Dear Parents:

The faculty and staff are looking forward to greeting you on the first day of school and wish you all the success in the coming 2011-2012 school year. To those students and parents who are new to Rodgers School, we extend especially warm welcome and best wishes in your new school. We hope that you will quickly feel at home and become involved in the activities of our school through the PTO and your child’s classroom program.  

Our beautiful Pre-K, Kindergarten school has approximately 300 precious, adorable students.   The learning community is rich with diversity.  The staff works together to identify specific needs of the learners and develops improvement plans to assist every student in meeting success. 

The staff of Rodgers School is committed to the process of school improvement.  We engage in best practices – particularly in the areas of curriculum development, instructional planning, effective assessment, differentiated instruction, and inclusion. 

We are fortunate to have many exciting events for our families to enjoy throughout the school year.  We welcome feedback and questions.  Please feel free to call or email me at any time,

(856) 652-2700 Ext. 75400 or madler@glassboroschools.us .   In an effort to help you get your child off to a good start, this handbook was prepared to provide you with helpful hints and the information that you will need.  You may also get additional information about our school on the school district web site at http://www.glassboroschools.us .

Warmly,

Malcolm N. Adler

Interim Principal

        Each child brings to school his or her own unique interests and experiences, special abilities and developmental needs.  We build on each child’s strengths, while providing an environment rich with new ideas and experiences designed to encourage growth.

        Our program is developmentally based;  that is, it is designed for the age group served and is implemented with attention to the needs and differences of the individual children enrolled. The curriculum is geared to students’ levels of understanding, different rates of development and learning styles, varying cultural backgrounds, and prior experiences.  A multitude of hands-on experiences are provided.

        Assessment is completed at least three times per year.  The main goal of assessment is to drive instruction. We can determine how much growth children have made, whether particular instructional strategies are meeting student needs, and where we need to concentrate our teaching efforts.

        We believe that school should be a positive, enjoyable experience for children, and that it is critical to each child’s success to feel safe, encouraged and loved. In accordance, we have certain behavioral expectations that will allow all children to feel comfortable in the school setting.  At this age level, we believe that it is our responsibility, with the support of parents, to teach the behaviors that are appropriate in the school setting.  Our approach to teaching these behaviors is a positive one.  However, there are consequences when continued misbehavior disrupts the educational process and interferes with students’ safety and well being.

        We trust that you and your child will have a wonderful experience at Rodgers School. We encourage you to take advantage of the many opportunities for parent involvement and enjoy your child’s early school experiences.  Please feel free to ask questions or provide suggestions for school improvement at any time.

It is important that your child attend school on all school days, unless ill.  We recommend that families schedule vacations when school is not in session.  Attending school on a daily basis will help your child’s academic success and will help develop a good lifetime habit. Excessive absences may result in retention.

Please call the school at 652-2700, ext. 75403 for the school nurse, to report an absence.  If we do not get a call and your child is absent, the school nurse may call you. 

When your child returns to school, send a note in to your child’s teacher explaining the reason for  the absence. If your child is absent for three or more consecutive days, a doctor’s note is needed.

Teaching appropriate school behavior is a responsibility of all early childhood educators and families.  The children are expected to be kind, to respect other children, adults and property, to do their best, and to follow teacher directions.  Rules are to be followed to maintain a clean, safe and friendly school environment where everyone can learn.

Teachers begin by teaching children that there are positive consequences to following the rules. Students experience positive results when they follow all the rules, such as praise from their teachers, stickers, special activities or treats.  Rules and the reason for the rules are explained and re-explained as needed. The children also learn that there are logical consequences to not following the rules, such as being removed from the group, fixing something they broke, cleaning up, apologizing or losing a privilege.  Consequences are used to help solve the problem and help teach children appropriate school behavior.  All children make mistakes with their behavior. Correcting these mistakes are opportunities for learning to take place.  Parents are involved with repeated mistakes, so that children receive the same message from home and school about the appropriate way to behave in school.  Parental support is critical in teaching appropriate school behavior.

If misbehavior interferes with safety, well being and learning in the school (including causing injury to others, property, public use of foul language, and ongoing disruption to the learning environment), more serious consequences are necessary.  At these times, a parent-principal conference may be necessary.

Birthday celebrations can be celebrated with a parent participating in a classroom activity such as reading a book to the class and/or helping the teacher in an educational activity in the classroom.  Donate a book/puzzle to the classroom; send in a class treat such as birthday pencils or stickers.  Bringing food into the classroom is not permitted as children have allergies to many foods and we do not want to have a child not participate in a school activity.

Be sure that your child’s clothing is:                              

• comfortable, washable, and allows for self-dressing
• marked with your child’s name
• appropriate for arts and crafts

We get involved in activities and should not be overly concerned with staying clean. 

Dresses with ruffles and bows, and pants with difficult belts and fastenings should be

avoided.  

In addition, it is best to have your child wear sneakers everyday.

Children may not wear sandals, flip flops or high-heeled shoes as they are dangerous on the

playground, on steps and on the bus      

When the weather is cold:

• always send in mittens and hats that are clearly marked with your child’s name
• snowsuits and snow pants are not necessary unless your child must wait outside

for a long period of time.

When it rains:

• always send in a raincoat
• please leave umbrellas at home.  They are unsafe in a group of children.

At all times:

·         Many things go back and forth each day.  Please have your child carry a backpack so things do not get lost. Backpacks with wheels are not permitted.

·         Sneakers or other rubber-soled shoes are best.  We practice many gross motor skills that can be difficult without proper shoes.  Sneakers must be worn for gym and playground activities.  Velcro closures are recommended for Pre-K students.

·         Send in a change of clothes, marked with your child’s name, for all Pre-K and Kindergarten students who may still have accidents.  These items will be kept at school.

        Parent  teacher conferences are scheduled during the week of December 5^th 2011.  Teachers will be sending appointment times a few weeks before conferences.  A second parent-teacher conference will be scheduled in March.  Every effort is made to arrange a time that would be mutually convenient.  Evening conferences are not available this year due to budget constraints.

