Welcome to Mastery Charter School Shoemaker Campus 5301 Media Street Philadelphia, PA 19131 (267) 296-7111 www.masterycharter.org Principal: Sharif El-Mekki Assistant Principal of Instruction: Assistant Principal of Instruction: Katherine Ziemba Heather Scheg Assistant Principal of School Culture: Khalid Brown Assistant Principal of Sp. Svcs: Assistant Principal of Operations: Social Worker: Counselor/Social Worker: College Advisor: Internship Coordinator: College Readiness Coordinator: Kristina Walrath Daniel Bell Sarah Gentry Polly Weiss Ellen Ridyard Kerry Sorensen Jennifer Kim
Contents Welcome to the Shoemaker Campus!... 3 Student-Parent Calendar 2012-2013... 4 School Hours... 5 Testing Schedule... 5 School Supplies... 9 Lateness to class... 9 Uniform Policy... 10 Tiered Systems of Excellence... 15 Non-Violence Contract... 18 Corporal Punishment... 19 School Lunches and Parental Visitation... 19 Importance Of Reading... 20 School-Parent Compact... 22 Medication Policy... 26 Related Health Inventory... 29 Release of Information... 30
Welcome to the Shoemaker Campus! We are thrilled to welcome you to the Mastery Shoemaker Campus community! This document will give you important information including the campus calendar, the hours of the school day and our uniform policy. We can t wait to get started! At Mastery Charter, student achievement is job #1. We expect every Mastery member to do whatever it takes for students to be successful in school and in life. Excellence. No Excuses. We are PROUD to say that Mastery students have produced breakthrough results in academic achievement, school culture, and just about everything else they ve endeavored upon. It s true. Mastery students have currently: Earned millions of dollars in scholarships; A 100% college admission rate; Made AYP consistently; Master Charter has: Been recognized for outstanding achievement by President Obama and Oprah Winfrey Received national recognition and awards from the US Department of Education, the New Schools Venture Fund, and EPIC. Hosted major politicians for school tours Become one of the most successful charter school organizations in the United States Parents and students are our partners in education and we can t wait to get started! Ø On Your Mark o You CHOOSE to be a Mastery student. o It s time to start looking like one. Get yourself physically prepared to begin school with the right uniform and the right materials. Ø Get Set o You CHOOSE to join the Mastery Charter Community. o It s time to review and sign this handbook to show you re on board with Mastery s commitment to and expectations for success. Ø GO! o You CHOOSE a college prep, rigorous Mastery education. o Let s get down to business. Being a student is your JOB. o So, be here every day. Be here on time. Be here prepared and ready to learn. o It s time to work hard and achieve great things for yourself and your future!
Student-Parent Calendar 2012-2013 Month Date Event August 22,23,24 Student Orientation 27 First Day of Report Period 1 3 Labor Day- School Closed 8 Back to School Block Party 13 Back to School Night 17 Rosh Hashanah- School Closed 26 Yom Kippur School Closed 8 Columbus Day- School Closed October 12 Last Day of Report Period 1 15,16 Professional Development Day- School Closed 17 First Day of Report Period 2 6 Professional Development Day School Closed 12 Veteran s Day- School Closed 21,22,23 Thanksgiving Break- School Closed 30 Last Day of Report Period 2 3,4 Professional Development Days- School Closed 5 First Day of Report Period 3 24-Jan 1 Winter Break- School Closed 21 MLK Day- School Closed January 25 Last Day of Report Period 3 28,29 Semester Break PD- School Closed 30 First Day of Report Period 4 February 18 President s Day School Closed 18 Professional Development Day School Closed March 19 First Day of Report Period 5 25-29 Spring Break School Closed September November December April - - 13 Professional Development Day- School Closed May 14 First Day of Report Period 6 27 Memorial Day- School Closed June 21 Last Day for Students
Campus Schedule Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Doors open 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 Late bell 7:54 7:54 7:54 7:54 7:54 First period starts 8:00 8:00 8:00 8:00 8:00 Regular dismissal 2:54 2:54 1:19 2:54 2:54 Extra curriculars 3:54 3:54 N/A 3:54 3:54 Detention N/A N/A 1:30-4:00 N/A N/A Emergency School Closing In the event of a school closing (due to snow emergency or other reason), the school will notify KYW 1060 AM. Our number for KYW is #206. If we need to close school after the day has begun, parents will not be called; information will be communicated through KYW. Testing Schedule As you know, our #1 priority is the education of our students. One of the ways to determine how they are doing is to give them assessments that measure their progress. Much like college, we will have a modified schedule on days where we are giving school-wide assessments, like the 4Sight exam or PSSA or Benchmarks, so that the students are focused only on the exam(s) they have that day. Below is a list of assessments that we will administer throughout the year; on these dates students may be dismissed early. Please hold on to this information! Name of test Description of test Grades taking test Dates 4Sight Benchmarks Reading and Math tests that are predictors for PSSA performance Exams in each subject at the end of each 6-week Marking Period (25% of grade). At the end of RP 3 and RP 6, a mid-term and final exam will be given in each subject. 7 th 8 h Wednesdays: o 8/29 and 11/7 All students o RP 1 10/9-10/10 o RP 2 11/27-11/28 o RP 3 (mid-term) 1/22-1/24 o Mini-composition
