Parent+Student+Handbook+2012-2013

** ELEMENTARY ** ** SCHOOL **
 * CHARLESTOWN **


 * PARENT/STUDENT HANDBOOK **
 * 2012 – 2013 **

** PARENT/STUDENT HANDBOOK **


 * **CHARLESTOWN ELEMENTARY SCHOOL ** ||

Charlestown, MD 21914 Phone: 410-996-6240 Fax: 410-996-6242  ||
 * 550 Baltimore Street





Rose W. Clark, Principal

August 2012

Dear Charlestown Families, The faculty, staff, and administration of Charlestown Elementary School look forward to working with you and your children. With your help and support we are confident that we can provide an excellent educational program that will ensure the growth of all of our students. An important factor in the success of any program is communication. During the school year there will be many opportunities for communication between Charlestown and our families: CCPS/Charlestown websites at [|www.ccps.org], messages from School Messenger phone/e-mail program, monthly newsletters, special memos/flyers, the homework assignment notebooks in grades 1-5, parent conferences, the PTA, and special meetings, just to name a few. This handbook is provided to assist you in understanding the policies, procedures, and practices that guide the operation of our school. It is a supplement to the Cecil County Public Schools information that each student receives at the beginning of the school year. We hope that you will refer to this handbook often and find it to be a useful tool. As questions arise, if the answers cannot be found in this handbook or any of the other school communications, please feel free to contact us at (410-996-6240).

Sincerely,

Rose W. Clark

**CHARLESTOWN ELEMENTARY SCHOOL FACULTY AND STAFF**

OFFICE
Principal Ms. Rose W. Clark Lead Secretary Mrs. Patricia Corder Secretary Mrs. Debbie Miklas General Assistants Mrs. Marlene Holloway, Mrs. Barbara Payne

Kindergarten Mrs. Jennifer Kidd, Miss Katie Ryan
First Grade Mrs. Jennifer Bowman, Mrs. Corinna Hostetter Second Grade Mrs. Debbie Schiesser Third Grade Miss Paula Kuenzle, Mrs. Sherry Rogers Fourth Grade Miss Amanda Armour, Mrs. Kim Edler Fifth Grade Ms. Jennifer Boylan, Ms. Rhonda Wagner

Mrs. Jenna-Marie Masi
Assistive Technology Mr. Mark Turek <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 15px;">Psychologist Mrs. Karen Dauphinais <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 15px;">Physical Therapist Mrs. Kathy LeChette <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 15px;">Occupational Therapist Mrs. Heather Miltenberger <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 15px;">Speech Pathologist Mrs. Diane Marousek <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 15px;">Behavior Specialist Mr. Joseph Adamo

SPECIALISTS
<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 15px;">Art Mrs. Molly Levett, Miss Mary Tippett <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 15px;">Instrumental Music Mr. Christopher Casadonti <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 15px;">Strings Mrs. Kimberly Damian <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 15px;">Media/Challenge Mrs. Dolores Wooddell <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 15px;">Challenge Resource Teacher Mrs. Katherine Lively <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 15px;">Vocal Music Mr. William Moon, Mr. Sean O’Donnell <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 15px;">Physical Education Miss Julia Dambaugh <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 15px;">School Counselor Ms. Misty Simm <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 15px;">Upper Bay Counselor Mrs. Kerry McCommons <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 15px;">ESOL TBA

SUPPORTING SERVICES
<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 15px;">PreK/KindergartenParaprofessionals Mrs. Shari Buchanan, Mrs. Kitty Brooks <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 15px;">Special Education Paraprofessionals Mrs. Dawn Dixon, Miss Nichole Smith, <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 15px;">Mrs. Karen Williams <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 15px;">Nurse Mrs. Susan Gardner-Seitz <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 15px;">Cafeteria Lead Assistant Mrs. Meddy Cooper <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 15px;">Cafeteria Assistant Ms. Angie Preston <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 15px;">Head Custodian Mr. Sam Gonce <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 15px;">Custodians Mrs. Michell Belote, Mr. Russ Lawson <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 15px;">Pupil Personnel Worker Mr. Ken Harvey

**<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif';">Table of Contents ** <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif';">Appointments/Early Pick-ups 5 <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif';">Arrival and Dismissal 5, 6 <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 13px;">(Bus Transportation, Car Riders, Special Transportation, Walkers, Bike Riders) <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif';">Attendance and Tardiness 7 <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif';">Cafeteria 7 <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif';">Character Education 8 <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif';">Classroom Celebrations/Student Birthdays 8 <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif';">Conferences 9 <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif';">Contact via E-mail 9 <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif';">Crisis Emergency Response Team 9 <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif';">Cultural Enrichment Programs 9 <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif';">Discipline/Detention 10 <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif';">Distribution of Materials (Including Party Invitations) 10 <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif';">Dress Code 10 <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif';">Educational Partners 11 <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 13px;">(Business Partners, PTA, Volunteers) <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif';">Emergency Cards 11 <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif';">Emergency Information 11 <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif';">Field Trips 12 <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif';">Grading Guidelines for Make-up Work, Late Work & Retakes 12, 13 <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif';">Health and Medication 13 <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif';">Homework 13 <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif';">Infectious Diseases 14, 15 <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif';">Parent Participation 15 <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif';">Prohibited Items 15 <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif';">Progress Reports/Interims 16 <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif';">Restricted Dismissal/Custody 16 <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif';">School Day 16 <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif';">School Improvement Team 16 <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif';">School Pictures 17 <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif';">Specials 17 <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif';">Student Responsibilities 17 <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif';">Student Services Team 17 <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif';">Student Support Services 18 <span style="font-family: 'times new roman','serif';"> ( <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 13px;">School Counselor, Psychological Services, Speech and <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 13px;">Language Services and Special Education Services) <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif';">Tardiness 18 <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif';">Transfers 18 <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif';">Visitors 19 <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif';">Weekly Communicator 19 <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif';">Who to Call 19