        The purpose of the conference is to discuss student progress, get parent input and discuss home activities that may be beneficial.  It is important for parents to attend conferences.  Involved parents lead to successful children.

Additional individual conferences regarding specific concerns may be necessary for some students.  The parent or teacher may request such a conference and arrange a mutually convenient time to meet.

        Our curriculum focuses on concepts and skills which are appropriate to each child’s age or stage of development and which encourage social, emotional, physical and intellectual growth.  Included are concrete, relevant, hands-on activities and experiences which provide meaningful learning.

        While the rate of growth is different for each child, it is highly patterned and predictable.  We have high expectations for all students, demanding as much as the child is capable of doing, but not expecting more than s/he is able to do.

        Recognizing that children grow in predictable stages, we treat each child as an individual, working from the level each child has attained and moving forward a step at a time.  Classroom routines encourage active involvement, meaningful experimentation, and reinforcement through repetition.  Schedules are designed which balance structure of the classroom.

        Specific curricula are developed for each of our programs:  pre-kindergarten, kindergarten, basic skills kindergarten and classes for pre-school and kindergarten students with disabilities.

There are several early dismissal dates  scheduled throughout the school year.  On these days, the Kindergarten  students attend school from 8:00 to 12:30 PM.  We do serve lunch on these days. The AM Pre-K session attends from 8:00 to 10:00 AM.  The PM Pre-K students attend from 10:30 to 12:30 PM.

It is very important for parents to make arrangements for someone to be available at the bus stop or pick children up at school when we are on an early dismissal schedule.

During the winter months, ice and snow may result in school closings or early dismissals.  A decision to close the schools is made for the safety of your children and is usually made early in the morning.  Decisions for early dismissal are usually made by 10:00 a.m.

        Parents will be notified by an announcement on the radio:

        WCAU – 1210 AM (or other area radio stations)

        School Closing Code:                     805

        School Opening Late:                     5805

        Channel 13 and the district website also post school closings.   A recording should also be available, if you call the main school district number (652-2700).  Please do not call the school, as there will be no one in the office.

If there is a 2 hour delayed opening, we will adjust the times of our pre-school program according to the following:

                Morning Session   10:00 – 11:45 AM          Afternoon Session  12:15 – 2:00 PM

        In the event of early dismissal due to weather or other emergency, an effort will be made to notify the parent.  It is your responsibility to keep the school informed about where to reach you, and provide a current phone number (See Information Changes).

        These two policies are in the Appendix of this handbook.  If you would like to obtain additional copies of these policies, please contact the school secretary or the Glassboro Board of Education Office (652-2700 Ext. 76110).

Kindergarten

Kindergarten students attend school Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM.  On Early Dismissal days Kindergarten students attend from 8:00 AM to 12:30 PM.

Pre-Kindergarten

All Pre-Kindergarten and 3 or 4 year-old students with disabilities attend school from Monday through Friday.  Students are assigned to either the first (AM) or second (PM) session.

                                                                          Regular Session                            Early Dismissal Day

• First (AM) Session:                          8:00 AM - 10:30 AM                         8:00 AM – 10:00 AM
• Second (PM) Session:                    11:30 AM- 2:00 PM                         10:30 AM – 12:30 PM

        It is in the best interest of your child and of other children at school to keep your child at home when he or she is ill.  Your child needs to be well to be able to participate actively in the program.

• After a fever, your child’s temperature must be normal (98.6) for 24 hours before

he or she returns to school.

• If your child is well enough to come to school, we will expect him or her to go outdoors with his or her class, weather permitting.
• Often children may ask to go to school even though they are ill.  Although your child may be disappointed, please keep him or her at home.
• If your child becomes ill while at school and you are called, please cooperate by picking up your child promptly.

        It is very important that we have current information on each child in case of emergency.

        If you change your address, telephone numbers, or other people listed to pick up your child, please send the information in writing to your child’s teacher.  The teacher will provide that information to the office and nurse. If you are putting down a friend or neighbor as the emergency number, please notify them as to what procedure they should follow if we call. 

        In the event of an address change, you are required to provide two new proofs of residence.  You will also need to complete a bus change form in order to have bussing changed. This form can be obtained in the office. 

        If you move out of Glassboro, you should request a transfer card from the school secretary.  She will ask the name and address of your child’s new school. Please notify us as early as possible.  If your family moves after April 1 of a school year, your child may continue to attend for the remainder of the school year; however, you would be required to provide transportation.  The school would need to know new address and phone numbers, for communication purposes.

If your child is experiencing a lack of success in school due to academic or behavioral reasons, contact your child’s teacher(s) to discuss with them your child’s situation.  Contact can be made through note, phone or e-mail (teacher’s first initial, last name @ glassboroschools.us).  Each teacher has a voice mail extension on which a message can be left. 

If academic difficulties and/or behavior difficulties persist, you can request your child be referred to the I&RS (Intervention and Referral Services) Team.  This team is a group of professionals who meet to review students who are experiencing academic or behavioral difficulties and recommend interventions.  Referrals to I&RS can come from teachers or parents.  Parents may be invited to meetings to join with the I&RS in finding solutions or may be involved through their child’s teacher.  To refer your child to the I&RS, contact the principal or your child’s teacher.

Students with suspected disabilities may be evaluated to determine whether they are eligible for 504 services or special education services.  These services will only be done with parent consent. Students who qualify for 504 services may not meet the standard for special education eligibility but nonetheless require adaptations and modifications in their program to be successful.  To qualify for 504 services, the disability must be substantial and must affect a major life activity (e.g. learning, breathing, seeing, hearing, etc.).  If found eligible, a 504 plan is developed to specify the modifications, supports, and accommodations necessary for each student.  Many times students can be serviced through 504 without requiring special education services.  The I&RS team, teachers, or parents can refer a child for 504 evaluation.  Parents should contact the principal concerning information regarding this option and how to refer their child.

