2021-2022 OAK KNOLL ELEMENTARY SCHOOL - "Learning today, Leading tomorrow"

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2021-2022 OAK KNOLL ELEMENTARY SCHOOL - "Learning today, Leading tomorrow"
OAK KNOLL ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
            23 Bodine Avenue
    Williamstown, New Jersey 08094
             (856) 728-3944
        www.monroetwp.k12.nj.us

  “Learning today, Leading tomorrow”

          2021-2022
TABLE OF CONTENTS
General Information
      Board of Education Members /Central Administration   2
      District Policy and Belief Statements                3
      District Affirmative Action Contact Information      4
      School Hours                                         5
      Oak Knoll Staff List                                 6
      Oak Knoll E-mail and Room List                       7
      District Calendar                                    8
      Oak Knoll Calendar of Events                         9
      Board of Education Meeting Information               10
Oak Knoll Policies and Procedures
      Arriving at School                                   12
      Attendance                                           12
      Bicycle Use                                          13
      Bus Transportation                                   13-14
      Cafeteria Information                                14-17
      Care of School Property                              17
      Chewing Gum                                          17
      Classroom Visits                                     17
      Discipline                                           17-18
         Harassment, Intimidation & Bullying (HIB)         18-19
      Drop-Off and Pick-Up Procedures                      19
      Early Dismissal Procedure                            20
      Electronic Devices                                   20
      Elevator Access                                      20
      Extra-Curricular Activities                          20
      Family Nights                                        21
      Fire, Evacuation, and Lock-Down Drills               21
      Health Services                                      21-23
      Home Study Habits - how parents can help             23
      Homework Requests                                    24
      Integrated Pest Management                           24
      Lost and Found                                       24
      Parent-Teacher Organization (PTO)                    24
      Playground Procedures                                24-25
      Promotion and Retention                              25
      School Closings (Emergency)                          25
      School Security and Visitors                         26
      Special Services - Child Study Team                  26
      Student Discipline – Code of Conduct                 26-31
      Student Dress Code                                   31
      Substance Abuse Policy                               32
      Supervision After School Dismissal                   33-34
      Terrific Kids Program                                35
      Textbook Use                                         35
      Toys                                                 35
      Walkers                                              35
Mr. Frank Torcasio – President
      Mrs. Barbara Chamberlain, Ph.D., Vice-President

                    Mr. Mike D’Andrea
               Mrs. Jennifer Lewis-Gallagher
                      Mr. Cody Miller
                      Mr. Bruce Rice
               Ms. Tiffany Walker-Winters

   Mrs. Susan B. Ficke, Ed.D., Superintendent of Schools
Mrs. Lynn DiPietropolo, Assistant Superintendent of Schools
 Mrs. Lisa Schulz, Business Administrator/Board Secretary
Mr. Stanley Krzyminski, Director of Curriculum & Instruction
  Mr. Michael J. DeAngelis, Supervisor of Transportation

        OAK KNOLL ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

                Ms. Kristy Baker, Principal
          Mrs. Caroline Yoder, Assistant Principal
             Ms. Julie Harrison, Head Teacher
          Ms. Cheryl Laneader, School Counselor
BYLAWS AND POLICIES

The Monroe Township Board of Education shall exercise its rule-making power by adopting bylaws, policies
and administrative regulations for the organization and operation of the school district.

The Board desires to make this manual of bylaws and policies a useful guide to all members of the Board,
administration of this district, all personnel employed by the Board, and the pupils of the district. Therefore, a
copy of this manual is located in each district school and in the central administration office building. It is
highly recommended that each individual be familiar with the manual, since it will have a direct effect upon
the operation of the schools in this district.

                                           MISSION STATEMENT

The Monroe Township Public School District, an educational team, is dedicated to the development of the
potential and uniqueness of the individual student to become effective participants in an evolving global
society while providing a safe educational environment for students to attain the skills and knowledge
specified in the New Jersey Core Curriculum Content Standards.

                                         PARENT INVOLVEMENT

Monroe Township Public Schools involve parents in the decision-making process to plan and implement a
parental involvement program and activities to help improve student academic achievement and school
performance. Our Parent Involvement Policy is available on our District Website.
Title IX Coordinator - Mrs. Lynn DiPietropolo
Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex in education
programs receiving Federal financial assistance. Athletics are considered an integral part of an institution’s
education program and are therefore covered by this law. It is the responsibility of the Department of
Education, Office for Civil Rights, to assure that athletic programs are operated in a manner that is free from
discrimination on the basis of sex.

504 Officer - Ms. Jill A. DelConte, Ed.D.
This 1973 civil rights law prohibits discrimination on the basis of disability in all programs and activities
receiving Federal financial assistance. The 504 Officer fields complaints from parents once a 504 Plan has
been developed.

Affirmative Action Officer - Mrs. Lynn DiPietropolo
The Affirmative Action Officer monitors the district’s employment practices and procedures to insure
continuing compliance with anti-discrimination laws and regulations.

Monroe Township Public Schools is committed to equal educational opportunity and affirmative action. An
Affirmative Action plan is approved by the State Department of Education.

Affirmative action or educational access issues are to be expressed initially to the school principal. Additional
information will be obtained from the above Board of Education appointed administrators

                             Susan B. Ficke, Ed.D., Superintendent of Schools

                                       Monroe Township Public Schools
                                             75 E. Academy Street
                                       Williamstown, New Jersey 08094
                                              629-6400, Ext. 1007
SCHOOL HOURS

                        Pre-School

                   9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

           Grades K – 4 and Special Education
                   8:55 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.

              Shortened Days (Grades K-4)

                   8:55 a.m. – 1:20 p.m.

             Delayed Openings (Grades K-4)

                   10:40 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.

                     Marking Periods
Marking Period 1     September 7, 2021 – December 6, 2021
Marking Period 2     December 7, 2021 – March 14, 2022
Marking Period 3     March 16, 2022 – June 16, 2022
Oak Knoll Elementary School
                                                         2021-2022 Staff List

                                                                                             GRADE 1
PRE-SCHOOL                                     KINDERGARTEN                                  Mrs. Gayle L. Butler
Mrs. Erin S. Bailey                            Ms. Madison Dowd                              Mrs. Christina Hiller
Ms. Kathleen McKeown                           Mrs. Tracy J. Gallagher                       Mrs. Stephanie C. Kupiec
Mrs. Diana M. Voci                             Ms. Karley A. Hall                            Mrs. Michelle McGuigan
                                               Mrs. Michele T. Kreuzer                       Ms. Madison R. Pagliaccetti
                                               Mrs. Julie A. LoSasso                         Mrs. Lauren J. Parks
                                               Mrs. Allison J. McGuire
                                               Ms. Carly J. Spinuzza