<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 15px;">If a child is to be released to a parent or their designee for a doctor/dentist appointment, etc., the child should bring a note from home to this effect. The note will be signed by the office staff in the morning and returned to the teacher. The person picking up the child must come into the office and sign him/her out. This is also the procedure for any deviation from riding the school bus to the regularly scheduled stop.
 * __<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif';">APPOINTMENTS/EARLY PICK-UP __**


 * __<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif';">ARRIVAL AND DISMISSAL INFORMATION __**

Students may arrive to school shortly before 8:45 AM. A staff member will be at the drop-off area at 8:40 to begin greeting the children and assist them as they arrive. These students will go to the cafeteria until 8:45 AM when they join the bus students and travel to their homeroom. Students are expected to be in Homeroom by **8:50 AM** each day.

**__<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif';">BUS TRANSPORTATION __** Private contractors and the school district furnish the buses for our school according to the rules and regulations as set up by the State Department of Public Instruction. Children who live a mile or less from school are considered “walkers.” Providing safe and efficient school bus transportation for our students requires the cooperation of everyone – students, parents, bus drivers, and school staff. The Cecil County Public Schools Department of Transportation has developed guidelines titled, **“Parent Guide for Student Transportation.”** It is recommended that you read this guide and discuss its contents with your child/children. A copy is included in the folder sent home with the students at the beginning of the school year. Please complete the last page and return to school with your child. The school bus driver is expected to enforce the regulations of pupil behavior while pupils board, ride, and depart from the bus. The driver may revoke the pupil’s bus riding privilege for one school day for failure to obey the rules. Repeated failure to obey the bus rules may result in the loss of bus riding privileges for more than one day. **When a school bus is stopped to load or unload students and the bus lights are flashing, it is illegal to pass the school bus. THIS RULE ALSO APPLIES WHEN THE BUSES ARE IN THE SCHOOL DRIVEWAY.** **__IMPORTANT NOTE:__** ** Please be advised that students may not ride a different bus for visitation/play time with another student after school. Requests for a change in bus assignments will be granted only for daycare as part of regular routine or emergency needs. **

**__<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif';">CAR RIDERS (Pick-up Time begins at 3:40 except on Wednesdays when it begins at 2:00.) __** <span style="font-family: 'times new roman','serif';"> Parents choosing to transport their children will enter the “Student Drop Off” area and pull up next to the curb. Parents should continue all the way down the curbside or to the next stopped vehicle. **Please do not use the “Bus Drop Off” area. It must remain clear for the buses.**

__ CAR RIDER LOOP PROCEDURES: __ q The car rider loop continues to allow parents the convenience of picking up their children in a timely fashion on a daily basis. q Please remember to be considerate of the other parents and children in the Loop. If your child has been delayed, please move your car up and to the side in order to keep the line moving smoothly. q When waiting for your child, please pull up in one line, not in the parking spaces. (Some cars will be in the road temporarily while waiting for students to be dismissed.) q Please do not come to your child, your child will be brought to you. q It is important that you are patient when waiting for your child; do not go around the cars that are in line ahead of you. q Please be sure to send a note if your child will be in the Loop for a one-day pick-up. Notes for one-day riders are distributed at 3:15 PM to the teachers to ensure that both students and teachers are aware of this change from the normal routine. q If your child will be picked up for a one-time appointment, just send a written note that includes the child’s name and the name of the adult who will be picking the student up from Charlestown. Please make sure that the adult brings a valid license to show the faculty member in charge. Notes to the teacher/office are requested for the following instances: If a student is not riding a bus home, the person picking up the student must report to the school office to sign out the student unless you are signed up to use the car rider loop. Without a note from a parent, only those people listed on your child’s information card as allowed to pick up your child will be able to do so. For the safety of your child, our office staff will need to see identification for people whom we do not know. __WALKERS/BIKE RIDERS__ <span style="font-family: 'times new roman','serif';"> Students, who walk or ride a bike to school, should come directly to school in the morning and go directly home after school. Talk to your child about staying safe on route to and from school. Those students who ride a bike are required to wear a helmet and walk their bikes while on school property. **__<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif';">ATTENDANCE and TARDINESS __** The Attendance Policy for Cecil County Public Schools is summarized as follows: Additions for Charlestown Elementary School:
 * __<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif';">SPECIAL TRANSPORTATION ARRANGEMENTS __**
 * When you or someone else will be picking your child up after school.
 * When your child is to stay after school.
 * When your child is to ride a bus to another established bus stop **due to daycare** **or for an emergency situation.**
 * **Notes are required from both sets of parents if a child is going to another child’s house after school by car. Students may ride a different bus to another child’s house for __daycare purposes only__. Due to the limited number of seats, the buses cannot accommodate students riding different buses for non-daycare purposes.**
 * A student may be absent for up to five days per marking period using a parent note upon his/her return to school. It is preferable to have a doctor’s note.
 * Once the student is absent more than five days (without a doctor’s note), he/she fails the marking period and receives failing grades in all subjects.
 * Students leaving school early (one and one-half hours before dismissal) will be considered absent for one-half day. Likewise, students arriving at school after 10:30 AM will be counted as having been absent for one-half day.
 * <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif';">Prior approval must be requested in writing for family vacations to be coded as a legal absence. The principal can grant a maximum of five days per school year.
 * Please phone the school when your child is absent for an extended period of time.
 * If your child is able to work on school assignments that he/she is missing during his/her absence, please phone the school by 10:00 AM so that assignments can be gathered and sent home by 3:40 PM.
 * When your child arrives late to school **(after 8:50 AM),** please accompany him/her to the office so that you can sign in your child. A tardy slip will be provided for the child to give to his/her teacher.