If a disability is suspected that may require special education or related services (such as occupational or physical therapy), then a referral to the Child Study Team (CST) for evaluation may be necessary.  The I&RS team is the primary source for referrals and it is encouraged that parents work through the I&RS process to help provide the CST with thorough and comprehensive information in its decision to decide whether there is sufficient grounds to suspect a disability.  In addition, many times successful interventions designed by the I&RS can avoid referrals to the Child Study Team.  Parents, however, may refer their child to the Child Study Team for evaluation of eligibility for special education and/or related services.  Referrals require a written letter by the parent to the Supervisor of Special Services (Phone: 652-2700 and listen for prompts for the Child Study Team) requesting an evaluation. The child’s name, birthdate, grade and school, reason for the request and contact phone number and address should be included in the letter.  Once a referral is received, the CST will arrange a meeting within 20 days to determine whether an evaluation will be conducted.  Once permission is received to evaluate, the determination of eligibility and development/implementation of the IEP is to be completed in 90 days.

We are aware that occasional lateness may be absolutely unavoidable, but we want you to be aware that persistent lateness has a negative impact on the children and on the school.  Children are expected to be in school at 8 AM (or 11:30 AM, if in a PM session).  Children will be considered absent if they are more than ½ hour late for Pre-K or more than 2 hours late for Kindergarten.  It is important to have children understand the importance of promptness and good attendance at an early age.  If this skill is developed early, it will help them throughout their lives. Arriving late to school can be disconcerting for young children because the class is already in the middle of activities to which your child will need to catch up. Orienting a late child takes away from classroom instruction time. Having your child here on time needs to be the parent’s responsibility at this age.  Excessive lateness to school may result in retention. We appreciate your help with this.

You may pack a lunch for your Kindergarten or PM Pre-K child.  Please try to pack a nutritious lunch, preferably one which your child will like to eat.

Lunch may be purchased or is available for students who are eligible for free meals. Information regarding costs and selections will be sent home with your child.  Additional information regarding eligibility for free or reduced priced meals will be sent home with your child.  If you have not received a free and reduced lunch application form, please obtain one from the school secretary or by calling the Board of Education office (652-2700).

New child nutrition regulations required by the state began in the 2006-07 school year.  These regulations forbid having foods in the school with a high sugar and/or fat content.  This would include cafeteria foods, as well as foods permitted for parties and other school events.  The policy is included in the appendix of this handbook.

    Parents play an important part in a child’s educational growth.  Throughout the school year, we will be offering interesting programs and opportunities for you to become involved in your child’s educational program.  We look forward to your regular participation in these programs.  In addition, we have numerous opportunities for parents to volunteer in the school setting.

To get your child prepared for starting school, it is suggested that you set up a routine, at least a week or two before opening day.  Have your child rise early enough so that he or she can go to the toilet, wash, dress, comb hair, eat an unhurried breakfast, brush teeth and put on outer clothing suitable to the weather.  The time needed may vary according to your child and household.

        Below are some of the parent involvement activities:

• PTO
• Classroom Volunteers
• Room Parents
• Volunteers for Special Events/Field Trips
• Special Classroom Events
• Parent Conferences
• Orientation
• Back-To-School Night
• Concerts

The Glassboro Board of Education does not insure personal property of students attending school.  This means that personal items such as clothing, gym equipment, cell phones, bicycles, tape recorders, calculators, and musical instruments are not insured under the Board of Education Property Insurance Policy.  The Board of Education encourages parents to constantly remind children to be careful and to secure their personal property at all times.

At Rodgers School, we advise parents to not have children bring to school any item of personal or monetary value.  Many times, children under age 7, do not understand the value of items and often lose or misplace things.

        Students should remain in school for the full school day, unless absolutely unavoidable.  Early release of students is only permitted for doctor’s appointments and other urgent business that cannot be done outside of school hours.  No students will be released early during the last 30 minutes of the school day (dire emergencies excluded).  Individuals who must pick a child up early must report to the school office.

                Children who do not ride the school bus must be signed out in the All-Purpose Room.   The entrance is on Dickinson Rd.  Parking for this purpose is on Dickinson Rd.  The adult must see the teacher on duty before taking any child.

                Students will only be released to a parent or an individual designated in writing by a parent.  We will ask for a photo ID, so always be prepared to have one available.  Make sure that any individual that you designate knows that an ID is required.

        Please feel free to call your child’s teacher with any questions or concerns.  The telephone number at J. Harvey Rodgers School is 652-2700 Ext. 75400. Your child’s teacher will generally be available to talk to you before or after your child’s scheduled school hours, or you may leave a voice mail message during school hours.  The principal or secretary may address your questions at other times.  You may also e-mail your child’s teacher.

Each teacher will provide you with information about what supplies are needed for her classroom.  In general, children will need the following:

1.                   A folder with pockets (to send notes back and forth).

2.                   A backpack large enough to hold the folder. Children may not use backpacks with wheels.  These pose a safety hazard in the school setting and on the bus.

3.                   Lunchbox for snacks/juice or lunch.

Crayons, pencils, paper, glue sticks and scissors are good supplies to have on hand at home for homework and practice.  These do not need to be sent to school.

        Student and employee safety is a priority.  Visitors are required to buzz in at the front door, which is located near the corner of Georgetown and Yale Roads.  There is a camera at the front entrance.  Visitors are any individuals who are not students or employees of Rodgers School.  Visitors will be requested for identification, if not known to the office staff. Please do not be offended if you are asked for identification.  The office staff comes in contact with hundreds of people and may not remember every individual.

                Students will only be released to individuals who the parent has designated as appropriate.  Please make sure that you keep your STUDENT PICK-UP AUTHORIZATION FORM up to date.  A copy of this form is in the appendix.  You will be requested to complete an authorization form at the beginning of the school year.

We have a snack or breakfast time each day in the AM Pre-K.  Please send a small, nutritious snack in a lunchbox or bag.  Please do not send in a full meal, and please avoid snacks with a lot of sugar.  Fruits, crackers with peanut butter, graham crackers, vegetable sticks, cheese or popcorn would be good choices.  Fruit juice (100% preferred) can be sent in a thermos or juice box.