GRADE 2                                        GRADE 3                                       GRADE 4
Mrs. Michelle E. Basile                        Mrs. Cheryl A. Batchelor                      Mr. Joseph E. Czbas
Mrs. Melissa L. DeNobile                       Mrs. Susan E. Jones                           Mrs. Deidre J. Drawdy
Miss Alexis Jones                              Mr. Timothy C. Pileggi Jr.                    Mr. John B. Ford
Miss. Allison J. Mancini                       Mrs. Alisha L. Smart                          Mrs. Pamela D. Gethers
Mrs. Victoria L. Manfredi                      Mrs. Laura B. Stronski                        Mrs. Gina B. Malec
Mrs. Jennifer L. Seidenberg                    Mrs. Shannon Turchi                           Mr. Bradley S. McQuillan
                                                                                             Mrs. Ashley R. Meilahn

SPECIAL NEEDS                                                               ROVING STAFF
Mrs. Dara F. DiGerolamo – Self-Contained                                    Ms. Jessica L. Fensch – T.A.G./S.E.A.
Mrs. Tracy J. Gallagher – Inclusion/Co-Teach Class                          Mrs. Marilyn J. Kurz – Technology
Mrs. Becky L. Johnson – Inclusion/Co-Teach Class
Mr. Michael Kelsey – Inclusion/Co-Teach Class
Mrs. Julie A. LoSasso – Inclusion/Co-Teach Class
Miss Alison J. Mancini – Inclusion/Co-Teach Class                           SECRETARIES/SECRETARIAL CLERKS
Ms. Danielle B. McDevitt – Self-Contained                                   Ms. Dora Theresa Moore – Secretary
Mrs. Ashley R. Meilahn– Inclusion/Co-Teach Class                            Mrs. Lisa A. Pintozzi – Secretarial Clerk
Mrs. Penny L. Mossbrucker – Self-Contained
Ms. Lauren J. Parks – Inclusion/Co-Teach Class
Mrs. Laura B. Stronski – Inclusion/Co-Teach Class

RELATED ARTS & SPECIALISTS                                                  ADMINISTRATION
Mrs. Nancy Babich – Physical Education                                      Ms. Kristy L. Baker – Principal
Mr. Mark A. Camardo – Physical Education                                    Mrs. Caroline Yoder, Assistant Principal
Mrs. Rebecca J. Carr – Basic Skills
Mrs. Cheryl L. Corbett – School Nurse                                       RESOURCE OFFICER
Mrs. Faye B. Dean – Basic Skills                                            Officer Eric Piper
Mrs. Kristine L. Fohring – Basic Skills
Mr. William Graff, Jr. – Music
Ms. Julie E. Harrison – Basic Skills/Head Teacher                           3-HOUR PARAS (0)
Mrs. Cheryl L. Laneader – School Counselor                                  open
Mrs. Suzanne E. Maxwell - Art
Mrs. Joni Peterson – Basic Skills
Mrs. Marleen J. Sheehan – Media Specialist
Mrs. Jennifer L. Shockley – 3/7th Basic Skills