<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif';">We are excited about the opportunity to provide students and adults with nutritious school breakfasts and lunches. Both meals are available to all interested students in grades Pre-kindergarten through Five. A monthly menu of meals is printed and sent home with the children. <span style="font-family: 'times new roman','serif';"> The federally sponsored free and/or reduced meal program is available to all eligible students. Applications are distributed to each family and are available upon request throughout the school year. All information is confidential. <span style="font-family: 'times new roman','serif';"> If your child forgets or loses his/her lunch, or your child’s account balance is low, your child will be able to charge a lunch and parents will be responsible for repaying the money to the cafeteria. It is important that students have the required amount of money with them every day that they will be eating a meal. **Once your child’s account reaches a maximum of $14.70 they will receive a Courtesy Meal**. **If your child’s account is deficient; they will not be able to purchase snacks until their account is brought up to date.** <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif';">You may create an account and pay for your child’s meals on line. Please visit the Cecil County Public Schools website and click on Food Services in the A to Z links. Please note that the school does not lend money.
 * __<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif';">CAFETERIA __**

__<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif';">Prices for 2012-2013 __
 * || **<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 15px;">Full Price ** || **<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 15px;">Reduced Price ** || **<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 15px;">Free ** ||
 * <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 15px;">Breakfast || <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 15px;">Offered to all students free of charge. ||  ||   ||
 * <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 15px;">Lunch || <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 15px;">$2.25 || <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 15px;">$0.40 || <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 15px;">No Charge ||
 * <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 15px;">Milk || <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 15px;">$0.50 || <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 15px;">$0.50 || <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 15px;">N/A ||

<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif';">As part of a county initiative, Charlestown will continue to incorporate character education as a school wide program of instruction. Character education is as old as education itself. Down through history, education has had two great goals: to help people become smart and to help them become good. In these times of challenging social influences the need to help our children understand, develop, and adopt positive character traits has increased. Our program involves the introduction of eight character traits. Each trait will be incorporated on a monthly basis at a school-wide level and through classroom instruction. <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif';">August/September……………….…Respect <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif';">October………………………….….Responsibility <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif';">November/December……………....Caring <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif';">January……………………………..Justice <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif';">February…………………………....Honesty <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif';">March………………………………Self Discipline <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif';">April………………………………..Integrity <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif';">May/June…………………………..Cooperation <span style="font-family: 'times new roman','serif';"> Parents are the children’s primary moral educators. Character Education helps schools support the home by fostering personal and civic virtues that are necessary for our children to become productive members of society. Our hope is that the program will help young people be the best they can be by creating a school environment where civic virtues are expected, modeled, taught, celebrated, and continually practiced.
 * __<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif';">CHARACTER EDUCATION __**

**__<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif';">CLASSROOM CELEBRATIONS __** <span style="font-family: 'times new roman','serif';"> Information for classroom celebrations which may be held will be sent home via a letter from the teacher. You may be asked to contribute to the celebrations. The letter will state specifics in this case. Student birthdays will be recognized on a monthly basis by our PTA. **Our expectation is students may not celebrate their birthdays with treats during the school day.** For <span style="font-family: 'times new roman','serif';"> additional information please request a copy of the CCPS Wellness policy. <span style="font-family: 'times new roman','serif';"> Listed below are the suggested items for Healthy Celebrations.

<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 13px;">Low-fat Milk/ flavored milk <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 13px;">100% Juice <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 13px;">Water/ flavored water (calorie -free) <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 13px;">Fresh fruit assortment <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 13px;">Fruit and cheese kabobs <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 13px;">Fruit w/ whipped topping <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 13px;">100% fruit snacks <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 13px;">Vegetable trays <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 13px;">Cheese- cubes, string cheese <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 13px;">Pretzels <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 13px;">Low fat popcorn <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 13px;">Graham crackers <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 13px;">Vanilla wafers <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 13px;">Fig Newtons <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 13px;">Animal crackers <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 13px;">Low-fat/Fat-free Pudding <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 13px;">Angel food cake - plain/topped with fruit <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 13px;">Sugar-free Gelatin w/fruit <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 13px;">Yogurt <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 13px;">Yogurt smoothies <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 13px;">Yogurt parfaits/ banana splits <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 13px;">Quesadillas with salsa <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 13px;">Low-fat breakfast or granola bars <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 13px;">Trail/ Cereal mixes <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 13px;">Pizza with low fat toppings (veggie, lean ham, Canadian bacon) <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 13px;">Pizza dippers (pizza toppings and bread on skewer with marinara dip) <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 13px;">Ham, cheese, or turkey sandwiches (with low fat condiments)
 * // All food items provided to students must be prepared by a vendor/store/bakery and arrive sealed in the original packaging with the nutrition label affixed. //**

**__<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif';">CONFERENCES __** <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif';">If at any time during the school year you would like to have a conference with your child’s teacher(s), feel free to call the school and schedule one. The school calendar allows for two full days of conferencing in November, at the end of the first marking period. Teachers may ask to meet with you at other times of the school year. You and the teacher arrange conference times. Please do not just drop by with the expectation that you will be able to hold a conference with your child’s teacher. Please contact the teacher and schedule a conference at a time that is convenient for both you and your child’s teacher. Stopping by in the morning is not the time to hold a conference with the teacher as she/he and the students are preparing for the day’s work ahead.

