Book Fair at Barnes & Noble Stewart 5 th Grade Field Day Stewart 5 th Grade Field Day (Rain Date) 9 am Stratford Flag Day Primary Flag Day PTA Calendar Primary Report Cards 10 am Homestead Kindergarten Field Day; 1:30 pm 1 st Grade Stewart Grades 2,3,4 Field Day (Rain Date) Homestead Kindergarten and 1 st Grade Field Day (Rain Date) Stewart/Stratford 5 th Grade Pool Party High School/Middle School Final Exams and Regents Half Day for Primary and Elementary Schools Final Elementary Report Card Stewart/Stratford 5 th Grade Pool Party (Rain Date) Stratford 4 th and 5 th Grade Olympics 9:30 am Locust PTA and Thank You Breakfast 3:30 pm Girls Middle School Sports Physicals at Middle School LAST DAY OF SCHOOL Senior Prom and 9 am Mandatory Graduation Rehearsal and PTA Senior Breakfast SNOW MAKE UP DAY IF NEEDED 7:45 am High School ACT Examination 10 am High School Graduation 11:30 am GCTA/PTA Graduation Reception CONGRATULATIONS GCHS CLASS OF 2015! Pre-Prom Event

16 JULY 2015 Sunday MONday TUESday WEDNESday THURSday FRIday SATURday INDEPENDENCE DAY High School Honors Appeal Deadline

17 August 2015 Sunday monday tuesday wednesday thursday FRIDAY SATURDAY District-wide Upgrades: Capital Improvements, Maintenance, EPC, Bond District-wide facility projects have been completed or are underway utilizing funds in this year s voter-approved budget. The completion of the final Bond and Energy Performance Contract (EPC) punch list items, building management system projects that dovetail the new heating and cooling systems with the mechanical and webbased controls to maximize efficiency, is imminent. Allocated capital funds were utilized for the purchase and installation of new auditorium seating and carpeting at Stewart and Stratford. Fifty new doors are being installed at Stratford. Upgrades to the schools security systems that include the installation of new classroom door locks and additional cameras are part of this year s district-wide security initiative. New exterior math wing walkways were installed at the high school, and the tennis court surfaces were repaired. The middle school Home and Careers rooms were refurbished, including new drop ceilings and lighting, and new cabinets. The hallway floor tiles at Homestead were replaced, Stratford and Stewart received new school signs, and Hemlock and Locust are scheduled to receive supplemental exterior lighting High School JV/Varsity All Football Other Estimated High Start School Sports Begin SEPTEMBER 2015 Sunday monday tuesday wednesday thursday FRIDAY SATURDAY New Auditorium Seating Stratford & Stewart New Math Wing Walkways High School Labor Day In-Progress: Refurbishment Middle School Home & Careers Rooms New Hallway Floors Homestead New Lawn Signs Stratford & Stewart 15

18 Inspiring Minds Empowering Achievement First Place Robot Performance with NYS Master Teacher Building Community Science Teacher of the Year Nassau County German American Day Three-peat Math Olympiad National Meritorious Award Sixth Annual Greco-Roman Championships Afternoon Tea for Past Parents & Senior Citizens Eighth Annual Science Symposium Hands-on Field Trips Community Blood Drives at Stewart & Stratford 16

19 Parent Guide The District At a Glance Garden City Public Schools continues to maintain its reputation as a destination location, a community people seek out to live, work, raise their families, and stay. The quality of the District s educational program figures prominently in the designation. Dedicated to providing a wealth of opportunities for its students through a relevant and challenging curriculum coupled with the support needed for academic, social, and ethical success, the faculty and staff endeavor daily to fulfill the tenets encapsulated in IGarden City s motto - Inspiring Minds, Empowering Achievement, Building Community - directives derived from its mission statement. ndependent media annually use a variety of metrics to rank districts and schools. Garden City Public Schools scores very high on these lists and continues to advance. For example, in 2014, and for the third consecutive year, the high school earned a National Gold Medal as a Best High School from U.S. News and World Report, ranking 119 th in the nation and 9 th community-based (non magnet or charter) high school in New York State 1, besting its own ranking in previous years. As a school district, Garden City Public Schools was ranked 7 th in the state (includes public and private/charter schools) in 2014 by Schooldigger.com 2, also topping its previous ranking. The high school and middle school were each recognized as a New York State Department of Education Reward School in For the school year, the District has an approximate enrollment of 3,866 students in grades kindergarten through 12 th grade. The District is comprised of seven District is a completely separate unit of government and operates under a separate authority. It is nearly coterminous with the Incorporated Village of Garden City, Tschool buildings, an administration building, and a school bus garage. he measures approximately eight square miles, and has a population of approximately 22, Curriculum: The District is dedicated to providing a superior