]4 - HOUR PARAS               5 – HOUR PARAS                  5 - HOUR PARAS (cont.)               5.5 - HOUR PARAS
Ms. Lorier Ashburn            Mrs. Jennifer A. Birney         Mrs. Robin F. McMaster               Ms. Jessica C. Bohanonn
Mrs. Karen M. Berg            Mrs. Heather M. Brophy          Ms. Karen M. Muller                  Mrs. Josephine M. Lombardi
Mrs. Linda J. Caruso          Mrs. Kimberly J. Brown          Mrs. Charlotte E. O’Brien            Mrs. Laura A. Manganello
Ms. Moriah K. Fiorilli        Mrs. Debra A. Crane             Ms. Jennifer L. Richards             Mrs. Kaitlyn Porrini
Mrs. Elaine Majuri            Mrs. Crystal A. Gerhart         Mrs. Dawn M. Scarvaglione
Mrs. Mildred Z. Woodward      Ms. Taylor D. Gresh             Mrs. Angela D. Talley                6-HOUR PARAS
                              Mrs. Brookeanne H. Gregorovic   Ms. Roxanne L. Wynn                  Mrs. Dolores A. Carothers
                              Mrs. Barbara A. Malik
                                                                                                   Mrs. Dana M. Williams
Oak Knoll Staff Email Addresses
               Grade                     Teacher               Room                  Email Address
Pre-School             Mrs. Erin S. Bailey                      129        ebailey@monroetwp.k12.nj.us
Pre-School             Miss Kathleen McKeown                    131        kmckeown@monroetwp.k12.nj.us
Pre-School             Mrs. Diana M. Voci                       128        dvoci@monroetwp.k12.nj.us
Kindergarten           Miss Madison Dowd                        134        rcarr@monroetwp.k12.nj.us
Kindergarten           Mrs. Tracy Gallagher                     130        tgallagher@monroetwp.k12.nj.us
Kindergarten           Ms. Karley Hall                          108        khall@monroetwp.k12.nj.us
Kindergarten           Mrs. Michele Kreuzer                     130        mkreuzer@monroetwp.k12.nj.us
Kindergarten           Mrs. Julie A. LoSasso                    134        jlosasso@monroetwp.k12.nj.us
Kindergarten           Mrs. Allison McGuire                     133        amcguire@monroetwp.k12.nj.us
Kindergarten           Ms. Carly Spinuzza                       109        kspinuzza@monroetwp.k12.nj.us
Grade 1                Mrs. Gayle Butler                        107        gbutler@monroetwp.k12.nj.us
Grade 1                Mrs. Christina Hiller                    106        chiller@monroetwp.k12.nj.us
Grade 1                Mrs. Stephanie Kupiec                    231        skupiec@monroetwp.k12.nj.us
Grade 1                Mrs. Michele McGuigan                    113        mmcguigan@monroetwp.k12.nj.us
Grade 1                Ms. Madison Pagliaccetti                 226        mpagliaccetti@monroetwp.k12.nj.us
Grade 1                Mrs. Lauren Parks                        113        lparks@monroetwp.k12.nj.us
Grade 2                Mrs. Michelle Basile                     201        mbasile@monroetwp.k12.nj.us
Grade 2                Mrs. Melissa DeNobile                    205        mdenobile@monroetwp.k12.nj.us
Grade 2                Miss Alexis Jones                        202        ajones@monroetwp.k12.nj.us
Grade 2                Mrs. Alison Mancini                      204        amancini@monroetwp.k12.nj.us
Grade 2                Mrs. Victoria Manfredi                   204        vmanfredi@monroetwp.k12.nj.us
Grade 2                Mrs. Jennifer Seidenberg                 206        jseidenberg@monroetwp.k12.nj.us
Grade 3                Mrs. Cheryl Batchelor                    225        cbatchelor@monroetwp.k12.nj.us
Grade 3                Mrs. Susan Jones                         227        sjones@monroetwp.k12.nj.us
Grade 3                Mr. Timothy Pileggi Jr.                  232        tpileggi@monroetwp.k12.nj.us
Grade 3                Mrs. Alisha Smart                        229        asmart@monroetwp.k12.nj.us
Grade 3                Mrs. Laura Stronski                      229        lstronski@monroetwp.k12.nj.us
Grade 3                Mrs. Shannon Turchi                      228        sturchi@monroetwp.k12.nj.us
Grade 4                Mr. Joseph E. Czbas                      234        jczbas@monroetwp.k12.nj.us
Grade 4                Mrs. Deidre Drawdy                       235        ddrawdy@monroetwp.k12.nj.us
Grade 4                Mr. John Ford                            220        jford@monroetwp.k12.nj.us
Grade 4                Mrs. Pamela Gethers                      221        pgethers@monroetwp.k12.nj.us
Grade 4                Mrs. Gina Malec                          236        gmalec@monroetwp.k12.nj.us
Grade 4                Mr. Bradley McQuillan                    237        bmcquillan@monroetwp.k12.nj.us
Grade 4                Mrs. Ashley Meilahn                      236        ameilahn@monroetwp.k12.nj.us
Grades K-2 SC          Mrs. Dara DiGerolamo                     131        dgigerolamo@monroetwp.k12.nj.us
Grades 3/4 SC          Mrs. Becky Johnson                       230        bjohnson@monroetwp.k12.nj.us
Grades 3/4 SC          Mr. Michael Kelsey                       230        mkelsey@monroetwp.k12.nj.us
Grade K-2 SC           Miss Danielle McDevitt                   132        dmcdevitt@monroetwp.k12.nj.us
Grades 2-4 SC          Mrs. Penny Mossbrucker                   137        pmossbrucker@monroetwp.k12.nj.us
Art                    Mrs. Suzanne Maxwell                     208        smaxwell@monroetwp.k12.nj.us
Basic Skills           Mrs. Rebecca J. Carr                     209        rcarr@monroetwp.k12.nj.us
Basic Skills           Mrs. Faye Dean                           203        fdean@monroetwp.k12.nj.us
Basic Skills           Mrs. Kristine Fohring                    209        kfohring@monroetwp.k12.nj.us
Basic Skills           Ms. Julie Harrison                   Main Office    jharrison@monroetwp.k12.nj.us
Basic Skills           Mrs. Joni Peterson                       210        jpeterson@monroetwp.k12.nj.us
Basic Skills           Mrs. Jennifer Shockley                   210        jshockley@monroetwp.k12.nj.us
Health & PE            Mrs. Nancy Babich                       (Gym)       nbabich@monroetwp.k12.nj.us
Health & PE            Mr. Mark Camardo                        (Gym)       mcamardo@monroetwp.k12.nj.us
Media Specialist       Mrs. Marleen Sheehan                 (Media Ctr.)   msheehan@monroetwp.k12.nj.us
Music                  Mr. William Graff, Jr.                   Cart       wgraff@monroetwp.k12.nj.us
School Counselor       Mrs. Cheryl Laneader                     111        claneader@ monroetwp.k12.nj.us
School Nurse           Mrs. Cheryl Corbett                    (Nurse)      ccorbett@monroetwp.k12.nj.us
T.A.G./S.E.A.          Mrs. Jessica Fensch                      233        jfensch@monroetwp.k12.nj.us
Technology             Mrs. Marilyn Kurz                    Main Office    mkurz@monroetwp.k12.nj.us
Secretary              Ms. Dora Theresa Moore               Main Office    tmoore@monroetwp.k12.nj.us
Secretarial Clerk      Mrs. Lisa Pintozzi                   Main Office    lpintozzi@monroetwp.k12.nj.us
Office Para            Mrs. Barbara Malik                   Main Office    bmalik@monroetwp.k12.nj.us
Head Teacher           Ms. Julie Harrison                   Main Office    jharrison@monroetwp.k12.nj.us
Principal              Ms. Kristy Baker                     Main Office    kbaker@monroetwp.k12.nj.us
Assistant Principal    Mrs. Caroline Yoder                  Main Office    cyoder@monroetwp.k12.nj.us
OAK KNOLL
                                      Calendar of Events
                                         2021-2022
         DAY                DATE                  TIME                             ACTIVITY
Wednesday            September 1              School Closed       Staff In-Service
Thursday             September 2              School Closed       Staff In-Service
Friday               September 3              School Closed       Labor Day Weekend
Monday               September 6              School Closed       Labor Day
Tuesday              September 7              During School       First Day of School
Tuesday              September 7              During School       1st Marking Period Begins
Monday               September 13             During School       Spirit Wear Sale Begins
Wednesday            September 15             During School       Fall Picture Day
Tuesday              September 21         6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.   Back-To-School Night
Monday – Friday      September 20 - 24        During School       PTO Fall Scholastic Book Fair
Friday               September 24             During School       Spirit Wear Sale Ends
Monday – Monday      October 4 - 18           During School       Joe Corbi Fundraiser
Tuesday              October 5                  7:00 p.m.         PTO Meeting
Monday               October 11               School Closed       Staff In-Service
Monday – Friday      October 18 – 22       8:55 a.m.-1:20 p.m.    Shortened Day – Parent Conferences
Thursday             October 21            6:00p.m. – 8:00p.m.    Evening Parent Conferences
Friday               October 29               During School       Halloween Parade
Friday               October 29           8:55 a.m. – 1:20 p.m.   Shortened Day for All Students
Tuesday              November 2               School Closed       Election Day
Thursday & Friday    November 4 & 5          Schools Closed       NJEA Convention
Monday – Friday      November 15 -19              TBD             Joe Corbi Fundraiser Delivery
Tuesday              November 16                10:00 a.m.        Terrific Kids
Wednesday            November 24              During School       Fall Picture Make-Up Day
Wednesday            November 24           8:55 a.m.-1:20 p.m.    Shortened Day for All Students
Thursday & Friday    November 25 & 26        Schools Closed       Thanksgiving Recess
Monday               December 6               During School       1st Marking Period Ends
Monday – Friday      December 6 – 10          During School       PTO Holiday Shop
Tuesday              December 7               During School       2nd Marking Period Begins
Tuesday              December 7                 7:00 p.m.         PTO Meeting
Tuesday              December 21                7:00 p.m.         Winter Choral Concert
Thursday             December 23           8:55 a.m.-1:20 p.m.    Shortened Day for All Students
Friday – Friday      December 24 –           Schools Closed       Winter Recess
                     December 31
Tuesday              January 11               10:00 a.m.          Terrific Kids
Monday               January 17             Schools Closed        Martin Luther King, Jr. Day
Friday               January 21             Schools Closed        Staff In-Service
Tuesday              February 1                7:00 p.m.          PTO Meeting
Monday               February 7             Schools Closed        Staff In-Service
Friday               February 11          6:00p.m. – 8:00p.m.     Winter Wonderland Dance
Monday               February 21            Schools Closed        Presidents’ Day Observance
Monday – Friday      February 28 –           During School        PTO Spring Scholastic Book Fair
                     March 4
Tuesday              March 8                   10:00 a.m.         Terrific Kids
Monday               March 14                During School        2nd Marking Period Ends
Tuesday              March 15                During School        3rd Marking Period Begins

