2020-2021 Student/Parent Handbook - "In thy face I see the map of honour, truth and loyalty."
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“In thy face I see the map of honour, truth and loyalty.”
2020-2021
Student/Parent Handbook
page 1gilman lower school
student-parent handbook
Dear Students and Parents,
The ability of any community to survive and thrive depends on its members’ willingness to adhere to a collection of guiding
principles and behaviors. The best, strongest communities balance the celebration of individuality with a deep respect
for the common good, and Gilman is such a place. This Student Handbook represents an effort to explain our traditions
and expectations for all areas of school life. We ask that you read it carefully and that you take to heart the guidelines set
forth in its pages. We hope that, by living up to these expectations, everyone’s year will be that much more enjoyable and
worthwhile.
It should come as no surprise that our guiding principles are firmly rooted in the Gilman Five—Honor, Integrity, Respect,
Humility, and Excellence. They also draw on a healthy dose of common sense. More than anything, abiding by the specific
rules and general spirit of this handbook demands from each of us a few basic traits: an appreciation for the fact that any
strong community is built on honor and trust, an awareness of one’s surroundings, and the ability to do the right thing at
all times. (Note that the last of these traits results from the first two.) True, these basic expectations are also lofty, and I
have all confidence that you will rise to that challenge.
It is my pleasure to welcome everyone to the new school year, and I extend a special welcome to our new students and
families. I am looking forward to a truly wonderful year.
Sincerely,
Henry P. A. Smyth
Headmaster
Dear Gilman Families,
Welcome to the 2020-2021 school year. This handbook contains a wealth of information about the Lower School. Please
read it over carefully before school begins and keep it as a reference throughout the year.
While this handbook covers many of the routines, activities, and traditions of Gilman’s Lower School, words alone cannot
convey the heart and soul of the division. The true spirit of Lower School lies within the relationship between teachers and
students and is evident in our classrooms, halls, and outdoors every day. Teachers get to know each boy as an individual and
care deeply about him as a person. Here’s to another wonderful year of learning.
Sincerely,
“The true measure of any school is the
Armond Lawson quality of character of its members.”
Head of Lower School
Redmond C. S. Finneycovid-19
handbook addendum
This document sets forth policies that are specifically not be liable for any failure, delay, or modification of its
applicable to students’ enrollment at Gilman during programs or activities. The School reserves the right to make
the 2020-2021 school year. The policies set forth in this modifications to the school year as necessary to account
addendum are intended to either supplement or supersede for any time lost due to any closure or delay, including
the School’s existing policies as listed in the Parent and without limitation the following: extending the school year
Student Handbook. Therefore, if a policy in the Parent for a period of time equal to the time lost due to any delay;
and Student Handbook conflicts with a policy in this conducting classes via distance-learning; and/or scheduling
addendum, the policies in this addendum shall govern. weekend classes. Possible events which could necessitate
closure, delay, or modification as described above include,
but are not limited to, acts of nature, fire, pandemic, U.S.
about this handbook Government restrictions, wars, and insurrections.
The Parent and Student Handbook (the “Handbook”) is
intended as a general guide for families to the policies,
procedures and personnel at Gilman. Please take the time to modifications to the
carefully review this Handbook, including reviewing it with school’s programs,
your children. It is important that families understand the curriculum, and
School’s expectations and policies, and that families know
to whom they can direct their questions or concerns.
activities
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the School may make
Please understand that this Handbook is intended only to
modifications as necessary to promote health and safety
highlight current policies, practices, and procedures. The
to carpool, arrival and dismissal times, lunch and snacks
policies and procedures set forth herein are intended as
and certain activities, including after-school activities,
general guidelines—specific situations may call for handling
interscholastic sports, clubs, and tutoring. On-campus
a matter in a manner different from that described herein,
volunteer opportunities, as well as classroom parties,
depending upon the particular facts and nature of the
assemblies, large gatherings, and other in-school events
situation. However, it would be nearly impossible to review
may also be limited or cancelled at the School’s discretion
every element of every policy, or every possible scenario and
to help prevent the spread of COVID-19 on campus. The
outcome. Rather, this Handbook serves as a series of policy
School will provide as much advance notice of such changes
summaries to keep your family better informed.