PSSA / PASA Terra Nova F&P AP Exams SAT ACT (and mock ACT) PLAN/EXP LORE Keystone Exams Statewide exams in Reading, Math, and (in 8 th and 11 th ) Writing and Science that measure proficiency in those subjects A *new* exam we will use to determine students Reading levels at the end of the year (we used to give the G-RADE) Fountas & Pinnell is a series of reading tests given to students to help determine both reading level and levels of fluency with reading text Advanced Placement exams are national tests that correspond with the AP class, which is equivalent to a first-semester, college-level course. **Only select students take these courses** The Standardized Achievement Test (SAT) is a Reading, Writing, and Mathematics exam. It predicts how well students will do in their first year at college. The ACT test is a curriculum- and standards-based educational and career planning tool that assesses students' academic readiness for college. Test scores reflect what students have learned throughout high school and provide colleges and universities with excellent information for acceptance. Reading and Math tests that are predictors for ACT performance. All students enrolled in Algebra I, Literature 10, and Biology will take the Keystone Exams. Students in 11 th grade will take all three exams. The Keystone exams are replacing the high school PSSA. benchmark 2/19-2/21 o RP 4 3/12-3/13 o RP 5 5/7-5/8 o RP 6 (finals) 6/12-6/14 7 th and 8 th Reading/Math: 4/8-4/12 Writing (8 only): 3/11-3/15 Science (8 only): 4/22-26 7 th 12 th 5/29 7 th and 8 th, some high school Throughout the year, during class 10 th - AP AP Lit 5/9 World History AP Lang 5/10 11 th AP AP Govern 5/14 Language, AP AP US Hit 5/15 U.S. History AP World 5/16 12 th AP Literature, AP Government 12 th 10/6 (for 12 th ) 11 th and 12 th October 27 (12 th ) April 13 (11 th ) 9 th and 10 th April 15-20 (this is a testing window) 8 th, 9 th, 10 th, and 11 th May 13 24 (8 th, 9 th and 10 th ) Dec 10-14 or Jan 9-16 (11 th )
Benchmark Dismissal Schedule Dismissal RPs 1,2,4,5 Tuesday Wednesday 7th 12:05 12:05 8th 12:05 11:35 9 th and 10 th 11:35 11:35 11 th and 12 th 12:40 11:35 Dismissal RPs 3,6 Tuesday Wednesday 7th 12:35 12:05 8th 12:35 11:35 9th 12:35 1:05 10th 12:05 12:05 11 th and 12 th 12:05 12:05
Testing Calendar at a Glance: August o 4Sight Exam #1 Grades 7& 8 8/29 September o No tests scheduled October o SAT - 12 th grade 10/6 o ACT 12 th grade 10/27 o Benchmark Exams All Grades 10/9-10/10 o PSSA Make-ups All 12 th grade students who were Basic/Below Basic on 11 th Grade PSSAs 10/22 11/2 November o 4Sight Exam #2 Grades 7&8 11/7 o Benchmark Exams All Grades 11/27-11/28 December o 11 th grade Keystone 12/10-12/14 January o 11 th grade Keystone 1/9 1/16 o Benchmark (Midterm) Exams All Grades 1/22-1/24 February o Mini-composition benchmark 2/19-2/21 March o PSSA Writing Grades 8 and 11 3/11-3/15 o Benchmark Exams All Grades 3/12-3/13 April o PSSA Reading and Math Grades 7 and 8 4/8 4/12 o ACT Grade 11-4/13 o PLAN/EXPLORE April 15-20 o PSSA Science Exam Grades 8 and 11 4/22-4/26 o PSSA Make-ups Grades 7, 8, and 11 4/29 5/3 May o SAT 11 th grade 5/3 o Benchmark Exams All Grades 5/7-5/8 o AP Literature Exam 12 th grade students taking course 5/9 o AP World History Exam 10 th grade students taking course 5/16 o AP Language Exam 11 th grade students taking course 5/10 o AP Government Exam- 12 th grade students taking course 5/14 o AP US History Exam 11 th grade students taking course 5/15 o Terra Nova Placement Exam Grades 7-12 5/29 June o Benchmark (Final) Exams All Grades 6/12 6/14 8
School Supplies All students will need the supplies listed below. Students will receive a grade level supply list on the first day of their orientation, which will list all the supplies they need for each subject. 3 boxes mechanical pencils (approx. 30 pencils) 3 boxes blue or black ink pens (approx. 30 pens) Highlighters (multiple colors) Eraser Pencil Sharpener Loose Leaf paper 1 folder 2 Boxes of Tissues Colored pencils All students need access to dictionary and thesaurus for use at home (classroom sets will be available for use in school). Grades 7-8: 1. Students need access to TI-73 Explorer plus at home. Classroom calculators will be available for use in school Grades 9-12: 1. Students need access to TI-84+ at home & for ACT. Classroom calculators will be available for use in school. 2. Students also need a key ring flash drive (to remain on lanyard). Lateness to Class Students are expected to be in their seats, prepared and ready to learn at the start of class. Students who are not in class, in their seats, at this time are considered late and will be given a demerit. 9
UNIFORM POLICY I. All Mastery Charter students must be in full uniform during all school hours. The uniform must be neat, clean, worn proudly, and without exception. II. Students who come to school improperly uniformed will face disciplinary consequences. Parents will be contacted to pick up the student or deliver the needed articles. Students can be reinstated the same day assuming they are properly uniformed. If parent cannot be contacted, the student may be kept assigned an In-School Suspension for the day. III. All students must wear a Mastery Charter identification lanyard, including ID card and a merit/ demerit card while in the building. Students must have their lanyard to enter the building and must wear the lanyard all times while in the building and at school events. The merit and demerit cards in the lanyard provide information about students behavior at school and parents are encouraged to check them nightly. If lost, the cost of a replacement ID and badge is $5.00. I.D. s or badges are not to be altered in any way, i.e. with markers, paint, cutting or other marks. UNIFORM SHIRTS: Uniform Description TOPS Only official Mastery Charter uniform shirts are acceptable. The Mastery Charter uniform shirt is a plain light grey, polo-style shirt with a collar that is embroidered with the Mastery Charter name and logo. The uniform shirt must be tucked into the pants/skirt. Shirts must be long enough to stay tucked into the pants/skirt. Stained, torn or overly worn uniform shirts are not acceptable. Students who have been designated Upper House can see the Culture Team for information about special uniform shirt privileges. SWEATERS: Sweaters are optional. If a student chooses to wear a sweater, only official black or navy Mastery Charter uniform sweaters are permitted. Sweaters must be embroidered with the Mastery Charter name and logo. Non-Mastery approved sweatshirts, hoodies, pullovers, etc are not acceptable. 10