Wednesday - Friday    March 23 - 25        8:55 a.m.-1:20 p.m.    Shortened Day – Parent Conferences
Thursday              March 24            6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.   Evening Parent Conferences
Tuesday              March 29           During School        Spring Picture Day
Tuesday              April 5              7:00 p.m.          PTO Meeting
Friday               April 8              6:00 p.m.          Variety Show
       DAY                 DATE            TIME                          ACTIVITY
Wednesday            April 13           During School        Special Persons Day
Thursday – Tuesday   April 14 – 19      School Closed        Spring Recess
Thursday             April 28           During School        Take Your Kid To Work Day

Monday – Friday      May 2 – May 6      During School        Teacher & Staff Appreciation Week

Tuesday              May 10              10:00 a.m.          Terrific Kids

Tuesday              May 24          6:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.   Spring Concert/Art Expo

Friday               May 27             School Closed        Memorial Day Weekend

Monday               May 30             School Closed        Memorial Day

Friday               June 3             During School        PTO Spring Fun Day

Monday               June 6             During School        PTO Spring Fun Day – Rain Day

Tuesday              June 7             School Closed        Staff In-Service

Wednesday            June 8               10:00 a.m.         Terrific Kids

Wednesday            June 8               4:00 p.m.          PTO Meeting

Wednesday            June 9               10:00 a.m.         4th Grade Farewell
Thursday             June 16         8:55 a.m. – 1:20 p.m.   Last Day of School
                                                             Report Cards Sent Home

8/12/2021
RESOLUTION FOR COMPLIANCE OF THE OPEN PUBLIC
                     MEETINGS LAW FOR THE MONROE TOWNSHIP BOARD OF
                                       EDUCATION

    WHEREAS, Public Law 1975, Chapter 231, Open Public Meetings Law was enacted into law on October
21, 1975, and took effect on January 19, 1976, and;

    WHEREAS, the declared purpose of the Open Public Meetings Law also referred to as the “Sunshine
Law”, is to ensure the right of all citizens to have advance notice of and to attend all meetings of public bodies
at which any business affecting the public is discussed or acted upon, with certain limited exceptions to protect
the public interest and preserve personal privacy, and;

    WHEREAS, the Monroe Township Board of Education does hereby wish to comply with the general
requirement of the law;

    NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Monroe Township Board of Education does hereby
establish the following schedule of regular meetings to be held by the said Board for the 2019-2020 school year
and through to December 16, 2021:

                            Regular Meetings

                      January 7, 2021 – Re-Organization – 7 p.m. January 21, 2021,
                      February 18, 2021, March 4, 2021 – Special Budget Meeting March
                      18, 2021, April 15, 2021 – Personnel Recommendations May 6, 2021 –
                      Tentative Budget Public Hearing June 3, 2021, June 24, 2021 – End of
                      year meeting July 15, 2021, August 19, 2021 September 16, 2021,
                      October 21, 2021, November 18, 2021, December 16, 2021.

    BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the aforementioned regular meetings shall be held at 6:00 P.M.,
prevailing time in the Williamstown High School Lecture Hall, and;

   BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that regular items of business may be conducted at Committee-Workshop
meetings provided that the Board convenes as a body prior to 8:00 P.M., prevailing time, and;

     BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Monroe Township Board of Education will immediately, after
calling the regular meeting to order, retire to Executive Session at 6:00 p.m. (caucus) to discuss matters
pertaining to negotiations, personnel, and/or litigation or other matters as permitted by the Open Public Meetings
Act. The Board will resume the regular public meeting at or about 7:00 p.m. immediately following the
Executive Session; I hereby certify the above to be a true copy of a resolution adopted at the Reorganization
Meeting of the Monroe Township Board of Education held on January 7, 2021.
Policies
      and
   Procedures
       for
    Oak Knoll
Elementary School
ARRIVING AT SCHOOL
All pupils who walk to school or are transported by car should arrive between 8:40 a.m. and 8:55 a.m.
Students must be in class at 8:55 a.m. to avoid being marked late.

Parents are responsible for their child/ren prior to 8:40 a.m. Students should not be left unattended prior to
school opening.

ARRIVING AT SCHOOL LATE
Students arriving late to school after 8:55 must sign-in at the main office upon their arrival. A late pass will be
issued to the student before he/she is permitted to proceed to the classroom. A documented lateness will be
given if the student has a doctor’s note ONLY. All other lateness’s will be considered unexcused.

Lateness to school disrupts the student’s day, puts him/her at a disadvantage and may mean he/she misses
critical directions/assignments, etc.

State Statute (18A:38-25, 26) as well as school district policies and regulations state that children must attend
school regularly and on time. We will therefore be closely monitoring student lateness. The following district
procedure will be strictly adhered to:
       1. When a student is late to school 3 times during a month, a letter is sent home and a demerit is
          issued.
       2. If a student accumulates 4 late demerits (which equals 12 latenesses to school), the student may be
           suspended from school for 1 day.
       3. A student that is not late for 30 days following the issuance of a late demerit will have the demerit
          removed.
Being on time to school promotes a strong work ethic necessary for success in the world of work. Encourage
your student to be on time for school to ensure a successful academic career.

ATTENDANCE

The Board of Education requires that pupils enrolled in the schools of this district attend school regularly in
accordance with the laws of the State. (Policy #5200)

School attendance shall be a factor in the determination of a pupil’s promotion or retention. Only
extenuating circumstances should permit the promotion of a pupil who has been in attendance fewer
than 160 days during the school year. Policy #5410

Students must have a written explanation for their absences on the day they return to school. A doctor’s note
is required when a student is absent five (5) days or more.

In order for us to dismiss a child early, the child’s teacher must receive a written request from a parent or
guardian, and the Principal must approve the request. The parent or guardian must come to the school
office to pick up the child. The office staff will call the teacher to send the child to the office for early
dismissal. If a non-parent/guardian is being sent to retrieve a child, such as a grandparent or friend, the note
must specify the name of the person, and that person must show ID in order to sign the student out.

Students dismissed between 11:00 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. are charged with a half-day absence; beyond 1:30 p.m.
is considered a full-day present; prior to 11:00 a.m. students are marked absent for the day.
BICYCLES

Any parent or guardian who permits their child to ride a bicycle to school must present a written and signed
note to the Principal. HELMETS ARE A LAW AND MUST BE WORN.

If a student receives permission to commute to school on a bicycle, then he/she must park their bicycle in the
designated area, by the side parking lot where there is a bike-rack to secure it. The school is not responsible
for lost or vandalized equipment.

In the interest of safety, bicycle riding is not permitted on the walks or the grounds of the school.

BUS TRANSPORTATION

Each student who rides a bus to and from school MAY NOT use any other bus except for one assigned to
him/her. If a bus student plans to go home by any other means than his/her regularly assigned bus, we MUST
have a written note from his/her parent or guardian on record in the school office. A bus pass will be issued
from the office once the note is verified.

Parent Responsibility

1. Help the driver stay on schedule by making sure pupils get to their bus stops on time.

2. Do not ask the drivers to stop at places other than the regular bus stop. Drivers are not permitted to do this
   except by authorization from a school official.