Breakfast may be purchased or is available for students who are eligible for free or reduced breakfast.  Additional information regarding eligibility for free or reduced priced meals will be sent home with your child.  If you have not received a free and reduced lunch application, please obtain one from the main office.

        Please refer to the Child Nutrition Policy and Healthy School Snacks information included in this handbook for more information.

For the protection of Glassboro Public Schools and its students, the Technology Policy covers the following areas:

Internet and Network Use:

A filter is in place as required by the Children’s Internet Protection Act. Abuse of the Internet will not be tolerated.  This includes, but is not limited to, plagiarizing material, downloading of obscene or violent material, attempts to break into the network, sending or forwarding any threatening, harassing, or obscene e-mail, use of another’s account or password, and tampering with files or settings on any District server. 

If on the network, all users must log off when leaving a computer.

Software:

Software is to be licensed for any particular purpose for which it is used. It is a violation of federal law to copy software without the express permission of the software publisher.  Violators can potentially be fined hundreds of thousands of dollars. The District Technology Policy strictly prohibits software copying.  The District reserves the right to remove unlicensed software from any computer, including any software downloaded from the Internet. The District also reserves the right to take disciplinary action against violators for any violation of the policy.  By using the District’s equipment, violators agree to indemnify, defend and hold the District harmless for violations of copyright laws.

General Use:

Any software or hardware brought into the District must first be brought to the attention of the building level technology personnel, or District Technology Coordinator.

The District will keep antivirus software on all machines, where applicable. Backups on servers will be run by the District Network Engineer and authorized personnel.

The District makes no warranties of any kind, express or implied, for the service it is providing.  The District will not be responsible for damages of any kind suffered by anyone as a result of or in association with his or her use of the District’s computer system for any purpose.

The hardware, software and network technology in Glassboro Public Schools belongs to the District.  Administration reserves the right to view the following at any time on any computer user account: e-mail messages, Internet usage, network user accounts, and files kept on individual computer or server hard drives.

Glassboro teachers and staff have the right to view any student computer work, e-mail messages, Internet usage, files, network user accounts, and general use.

Out-of district e-mail accounts accessible through the Internet or dial-up connections are not allowed to be accessed through District computers.

Inappropriate web sites, abuse of equipment, and/or other violations of the technology policy by any user shall result in appropriate disciplinary and/or legal action.

The policy can be viewed online at: http://www.glassboroschools.us, use the Board of Education link to policies.

Transportation to and from school is provided dependent upon the requirements of the school transportation program or the child’s Individualized Education Program (IEP).

        If your child will ride a bus to school, you will receive a bus pass approximately one week before the start of school.  As a parent, you have the responsibility to be at the designated bus stop with your child to see that he or she is safely on the bus and to be at the bus stop to receive your child at the end of the session.

        All questions and concerns regarding transportation should be directed to Rick Costanzo at the Transportation Office (652-2700 Ext. 77100).

        To help ensure a safe, efficient transportation system:

·         Help your child be on time at the bus stop.  We recommend arriving five minutes early.

·         Do not ask the driver to stop at places other than the designated stop.

·         If your child is not to be picked up due to illness, etc., please notify the Transportation Office beforehand.

If your child will not be taking the bus home you must write a note to your child’s teacher, including the date and the name of the person who will be picking up your child.  Please be sure to sign the note.

Please refer to the Transportation Guidelines included in the appendix of this handbook for further information.

The Glassboro Board of Education recognizes that child and adolescent obesity has reached epidemic levels in the United States and that poor diet combined with a lack of physical activity negatively impacts on students’ health, and their ability and motivation to learn.  The Board is committed to:

1. Providing students with healthy and nutritious foods;

2. Encouraging the consumption of fresh fruits and vegetables, low fat milk and whole grains;

3. Supporting healthy eating through nutrition education;

4. Encouraging students to select and consume all components of the school meal; and

5. Providing students with the opportunity to engage in daily physical activity.

All reimbursable meals shall meet Federal nutrient standards as required by the U.S. Department of Agriculture Child Nutrition Program Regulations.  All items served as part of the After School Snack Program shall meet the standards outlined within this policy.

The following items may not be served, sold, or given out as a free promotion anywhere on school property at anytime before the end of the school day:

1. Foods of minimal nutritional value (FMNV) as defined by the U.S. Department of Agriculture regulations. Included are soda water, water ices, chewing gum, certain candies: hard candies, jellies/gums, marshmallow, fondant, licorice, spun candy, and candy coated popcorn.

2. All food and beverage items listing sugar, in any form, as the first ingredient; and

3. All forms of candy.

Schools shall reduce the purchase of any products containing trans fats.  (Federal labeling of trans fats on all food products is required by January 1, 2006.)

All Snacks and beverage items sold or served anywhere on school property during the school day, including items sold in a la carte lines, vending machines, snack bars, school stores and fundraisers or served in the reimbursable After School Snack Program, shall meet the following standards:

1. Based on manufacturers nutritional data or nutrient food labels:
   • No more than eight grams of total fat per serving, with the exception of nuts and seeds.
   • No more than two grams of saturated fat per serving.

2. All beverages shall not exceed 12 ounces, with the following exceptions:
   • Water
   • Milk containing two percent or less fat.

3. Whole milk shall not exceed eight ounces.

In elementary schools:

• 100 percent of all beverages offered shall be milk, water, 100 percent fruit or vegetable juices.

In middle and high schools:

• At least 60 percent of all beverages offered, other than milk and water, shall be 100 percent fruit or vegetable juices.
• No more than 40 percent of all ice cream/frozen desserts shall be allowed to exceed the above standard for sugar, fat, and saturated fat.

Food and beverages served during special school celebrations or during curriculum related activities shall be exempt from this policy, with the exception of foods of minimal nutritional value as defined by USDA regulations.

This policy does not apply to: medically authorized special needs diets pursuant to 7CFR Part 210; school nurses using FMNV during the course of providing health care to individual students: or special needs students whose Individualized Education Plan (IEP) indicates their use for behavior modification.