UNDERSHIRTS: Only solid white cotton short-sleeve undershirts may be worn. Colored, designed or long sleeve undershirts are not acceptable. Female students should ensure that undergarments are not visible through the uniform shirt. Undershirts must be free of writing, including any Mastery apparel. PANTS: BOTTOMS Only plain solid black pants are acceptable. Dickies or other uniform pants are acceptable. Pants must extend from the waist to the top of the shoe. The following pants are NOT acceptable: jeans; jean like pants, five pocket pants with metal rivets, sweat, exercise or cargo pants, Capri pants; pajama pants, bell bottoms; colored, striped, designed or decorated pants or jeans; pants worn below the hips; pants that cover the shoes or drag on the ground; torn, ripped or overly worn pants; excessively large or skin tight pants. Students are not permitted to wear jeans or other long pants beneath their uniform pants. Students are not permitted to wear jeans or other long pants beneath their uniform pants. SKIRTS: Only plain solid black uniform skirts are acceptable. When standing up, the bottom of the skirt must extend to the knee. The following skirts are NOT acceptable: colored, striped, designed or decorated skirts; excessively large or short skirts; skin tight skirts. Students are not permitted to wear jeans or other long pants beneath their uniform skirts. BELTS: Belts must be worn with all pants. Only solid black belts are acceptable. Belt buckles must be simple in design. Belt buckles must not contain any pictures, designs, words or emblems. Decorative belts, including those with studs, designs or metal pieces, are not acceptable. SHOES: FOOTWEAR Only solid black closed toe shoes or sneakers are acceptable. All parts of the shoe must be solid black including laces, eyelets and soles. The following is NOT acceptable: footwear with colored or white, clear or grey stripes, designs or decorations; sandals, flip flops, slip-on shoes, Uggs, clogs, shoe with open backs, etc. Boots, if worn, must fit under the pant leg. Boots may not be worn with a skirt. 11
SOCKS: Only plain solid black, white or navy blue socks are to be worn. Striped, designed, decorated or brightly colored socks are not acceptable. JEWELRY: ACCESSORIES Students may wear modest jewelry. Earrings are not to exceed the size of a quarter. Students may not wear more than one necklace at a time. Necklaces must be worn inside the uniform shirt. Students may not wear more than one bracelet at a time. Students are not permitted to wear pins or decorate their uniform in any manner. Students are strongly encouraged to avoid wearing expensive jewelry in school. HATS: Hats, doo rags, bandannas, scarves or other types of headgear are not to be worn in the building at any time. HEAD BANDS/BOWS: Head bands should not be more than 1 inch in width. Bows should not measure more than 1 inch in width and 2 inches in length. All head bands and bows must be solid navy blue, black, or white without designs. Bandanas are prohibited. COATS AND JACKETS: Coats and jackets are not to be worn in the building at any time unless entering or exiting the building and within ten feet of the exit/entrance way. RELIGIOUS CONSIDERATIONS Students may wear headgear or other garments for religious purposes only with the Dean s approval. In order to obtain the Dean s approval, a parent/guardian must contact the Dean. 12
Mastery Charter exceptions are limited to the following: Head coverings that do not cover the face. Veils are never permitted. All khimars must be solid navy blue, black, or white, without any designs. Long traditional garments must be worn under a Mastery Charter uniform shirt and must be black, dark blue, gray or white. Kufis must be navy blue, black or white. They must be solid in color and void of any colorful design. DRESS DOWN DAYS On occasion, Mastery will sponsor a dress down day as a reward or as a fundraiser. Items that are prohibited during dress down days are: open toe shoes, flip flops, shirts that do not cover shoulders, tank tops, spaghetti straps, halter tops, ripped or torn jeans even if no skin is exposed, capri pants, tight and revealing clothing (i.e. stomach, buttocks, and cleavage must not be exposed), shorts, skirts that end above the knee, negative imagery, head wraps and do-rags etc. Students who fail to meet the criteria may be sent home or excluded from instruction. UNIFORM PURCHASE LOCATIONS The retailers below carry Mastery uniform apparel. Please be sure to phone in advance to confirm inventory. Flynn and O Hara Uniforms 10905 Dutton Road Philadelphia, PA 19154 (215) 637-4600 (800) 441-4122 Flynn and O Hara Uniforms 6243 Frankford Avenue Philadelphia, PA 19135 (215) 624-1983 Flynn and O Hara Uniforms 30 East Baltimore Pike Clifton Heights, PA 19018 (610) 284-1485 Flynn and O Hara Uniforms Drexeline Shopping Center 5126 State Road Drexel Hill, PA 19026 (610) 259-3115 13
Flynn and O Hara Uniforms 10 Shurs Lane Philadelphia, PA (215) 483-9601 Triple Play Sports 827 S. 9 th Street Philadelphia PA 19147 (215) 923-5466 14