education in an environment that meets the academic, social, and emotional needs of all students through every developmental stage. The faculty strives to integrate the curriculum across classrooms, grades, and buildings. Easing transitions from first to second-grade, fifth to sixth-grade, eighth to ninth-grade, and twelfthgrade to college is a major focus. The District began integrating the Common Core Learning Standards in 2011 and continues to provide staff development and rigorous evaluation to ensure the highest level of implementation. Character education, including bullying prevention, is an essential component of the K-12 curriculum. school: The District s three primary buildings Primary are small by design to enable all children to adjust to a school environment that fosters a lifelong love of learning. Academic instruction in literacy, mathematics, the sciences, and humanities begins in the full-day kindergarten program. Balanced Literacy is practiced to establish reading and writing as an essential component of communication and knowledge acquisition. Reading and mathematics support supplements classroom learning, providing the dynamic enrichment needed to build a solid understanding of reading and math principles in young learners. Character education and enrichment programs, including PTA-sponsored Arts in Education programs, are introduced at the primary level. Other activities include field trips to museums, the public library, and nature centers; visits to extended care facilities to perform concert programs; and visits from older students who share language skills, anti-bullying strategies, environmental lessons, and other topics. 1. U.S News & World Report, 2014: 2. Schooldigger.com, 2014: 3. U.S. Census Bureau, Elementary school: Garden City s two elementary schools offer a robust curriculum that includes independent science labs. Supplemental science classes, including Robotics, are offered in the Winter and Summer Enrichment Programs. The elementary schools support active Mathletes teams which compete in the annual Math Olympiads. Garden City s Foreign Language in Elementary School (FLES) program begins in fourth-grade. Students can participate in music with band, orchestra, chorus, and jazz band, and enjoy an outstanding visual arts and theatre program. All fifth-grade students see a professionally-produced opera in Manhattan. Fifthgraders at Stewart School perform an opera each spring in the nation s oldest continuous elementary school opera program (76 th consecutive year). Fifth-graders at Stratford Avenue School produce a musical in the spring. Students can take advantage of each school s library, media center, and learning center. Middle school: The middle school was named a National Essential Elements School to Watch in 2013, and a S 3 TAIR Effective Practice Mentor School by the State s Department of Education. At the classroom level, acceleration is an option in mathematics and science. The science research program provides students with the opportunity to conduct inquiries applying the scientific method. The language program intensifies and students may begin studying German, Italian, or Latin, or continue with Spanish. The music curriculum utilizes SmartMusic, a web-based, interactive music software program that provides students with real-time feedback and permits teachers and parents to monitor progress. The art program culminates in the annual installation of eighth-grade works in the middle school hallways. Other course offerings include family and consumer science, technology and computer education. There are interscholastic and intramural sports programs for aspiring athletes. The middle school has a robust anti-bullying and cyber-bullying program that includes upstander training. High school: Garden City High School offers a wide range of classes to challenge students including 18 Advanced Placement (AP) courses and 10 college level classes in business and world languages. As a result of Advanced Placement exams taken by students in 2014, The College Board named 206 students as AP Scholars, including 18 National AP Scholars. Over 84 percent of students sitting for the 2014 AP exams scored an average of 3 or better (5 being the highest possible score). Additional electives include courses in art and photography, business, English, world languages, math, music, research, science, and social studies. A wide variety of co-curricular activities are available to students, including special interest clubs, service organizations, and publications. Many additional opportunities are available in the arts as well as in academic competitions. There are 32 varsity athletic teams whose members have achieved NYSPHSAA Scholar Athlete status nine times. The majority of students participate in at least one extracurricular activity, with approximately 70 percent of students participating in at least one interscholastic sport. High school enrollment for the school year includes approximately 1,182 students. For more information, access Garden City High School s Class of 2014 Profile on the high school website: 17