Adequate time shall be allowed for student meal service and consumption.  Schools shall provide a pleasant dining environment.  The Board recommends that physical education and recess be scheduled before lunch whenever possible.

The school district’s curriculum shall incorporate nutrition education and physical activity consistent with the New Jersey Department of Education Core Curriculum Standards.

The Board of Education is committed to promoting the Nutrition Policy with all food service personnel, teachers, nurses, coaches and other school administrative staff so they have the skills they need to implement this policy and promote healthy eating practices.  The Board will work toward expanding awareness about this policy among students, parents, teachers, and the community at large.

Once Plan is adopted, a team will be assigned at each school to implement, evaluate, and improve the Wellness/Nutrition Policy.  Available assessment tools such as: School Health Index or Changing the Scene:  Improving the School Nutrition Environment, will be used to:

·         Identify strengths and weaknesses of school health and safety policies and programs.

·         Enable schools to develop an action plan to improve student health.

·         Engage teachers, parents, students, and the community in promoting health-enhancing behaviors and better health.

Legal References:

Federal Child Nutrition Reauthorization Act of 2004

State Regulations:

N.J.S.A.     18A: 33-39 et seq.

N.J.A.C. 2.36-1.1- 1.13  (Child Nutrition Programs, Chapter 36)

Please read labels before purchase.  The ideal snack will:

·         Not have sugar listed as the first ingredient (Sugars include – corn syrup, dextrin, fructose, high fructose corn syrup, galactose, honey, lactose, malt, maltose, maple syrup, molasses, and sucrose).

·         Contain no more than 8 grams of fat per serving.

·         Contain no more than 2 grams of saturated fat per serving.

·         Not be greater than 12 ounces for beverages (with the exception of water or milk containing 2% or less fat.

The Glassboro Public Schools provide transportation for children in the district who qualify according to the guidelines listed below.

Mileage Limits:

Transportation must be provided for all elementary students (Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 8) who reside more  than two miles from school, and all high school students (Grades 9-12) who reside more than two and one-half miles from school.  Students who live within these limits, but must walk in an area that is considered hazardous, are transported to school by the Board of Education.  Exceptions are granted for children with physical problems certified by a doctor and approved by the Superintendent.

Buses are available for children taking part in after-school activities at the High School, Intermediate School and Bowe School.  Bus passes, issued by the Principal's Office, are required.

Routes and Stops:

Prior to the beginning of each school year, routes are established so that vehicles will travel the roads safely and serve the largest number of students within a reasonable time.

Student Responsibilities:

New Jersey statute 18A:25-2 provides that the driver is in full charge of the school bus at all times and is responsible for order.  The driver shall not exclude a student from the bus. If unable to manage a student, the driver will report the matter to the principal.

Students are expected to be in compliance with the following rules and regulations:

At the Bus Stop

·         Be on time at your bus stop.

·         Plan to arrive 5-10 minutes early.

·         Remain on the curb - at least 3 feet back from the road.

·         Show respect for private property.

·         Avoid crowding or pushing as the bus approaches.

·         Wait until the bus stops before moving toward the door.

·         NEVER STAND IN THE ROAD.

·          Do not move into the road as the bus approaches.

While on the Bus    

• Move quickly to your seat.         
• DO NOT STAND or move from your seat while the bus is in motion.       
• Do not change your seat.
• The driver or principal may assign seats.             
• Obey the driver promptly.
• No fighting or pushing.
• Do not talk with or distract the driver.  
• Do not open or close windows without the driver's permission.              
• Keep hands and all parts of your body inside the bus at all times.           
• Do not eat or drink on the bus.
• Do not litter the bus.    
• Never throw anything out of the bus window. 
• Be courteous, talk softly.            
• Do not use profane or obscene language.           
• Report any damage to the bus to the driver.
• Students are responsible for any damage they cause to the bus.             
• Obey bus safety patrol members.           
• IN CASE OF EMERGENCY remain in your seat until instructions are given by the driver.
• Learn how to evacuate your bus quickly.

Getting off the Bus

• Move quickly away from the side of the bus.    
• Move onto the curb or off the roadway.              
• To cross the street or roadway - move 10 feet in front of the bus, wait for the driver’s signal to cross, and then move rapidly to the other side.     
• NEVER GO BEHIND THE BUS TO CROSS THE STREET.

Parent Responsibilities:

• The transportation regulations and the policies adopted by the Board of Education should be stressed with your children, not only for their own safety, but for the protection of all students riding the school bus.
• Parents of Preschool and Kindergarten children must be at the bus stop with their child for pick-up and drop-off.
• If a parent finds that bus service is not satisfactory, please notify the Transportation Office (652-2700 Ext. 77100).
• If your child leaves something on the bus, please call the Transportation Office.  The lost article will be traced and you will be contacted if it is found.
• Parents are responsible and liable for any willful or malicious damage done to school buses by their children.

Here are some recommendations to help ensure a safe school bus transportation system.

• Help your child to be on time at the bus stop.  We recommend arriving 5-10 minutes early.       
• Do not ask the driver to stop at places other than the designated stop.
• Assume responsibility for educating your child to cooperate with the bus driver.           
• Insist on correct behavior while waiting for and riding on the school bus.           
• Accompany a very young child to the bus stop and meet the bus when the child returns.            
• Cooperate with the school officials in discharging discipline requirements in support of a safe transportation system.  Parental support in this matter is extremely important.  Send a note to school the day before a child expects to bring a large project on the bus.
• No animals, of any kind, permitted on the bus.                

Motorist Responsibilities: 

Stopping for School Buses

• If you are approaching or overtaking a school bus and it shows a flashing red light, signaling a stop, you must: 

-          Stop at least 25 feet away.  This is required by law if you are on a two-lane road.  It also applies if you are on a multi-lane highway where lanes are only separated by lines. Slow down to 10 miles per hour on a dual highway, if you are on the other side of a safety island or raised median.