to parents as possible. In enrolling their child at Gilman,
In addition, circumstances will require that the policies, parents understand that their decision is not contingent
practices, and procedures described in the Handbook may upon any particular program, curriculum, employee, or
change from time to time. Gilman reserves the right to enrollment level, and understand that the School retains
modify or change any or all such policies, practices, and the right to change the School’s programs, curriculum, or
procedures in whole or in part, at any time, with or without workforce at its discretion.
notice. The School will make every attempt to give timely
notice of substantive changes in policy. Should events which
are beyond the School’s reasonable control and which occur
without its fault or negligence necessitate a closure, delay,
or modification of its educational programs and activities,
the family’s obligations as outlined in this Handbook, as
set forth in the Enrollment Agreement, and/or as otherwise
established by the School shall continue. The School shall
page 4covid-19 handbook addendum
supporting the visitors
ability of students Effective immediately, to reduce the population on campus
with disabilities to and assist with social distancing, visitors (including parents,
participate in the child care providers or other family members of students)
program are not permitted on campus. This includes but is not
limited to any and all School buildings, School fields and
Consistent with its policy prohibiting discrimination, playgrounds or other School property. During drop off
the School is committed to ensuring that students with and pick up, drivers are not to leave their cars, must wear
disabilities are provided with equal access to its programs, masks, and respect the obligation of faculty and staff to
whether such programs are provided on-campus or through maintain social distancing. Parents, guardians and child-
distance-learning. The School will provide accommodations care providers picking up a student during the school day
and modifications to ensure a disabled student has equal must coordinate that pickup with the nurse, a teacher or
access to the School’s services. Should a student need an administrator. Unless otherwise specifically agreed upon,
accommodation, the School will make an individualized the student should be picked up at outside of his school
determination of the student’s needs and an accommodation building. Parents or students who wish to bring a visitor
plan will be developed. to campus must obtain prior written approval from their
respective Division Head or the Headmaster. Subject to
the Director of Enrollment Management’s prior written
student attendance consent, campus visits for candidates for admission and
Unless otherwise directed by the Division Head or the their families may be scheduled outside of regular School
Headmaster, the School’s normal attendance requirements hours. All approved visitors must comply with the School’s
and absence notification procedures shall continue to apply protocol when on campus. This includes wearing a
at all times during the 2020-2021 school year, including protective mask, maintaining social distance, disinfecting
during any periods of distance-learning. your hands prior to entering the building and confirming a
lack of symptoms or fever.
dining hall, lunch,
and snacks
Boxed lunches will be provided by Flik. Parents will be
responsible for ordering a week’s worth of meals by the
Friday before (an email reminder will be sent each week
with a form to fill out).
If your child brings his own lunch to School, be sure that
the food containers provided are easily opened by your
child. Students should bring their own utensils to school
and should not share food with others. A microwave is NOT
available. Parents are NOT to bring in fast food lunches for
their children. Additionally, please do not bring cupcakes,
balloons, or other treats for classes at lunchtime.
page 5gilman school student
participation in distance
learning policy
Gilman School will be utilizing several platforms, including and synchronously (through live instruction). Interactions
Zoom, Seesaw, the Google Suite, and our learning through online platforms may be recorded by your child’s
management system Canvas to conduct lessons remotely via teacher for educational purposes and may be shared with
distance learning. Students will participate virtually in their other students or employees of the School. As a result,
classes, communicate with classmates, teachers, and other your child’s image, likeness, or voice may be recorded while
School employees, and receive other support services they he (or she, in the case of our Upper School coordination
ordinarily receive from the School, including individual program) is participating in distance learning via Zoom.
and group meetings with teachers and advisors, as well Recording of the class or other on-line interactions with a
as other forms of academic support. Most students will student or students may not be recorded in any manner by
have access to these platforms by using their school-issued anyone other than a representative of the School without
email address. Younger students may have access through permission in writing from a division head or head of
a parent’s or guardian’s email address. We anticipate that school. Failure to comply with this restriction may result
the majority of distance learning will take place during in disciplinary action of the student regardless of who made
the school day, though acknowledge that there may be the recording, including but not limited to removal from the
exceptions to this timeframe. School.