3. Teach your children to be courteous and respectful to the bus driver.

4. Take time to review with your child the school bus rules and regulations listed below.
Rules and Regulations

It is a privilege for students to ride school buses, and the privilege will be temporarily or permanently revoked
if the student disobeys the following rules and regulations. Parents or guardians of any student who damages
the bus shall be liable for the amount of damage to the Board of Education.
1. Leave home early enough to arrive at the bus stop on time.
2. While walking to/from the bus stop, do not use the property of others as a “short cut.”
3. Wait for your bus in a safe place – well off the roadway.
4. Do not destroy or damage surrounding property while waiting for the bus.
5. Do not fight, bully, harass, or use inappropriate language on the way to, or at the bus stop.
6. Do not cause crowding or push when getting on or off the bus.

While on the Bus

1. Follow the instructions of your school bus driver or bus aide.

2. Go immediately to your assigned seat, buckle your seatbelt, and remain seated until you have arrived at
   your destination.

3. Keep arms or other body parts inside the school bus at all times after entering and until leaving the bus.

4. Keep all parts of your body and your belongings out of the aisle.
5. Be quiet and orderly at all times.

6. Be courteous and obey the bus driver.

7. Respect the rights of others. Be courteous to fellow passengers.

8. Do not distract or disturb the bus driver or other children.

9. Do not throw or project any objects on the bus or out of the bus window.

10. Do not use unacceptable language and do not call out to pedestrians and motorists.

11. Students will be held responsible and pay for any damage to bus equipment.

12. Be alert to traffic when leaving the bus.

Bus Discipline and Procedures

Riding the school bus is a privilege. Breaking the rules will result in the loss of this privilege for a period of
time. The “Four Step Plan for Student Management” is as follows:

FIRST OFFENSE:
The administrator, depending upon the infraction will have the option of either warning the student or denying
the student the privilege of riding the school bus. If the student is denied the privilege of riding the school
bus, a meeting with the bus driver, student, parents, and bus company designee and administrator will be held
at the option of the administrator or parent. The bus driver may also request a meeting.

SECOND OFFENSE:
A second infraction may result in the student losing the privilege to ride the school bus. The length of
suspension will be determined by the administrator and based upon the Discipline Policy established by the
Board of Education. The administrator has the option of warning the student a second time, if the length of
time between referrals is substantial and the infraction is a minor one.

THIRD OFFENSE:
The student may lose the privilege of riding the school bus until a face-to-face conference is held with the
student, the parent, the bus driver, transportation office designee and administrator. The administrator will
determine the length of the suspension.

FOURTH & SUBSEQUENT OFFENSES:
Steps for the third offense will be followed, plus the student may lose the privilege of riding the school bus the
remainder of the school year.

CAFETERIA PROCEDURES
The following guidelines apply in the cafeteria:
   • Upon entering the cafeteria, students will line up in one (1) of two (2) lines on the ramp; one on the left
       for students purchasing their lunch, and one in the center for students who brought their lunch.
   • Each morning the teachers will collect money from those students purchasing lunch or snack and
       forward to the Cafeteria staff. The monies will be credited to the student’s account before he/she
       arrives for their designated lunch period. This practice allows the students to be able to move through
       the line much quicker and enjoy more of the time allotted for their lunch.
   • With more than 100 students eating at a time, we must try to maintain order. In order for students to
       move about the cafeteria (to purchase a snack, use the restroom, to throw away trash, etc.), they must
       raise their hand and be acknowledged by the paraprofessionals monitoring the cafeteria.
   • All students are expected to clean up their table area after eating.
•   Students are encouraged to eat their lunch before getting snacks.
   •   Any student wishing to join a friend and sit at the table designated for students with food allergies,
       must have his/her lunch checked by a paraprofessional to insure that no food puts others at risk.
   •   Students must remember to take lunch with them to the cafeteria. If forgotten, students may not return
       to classrooms, which are locked at all times.
CAFETERIA SERVICES
Chartwells Dining Services provides nutritious meals for all schools in the district. Breakfast and Lunch are
available to all students grade 1-12 and both programs are governed by the USDA’s National School
Lunch/Breakfast Programs. All students should have a completed “lunch application” on file. Even if you
feel your student does not qualify for free or reduced lunch benefits, we encourage you to complete the
application. Should your status change during the course of the school year, you may reapply for free and
reduced meal benefits. All students who qualify for free and reduced lunch are also qualified for free and
reduced breakfast.
PRICING
Breakfast      Free - No Cost For All Students During The 2021-2022 School Year
Lunch -        Free - No Cost For All Students During The 2021-2022 School Year
Registers/How It Works
A computerized register system is in place so we may better serve the students and account for purchases
made. This system utilizes your student’s ID number for purchasing breakfast, lunch, and a la carte items in
the cafeteria. Your child will be given an ID number to access his/her cafeteria account. Students will enter
the ID number into a keypad near the register while in line. When they reach the register their “cafeteria
account,” along with a picture ID, will be brought up onto a screen. Students who qualify for free or reduced
meals or pre-pay for meals will have this information available to the cashier automatically.
If your child forgets his/her ID number the cashier can access the account by last name. Unfortunately, this
will slow the line down, so we will work with students to help them remember their ID number.
When students do not have money to pay for lunch they will be afforded the opportunity to charge a meal.
Letters will be sent home to parent s/ guardians at the end of the month if a student has a negative balance.
Students who charge five meals will be subject to revoked school privileges.

How to Make Payments
You may send in cash or check made out to “Monroe Twp BOE Café” to deposit funds into your student’s
lunch account. There is no minimum or maximum to the amount of money you can deposit into your child’s
account. When sending in a check or cash put it in an envelope with your child’s name and ID # on it.
Students who only purchase snack, milk or a la carte items, may also have money added on their account for
that purpose.

Student Debit System

An account will be established for every student. For the purpose of tracking food service transactions and
student access to the debit account system, all students will be issued a Personal Identification Number
(PIN). Parents may deposit funds by either mailing a check to the food service department or by crediting
it to their credit card via the internet.

Meal/Debit System Policy

In the event that a student forgets his/her money or that the debit account is depleted, or carries a negative
balance from one school year to another, the student will be provided a basic lunch that will contain the
essentials in balanced nutritional selections as prescribed by the Bureau of Child Nutrition Programs, New
Jersey Department of Agriculture (peanut butter and jelly sandwich or cheese sandwich, fruit and milk
component) and the cost of the meal will be added to the student’s food service debit account.

       •       Snacks and a la carte items will not be purchased while account is in arrears.

       •       At the end of the day, all transactions will be reported to the Principal's office.

       •       The Principal shall send correspondence to the home of the parent(s) reminding them to
               make payment in full.

       •        Parents/guardians will be charged a bounced check fee in accordance with bank charges.