<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 15px;">If you e-mail your child’s teacher during the school day, please do not expect an immediate reply. The teacher’s first responsibility is classroom instruction and the safety of the students. It is not appropriate for them to be answering e-mail during instruction. If you have not received a response within a day or two; it may be to your benefit to phone the office and leave a message for the teacher or send a short note in with your child. Also, if you need to inform the office of important information such as transportation or medical needs it is best to call the office instead of sending an e-mail; many times the recipient may be performing other daily responsibilities and will check e-mail once all students have departed for the day.
 * __<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif';">CONTACT VIA E-MAIL __**

<span style="font-family: 'times new roman','serif';"> Charlestown Elementary has a Crisis Emergency Response Team (CERT) made up of the school administrator, teachers, the lead secretary, the custodian, the school nurse, and support staff. It is the responsibility of this team to develop, make changes to, and carry out the Crisis Emergency Response Plan. Our CERT works with the school system and other county emergency response agencies to provide for the safety and well being of all students. Several times throughout the year, we will conduct practice drills to test our plan and revise it as needed.
 * __<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif';">CRISIS EMERGENCY RESPONSE TEAM __**

<span style="font-family: 'times new roman','serif';"> Charlestown does provide our students with cultural enrichment opportunities during school year. These programs include such things as musical performances, puppet shows, storytellers, dances, and theatrical presentations. These programs are made available through PTA funding and outside grants. Look for the dates and times of all programs in the newsletters and on the website.
 * __<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif';">CULTURAL ENRICHMENT PROGRAMS __**

It is the expectation that all Charlestown students will respect the rights, feelings, and property of others. Each family will receive a copy of the **CCPS** Students’ Rights and Responsibilities Handbook. Please take the time to read it carefully and complete the signature page which should be returned to school. Teachers will also review rules and expectations for student behavior. Students will be advised that behaviors interfering with a safe and positive learning environment will not be tolerated. Violations of school or classroom rules may result in a teacher/student conference, a loss of privileges, a note or phone call to the parent, a parent/teacher conference, a referral to the office, a detention, or a suspension. **<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif';">Detention: ** <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif';">While most students obey the school rules, cooperate with teachers, and complete assignments, teachers occasionally must assign after school detentions to students who do not meet expectations. When a detention is necessary, the parent will be notified in advance so arrangements can be made for transportation Cecil County Public Schools follows specific guidelines for distributing materials to students. As part of the policy which is included in the CCPS school calendar sent home at the beginning of the school year schools do not permit students to hand out party invitations at school or on the school bus. Invitations need to be distributed outside of the school setting. Also, please remember we cannot give you the addresses of your child’s classmates either. However, as a school, we are able to develop a directory for each class. Information pertaining to the directory is sent home in the opening of school packet.
 * __<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif';">DISCIPLINE __**
 * __<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif';">DISTRIBUTION OF MATERIALS (INCLUDING PARTY INVITATIONS) __**

**__<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif';">DRESS CODE __** <span style="font-family: 'times new roman','serif';"> Charlestown Elementary will follow the Board of Education’s dress code. Student dress should be appropriate for the weather and activity. **Student dress should not pose a health or** **safety hazard and should not cause a classroom disruption. Students are not permitted to wear flip flops or sandals without back straps as they pose a danger both in school and on the playground.** For additional information, please refer to the CCPS Dress Code in the Students’ Rights and Responsibilities Handbook.


 * __<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif';">EDUCATIONAL PARTNERSHIPS __**

__<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif';">Business Partners __ <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif';">We are fortunate to have <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 15px;">York Building Products Company, Inc. <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif';"> as our business partner. The company’s donation of time and money helps to contribute to providing an excellent educational program. If any person or business is interested in forming a partnership with our school, please contact the office.

__<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif';">Parent Teacher Association (PTA) __ <span style="font-family: 'times new roman','serif';"> Our school has an active Parent Teacher Association. The minimal membership fee and various fundraising events enable the PTA to support our school. Everyone is invited to attend the monthly PTA meetings and take an active role. Meeting dates will be forthcoming.