Tiered Systems of Excellence Our school will implement a tiered system of excellence to recognize students who have displayed leadership, character, and consistently model our Code of Conduct. The tiers are: TIER I: Key Students (All students are eligible) TIER II: Peer Leadership (All sophomore, junior, and senior students are eligible) TIER III: NHS (All sophomore, juniors, senior students are eligible) MCSC KEY AWARD Character (Progress/Achievement) ð Respects others in words and deeds, regardless of how s/he is feeling. ð Focuses on learning and achieving. S/he remains on task in all environments. ð Shows perseverance, even when bored, uncomfortable, or challenged. ð Acts in an authentic manner. His/her behavior is not an act to please anyone: s/he acts the same whether someone is watching or not. ð Consistently shows integrity, because it s the right thing to do. Initiative ð Serves as a role model for other students throughout the day and throughout the building. ð Proactively communicates with teachers and peers to build better relationships to solve problems before they escalate. ð When facing an obstacle, s/he works hard to find solutions. ð Advocates for her/himself when in need of help. ð Steps up and helps other community members who are struggling. ð Respectfully calls out peers when they do the wrong thing. ð Celebrates peers when they achieve and do the right thing. ð Makes good decisions in difficult situations, even when friends are making bad decisions. Citizenship ð Shows tolerance when interacting with all people. ð Shows empathy to others and encourage them when they are struggling. ð Offers assistance to others and am willing to lend a helping hand. ð Positively contributes to our community during class, mealtimes, community meetings, and morning circle by showing enthusiasm and not distracting others. ð Advocates for peers and our community when no one else will. ð Actively builds my support network of peers and adults. ð Cares for our school building and environment. UPPER HOUSE We are phasing out Upper House. This leadership program is being replaced by Peer Leadership (see below). Current seniors (Class of 2013) who have earned Upper House status remain eligible through the 2012-2013 school year (including wearing of Upper House Shirts)- provided they meet all cultural, academic, and academic expectations. If an Upper House student earns 4 unexcused tardies or 4 absences from school, fills a demerit card, earns a level II or level III Infraction, the Upper House Privilege is revoked. Students are notified of the change in status via a letter from the Principal and APSC or other Culture designee. 15
COMMUNITY SERVICE (New) Moving forward, all high school students will be expected to participate in community service hours. Each grade has a specific adult that will communicate the acceptable locations and partners to partner with in order to meet this expectation. Community service hours differ by grade and successful completion is mandatory in order to meet the course requirements as listed below. Grade Necessary Hours Point Person 9 th 20 Mr. Stanford 10 th 30 Ms. Sorensen 11 th 40 Mrs. J. Kim 12 th 50 Mrs. Ridyard We are confident that your child and our collective communities will benefit from the service they provide. It will ensure they are more competitive for college admission and will expand their horizons. We know they will be able to access their experiences for years to come and be able to Lead and Serve in their communities for years to come. Below please find an article that highlights just some of the key findings from research on the topic of Service. Some basic highlights from the report, please follow the link for more: http://www.learningindeed.org/research/slresearch/slrsrchsy.html Recent research indicates that service learning can: increase students' personal, interpersonal and social development (Billig 2000) increase motivation, student engagement, and school attendance (Billig 2000) and, lead to new perspectives and more "positive lifestyle choices and behavior." (Civic Literacy Project 2005) PEER LEADERSHIP (New) Peer Leadership is a group of 10-12 th graders who will serve as exemplary role models and leaders within the school community. Peer Leaders will assist teachers, school administration and members of the culture team in creating an environment of service within our existing school culture. Our Peer Leaders will be charged with the responsibility of organizing service opportunities for our student body and participating in community service activities regularly. Although in its infancy in conception, Peer Leadership seeks to be a strong force in creating a culture of civic participation and community service that will ensure our students are most prepared for college and other numerous opportunities available in the global community. 16
NATIONAL HONOR SOCIETY (NHS) The National Honor Society (NHS) is the nation's premier organization established to recognize outstanding high school students. NHS serves to honor those students who have demonstrated excellence in the areas of Scholarship, Leadership, Service, and Character. In order to be eligible for the MCSC chapter of the National Honor Society, the student must meet the following minimum criteria: -current 10th, 11th, or 12th grade student at MCSC -3.50 or higher cumulative career GPA at the end of the first semester of the current school year -active participation in at least one MCSC-sponsored extracurricular activity during the current school year -zero instances of academic dishonesty during the current school year During the second semester, students meeting the above minimum requirements will be invited to fill out and submit a candidate informational form. The NHS faculty council will then evaluate each candidate on the basis of SCHOLARSHIP, LEADERSHIP, SERVICE, and CHARACTER to determine which students will become official members of the MCSC chapter of the National Honor Society. An induction ceremony will be held at the end of the second semester. 17