N.J.S.A. 18A:18A-42.1; 18A:33-3 et seq.; 18A:58-7.1
N.J.A.C. 6A:23-2.6 et seq.
N.J.A.C. 8:24-2.1 through 7.5

District Policy
8550- OUTSTANDING FOOD SERVICE CHARGES
Section: Operations
Date Created: October, 2015
Date Edited: June, 2016

The Board of Education understands a student may forget to bring breakfast or lunch, as applicable, or
money to purchase breakfast or lunch to school on a school day. When this happens, the food service
program will provide the student with breakfast or lunch with an expectation payment will be made the
next school day or shortly thereafter. However, there may be circumstances when payment is not
made and a student’s school breakfast/lunch bill is in arrears. The school district will manage a
student’s breakfast or lunch bill that is in arrears in accordance with the provisions of N.J.S.A. 18A:33-
21 and this Policy.

In the event a student’s school lunch or breakfast bill is in arrears, the Principal or designee shall
contact the student’s parent to provide notice of the amount in arrears and shall provide the parent a
period of ten school days to pay the full amount due. If the student’s parent does not make full
payment to the Principal or designee by the end of the ten school days, the Principal or designee shall
again contact the student’s parent to provide a second notice that their child’s lunch or breakfast bill is
in arrears. If payment in full is not made within one week from the date of the second notice, the
student will become ineligible for extracurricular activities until the bill is paid in full and will be
provided a basic lunch that will contain the essentials in balanced nutritional selections as prescribed
by the Bureau of Child Nutrition Programs, New Jersey Department of Agriculture beginning the
eighth calendar day from the date of the second notice.

A parent who has received a second notice their child’s lunch or breakfast bill is in arrears and who has
not made payment in full within one week from the date of the second notice will be requested to meet
with the Principal or designee to discuss and resolve the matter.

A parent’s refusal to meet or take other steps to resolve the matter may be indicative of more serious
issues in the family or household. In these situations, the Principal or designee shall consult with and
seek necessary services from both the County Board of Social Services and the Department of
Children and Families, Division of Child Protection and Permanency, as appropriate.
When a parent’s routine failure to provide breakfast or lunch is reasonably suspected to be indicative of child
abuse or neglect, the Principal or designee shall immediately report such suspicion to the Department of
Children and Families, Division of Child Protection and Permanency as required in N.J.S.A. 9:6-8.10. Such
reporting shall not be delayed to accommodate a parent’s meeting with the Principal or designee.

The provisions of N.J.S.A. 18A:33-21 and this Policy will be made available to parents of all children
in the school district in a manner as determined by the Superintendent.

N.J.S.A. 18A:33-21

Adopted: 15 October 2015
Revised: 23 June 2016

CARE OF SCHOOL PROPERTY

Each student is responsible for keeping their school, and the grounds surrounding it, neat and clean. Students
are to leave pencils, crayons, markers, pens, or other writing implements in the classroom when they go to the
lavatory.
Parents or guardians of any student who damages or destroys any school property shall be liable to the Board
of Education for the amount of the damage.
Students should be aware: Teachers and school administration may search their desk area at any time deemed
necessary.
CHEWING GUM
Chewing gum is prohibited at all times in and around the school, on the school bus, on field trips, or at any
school function.
CLASSROOM VISITS
We welcome parent involvement however we need to avoid instructional disruptions as much as possible.
Therefore, adults may not visit a classroom unless special arrangements have been made with the classroom
teacher and approved by the principal.
DISCIPLINE
Discipline is everyone’s responsibility. Any disciplinary action taken by a school official is intended to effect
a favorable change in student behavior. We try to provide an atmosphere that is conducive to learning and one
which encourages proper conduct.
It shall be the responsibility of each teacher to enforce the rules of the school at all times. The initial
counseling or disciplinary action shall be his or her duty. When a student is sent to the office, the
administrator in charge or head teacher will enforce established penalties after a thorough investigation of the
offense. When an office referral is made, parents will be contacted by the referring teacher and/or an
administrator to inform the parents of the specific incident warranting the referral.
The disciplinary action shall include one or a combination of the following: 1) Counseling, 2) Parent
Conference, 3) Detention (recess time or after school), 4) Demerits, 5) Out-Of-School Suspension.
A written record of any student sent to the office will be maintained. Communication to parents of students
who demonstrate inappropriate behavior/conduct will be done by telephone call and/or letter.
Demerits are given for repeated referrals to the office for minor offenses or immediately upon the first referral
for the more serious offenses. Parents will be notified of all demerits issued. The accumulation of four (4)
demerits will lead to a suspension from school for up to three (3) days. Good conduct for a 30-day period
will result in the elimination of one (1) demerit.          Severe disciplinary situations can warrant an
automatic suspension.
Rules of Conduct
All students are bound by law, policies of the Board of Education, and the administrative regulations of this
school district. The behavior of all children should reflect the 5 Core Values associated with our Community
of Caring:
       1.   Caring
       2.   Respect
       3.   Responsibility
       4.   Trust
       5.   Family

With those core beliefs in mind, students shall:
       a. be respectful and responsive to all directives of teachers or other staff members.
       b. not use threatening words or actions against others.
       c. respect the property of the school and others.
       d. demonstrate tolerance toward others
       e. use appropriate language at all times
       f. follow all school rules.

Harassment, Intimidation & Bullying (HIB)

Monroe Township Public Schools have adopted the Olweus Anti-Bullying program to address the new state
HIB law. Under this new law, HIB is defined as:
      …any gesture, any written, verbal or physical act, or any electronic communication, whether it be a
      single incident or a series of incidents that is reasonably perceived as being motivated either by any
      actual or perceived characteristic, such as race, color, religion, ancestry, national origin, gender, sexual
      orientation, gender identity and expression, or a mental, physical or sensory disability, or by any other
      distinguishing characteristic, that takes place on school property, at any school-sponsored function, on
      a school bus, or off school grounds as provided for in section 16 of P.L.2010, c.122 (C.18A:37-15.3),
      that substantially disrupts or interferes with the orderly operation of the school or the rights of other
      students that:
      a. a reasonable person should know, under the circumstances, will have the effect of physically or
          emotionally harming a student or damaging the student’s property, or placing a student in
          reasonable fear of physical or emotional harm to his person or damage to his property;
      b. has the effect of insulting or demeaning any student or group of students; or
      c. creates a hostile educational environment for the student by interfering with a student’s education
          or by severely or pervasively causing physical or emotional harm to the student.

In addition, the Olweus program identifies bullying as “when someone repeatedly and on purpose says
or does mean or hurtful things to another person who has a hard time defending him/herself.” The
Olweus program is based upon four basic rules governing anti-bullying behavior, and emphasizes that all
students should take an active stance against any type of bullying behavior—“Be the G” is the catch phrase
because in the Olweus Bullying Circle (A-G), A is the student being bullied, the G is the active defender
against bullying behavior. B through F represent varying levels of involvement with the bullying behavior.
All students should ascribe to “be the G.” The following rules will be shared with all students and staff, and
will be reinforced throughout the school year:
       Rule 1:         We will not bully others.
       Rule 2:         We will help students who are bullied.
Rule 3:        We will include students who are left out.
       Rule 4:        If we know that somebody is being bullied, we will tell an adult at
                      school and an adult at home.
Each allegation of HIB MUST be reported to the principal or designated bullying specialist in each building,
and thoroughly investigated. Afterward, any action deemed to be an act of bullying, is reported to the
superintendent, and ultimately the Board of Education. Incidents of bullying will not be tolerated, or taken
lightly. Corrective action will be taken in the instances of HIB, including, but not limited to discipline and
counseling, depending upon the severity of the negative action. The student being bullied, in addition to the
bully, will be provided counseling.
With increased awareness, and the Olweus program, the goal is to stamp out all types of harassment,
intimidation and bullying. Together with the staff, parents, and students Oak Knoll will be an anti-bully zone!
(For district HIB policy, see the district website under Students & Parents).