__<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif';">Volunteers __ <span style="font-family: 'times new roman','serif';"> We invite and encourage you to participate as a volunteer. Volunteers are always needed to work with students and assist teachers at school. However, there are many ways to volunteer at home. For additional information, please contact our School Counselor or your child’s teacher. **Our initial orientation meeting will be Wednesday, September 12, 2012.**

<span style="font-family: 'times new roman','serif';"> Students must turn in an emergency form containing accurate information including contacts in case of accident or illness. This form must be kept up to date and available at the school office. Be sure to have the latest telephone numbers listed. If any changes occur throughout the year, please notify the office. In case of possible school closings or late openings due to inclement weather or other emergencies you will be notified through the School Messenger phone/e-mail program and announcements will be made over the following radio and television stations. If no announcement is made, you can assume that we are operating on a normal schedule. You may also check the Cecil County Public Schools website at [|www.ccps.org]. **Updated phone information is critical so our School Messenger system remains accurate.**
 * __<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif';">EMERGENCY CARDS __**
 * __<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif';">EMERGENCY INFORMATION __**

WXCY – 103.7 FM – Havre de Grace WQSR – 102.7 FM – Baltimore WAMD – 970 AM – Aberdeen WJBR – 99.5 FM – Wilmington WBAL – 1090 AM – Baltimore WLIF – 102 FM – Baltimore WDEL – 1150 AM – Wilmington WOEL – 89.9 FM – Elkton WSTW – 93.7 FM – Wilmington WPOC – 93 FM – Baltimore

WMAR TV – Ch. 2 – Baltimore WBAL TV – Ch. 11 - Baltimore WJZ TV – Ch. 13 – Baltimore

** Please have an emergency plan available should children be dismissed early. Secondary schools are dismissed first, followed by elementary schools. **


 * __<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif';">FIELD TRIPS __**

<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 15px;">We recognize there are many valuable learning experiences beyond our school building. Our teachers plan field trips, which are integrated into their classroom study and themes. A parent’s written permission is required for a child to participate. If a parent does not give consent, arrangements will be made for the child to stay in school with another class for the day. If a parent does not give consent and keeps the child home from school, it is considered an unlawful absence. <span style="font-family: 'times new roman','serif'; font-size: 15px;"> Often times students are charged a fee to help cover the cost of the transportation or admission. Please notify the teacher as soon as possible if you cannot afford the trip. The school will make provisions to help with the cost of the field trip. <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 15px;">The school will exercise care in its travel arrangements and the care of the students on the trip. While on the trip, each student will be supervised by an adult. **The use of the following items is prohibited by** **students or adults:** tobacco, drugs, alcohol, chewing gum, CD, Cassette, iPod and MP3 players, electronic games, and weapons. Students and parents who behave inappropriately while attending a field trip may lose the privilege of attending future field trips. Throughout the school year, circumstances will arise in which students need the opportunity to complete missing work or retake certain assignments. __Make-Up Work__ __Late Work__
 * __<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif';">GRADING GUIDELINES FOR MAKE-UP WORK, LATE WORK & RETAKES __**
 * Regardless of reason for absence, a minimum of two class days to complete make-up work will be allowed for each day of absence.
 * Graded assignments will receive full credit if turned in within the allotted time.
 * If assignments are turned in after the allotted time, 5% of the earned percentage score for each day beyond will be deducted. A grade of 50% is the floor.
 * If the absence(s) occur at the end of the marking period, an incomplete may be issued.
 * Regardless of reason, late assignments will be graded.
 * Late assignments will receive a 5% deduction for each day after the due date. Late assignments will continue to receive a 5% deduction for each day not submitted until they reach the 50% floor.
 * Work due the day of an absence is due on the day the student returns.
 * Extra credit work to supplement a student’s grade will not be assigned or accepted.

__<span style="font-family: 'Calibri','sans-serif';">Retakes __
 * Students will have the opportunity to retake any summative assignment, regardless of the score on the first taking and/or of the reason.
 * <span style="font-family: 'Calibri','sans-serif';">Summative assignment retakes will occur in accordance with the following criteria…
 * Students will take the same or comparable assignment.
 * Students can retake summative assignments once.
 * <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif';">Students will receive the higher grade of the two assignments, not an average or combination of the two grades.
 * <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif';">Students will retake the assignment within two weeks (10 school days) after the initial assignment has been graded and returned.
 * <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 16px;">Teachers will offer a time and location for retakes to occur.
 * <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 16px;">Teachers are not required to provide additional instruction between the initial completion of the assignment and the ensuing retake.
 * <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 16px;">Students should be encouraged to take full advantage of opportunities to demonstrate their mastery of content by preparing for and completing all assignments when initially given.
 * <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 16px;">Cheating and/or plagiarism violate a basic understanding between student and teacher that work submitted is his/her own.
 * <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 16px;">If a student commits an act of academic dishonesty, s/he will receive disciplinary action but will be allowed to complete a retake of a comparable assignment for full credit.

__**HEALTH AND MEDICATION**__ <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 15px;">A registered nurse serves on a full-time basis at Charlestown Elementary School. In the event a student is too ill to remain in the classroom, he/she will be sent to the nurse. The nurse will assess the situation. If the child is too sick to stay at school, the nurse will contact a parent by phone. <span style="font-family: 'times new roman','serif'; font-size: 15px;"> Periodically, the nurse checks the physical well being of the students. Concerns found during these screenings are reported to the parents. If you have any questions, please contact the nurse as soon as possible. <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 15px;"> Children who need to take medication during the school day must have the medicine in a labeled container. **The medicine needs to be brought to school by a parent**. **Students cannot** **transport medications to school**. The medicine must be accompanied by a physician’s authorization form (which can be obtained from the school nurse). Both the parent and the doctor must complete the form. No medication (including over the counter medication) will be given without doctor’s permission. Medications need to be dispensed in front of school officials <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif';">.

**__HOMEWORK__**

<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 15px;">Homework assignments are a reinforcement of schoolwork from that day or previous days. Homework for an average ability child varies in time depending on the grade level. Parents should try to provide a quiet place to study and encourage completion of the assignments. Please do not do your child’s homework. Help should be given only when necessary. Homework for the weekend or holidays is at the discretion of the teacher. Each teacher determines homework make-up procedures. <span style="font-family: 'times new roman','serif'; font-size: 15px;"> It is the student’s responsibility to see that all necessary materials are taken home each day to complete the assigned work.