20 Policies and Procedures A complete listing of the s Policy Manual is available on the District website under, Policy Manual. For a complete listing of required notices, visit the District website, Information, Forms & Policies. Attendance: Education Law permits excused absences or tardiness for the following reasons only: sickness or death in the family, impassable roads or weather, religious observance, school supervised trips, and required presence in court. Absence or tardiness for any other reason is considered unexcused. If your child will be absent or late, please advise the school by telephone between 8 a.m. and 9 a.m. (see page 25 for contact information). Staff will telephone the homes of unreported absentees after 9 a.m. and/or during the evening. Education Law does not permit the school to make a distinction between legal and illegal absences for attendance policy purposes. Bicycles: Bike riding is not permitted on school property. Students who ride to school must walk their bikes to and from the bicycle racks. Students under 14 years of age must wear bicycle helmets it s the law! Building Inspections: As required by federal law CFR763-84, building inspections and asbestos management plans for all District-owned buildings are updated each year. Copies of approved plans are maintained in each school s main office, and a master set is maintained at the Administration Building in the Office of Facilities and Operations. Plans are updated regularly to include required semi-annual reinspections and any response action changes. Warning notices are placed in maintenance areas where there are asbestos-containing materials. All cleaners, custodians, and maintenance personnel have received required training in asbestos awareness. These measures comply with the District s public notice requirement that all workers and building occupants or their legal guardians be informed about inspections, response actions, and surveillance activities that are planned or in progress. For information regarding these plans and response actions, contact the Office of Facilities and Operations ( ). Code of Conduct: A copy of the s Code of Conduct for students is sent home to all parents. A copy is also available on the District website under Information, Forms & Policies, Code of Conduct. Homebound Instruction: Homebound instruction is provided for students when an illness or an accident makes attendance impossible for an extended period of time. Parents or guardians should contact the principal (grades K-5) or school counselor (grades 6-12) to make arrangements. A medical confirmation is required; medical clearance is also required to return to school. Lunch: A cafeteria program operates at the middle and high schools only. Parents or guardians can opt to send their children to school with lunch, or high school seniors can opt to eat lunch off-campus. At the end of August, the primary and elementary schools mail information to parents concerning lunch vouchers for sandwiches and lunch schedules. Pesticide Application: The District adopted an Integrated Pest Management Program in accordance with NYS Law Section 409-H effective July 1, This regulation requires written notification to all parents and staff who wish to receive 48-hour written notice of certain pesticide applications. Please advise the Office of Facilities and Operations at the Administration Building, 56 Cathedral Avenue ( ), if you wish to receive notice. Physical Examinations: An annual physical examination is required by New York State law for all students entering grades K, 2, 4, 7 and 10, and for all new admissions. This examination must be completed by a licensed health care provider no more than 12 months prior to the beginning of the school year. Documentation should be submitted to the school nurse within 30 days of school entrance. After 60 days, the school physician may provide this examination unless the parent or guardian otherwise notifies the respective school nurse. District-wide Health Forms can be downloaded at. Physical examinations are required for all students participating in the Interscholastic Athletic Program, open to students in grades 7 through 12. Seventh- and continued below High School/Middle School Athletics For game dates, times and locations: ; High School or Middle School; Athletics Homecoming is October 25 th Parade 1 pm Football Game 3 pm 18

21 Policies, continued from page 18 eighth-grade students participate at the middle school; high school students participate on junior varsity or varsity teams. Parents and eligible students must receive notice and may opt-out of any non-emergency invasive physical examination that is required for attendance, administered by the school or its agent, and not necessary to protect the immediate health and safety of a student. For information, contact the Middle School Athletic Office ( ) or the High School Athletic Office ( ). Information also is available on the Athletic Office web page: A student who has sustained an injury requiring the use of a wheelchair or crutches MUST present a medical note from a NYS-licensed health care provider stating that use of a wheelchair and/or crutches is necessary. The Athletics and Physical Education Medical Restriction Form can be downloaded