• When a school bus has stopped directly in front of a school to pick up or discharge children, you may pass from either direction at a speed of no more than 10 mph.
• School buses are equipped with amber and red flashing lights.  The amber flashing lights go on 300 feet before the bus stops, followed by the red flashing lights when it has stopped.  You cannot always depend on these signals.  Stop, watch for children and then proceed slowly and with caution.  After a stop, proceed with care when all school bus signals are turned off.
• School buses stop for railroad crossings.  The buses will use the far right lane or shoulder and may activate directional signals to communicate their intentions to other motorists.  School buses will not use their amber or red flashing lights when stopping for railroad crossings.

GLASSBORO PUBLIC SCHOOLS

TRANSPORTATION DEPARTMENT

FAX # 856-652-2675

        It is our policy that parents must request in writing on a yearly basis, their transportation needs if they differ from their home address. See next page for guidelines.

Name: ___________________________          Grade: ____        School: ________________

Home Address: ________________________________________

Phone: _____________

        Please answer the following:                    (Please print clearly)

Where will your child be before school (1 location only)?  No Exceptions!

        Name of responsible adult at the location           ____________________________________

        Phone number                                                                   ___________________________________

        Address (within Glassboro):                                       _________________________________

Where will your child go after school (1 location only)?  No Exceptions!

        Name of responsible adult at the location           ____________________________________

        Phone number                                                                   ___________________________________

        Address (within Glassboro):                                       _________________________________

Parent Signature:____________________________________Date:_______________

        Please return this form to the transportation office by mid July so that we may include your request as we prepare bus routes for the new school year and use this form anytime that you are requesting a transportation change during the school year.  72 hour notice is required for transportation changes. Our office is located in the old Water and Sewer Department at Looney Park & Beebe Lane in the Lakeside Development.  You may mail your form to:

                                                                        Glassboro Public Schools

                                                                        Transportation Department

                                                                        560 Joseph Bowe Boulevard

                                                                        Glassboro, New Jersey 08028

        Should you require any further information please do not hesitate to call Rick Costanzo  at (856) 652-2700 Ext. 77100.

Transportation requests to and from childcare locations is a courtesy extended (when possible) by Glassboro Public Schools.

Due to increased requests to transport students to and from locations other than their home address for the purpose of childcare, the following guidelines are now in effect:

1.            Childcare provider must be located within the borough of Glassboro.  Requests will only be granted if the pick-up and drop-off locations are consistent 5 days a week.

2.            Requests for busing to and from childcare will be considered for pre-kindergarten through grade 6 only.

3.            Requests will be considered on a “seat available” basis on established routes only.  Additional mileage cannot be added to the bus route to accommodate childcare transportation requests.

4.            For safety purposes childcare transportation must be consistent on a daily basis.  NO EXCEPTIONS!

                Examples:  John Doe lives on Academy Street but is picked up and dropped off at a babysitter on Hollybush Drive Monday through Friday.  Request Granted

Billy Smith lives in Parkcrest Village. He is dropped off daily after school at the Latchkey program.  Request Granted

Mary Johnson lives in Hollybush Apartments.  Parent  works on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday.  Parent requested busing to and from childcare on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday and to and from home on Thursday and Friday.  Request Not Granted

5.            Requests for changes in transportation arrangements must be made at least five (5) full school days in advance.   NO EXCEPTIONS!  

     The above guidelines have been adopted for the safety and security of all students who Glassboro School buses.  Teachers, Bus Drivers and their substitutes must have a clear and consistent list of students in order to ensure that students reach their assigned destination.

Staff members shall maintain professional relationships with their pupils that at all times are consistent with the ethical responsibilities of educators.  Interpersonal communications between staff and pupils shall be constructive and otherwise conform to the educational mission of the school system.  Staff shall be expected to treat each pupil as an individual with human rights and worthy of respect.

Pupils shall be expected to treat staff and one another with courtesy, respect, and fairness.  Pupils shall respect the rights of others to receive an education and work in an environment that is conducive to learning and personal growth.  No pupil shall have the right to interfere with another’s right to privacy or right to hold personal beliefs that are different from those of the mainstream.

Harassment includes bullying or use of power in a manner that has the effect of intimidating or causing someone to fear for the safety of his/her person or property or that has the effect of insulting or demeaning the person.  Harassment or discrimination refers to any gesture or written, electronic, verbal or physical act perceived as being motivated by race, color, creed, religion, disability, national origin, sex (gender), sexual orientation, social or economic status or similar distinguishing characteristic is prohibited by law.  If you believe that you have been the subject of discrimination or harassment on the basis of any of these traits, you should contact a building administrator, a district-level administrator, the Superintendent or the District’s Affirmative Action Officer. 

Reporting an incident of harassment or discrimination or otherwise participating in an investigation of a report of harassment or discrimination will not reflect upon the individual's status or affect future grades, evaluations or work assignments.  Retaliation is strictly prohibited and is cause for appropriate disciplinary action.  Falsely accusing someone of harassment or discrimination is unlawful and may subject a person making false accusation to disciplinary action. 

                        The District’s Affirmative Action Officer is:

                                        Mrs. Danielle Sochor

                                        Glassboro Board of Education

                                        560 Joseph Bowe Blvd.

                                        Glassboro, New Jersey 08028

                                        (856) 652-2700 Ext. 76210

Harassment or discrimination of a student, employee, parent, vendor, volunteer or visitor on school property, at a school function or on a school bus is prohibited and should be reported to a Building or District-level Administrator or the Affirmative Action Officer. 

Any person who feels that he/she has been or is being harassed or discriminated against by another person or group should follow these procedures which are designed to stop the offending behavior:

(1)          If possible, the person being harassed (complainant) should tell the person doing the harassing (harasser) in clear and unmistakable terms that the behavior is unacceptable. 

(2)          If the complainant is uncomfortable discussing the matter with the harasser or if the harassing behavior continues, the complainant should contact Building or District-level Administrator or the Affirmative Action Officer and inform him or her of the harasser's behavior, when it took place, who may have witnessed it, and what has been attempted to stop the behavior.  Student complainants also may contact any staff member; the staff member should assist the student in reporting the harassment or discrimination to a Building or District-level Administrator or the Affirmative Action Officer. 