If certain infectious diseases are discovered, a student may be sent home so that proper medical treatment can be obtained as soon as possible and for the protection of the other students and staff. These diseases include:
 * __<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif';">INFECTIOUS DISEASES __**
 * **__ IMPETIGO __** – If the area is properly treated and covered, the student may remain in school provided a note from the doctor is brought to school.
 * **__ CONJUNCTIVITIS (PINK EYE) __** – Students are excluded from school until eyes are clear or the student has been on antibiotic for at least 24 hours.
 * **__ RINGWORM OF SCALP __** – If the area is properly treated, the student may remain in school with a note from the doctor saying that the student may be admitted.
 * **__ HEAD LICE __** –Head lice are seen most frequently in the elementary schools, but may be seen in anyone. The best way to fight head lice is to check your child’s hair everyday to see if you see any evidence of them. Head lice are very, very tiny bugs that attach themselves to the hair and then lay their eggs. The eggs are “glued” onto the hair and can only be removed by pulling them off. Children get head lice by having their hair in direct contact with another person who has bugs. They can also get it by sharing combs, brushes, hair ties, or being in contact with pillows, furniture, clothing, mattresses and other items where a child with lice has laid their head.

** HOW DO I CHECK FOR LICE OR EGGS (NITS)? **
 * You should work in an area with a bright light or sit near a window with sunlight. This makes it easier for you to see the lice or eggs (nits).
 * Separate the hair into small sections, 10 – 15 strands of hair at a time. You can use hair clips, rubber bands, or barrettes to help separate the sections of hair.
 * Look at each strand of hair carefully for anything that is attached to the hair.
 * Look for any small bugs that may be crawling through the hair. They can be as small as the point of a pencil to the size of a sesame seed.

** WHAT DO I DO WHEN I FIND LICE OR EGGS (NITS)? **   ** This is a very long process and may take hours, but it must be done **. ** WHEN CAN MY CHILD RETURN TO SCHOOL? **
 * Treat the child’s hair with lice shampoo if you have not recently treated. You can get the lice shampoo or NIX crème rinse at any drug store, supermarket or at the Cecil County Health Department.
 * ** Please follow the directions on how to use the lice shampoo since they are not all the same. **
 * If you have recently used a lice shampoo or Nix crème rinse, you just need to pick the lice or eggs (nits) off until they are completely gone.
 * If you find live lice (crawling bugs) or nits (eggs), and you have not treated the child recently, you need to use a lice shampoo.
 * Do not re-wash the hair for 48 hours (2 days) after treating the hair.
 * ** PULLING THE EGGS OFF THE HAIR IS THE BEST WAY TO GET RID OF THE HEAD LICE ** . **IF YOU MISS EVEN ONE EGG OR LOUSE, YOUR CHILD WILL CONTINUE TO HAVE LICE.**
 * Use your fingers or a fine tooth metal comb (like a dog’s flea comb) to pull the egg (nit) off the hair.
 * Place the egg (nit) or louse in a trashcan lined with a plastic bag that can be thrown away when you’re finished.
 * You will need to check all members of your family and friends that have been in contact with the child to be sure they do not have any signs of lice or eggs.
 * You will also need to vacuum your house, wash bed linens, pillows, stuffed animals, clothing the child has worn or anything else his/her head has come in contact with. Use a hot dryer to dry the items for at least 30 minutes after they are washed. Anything that cannot be washed must be placed in a sealed plastic bag for two weeks.
 * Boil combs, brushes, hair ties, and barrettes for 10 minutes.

Cecil County Public Schools has a “No Nit” policy which means that students may not attend school until their hair is totally free of live lice or eggs (nits). When the child returns to school, a parent or responsible adult must come with them to be present when their head is checked by the school nurse.

** WHO DO I CALL IF I HAVE QUESTIONS? **
 * Your school nurse
 * Your child’s doctor
 * The Cecil County Health Department 410-996-5100
 * The School Nurse Coordinator for Cecil County Public Schools 410-996-6330


 * REMEMBER – DAILY CHECKING AND PICKING ARE THE KEYS TO CONTROLLING LICE! **

We encourage all parents to take an active part in your child’s education. Your child’s education is enhanced by parental participation. These are just a few ways that Charlestown welcomes parent participation. If you are interested in other ways to become involved, please contact the school office or your child’s teacher.
 * __<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif';">PARENT PARTICIPATION __**
 * Talk with your child each day about what is happening in his/her classes.
 * Look over and help with homework assignments, but please, let your child do them.
 * Read with your child every day.
 * Read our school newsletters and respond to questionnaires and surveys.
 * Become a member of Charlestown’s PTA.
 * Attend conferences and meetings.
 * Chaperone class trips and attend school performances.
 * Join our volunteer program.