from the District s website under Information, Forms & Policies, District- Wide Health Forms. Registration Procedures: Registration is held in January for students entering kindergarten the following September. Parents or guardians may download and complete the registration forms available online (district home page or primary schools home pages) and bring the forms, along with the requested documentation, to Hemlock during kindergarten registration in January. All children new to the District or resident children transferring to District schools may register at any time during the year. Questions regarding registration should be directed to the appropriate principal s office. Reporting to Parents: Primary and elementary schools send report cards home on a trimester basis and conduct parent-teacher conferences twice a year. Report cards are issued quarterly at the middle school and high school. For answers to questions about your child s grades, homework, report cards, or other school-related matters, contact his or her teacher if your child is in primary or elementary school; contact the subject area teacher or guidance counselor if your child is in middle school or high school. To review your K 5 child s test scores and other pertinent data on his or her report card, contact the teacher or principal. To view your middle or high school child s ongoing average, test scores, and assignment grades, register for and log in to the Parent Portal. Parents can find this information on the District, middle or high school s main web pages under: Parent Log In Center. Principals, assistant principals, and teachers may be contacted by phone or (see page 25 for contact information). Title I: The purpose of this program is to ensure that all children have a fair, equal, and significant opportunity to obtain a high-quality education and reach, at a minimum, proficiency on the Common Core Learning Standards. AIS: Academic Intervention Services (AIS) are general education services that help students at the risk of school failure to meet the criteria set by the New York State Standards. Parents can contact their building principals for more information about AIS. Megan s Law: Relevant information provided by local law enforcement officials pursuant to the provisions of the Sex Offender Registration Act, also known as Megan s Law, shall be posted in an appropriate location in all school buildings and disseminated to all staff who might come into contact with registered sex offenders. The purpose of this notification is to protect members of the community, especially children. Upon request, this information can be made available to all other staff (through building principal) and community residents (through the District Clerk). Sexual Harassment of Students: The Board of Education is committed to safeguarding the rights of all students within the school district to learn in an environment that is free from all forms of sexual harassment. Unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature may constitute sexual harassment when (1) submission to such conduct is either explicitly or implicitly a condition of academic advancement; (2) such conduct has the purpose or effect of unreasonably interfering with an individual s academic performance; or (3) such conduct creates an intimidating, hostile, or offensive learning environment. Conduct may be deemed to be sexual harassment based upon the totality of the circumstances. It is irrelevant that the perpetrator had no intention to sexually harass the person. The Board recognizes that sexual harassment of a student can originate from a person of either sex against a person of the opposite or same sex and from continued on page Dignity Act Coordinators In compliance with New York State law and Board of Education policy, the District has established buildinglevel Dignity Act Coordinators (DACs) to address student and parent bullying concerns. The building DACs are: Garden City High School Kevin Steingruebner: steingruebnerk@gcufsd.net Dave Perrotta: perrottad@gcufsd.net Lori Kuster: kusterl@gcufsd.net Garden City Middle School Susan Lee: lees@gcufsd.net Bill Marr: marrb@gcufsd.net Keegan Baker: bakerk@gcufsd.net Stewart School Susan Kenny: kennys@gcufsd.net Michele Vincent: vincentm@gcufsd.net Stratford School Christopher Uccellini: uccellinic@gcufsd.net Michele Vincent: vincentm@gcufsd.net Hemlock School Audrey Bellovin: bellovina@gcufsd.net Gina Tornincaso: tornincasog@gcufsd.net Homestead School Suzanne Viscovich: viscovichs@gcufsd.net Gina Tornincaso: tornincasog@gcufsd.net Locust School Jean Ricotta: ricottaj@gcufsd.net Gina Tornincaso: tornincasog@gcufsd.net Middle School L.E.A.D.E.R.S. Present to the District Bullying Prevention Committee 19