(3)          Regardless of the seriousness of the complaint, any staff member receiving a complaint shall promptly report the matter to a Building or District-level Administrator or the Affirmative Action Officer.  If possible, such complaint shall be reported on the same day it is received.  If the report is made to the Building Administrator, the Building Administrator should report it to the Superintendent or Affirmative Action Officer.  If the Building Administrator is the alleged harasser, the staff member shall report the matter to the Superintendent or the Affirmative Action Officer. 

(4)                The complaint should be in writing.  If the complainant refuses to put the

complaint in writing, the individual receiving the complaint should put the complaint in writing and provide a copy of the written complaint to the complainant.  Refusal of the complainant to provide a written complaint shall not be a basis for failing to investigate the complaint.  Anonymous complaints should be submitted on the District’s Harassment Complaint form.  Anonymous complaints will be investigated to the extent the information provided allows.  However, the ability of the District to investigate and take action on the basis of anonymous complaints will be dependent upon the information available. 

(5)                The Affirmative Action Officer or Superintendent shall initiate an investigation.

(6)                The investigator(s) shall be impartial and shall meet individually with the

complainant, the alleged harasser and any potential witnesses.

(7)                The investigation will be kept confidential on a “need to know” basis.  This does

not mean that witnesses and the alleged harasser will not be told the circumstances or that the complainant will not be identified.  The due process rights of everyone will be respected.  Retaliation against anyone for participating in or bringing a complaint is strictly prohibited and will subject the person engaging in such conduct to sanctions.

(8)                If the circumstances warrant, the Superintendent or his/her designee will take

action to protect the individuals involved including but not limited to removal from the school pending completion of the investigation.

(9)                If the circumstances warrant, the Superintendent or his/her designee will notify

 appropriate criminal or social service authorities concerning the allegations. 

(10)            The investigation will be completed in a reasonable time given the circumstances

of the particular allegation.  Upon completion of the investigation, the investigation conclusions will be shared with the complainant and with the alleged harasser.  If disciplinary action is warranted, such sharing shall not include details of the disciplinary action taken or otherwise violate the privacy rights of the individuals. 

(11)            If the Complainant wishes to bypass the District’s complaint procedure altogether

or if he/she disagrees with the investigation process or conclusion, he/she may file a complaint with any of the agencies below:

a.       Commissioner of Education

        Bureau of Controversies and Disputes

                New Jersey Department of Education

                P.O. Box 500

                Trenton, New Jersey 08625

                (609) 292-5706

b.      Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (for employees only)

        Newark District Office

        1 Newark Center, 21^st Floor

        Newark, New Jersey 07102

        (973) 645-6383

c.       U.S. Office of Civil Rights

        U.S. Department of Education

        75 Park Place, 14^th Floor

        New York, New York 10007

        (212) 264-3313

d.      New Jersey Division of Civil Rights

        31 Clinton Street, 3^rd Floor

        Newark, New Jersey 07102

        (973) 648-2700

Complainant's Name:                                                                                                                                                           

School:                                                                                                                                                                                        

Complainant's Relationship to District:                                                                                                                        

Home Address:                                                                                                                                                                        

Home Phone:                                                                                                                                                                           

Name(s) of Alleged Harasser(s):                                                                                                                                      

Harasser's Relationship to the District:                                                                                                                         

Date(s) of Incident(s):                                                                                                                                                          

Describe the incident(s), including any statements made (e.g., offensive or suggestive comments, threats, demands, etc.), any gestures made; physical contact made, if any, materials or objects shown or given to you, if any.  (Attach additional pages if necessary)

Did anyone witness the incident(s)?                                                                                                                             

Have you discussed the incident(s) with anyone?  ___ Yes ___ No

If yes, with whom have you discussed the incident?                                                                                             

I certify that the information I have provided in this complaint is true and correct to the best of my knowledge and belief.

        Complainant or Staff Member's Signature                                           Date

        Received by (Building or District                                                                              Date

        Administrator or Affirmative Action Officer)

The Family Education Rights And Privacy Act (FERPA) affords parents and students over 18 years of age (“eligible students”) certain rights with respect to the student’s education records.  These rights include:

1.       The right to inspect and review the student’s education records within 45 days of the day the school receives a request for access.

Parents or eligible students should submit to the school principal a written request that identifies the specific records they wish to inspect.  The principal will make arrangements for access at a mutually convenient time and place where the records may be inspected.  A school official will be present throughout the inspection process.

2.       The right to request the amendment of a student’s education records which the parent or eligible student believes are inaccurate. 

Parents or eligible students should submit, to the school principal, a written request that identifies the particular part of the record they desire to be changed and specify why they believe it is inaccurate.  If the District denies the request by the parent or eligible student to amend the record, the District will notify the parent or eligible student of the decision and advise them of their right to a hearing regarding their request for amendment.  Additional information regarding the hearing procedures will be provided to the parent or eligible student when notified of the right to a hearing.

3.       The right to consent to disclosures of personally identifiable information contained in the student’s education records, except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without consent.

FERPA authorizes disclosure without consent to other school officials with legitimate educational interests in the student’s records.  A school official, as defined by FERPA, is a person employed by the school as an administrator, supervisor, instructor, or support staff member, including health and medical staff, and law enforcement unit personnel, a person serving on the school board, a person or company with whom the school has contracted to perform a special task such as an attorney, auditor, medical consultant, or therapist, or a parent or student serving on an official committee such as a disciplinary or grievance committee, or assisting another school official in performing his/her tasks.  A school official has a legitimate educational interest if the official needs to review an education record in order to fulfill his/her professional responsibility.  Consistent with New Jersey law, the District will disclose education records, including discipline records, without consent, to officials of another school district in which the student seeks or intends to enroll. 