<span style="font-family: 'times new roman','serif';"> The following articles are **not permitted** at school for safety reasons, possible loss or theft, and the disruption of the school program: <span style="font-family: 'times new roman','serif';"> Tobacco Skate Boards <span style="font-family: 'times new roman','serif';"> Drugs Hard Balls <span style="font-family: 'times new roman','serif';"> Chewing Gum Rubber Coated Hard Balls <span style="font-family: 'times new roman','serif';"> Matches Knives of any kind <span style="font-family: 'times new roman','serif';"> Fireworks of any kind Guns <span style="font-family: 'times new roman','serif';"> Pagers/Cell Phones CD/Cassette/iPod/MP3 Players <span style="font-family: 'times new roman','serif';"> Electronic Games All Trading Cards <span style="font-family: 'times new roman','serif';"> Other portable electronic items (such as Kindles) <span style="font-family: 'times new roman','serif';"> Progress reports for grades PreK through 5 will be given out four times a year. Interims are distributed four times per year at the ½ way point of each marking term for students in grades 1 through 5 only; one expectation – grade 1 does not distribute interims during the first term.
 * __<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif';">PROHIBITED ITEMS __**
 * __<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif';">PROGRESS REPORTS/INTERIMS __**

<span style="font-family: 'times new roman','serif';"> Some families are separated by divorce or other circumstances. There are often restrictions placed upon parties from court custody decrees. If there are special considerations regarding your child, please provide copies of court documents to the office. If there are changes in these documents, please let the office know as soon as possible. Students with restricted custody arrangements will not be released to anyone other than the authorized person(s) named in the office records. Please be aware that the school **__cannot__** legally restrict a non-custodial parent from picking up his/her child unless custody papers are on file in the school office.
 * __<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif';">RESTRICTED DISMISSAL/CUSTODY __**

Students are expected to be in Homeroom by **8:50 AM** each day. **__Please Note__:** Students may arrive to school shortly before 8:45 AM. These students will go to the cafeteria until 8:45 AM. They will join the bus students at 8:45 and travel to their homeroom.
 * __<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif';">SCHOOL DAY __**

Each Wednesday, all elementary students are dismissed at 2:00 PM. You will need to make arrangements to receive your child/children at the earlier time each Wednesday. The earlier dismissal allows the staff time for in-service training and staff development; conferences; collaborative planning time for teams of teachers; School Improvement Team, special education, faculty, and team meetings.
 * || **Grades PreK-5** ||
 * **Monday, Tuesday,**
 * Thursday, Friday** || 8:45 AM-3:40 PM ||
 * **Wednesday** || 8:45 AM-2:00 PM ||
 * __<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif';">Wednesday - Early Dismissal: __**

<span style="font-family: 'times new roman','serif';"> The School Improvement Team (SIT) exists to promote continuous improvement of the instructional program at Charlestown Elementary School. SIT consists of staff members and parents. If you have an interest please contact the principal.
 * __<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif';">SCHOOL IMPROVEMENT TEAM __**

School pictures are taken two times during the school year, once in the fall and once in the spring. Fall pictures are to be pre-paid which means students bring payment in the company’s envelope on the day pictures are to be taken. ** Picture day is Friday, September 21st. **   Throughout the school year it is possible that school staff will be taking photographs of various activities. These photos will be utilized in school displays, on our school bulletin board, in the newspaper, and school yearbook. **Should you wish for your child __not__ to be photographed, please send a note to Mrs. Clark.**
 * __<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif';">SCHOOL PICTURES __**

<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif';">The Special Area Teachers/Staff are in our building on the following days:
 * __<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif';">SPECIALS __**


 * **<span style="font-family: 'Geneva','sans-serif'; font-size: 12px;">Monday ** || **<span style="font-family: 'Geneva','sans-serif'; font-size: 12px;">Tuesday ** || **<span style="font-family: 'Geneva','sans-serif'; font-size: 12px;">Wednesday ** || **<span style="font-family: 'Geneva','sans-serif'; font-size: 12px;">Thursday ** || **<span style="font-family: 'Geneva','sans-serif'; font-size: 12px;">Friday ** ||
 * <span style="font-family: 'Geneva','sans-serif'; font-size: 12px;">Music || <span style="font-family: 'Geneva','sans-serif'; font-size: 12px;">Music || <span style="font-family: 'Geneva','sans-serif'; font-size: 12px;">Physical Education || <span style="font-family: 'Geneva','sans-serif'; font-size: 12px;">Media || <span style="font-family: 'Geneva','sans-serif'; font-size: 12px;">Media ||
 * <span style="font-family: 'Geneva','sans-serif'; font-size: 12px;">Physical Education || <span style="font-family: 'Geneva','sans-serif'; font-size: 12px;">Physical Education || <span style="font-family: 'Geneva','sans-serif'; font-size: 12px;">Integrated Arts || <span style="font-family: 'Geneva','sans-serif'; font-size: 12px;">Art || <span style="font-family: 'Geneva','sans-serif'; font-size: 12px;">Art ||
 * ||  || <span style="font-family: 'Geneva','sans-serif'; font-size: 12px;">Instrumental Music || <span style="font-family: 'Geneva','sans-serif'; font-size: 12px;">Integrated Arts || <span style="font-family: 'Geneva','sans-serif'; font-size: 12px;">Integrated Arts ||
 * ||  || <span style="font-family: 'Geneva','sans-serif'; font-size: 12px;">Strings || <span style="font-family: 'Geneva','sans-serif'; font-size: 12px;">Music ||   ||