NON-VIOLENCE CONTRACT A safe learning community is very important at Mastery Charter Schools. Violence will not be tolerated. Students who enroll at Mastery Charter Schools must accept that violence cannot be an option for resolving problems. Students who are not prepared to accept this non-violence contract should not apply to or enroll in Mastery Charter Schools. Student PARENT/GUARDIAN CONTRACT q I agree not to use violence for any reason what-so-ever at Mastery Charter School, while representing Mastery Charter Schools, or with any members of the Mastery Charter Schools community. q I understand this non-violence pledge applies to all parties involved in any fight, no matter whether I am right or wrong or whether I am acting in self defense. q If I do engage in violence or participate in a fight, I understand that I will be expelled* from Mastery Charter Schools unless after a Board review hearing, an alternative course is recommended. q I agree to support my child in using productive, non-violent strategies to resolve conflicts. q I understand that this non-violence pledge applies to all parties involved in any fight, no matter whether my child is right or wrong or whether s/he is acting in self-defense. q If my child does engage in violence or participate in a fight, I understand that s/he will be expelled* from Mastery Charter Schools unless after a Board review hearing, an alternative course is recommended. 18
Corporal Punishment Mastery prohibits the use of corporal punishment. However, teachers and school authorities may use reasonable force under the following circumstances: (1) To quell a disturbance. (2) To obtain possession of weapons or other dangerous objects. (3) For the purpose of self-defense. (4) For the protection of persons or property Student Lunches Students who choose not to participate in the school lunch program here at MCSC are expected to arrive daily with their packed lunches. Parents may not drop off lunches for student(s). Glass bottles are not to be brought to school. Parent Visitation We value our partnership with parents. Recent research indicates that students who are most successful academically are those whose parents are involved in the learning process. We encourage you to participate fully in your child s academic success endeavors. We welcome you to come in and view your child s learning environment. If you desire to schedule a classroom visit, you should do the following: Call the Dean of Students for your child s grade to request a classroom visit at least 48 hours (2 days) in advance. The Dean will inform the teacher of your intended visit time/date. If there is no conflict with the proposed day/time of your visit, please plan to arrive to the school on the day and time you had planned. If there is a conflict with your request, a staff member (teacher or administrator) will call you back with an attempt to reschedule. During classroom visitation, parents are expected to enter the classroom, sit quietly, and observe the instruction or activity without disrupting the classroom. Because the teacher is expected to be engaged in regular classroom instruction during your visit, all requests for additional conversation/information from teachers should be done outside of the classroom visitation time. Additional Ways to Contact Teachers Via email Telephone (each teacher has a telephone extension, but we do not transfer phone calls to classrooms in order to avoid disruption of your child s learning environment.) 19
Easy Strategies Parents Can Use to Support Reading at Home Family involvement is essential to any child's success as a reader. Research has shown that by talking, singing, and reading to children, parents are turning on brain cells that are essential for a healthy child. Parents can build reading skills by interacting with their children. Our school recognizes the importance of parental involvement in childrens progress and are increasingly encouraging parents to play a more active role. Below are 10 simple things that you can do to create a healthy reading environment at home. 1. Make Reading Materials Available To create a healthy reading environment, start with a good supply of reading materials newspapers, magazines, books, and catalogs. It doesn't matter if they're owned or borrowed, new or used. What's important is that reading materials are a natural part of your home and everyday life. Set aside a spot in your home for a family library. You don't need much space; a corner of a room with a bookshelf, comfortable furniture, and adequate lighting will do. In choosing materials, remember that variety counts. Instead of focusing on the number of books, keep in mind the interests of each family member. A small collection of books thoughtfully gathered over time is better than a large collection that goes unread. Paperback and hardcover books, a dictionary, an atlas, songbooks, magazines for parents and kids, newspapers, and catalogs all have a place. Make sure your library includes something for everyone at every reading level. 2. Be Reading Role Models As much as they may deny it, most children want to be like their parents. Their lifelong habits start to form at the earliest ages, often by mimicking older members of the family. If they see you reading daily both for function and for pleasure they will more likely become avid readers themselves. If children see parents visiting libraries and checking out books, giving and receiving books as gifts, and borrowing and loaning books to friends, they will know their parents place a high value on reading. 3. Read Aloud to Children Reading to children, even for a few minutes each day, prepares them to read and encourages a positive attitude toward reading. Children who are read to at home learn to read more easily, have a higher vocabulary, and are more likely to develop a love for reading than those who are not read to on a regular basis. Simply put, this cannot be done too early or too often. 4. Limit Television, Computers, and Video Games For generations, education experts have been sounding the alarm about the harmful effects of too much television. The rise in popularity of the Internet and computer and video games only adds to 20