22 Policies, continued from page 19 peers, as well as staff or any individual who might come in contact with students on school grounds or at school-sponsored activities. Examples of overt and subtle types of unacceptable conduct include but are not limited to uninvited and unwelcome letters, notes, s, telephone calls, face-to-face confrontations or distribution or display of material of a sexual nature; uninvited, unwelcome, and deliberate touching, leaning over, cornering or pinching; uninvited and unwelcome sexually suggestive looks or gestures; uninvited and unwelcome pressure for dates or sexual favors; uninvited and unwelcome sexual teasing, jokes, remarks, or questions; or attempted or actual rape or sexual assault. Student Records and Privacy: Consistent with the Family Educational Rights & Privacy Act of 1974 (FERPA), the recognizes its responsibility to maintain the confidentiality of student records and to implement the Regulation of the Commissioner of Education and the Local Government Records Law for the orderly retention and disposition of student records. By a written request to the appropriate principal or school official, parents, guardians, or eligible students have the right to inspect and review instructional materials related to educational curriculum (excluding academic tests and academic assessments), student surveys funded in whole or in part by the Department of Education (prior to survey administration), and review and request amendment of a student s educational records; limit the disclosure of personally identifiable information (a) by prior written consent (b) as Directory Information (c) under certain circumstances permitted by FERPA, request that records be amended to ensure accuracy; file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education alleging failure to comply with FERPA and its regulation; obtain copies of the Student Records Policy (#5500) and Regulation (#5500R). Directory Information: The District has determined that certain information designated as Directory Information shall not be considered confidential information. For this purpose Directory Information shall mean a student s name, address, telephone number, date and place of birth, major course of study, participation in school activities or sports, weight and height of a member of an athletic team, dates of attendance, degrees and awards received, most recent school attended, photographs (still or moving images), audio clips, and class roster. Directory information may be used for marketing purposes, including social media, and released without the consent of a parent, student, or former student over 18 years of age to which such information relates, including to military recruiters, unless such parent or student or former student objects in writing to the release of all or part of such information within the first week of school each year to the Coordinator of Public Information, 56 Cathedral Avenue ( ). tudent/parent Information Forms: Parents can Supdate student information using forms posted to the District website: Information, Forms & Policies. Working Papers: The District cooperates with the New York State Labor Department to issue working papers required by law for all persons under the age of 18 who seek employment. All resident children who need these papers may apply for them in the High School Counseling Center. The child should complete the Application for Employment Certificate, which requires parental consent and certification of physical fitness. District residents not attending Garden City High School must provide proof of a physical examination performed by a physician, a birth certificate as proof of age, and a copy of the Social Security Card. Working paper applications are accepted from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Don t Text & Drive Poster Contest Equal Access and Opportunity for All Notice Of Non-Discrimination Rehabilitation Act of 1973, Section 504: The Garden City School District, Garden City, New York, hereby gives notice that it does not discriminate on the basis of disability in violation of Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of The District further gives notice that it does not discriminate on the basis of disability in admission or access to its programs and activities, including vocational education programs. No person shall be denied employment solely because of any physical, mental or medical impairment which is unrelated to the person s ability to engage in the activities involved in the job for which application has been made. A grievance procedure is available to the public. Inquiries concerning this policy may be referred to the Director of Pupil Personnel Services, 56 Cathedral Avenue ( ). Title IX: The of the Garden City School District does not discriminate on the basis of sex, race, color, age, national origin or disability in the educational programs or activities which it operates as required by Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 and Part 86 of the Rules and Regulations of the United States Department of Education. The protections against discrimination assured by Title IX and Part 86 requiring the absence of discrimination in educational programs and activities extend to employment therein and to admission thereto. A grievance procedure to Title IX and Part 86 is available to the public. Address inquiries concerning the application of Title IX and Part 86 to the Assistant Superintendent for Personnel, 56 Cathedral Avenue ( ) or to the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights of the United States Department of Education. 20