The education provided by the School through Distance Parents understand that distance learning classrooms are
Learning is considered a continuation of the School’s designed to mimic the in-person classroom environment in
educational program. The rules and responsibilities of the a virtual setting to the extent possible. While we understand
student are the same as if the student was participating students may be in shared spaces while engaging in distance
in learning on-campus. Students are expected to attend learning, parents and other students or adults in the
scheduled online meetings in a timely manner, prepare household should refrain from joining or auditing classes
in advance for the lesson and participate in a meaningful unless invited or with prior approval by the teacher.
and respectful manner. Tests, assignments, and other In limited circumstances, one-on-one video communication
assessments that may be performed will count towards a may take place when a group meeting or email is not
student’s grade in the same manner as if it had occurred sufficient. All video communications must take place during
when distance learning was not in effect. As applies at regular school hours using the online platforms provided by
all times, students are expected to do their own work in the School and should be scheduled in advance whenever
compliance with the School’s rules related to cheating, possible. These meetings will not be recorded and will
plagiarism or other violations of the School’s Honor Code. take place with prior email notification to the student’s
The School’s Student and Parent Handbooks, including parent(s)/guardian(s).
but not limited to the acceptable use policy, privacy policy,
and other policies and procedures related to electronic
communications, shall apply to your child’s participation in
distance-learning classes. You understand and acknowledge
that all of the School’s policies and procedures apply to
students while participating in distance learning, you will
communicate these responsibilities to your child(ren),
and you will ensure that your child(ren) complies with all
School policies while participating in distance learning.
Distance learning will be conducted both asynchronously
page 6student participation in distance learning policy
In summary,
• The 2020-2021 school year will offer classes via Distance
Learning starting on Tuesday, September 1, 2020 (with
an orientation day on Monday, August 31, 2020) using
Zoom, Seesaw, and Canvas, as well as other online tools.
Please see our 2020-2021 Return to Campus webpage
for more information on Distance Learning.
• Policies and procedures in the Handbooks continue to
be in effect, including but not limited to:
• Expectations for academic honesty, including the
Honor Code as stated in each division’s student
handbook,
• Acceptable use and privacy policies, and
• Bullying and harassment policy.
• Group and one-on-one consultations will continue to
occur between students and teachers, advisors, learning
specialists, counselors, deans, and administrators during
regular school hours.
• Teachers/Administrators may record classes (not
advisory sessions or 1:1 meetings) to facilitate the
review of direct instruction for students who are absent
or who need reinforcement.
• Students should not record classes or meetings.
While minimal, there may be risks related to the use of
online platforms. You may review the Privacy Policy and
Terms of Use for Zoom. The School’s privacy policy can
be found here. It is important that parents/guardians
recognize and accept those risks as we continue with
distance learning. Your child’s participation in school
starting on the first day of the 2020-2021 academic year,
Tuesday, September 1, 2020 (with an orientation day on
Monday, August 31, 2020), serves as your acknowledgment
and understanding of the distance learning program and
agreement to the terms and conditions of the program and
the obligation to comply with the policies as described in
this policy.
page 7return to campus
policy for students
COVID-19 has been declared a worldwide pandemic by
the World Health Organization. While COVID-19 is very
health and safety
contagious, Gilman is taking precautions and implementing standards at school
safety measures to prevent its spread. All members of the It is imperative that all members of the Gilman community
Gilman community have a shared responsibility to support remain committed to the safety policies and procedures
and comply with policies and protocols to protect the to assist us in reducing risk of exposure to COVID-19 for
health and safety of our community. students, staff and faculty. The School expects families
The purpose of this Return to Campus Policy (the “Policy”) to comply with its Safety Protocols and the following
is to outline the safety measures Gilman students and requirements for a safe return to school:
their families will be expected to adhere to as they return • Daily Screening: On a daily basis, parents will be
to campus. In addition to this Policy, Gilman’s Task Force required to take their son’s temperature and answer
has also developed and implemented safety protocols and questions about symptoms and exposure. This
procedures in the Gilman Reopening Plan (the “Reopening information must be submitted via Gilman’s Magnus
Plan”), which can be accessed here. The Reopening Plan Health app before being allowed on campus. A student
more fully details the measures that Gilman is putting in who has a temperature higher than 100.0º F must not
place to mitigate the risk of the spread of COVID-19 as come to school.