the din of distractions pulling children away from more literary pursuits. While excellent educational programs and software exist, consumption of electronic media must be kept in check by parents. Limit children's television and computer use to make time for other activities, such as reading. Try not to use television and computers as rewards for reading (or denying them as punishment for not). 5. Compare Books to Film Have your child read a book and then check out the video version of a book. Talk about the similarities and differences in the two mediums. What did s/he like about each form? What didn't she like? Did s/he prefer the book or the movie, and why? 6. Encourage Personal Libraries Children often want their own place to keep books that have special meaning for them. By encouraging children to set aside their personal favorites, you are helping them express their affection and respect for books. Here are some tips for helping children set up collections: Find a special place for books. If your child's room doesn't have a bookshelf or bookcase, use a box, basket, or other sturdy container. Plastic stacking cubes work well. As often as possible, let your children choose the books they want to add to their collection. A book-buying trip to a yard sale or bookstore is a fun Saturday activity. Take your children to the library regularly. Even a child with a well-stocked bookshelf needs a fresh supply of books. Encourage children to treat library books with the same care they show their own. Give your children books or magazine subscriptions as gifts. For babies and young toddlers, choose sturdy books that will survive rough handling. Board books, for example, have thick pages that can be turned easily and wiped clean. 7. Participate in Library Reading Programs Most libraries offer organized reading programs during school breaks for children based on their school levels. Many of these programs are themed and showcase some of the best works for children and young adults. The library staff may host activities based on books and have special events and field trips designed to help children explore the literature on a deeper level. Librarians are usually happy to help your child and can help find ways to involve all levels of readers within an age group. 8. Explore Different Forms of Reading Material Check out works in both their book forms and books on tape, CD, or digital recording forms. Many of the highest rated literature for children and young adults is available on tape and in book form. By having your child read along in the book while listening to the same book on tape, you are providing excellent reading benefits. The child sees and hears words and phrases together, a good 21
way to reinforce sight-word recognition. He can gain knowledge of the content and increase vocabulary without having to struggle through the book and perhaps be discouraged. 9. Study Reading Vocabulary As your child reads books, have him or her make a list of words that were difficult or unfamiliar in the book. Make flashcards of these words, spend some time together talking about the meanings and looking them up in the dictionary. Take turns showing the cards and guessing the words and meanings. As the child masters each word, remove it from the deck and put it in a place of honor. When the whole deck is mastered, celebrate with a special reward. 10. Compare Authors' Books Have your child read two books by the same author. It is a good idea for you to read them too so you can discuss them. Compare how they are similar and how they are different. Which did you and your child like best? Why? Source: RIF Motivational Activities Handbook SCHOOL-PARENT COMPACT Mastery Charter School-Shoemaker Campus (MCSC), and the parents of the students participating in activities, services and programs funded by Title I, Part A of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA) agree that this compact outlines how the parents, the entire school staff and the students will share the responsibility for improved student academic achievement and the means by which the school and parents will build and develop a partnership that will help children achieve the State s high standards. This school-parent compact is in effect during school year 2012-2013. REQUIRED SCHOOL-PARENT COMPACT PROVISIONS (Provisions bolded in this section are required to be in the Title I, Part A School-Parent Compact) School Responsibilities MCSC will: 1. Provide high-quality curriculum and instruction in a supportive and effective learning environment that enables the participating children to meet the State s student academic achievement standards as follows: The administration and staff will provide each student a high-quality curriculum and instruction (using the Mastery model), and do so in a supportive and effective learning environment. 2. Hold parent-teacher conferences during which this compact will be discussed as it relates to the individual child s achievement. Specifically, those conferences will be held: 22