DROP-OFF AND PICK-UP PROCEDURES

As part of our commitment to provide a safe and secure arrival and dismissal from school the following
procedures will be followed:

       WALKERS:
       The walkers will be dismissed from the Bodine Avenue South Entrance/Exit and escorted down the
       sidewalk to the corner of Church Street. There the crossing guard will cross them. We ask parents
       who are coming on a sporadic basis to park in the Little League Lot on Church Street so that the
       children can follow a consistent pattern.

       CAR RIDERS:
       Please adhere to the following:

       IN THE MORNING: Those who wish to literally drop-off (remaining in your vehicle) should
       continue to follow the already-established procedures and pull all the way up to the designated sign
       and have your child exit your car curbside. Parents are to remain in their cars. Teachers on duty will
       help your child get out of the car. Please DO NOT stop at the front door to drop your child off, you
       must pull up if space is available.

               DO NOT park in that side lot and send your child through the line of cars. We have seen
               several children almost hit by this practice.

       NO ONE is to park in that side lot for drop-off or pick-up

       PARKING ~ MORNING: Those who wish to park should park in one of the parking lots across
       Bodine Avenue, either the main lot, or the Maple Grove lot AND walk your child to the
       CROSSWALK for safe passage. AFTERNOON: Parents who wish to pick up their child(ren) at
       dismissal (3:30pm) are to line up along the front of the building and remain in their car. Students will
       be dismissed via the door closest to Church Street. Please have the placard that will be issued to all car
       riders displayed in your front window. Parents must remain IN THEIR CARS. Teachers on duty will
       help students get into the car.

       We are deeply concerned with the safety of all children and appreciate your anticipated
       cooperation in this matter.
EARLY DISMISSAL PROCEDURE

It is important that your child remains in school until dismissal time each day. Please do not sign him/her out
of school prior to 3:30 unless it is absolutely necessary. The end of the day is an important time - children are
finishing work, receiving last minute instructions, and organizing their homework and belongings. Leaving
early may be detrimental to your child and may disrupt the class routine.

We understand that medical appointments or family emergencies may arise. In these instances, please send a
note to your child’s teacher that day so that the teacher will have the child prepared to leave school. “Beating
the rush in the parking lot” before dismissal time is not a reason to sign your child out early. This also
applies to early dismissal days.

If an early dismissal is necessary, it should take place before 3:15 p.m. NO STUDENT WILL BE DISMISSED
BETWEEN 3:15 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. The parent should report to the general office to sign out and receive your
child. Office personnel will notify the teacher to send the student to the office. Please do not request that
your child be sent to the office prior to your arrival to have him/her wait for you.
UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCES will any adult be permitted to go to the classroom to pick up a child.
If you should happen to go to the classroom, the teacher will ask you to report to the office and will not turn
any child over to any adult unless notified by the office. This practice is part of our safety procedures for the
children of Oak Knoll.
Your immediate assistance and cooperation is greatly appreciated. It is important to everyone that the
momentum of the learning atmosphere not be interrupted.

ELECTRONIC DEVICES
Students are not to bring electronic devices to school, including, but not limited to: iPods, cell phones, and
hand-held game systems. If a student has any such device in view, it will be taken and ONLY returned to a
parent/guardian. If a student MUST carry a cell phone, as directed by you, the parent/guardian, it must remain
away (backpack/cubby) and off during the course of the school day.

ELEVATOR ACCESS
Only students with a doctor-verified medical condition will be permitted to use the elevator. Students using
the elevator will have an escort.

EXTRA-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES
Students are encouraged to become involved in non-academic activities in order to gain a sense of community,
sharing, giving, and altruism. In addition, students benefit from involvement in organizations that peak their
interest and enhance a sense of self-worth. However, students who choose to participate in extra-curricular
activities are responsible for any missed assignments due to their participation in any given activity. Students
must maintain adequate grades and class performance in order to continue participation in extra-curricular
activities. If academic performance is jeopardized by such participation, the child will be removed from the
activity.
FAMILY NIGHTS
Designated Family Nights have been set aside to encourage families to enjoy the evening together without the
stress of needing to complete homework. Throughout the school year there will be school-sponsored activities
on Family Nights providing opportunities for structured fun. If not, families are encouraged to spend time
together just enjoying one-another’s company.

FIRE, EVACUATION, and LOCK-DOWN DRILLS (School Security Drill)
The purpose of a drill is to practice evacuating or locking-down the building quickly, orderly and safely. We
are responsible for conducting one fire-drill and one other type of security drill each month.

HEALTH OFFICE POLICY AND PROCEDURE

VISITING THE NURSE: Students who request to see the nurse must have a referral slip from the
teacher/paraprofessional stating the reason for the visit. If in the professional opinion of the nurse,
the student’s condition interferes with the student’s ability to perform adequately in class, you or a
designated person on the emergency card will be contacted to pick the student up from school.

ATTENDING SCHOOL WITH AN INJURY: If a student is to attend school with a cast, crutches,
sling, boot, etc., a NOTE FROM THE PHYSICIAN stating the student’s clearance to attend school
and any limitations or restrictions MUST be provided to the school nurse BEFORE the student is
allowed into the classroom.

                    WHEN SHOULD I KEEP MY CHILD HOME FROM SCHOOL
   Every day we have children who are absent or sent home from school with various illnesses.
Please remember to follow these guidelines in determining when your child is healthy enough to
return to school:
       Students should be “fever-free” (less than 100.0 F) for a full 24 hours before returning to
       school. Fever free means without the aid of a fever reducing medication.
       Students should be able to tolerate foods/fluids for a full 24 hours following a
        “stomach bug” with vomiting and/or diarrhea and be symptom free for 24
         hours.
       Students diagnosed with a strep infection should have 24 hours of antibiotic and
        should feel well before returning to school.

The common cold: Since transmission of the common cold typically occurs before symptoms
develop, it is not necessary to exclude children with a mild disease. However, a child with a fever,
fatigue, constant coughing, lack of appetite or inability to concentrate on school activities
should be allowed to remain home.

Having sick children come to school only to be sent home shortly after arrival makes the child
uncomfortable, inconveniences the parent, and exposes other children who then become sick also.
For now, stay healthy. Take some time to observe your child to make sure they are free from these
nasty germs that are going around. When children feel well and are healthy, they enjoy school more
and learn better.