Gilman reopens its campus with guidance from the Centers
• Wearing a Face Mask: Face masks must be worn to
for Disease Control and Prevention, Occupational Safety
school every day and must be worn at all times. Parents
and Health Administration, and in consultation with
should plan to provide masks that are well-secured and
medical experts, the Maryland Department of Health, the
constructed of cloth that fully covers a person’s nose
Baltimore City Health Department, and Gilman-specific
and mouth and fits snuggly to the sides of the person’s
data. The School will also weigh information from the
face. This does not include material with visible holes
Governor’s Office and the Maryland State Department of
or gaps like lace, knitted material, crochet, and/or mesh.
Education.
Face coverings with exhalation valves should not be
Both this Policy and the Reopening Plan may be revised used as they allow unfiltered air to escape. For more
or updated from time to time, as necessary or appropriate information, visit CDC: About Cloth Face Coverings.
and/or as the above-identified guidance. This Policy and We will have masks available for use by students who
the Reopening Plan, as revised from time to time, will be forget theirs.
in effect from August 1, 2020 until otherwise rescinded by
• Hygiene: Students must wash hands frequently
Gilman.
throughout the day, for at least twenty seconds,
Parents are expected to read, understand and adhere to including before and after meals and after using the
this Policy, and to ensure their child(ren) understand this restroom. Hand sanitizer will be placed throughout
Policy. Failure to comply with this Policy or the Reopening the school and can be used when hand washing is not
Plan may result in a student being sent home, disciplinary possible. Students should also cover their mouth and
consequences and or the removal of a student and his/ nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing, or cough
her family at the discretion of the Head of School. Parents or sneeze into their elbow.
who have questions should contact the School Nurse, Edie
• Stay Home if Sick: If your child is sick, or is exhibiting
Mecham or your son’s Division Head.
symptoms of COVID-19, they may not attend classes in
person. Distance-learning will continue to be provided
to those students who are sick, unable, or unwilling
page 8return to campus policy for students
to attend on-campus classes. Parents must notify the least two (2) emergency contacts who are able to pick
School Nurse if their child tests positive for COVID-19, up your child from the School within 30 minutes of
must keep their child home and should consult a receiving a call from the school if your child presents
healthcare provider. The School Nurse in consultation with a temperature or becomes ill during the school day.
with the School’s health team and the Baltimore City
Health Department will provide the family with
directions about the student’s return to school. health and safety
• Stay Home if Exposed: If your son has been exposed, standards at home
if someone in your household tests positive for To help to reduce the risk of COVID-19 exposure at the
COVID-19, or you believe that your child has been in School, the School asks all families to limit their attendance
close contact with an individual who is infected with at gatherings, events (sporting and other), and other activities
COVID-19, you must notify the School Nurse and to those that can maintain social distancing, in accordance
should consult a healthcare provider. The School Nurse with the School’s Safety Protocol. Avoid hosting or attending
in consultation with the School’s health team and the large gatherings where proper social distancing measures are
Baltimore City Health Department will provide the not feasible. Practice and reinforce good hygiene practices
family with directions about the student’s return to at home. The School, at its discretion, may require a 14-day
school. quarantine if it is determined that students are engaging in
• Restricted Travel: Any student returning from out-of- risky behavior as mentioned above. In some circumstances,
state travel (international or within the U.S.), especially students might be required to submit proof of a negative
from areas where the local or state health department COVID-19 test result before returning to campus.
is reporting large or rapidly increasing numbers of
COVID-19 cases, or whose household members have
traveled to such an area, is required to follow the
privacy
Maryland Department of Health guidelines for testing The School respects the right to privacy of any student
and self-quarantining. The School Nurse should be who has a communicable disease. All student records
notified. or information regarding communicable diseases will
be confidentially maintained by the School Nurse. The
• Flu Shots: All students attending on-campus classes
student’s medical condition will be disclosed only to the
during the 2020-2021 school year are expected to receive
extent necessary to minimize the health risks to classmates,
a flu shot.
employees, and the greater School community.
• Vaccines: All students must receive all vaccinations
required under state law or submit a medical exemption
signed by the student’s healthcare provider.
• Students’ Personal Items: Limit the items your child
brings onto campus each day and reinforce policies
around sharing of food, supplies and other items with
other students.