The Board of Education generally does not conduct surveys concerning eight (8) specific areas of protected information (see 1 (a) through (h) below) or collect or use student information for marketing purposes.  Nonetheless, the Protection of Pupil Rights Amendment (PPRA) requires that the District inform parents and eligible students of certain rights regarding the conduct of such surveys, collection and use of information for marketing purposes, and certain physical exams if the District were to engage in such conduct.  These include the right to:

1. Consent before a student is required to submit to a survey that concerns one or more of the following eight (8) specific areas of protected information (“Protected Information Surveys”) if the survey is funded in whole or in part by a program of the U.S. Department of Education.

a.       Political affiliations or beliefs of the student or student’s parents

b.      Mental or psychological problems of the student or student’s family

c.       Sex behavior or attitude

d.      Illegal, anti-social, self-incriminating, or demeaning behavior

e.      Critical appraisals of others with whom respondents have close family relationships

f.        Legally recognized privileged relationships such as with lawyers, doctors, or ministers

g.       Religious practices, affiliations, or beliefs of the student or parents

h.      Income other than as required by law to determine program eligibility

2.  Receive notice and an opportunity to opt a student out of (a) any protected information          survey regardless of funding, (b) any non-emergency, invasive physical exam or screening required as a condition of attendance, administered by the school or its agent, and not necessary to protect the immediate health and safety of student, except for hearing, vision, or scoliosis screenings and any physical exam or screening permitted or required by state law, and (c) activities involving collection, disclosure, or use of personal information obtained from students for marketing or to sell or otherwise distribute the information to others.

3.  Inspect, upon request and before administration or use (a) protected information surveys of students, (b) instruments used to collect personal information from students for any of the above marketing sales, or other distribution purposes, and (c) instructional material used as part of the educational curriculum.

The No Child Left Behind Act requires the District to forward educational records to other schools that have requested the records or in which the student seeks or intends to enroll. 

In addition, the No Child Left Behind Act requires the District to (a) afford military recruiters the same access to secondary school students as provided to any post-secondary institutions or to perspective employers and (b) provide student’s names, addresses, and telephone listings to military recruiters, when requested, unless a parent has opted out of providing such information.

Parents or eligible students who believe their rights under FERPA or PPRA have been violated have the right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning the alleged failures by the District.  The name and address of the office that administers FERPA is Family Policy Compliance Office, U.S. Department of Education, 400 Maryland Ave., Southwest, Washington, DC  20202-4605.

To All Parents/Guardians:

A copy of the Glassboro Public Schools Integrated Pest Management Policy is available in the Beach Administration Building and each School Office.  As part of a school Pest Management Plan, the Glassboro Public Schools may use pesticides to control pests.  The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) register pesticides to determine that the use of a pesticide in accordance with instructions printed on the label, does not pose an unreasonable risk to human health and the environment.  Nevertheless, the EPA and DEP cannot guarantee that registered pesticides do not pose any risk to human health plus unnecessary exposure to pesticides should be avoided.  The EPA has issued the statement that, where possible, persons who are potentially sensitive, such as pregnant women, infants and children should avoid unnecessary pesticide exposure. 

The Glassboro Public Schools avoids use of any pesticide except when absolutely necessary.  A licensed outside contractor is utilized for all pesticide applications.  During the past year, the district has not had to use “high impact” pesticides in any of its school buildings.  The following low impact pesticides have been used in the specified buildings while students are not present:

                        Ant Baits                                                              Roach Baits

   Gourmet Ant Bait Gel                                      Maxforce FC Roach Killer

Uncle Albert’s Ant Bait Gel                                     PT 322 Avert Gel

      Fluorguard Ant Bait                                               Baygon 2% Bait

             Rodenticides                                                        Insecticides

            Eatons Top Gun                                             Talstar Termiticide

           Maki Mini Blocks                                   Tempo SC Ultra Insecticide

As the Integrated Pest Management Coordinator, I maintain product labels and material safety data sheets when available for each pesticide that may be used on school property.  Such information is available for review by any parent, guardian, staff member or student attending the school.  I can be reached at (856) 652-2700 Ext. 77207 if you have any questions concerning the information contained in this letter or concerning the attached policy. 

Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions concerning the use of pesticides by the district.

Drew Sole, Integrated Pest Management Coordinator/

Supervisor of Maintenance and Grounds

Commencing in the Fall of 2011, Glassboro will be providing a comprehensive Volunteer Training Program for all participants who are interested in serving as a parent volunteer.  One significant vehicle for parent involvement is a structured volunteer program.  When children enter Glassboro Public Schools, teachers and parents must become partners in facilitating children’s learning.  One of the most important things we can do for children is to allow them to see parents and teachers working together.  This helps children realize that there is a bond between home, community and school.   Parent involvement in schooling has shown to have strong and long-lasting effects on children’s school performance and to benefit the development of their language, self-help, motor skills, adaptive and basic school skills. 

Public School Volunteers are parents, grandparents or caring adults who assist teachers and staff with the day-to-day activities involved in providing a balanced education for our students.  Our district engages parents as an important part of a team that strives to ensure that each and every student succeeds. 

If you are interested in becoming a Public School Volunteer please complete the application below and visit our "Fingerprinting for Volunteers" link located on the left side of this page. 

For more information or questions please contact Erin Williams at ewilliams@glassboroschools.us.

The J. Harvey Rogers parent-teacher organization (PTO) is a volunteer organization made up of families, school administrators and teachers who work together to provide financial support and manpower for activities and programs at J. Harvey Rodgers School.

 Our basic Goals are to

1.  Increase parent/guardian awareness of student needs and activities

2.  Recognize and acknowledge student achievement(s)

3.  Provide information, which will enable parents to be more effective

4.  Provide social, educational and cultural activities, assemblies and      events.

Our focus for 2011/2012 is to enhance the wonderful school activities and the educational program.

·        Look for PTO notes in our school’s monthly newsletter.

·        Sign up to receive PTO news, meeting minutes and alerts via e-mail

·        Share your ideas, opinions and concerns with our board via phone,

e-mail or by joining one of our monthly meetings.

·        Sign up for our PTO directory to help us communicate with your family throughout the year