Parent-Teacher conferences will be held on the following dates: 1st Report Period (for all parents) 2nd Report Period (for parents whose students failed a class) 3rd Report Period (for all parents) 4th Report Period (for parents whose children who failed a class) 5th Report Period (for all parents) 6th Report Period (for parents whose children failed semester) 3. Provide parents with frequent reports on their children s progress. Specifically, the school will provide reports as follows: Parents are welcome to make an appointment for a conference with the teachers or other staff members to discuss student s progress at any time. Teachers will make telephone calls when necessary. Teachers will call a minimum of 7 parents per week. Parent will receive interim reports from each teacher every 3-weeks, regardless if the student is failing in academics. Parents are strongly encouraged to check online for their child s progress. 4. Provide parents reasonable access to staff. Specifically, staff will be available for consultation with parents as follows: Generally, the following staff members will be available for consultation with parents: Social Worker Counselor Dean of Students Administration (Principals and Assistant Principals) Nurse Teachers See the Parent Handbook for specific information about parent visitation protocols. 5. Provide parents opportunities to volunteer and participate in their child s class, and to observe classroom activities, as follows: Parents are encouraged to volunteer at the school. Parents are asked to contact administration (Mr. Brown-AP of School Culture) if they are interested. Parent Responsibilities We, as parents, will support our children s learning in the following ways: Monitoring attendance. Students are expected to have 98% Attendance. Making sure that 100% of all homework is completed on a daily basis. Monitoring amount of television my child watches. 23
Volunteering at the school. Participating, as appropriate, in decisions relating to my child s education. Promoting positive use of my child s extracurricular time. Staying informed about my child s education and communicating with the school by promptly reading all notices from the school, either received by my child or by mail and/or email and responding, as appropriate. Serving, to the extent possible, on policy advisory groups, or the PTA. Provide a quiet place for my child(ren) to study. Sign homework/progress reports, daily reports as requested. Chaperone Trips. Become a member of the Parent Teacher Association (PTA) Student Responsibilities We, as students, will share the responsibility to improve our academic achievement and achieve the State s high standards. Specifically, we will: Come to school everyday. Listen to my parent and teachers. Follow the Code of Conduct. The Administration and staff of MCSC will do the following: Invite parents to Planning Meetings. Provide Parents with information that will ensure their child s success on Back to School Night. Important information will be distributed to parents as follows: Letters home by students, mailings, telephone calls, online, meetings, etc. Parents can discuss the needs of their children with Administration, Social Worker, Dean of Students and other staff members. Report Cards, 2-week Progress Reports, telephone calls, etc. will be used to give parents an individual progress report. Letters will go out informing Parents if their child s teacher is not highly qualified. MCSC will: 1. Involve parents in the planning, review and improvement of the school s parental involvement policy, in an organized, ongoing and timely way. 2. Involve parents in the joint development of any school-wide program plan, in an organized, ongoing and timely way. 3. Hold an annual meeting to inform parents of the school s participation in Title I, Part A programs, and to explain the Title I, Part A programs. The school will convene the meeting at a convenient time to parents, and will offer a flexible number of additional parental involvement meetings, such as in the morning or evening, so that as many parents as possible are able to attend. The school will invite to this meeting all parents of children participating in Title I, Part A programs (participating students) and will encourage them to attend. 24
4. Provide information to parents of participating students in an understandable and uniform format, including alternative formats upon the request of parents with disabilities and to the extent practicable, in a language that parents can understand. 5. Provide to parents of participating children information in a timely manner about programs that includes a description and explanation of the school s curriculum, the forms of academic assessment used to measure children s progress, and the proficiency levels students are expected to meet (Student- Parent Handbook). 6. On the request of parents, provide opportunities for regular meetings for parents to formulate suggestions and to participate, as appropriate, in decisions about the education of their children. The school will respond to any such suggestions as soon as practicably possible. 7. Provide an individual student report about the performance of their child on the State assessment in at least math, science, writing, and reading to each 7th, 8th, 11th grade parent. 8. Provide each parent timely notice when their child had been assigned or has been taught for four (4) or more consecutive weeks by a teacher who is not highly qualified. Sharif El-Mekki School Parent(s) Student 8/22/12 Date Date Date (PLEASE NOTE THAT SIGNATURES ARE NOT REQUIRED) 25