<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif';"> **__STUDENT RESPONSIBILITIES__** <span style="font-family: 'times new roman','serif';"> Part of the learning process is to develop individual responsibility. Your child should be responsible for such items as gym sneakers, musical instruments, paper, pencils, money, lunches, library books, and textbooks. If possible, please have your child’s property clearly marked with name and grade. **__<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif';">STUDENT SERVICE TEAM __** <span style="font-family: 'times new roman','serif';"> The Student Services Team was developed to support instruction in the school by providing community linkages, agency linkages, case management, problem solving, and preventative planning. The team consists of the classroom teacher, the principal, the instructional support teachers, the building special education coordinator, the school counselor, the school psychologist, the pupil personnel worker, the school nurse, and an outside counselor from the community organization called Upper Bay Counseling and Support Services. It is based on the idea that academic success is not merely affected by school environment and curriculum delivery. Home and community factors as well as behavioral issues impact school performance. The team’s existence is based on brining together people who can address the needs of the whole child. <span style="font-family: 'times new roman','serif';"> Any student not meeting with success may be referred to the team. The team members suggest strategies to help the student. If it is determined necessary by the team, a student may be referred for special education services or a student success plan may be developed. If a child has a diagnosed disability and does not qualify for special education services, a 504 Plan may be written. **__<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif';">Student Support Services __** **__<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif';">School Counselor __** <span style="font-family: 'times new roman','serif';"> Our counselor is available everyday at Charlestown. The counselor provides services to all students, parents, and staff. Services include classroom lessons, small group counseling, individual counseling, consultation, and parent education. The parent, the teacher, or the student may make referrals. Parents may reach the counselor by calling the school office. **__<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif';">Psychological Services __** <span style="font-family: 'times new roman','serif';"> The school psychologist serves the needs of all our children. When requested and with parent permission, the psychologist will administer individual tests to a child, make recommendations to teachers and parents on the findings, and consult with parents and teachers as the need indicates. Parent requests for psychological services must be referred to the special education building coordinator. **__<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif';">Speech and Language Services __** <span style="font-family: 'times new roman','serif';"> A speech pathologist serves the children in our school. A speech pathologist is available to work with students weekly and to test students who have been referred through the special education process. Children who have been referred for speech services will not be tested or admitted into the program without parent permission. **__<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif';">Special Education Services __** <span style="font-family: 'times new roman','serif';"> When requested and with parent permission, the special education building coordinator will administer individual tests to a child and make recommendations to teachers and parents on the findings. Students will not be admitted into the special education program without parent permission. Parent requests for special education testing must be referred to the special education building coordinator. <span style="font-family: 'times new roman','serif';"> Students in the special education program will be monitored and reviewed on an annual basis.

It is critical to help your children build good attendance patterns. We will monitor attendance and the number of times children come to school late. We will send parents a letter when a child has been tardy five (5) times during one marking period. If a child is tardy ten (10) times the school administration and student service worker will schedule a parent conference to determine how and when the child will make up the missed time.
 * __<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif';">TARDINESS __**

If you find it necessary to withdraw/transfer your child during the school year, please notify the office as soon as possible. This will give the teachers time to complete a transfer card for each child leaving. These transfer cards may be taken to the next school. Records must be mailed by us to the receiving school. We cannot release records to parents/guardians.
 * __<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif';">TRANSFERS __**

Visitors are always welcome at Charlestown; however, according to Maryland State Law, Article 27, **ALL VISITORS TO THE SCHOOL MUST REPORT TO THE OFFICE** before visiting any classroom or employee assigned to the school. The school’s first responsibility is to provide for the safety of our students. Under no circumstances will a child be released from a classroom, the cafeteria, or the playground to anyone without permission from the office. All visitors should use the main entrance of the school. All other doors are kept locked during school hours. Upon entering, visitors should report to the main office where they will be asked to sign in and pick up a visitor’s badge. Before leaving school, visitors are asked to return the badge to the main office and sign out. When visiting the school, please do not park in front of the building in the driveway. It is absolutely necessary that the fire lane be kept open for buses, the mail truck, fire trucks, ambulances, etc. Please use the parking lot on the side of the school. **__WEEKLY COMMUNICATOR__** All grade levels will be sending home an envelope called a weekly communicator. This is a result of the feedback from the Parent Survey sent home at the end of the last year. Parents requested opportunities to see their child’s graded work. The weekly communicator is an envelope. On the front is a place for the date, parent signature and comments as necessary. Weekly communicators will be sent home according to the following schedule: PreKindergarten, Kindergarten and Grades 2 and 5 – Mondays Grades 1, 3 and 4 - Fridays
 * __<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif';">VISITORS __**

Because of the complexity of our school programs, no one person knows all of the answers to all questions that may arise. To help you get the correct answer to your questions you should:
 * __WHO TO CALL (Charlestown School Number – 410-996-6240)__**
 * **Call your child’s teacher** or send a note to get answers to questions about the classroom, schoolwork, assignments, and/or classroom behavior. If prearranged with the teacher, emailing may be a convenient form of communication.
 * **Call the counselor** when referred by the teacher for special assistance with your child’s social or emotional needs.
 * **Call the principal** when referred by the teacher, for a problem not solved by the teacher, for special assistance with your child’s learning or behavior problems, with questions on general school policies and/or activities, and concerns regarding curriculum.
 * **Call the school secretary** to report your child’s illness if he/she has a contagious disease or will be absent due to an illness, to request assignments for your child to do at home, or to get general information about upcoming events.
 * **Call the school nurse** to ask questions about medications or other health concerns.
 * **Call the lead assistant in the cafeteria** to inquire about school meal accounts, snacks, or other aspects of the breakfast and lunch programs.
 * **Call the central office (410-996-5400)** for answers to questions of a district-wide nature and for general information about our school system.
 * **Call the transportation department (410-996-5416)** to discuss bus routes, bus stops, or other transportation concerns.