 Plenty of rest, a nutritious diet and good hand washing are our best defenses against spreading
illness. Please reinforce this with your children. Thank you.
HOME STUDY HABITS – SUGGESTIONS FOR PARENTS
1. Get involved with what your child is doing in school.
   a. Keep a journal
   b. Ask your child questions about what he/she does in school
   c. Communicate concerns with the teacher
2. Help your child with organization.
   a. Set aside a work area for doing homework
   b. Have a supply box that is well maintained
   c. Have an established time for doing homework
3. Provide on-going academic support (even when there’s no homework!)
   a. Make it a routine to read to your child and have them read to you.
   b. Get your child a town library card and take advantage of the reading selections offering a variety of
      reading materials.
   c. Have various reading materials available for your child at home.
   d. Compliment your child’s strengths and give praise often.
   e. Play learning games.
   f. Talk to your child about subjects that are interesting to them.
   g. Listen to your child.
   h. Write notes to your child and encourage him/her to write letters to relatives, friends, etc.
   i. Subscribe to a children’s magazine in your child’s name.
   j. Encourage your child to keep a scrapbook.
   k. Look up words in the dictionary.
4. Have your child become more responsible.
   a. Encourage him/her to pack his/her own schoolbag.
   b. Give your child specific duties to perform on a regular basis at home.
   c. Let your child help you prepare dinner.
5. Give your child meaningful incentives.
   a. Let your child pick the dessert or dinner menu.
   b. Let him/her pick a video to watch.
   c. Allow your child to select a bedtime story to read, or give extra “awake” time to read.
   d. Have your child pick a family weekend activity.
6. Get involved early with the Oak Knoll Community:
   a. Attend Back-to-School Night and conferences.
   b. Keep communication open between you and the teacher/s.
   c. Be sure to be familiar with the classroom teacher’s policies.
   d. Join the Parent Teacher Organization.
   e. Keep abreast of the calendar of events and attend as many as you can.

HOME STUDY HABITS – SPECIFIC FOR – GRADES K-2
1. Go through your child’s backpack daily; check for important notices from the teacher.
2. Go over directions for assignments with your child, have your child repeat them to you.
3. Make sure your child’s manuscript is written neatly and correctly.
4. Guide your child when completing homework.
5. Assist your child with organization, making sure there is an area set aside for folders, books, homework,
   etc.
HOMEWORK REQUESTS
When your child is absent from school and you wish to obtain homework, please contact the Oak Knoll
School office between 8:00 AM and 9:30 AM. The telephone number is (856) 728-3944. Requesting the
work during this hour will allow the teacher to have work ready for pickup between 3:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m.
When calling to request homework, please provide the following:
          Child’s name
          Child’s teacher
          Type of book/s or materials already at home
          Reason for absence
          Anticipated number of days absent
          Name of person picking up the work for home
INTEGRATED PEST MANAGEMENT (IPM)
Oak Knoll Elementary School follows all IPM protocols for treating pests in and around the building.
Methods of treating any pest problems always begin with non-chemical remedies. Specific information
regarding IPM practices is located in the main office, or can be discussed by contacting Butch Burgland,
Director of Operations at the central administration building: 856-262-8200, ext. 2436.
LOST AND FOUND
All articles found on school property should be brought to the office. Do not forget to check in the office or
Nurse's office if you have lost an item. All unclaimed articles will be disposed of at the end of the school year.

PARENT/TEACHER ORGANIZATION - PTO

Our staff and the Parent/Teacher Organization of Oak Knoll Elementary School intend to work together for
the benefit of the students. Volunteers are always welcome and needed for the PTO.

The PTO meeting dates are given on the Calendar of Events in the front of this booklet. Annual dues are
$5.00. Each parent is encouraged to join the PTO, attend its meetings, and support its fundraisers as they fund
many school projects and improvements, benefiting all students. In addition, current information regarding
PTO events and activities, and important notices are available from the district website.

                                            Executive Committee
                                       Mrs. Antonia Doelling, President
                                   Mrs. Danielle Casalunovo, Vice President
                                           Mrs. Jes Ball, Secretary
                                     Mrs. Yvonne O’Donnell, Treasurer

PLAYGROUND
On days when students are permitted to go outdoors, the following rules must be obeyed:
1. Play in the assigned areas of the playground; never leaving school grounds.
2. Fighting, pushing, tackling, and throwing rocks or sand is prohibited.
3. Baseballs (hard balls), softballs and outside footballs are not permitted on the playground.
4. Students may not bring hand-held electronic games, head sets, etc. for use at lunch or on the playground.
5. At the conclusion of the playground period (recess), a teacher or an aide will blow a whistle. At that time,
   all students are to walk in an orderly manner to form a line on the sidewalk and proceed back into the
   building under supervision.
PROMOTION AND RETENTION

The Board of Education recognizes that each child develops and grows in a unique pattern and that students
should be placed in the educational setting most appropriate to his/her social, physical, and educational needs.
Each student enrolled in this district shall be moved forward in a continuous program of learning in harmony
with his/her own development.
Standards for student promotion shall be related to the New Jersey Student Learning Standards and district
goals and objectives. A student in the elementary grades will be promoted to the next succeeding grade level
unless

significant gaps in academic development are present, and it is believe to be in the best interest of the child to
repeat a grade. We want all children prepared for a successful learning experience in the next grade.
Promotion policies and procedures will be provided to parent(s) or legal guardian(s) as appropriate. Parent(s)
or legal guardian(s) and students shall be regularly informed during the school year of the student’s progress
toward meeting promotion standards. A teacher who determines that a student’s progress may not be
sufficient to meet promotion standards shall notify the parent(s) or legal guardian(s) and the student and offer
immediate consultation to the student’s parent(s) or legal guardian(s). Every effort shall be made to remediate
a student’s deficiencies before retention is recommended.
Procedures for Student Promotion
1. Parent(s) or legal guardian(s) and students will be provided via on-line a minimum of three reports each
   year as to a student's progress towards meeting promotion standards.
2. Teachers who determine that a student's progress may not be sufficient to meet promotion standards shall
   notify the parent(s) or legal guardian(s) of the student and offer consultation with parents or legal
   guardians.
3. The parent(s) or legal guardian(s) will be notified no later than four weeks prior to the end of the year
   when the possibility of a student not being promoted is determined.
4. Attendance shall be a factor in the determination of a student's promotion or retention. Only extenuating
   circumstances should permit the promotion of an elementary student fewer than 160 days during the
   school year.
5. Classroom teachers shall provide input to the Principal who makes the final decision concerning the
   promotion or retention of each student.
6. Parent(s) or legal guardian(s) may appeal a promotion/retention decision to the Superintendent whose
   decision is final.

SCHOOL (EMERGENCY) CLOSINGS
Our school closing number is “811” and it will be announced on radio station KYW in the event of school closing due
to snow. You may also access our web site at www.monroetwp.k12.nj.us, KYW1060.com or you can call KYW News
radio School Closing Line at 1-900-737-1060 for 95 cents a call by punching in the school number “811” and on TV:
KYW-3, WPVI-6 or NBC-10.
The school will not be responsible for pupils after emergency dismissal. Parents who are not home during school
hours should make arrangements for their children in advance of such emergencies. Students are to be made aware
of where they are to go if an emergency closing should be necessary.
You can also read