Student Medication Policy Requirements for OTC/Prescription Drugs to be Administered at School 1. All medication must be prescribed by a qualified health care provider except in the case of over the counter medications. 2. A completed medication authorization form must be signed by a parent or guardian and is valid for one school year. a. Medication must be packaged and labeled by a registered pharmacist. b. Parents or guardians must deliver properly labeled and packaged medication to the certified school nurse or the principal s designee. The medication label should include the following 1. Patient name 2. Pharmacy name 3. Pharmacy Address and phone number 4. Prescription Number 5. Current prescription date 6. Name of medication, dosage information and expiration date. 7. Name of prescribing health care provider a. Over the Counter medications must be in the original manufacturer s container with directions for use intact on the label or box. Medication Administration 1. The certified school nurse will administer all student medications and is the primary person responsible for administering student medications. 2. The principal will designate a person responsible for administering student medication when the certified school nurse is not in the school building. a. The principal s designee shall be notified of this assignment in writing. b. The principal s designee shall receive orientation in administering student medication from the certified school nurse. c. Under no circumstances shall teachers or other school staff administer student medication, of any sort, unless so designated by the principal in writing. 3. Only the certified school nurse and the principal s designee will receive student medication from the parent according to the requirements listed above. a. Documentation of receipt of medication is required. b. Medication and supplies must be stored in locked cabinet preferably in the certified nurse s office. c. Medication requiring refrigeration must be stored in the refrigerator In the certified nurse s office. d. Only emergency medication such as bee sting kits, asthma inhaler, and/or glycogen should be stored in a teacher s desk or in the principal s office. e. A student who requires emergency medication and are capable of selfadministration may be allowed to carry the medication based on the certified school nurse s judgment. 26
4. Student medication administration must be recorded on a medication log. 5. Parents shall receive written notice that the principal designee will administer student medication when the certified school nurse is unavailable. Student Medication Orientation 1. Any staff member assigned as the principal designee for the administration of student medication shall be instructed by the certified school nurse on the following: a. The confidentiality of the student s medical condition and medication. b. Reading and understanding the medication label. c. Recording the administration of student medication in the student medication log. d. Recognizing any changes in the student s appearance and/or behavior which should be communicated to the certified school nurse. e. Consulting the certified school nurse if any changes occur in the regular schedule and/or administration of student medication. 2. The certified school nurse will notify the principal when the principal designee has completed student medication orientation. 3. Student medication orientation shall be recorded in a document kept by the certified school nurse. 4. The principal designee s orientation will occur on an annual basis. Unused or Expired Medication 1. Unused or expired medication must be returned to the parent and recorded on the student medication log. 2. In the event that the parent does not pick up the unused or expired medication, the certified nurse, after a period of three months, shall dispose of the medication by flushing it down the toilet. This disposal shall be recorded in the student medication log. 3. Under no circumstances shall students deliver unused or expired medication to their parents. 27
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Related Health Service Inventory September 2012 Dear Parent/Guardian, Mastery Charter Shoemaker Campus is committed to meeting the needs of your child in order to ensure his or her success. Often times, the road to excellence is strengthened by an extensive support system that extends beyond the walls of our building. In order to better understand the range of services that are in place to support our students, we ask that you please complete the following survey and return to your child s homeroom teacher. If your child is receiving services, please complete the Release of Information form on the back of this document as well. Thank you, in advance, for your cooperation. MCSC Administration *Please Return to your Mastery Class Teacher by Friday, September 14, 2012* Child s Name: Cohort: My child does not receive any related health services. Parent/Guardian Signature: Service Name of Contact Name of Agency Agency Contact Information Nature of Service o TSS Worker (TSS) o Behavior Specialist Consultant (BSC) o Mobile Therapist (MT) o Family Therapy o Individual Therapy o Psychiatrist o Other 29
Release of Information Student Name (Last, First) Date of Birth Student ID# In order to (provide/receive) information regarding your child, Mastery Charter Schools needs your written permission. If you give permission, copies of the information will be given to/received by the party (parties) named here: Person(s)/ Agency: Person(s)/ Agency: Person(s)/ Agency: Kinds of Information to be: Received Given (Circle ): Educational Psychological Medical Speech/Hearing Neurological Psychiatric Other Other Certification I certify that I am the parent, legal guardian, or appointed educational surrogate of the student named above. I hereby give permission for the release of information as requested. I am aware of my legal rights regarding the release of personally identifiable information, including my right to withdraw permission and to get copies of the information upon written request. I understand that this permission is valid only for the purpose stated above and for a period of one year from today. Parent/Guardian s Signature: Date: Student s Signature: Date: 30