• Medical Forms and Emergency Contacts: Parents must
complete and submit all required student medical forms
prior to the first day of school. Parents must provide at
page 9return to campus policy for students assumption of risk COVID-19 is very contagious and is believed to spread by person-to-person contact; and, as a result, federal and state health agencies recommend social distancing and various other measures to mitigate the risk of contracting the virus. Gilman has implemented reasonable preventative protocols, policies and procedures designed to reduce the spread of COVID-19. Students and their families are expected to adhere to these protocols in order to reduce the risks of contracting or spreading the virus at Gilman. Despite the protocols and procedures in place to mitigate the risk of transmission of COVID-19 on campus, there are inherent risks that students and/or their families may become infected with COVID-19 due to the student’s participation in in person classes at Gilman. These risks include, but are not limited to, the following: exposure to COVID-19, becoming infected with COVID-19, or becoming a symptomatic or asymptomatic carrier of the virus. It is possible that a student is already an asymptomatic carrier of the virus before and that the student may infect other students, employees, or other individuals at Gilman as a result of his attendance. Any person who receives a positive diagnosis of COVID-19, including a student or his family member, may encounter extended quarantine/self-isolation, additional tests, medical care, hospitalization, other potential complications, and the risk of death. By allowing their child to participate in classes on campus, parents understand, acknowledge and voluntarily assume these risks. page 10
The Home and School Partnership
Social Responsibility During COVID-19 Is Essential
THE PARTNERSHIP BETWEEN HOME AND SCHOOL IS ESSENTIAL IN HELPING
TO ENSURE A SAFE AND HEALTHY CAMPUS FOR EVERYONE. OUR GILMAN
COMMUNITY HAS A SHARED RESPONSIBILITY TO PREVENT THE SPREAD OF
ILLNESS, ESPECIALLY COMMUNICABLE DISEASES.
To help reduce the risk of COVID-19 exposure at Gilman, the School expects all families
to AVOID:
• Hosting or attending gatherings, events, and other high-risk activities where proper social
distancing and mask wearing are not practiced.
• Attending rec and club sporting events and any other large affairs where social distancing
and mask wearing are not practiced.
• Unnecessary travel. Any student returning from out-of-state travel (international or within
the U.S.), especially from areas where the local or state health department is reporting large or
rapidly increasing numbers of COVID-19 cases, or whose household members have traveled to
such an area, is required to follow the Maryland Department of Health guidelines for testing
and self-quarantining. The School Nurse should be notified.
Families who engage in high-risk behavior, as described above, should
switch to remote learning and remain home for 14 days. The School
will enforce this policy if we learn about any such behavior.
In some circumstances, students might be required to submit proof
of a negative COVID-19 test result before returning to campus.
The School expects that families WILL:
• Wear masks in accordance with state and local guidelines.
• Practice and reinforce hygiene measures at home, like handwashing and covering
coughs and sneezes.
• Keep their son at home at the first sign of any illness.
Thank you for your continued partnership as, together, we navigate these uncharted waters.
The health and safety of our community members are top priorities. We are in this together.
page 11table of contents gilman school.................................................................................................................................................................................... 14 Gilman School Mission.......................................................................................................................................................................... 14 School History .......................................................................................................................................................................................... 14 the lower school............................................................................................................................................................................ 15 Lower School Philosophy...................................................................................................................................................................... 15 Lower School Profile............................................................................................................................................................................... 15 the school day................................................................................................................................................................................... 16 School Hours.............................................................................................................................................................................................. 16 Arrival........................................................................................................................................................................................................... 16 Lateness........................................................................................................................................................................................................ 16 Absences ...................................................................................................................................................................................................... 16 Dismissal...................................................................................................................................................................................................... 17 Emergency School Closings.................................................................................................................................................................. 17 the classroom.................................................................................................................................................................................... 18 Class Grouping/ Homerooms.............................................................................................................................................................. 18 Schedule....................................................................................................................................................................................................... 18 Homework.................................................................................................................................................................................................. 18 Parent Conferences.................................................................................................................................................................................. 19 Report Cards............................................................................................................................................................................................... 19 Standardized Testing............................................................................................................................................................................... 21 End-Of-Year Promotion Requirements............................................................................................................................................ 22 routines................................................................................................................................................................................................... 23 Assemblies................................................................................................................................................................................................... 23 Snacks............................................................................................................................................................................................................ 23 Lunch............................................................................................................................................................................................................. 23 Physical Education................................................................................................................................................................................... 23 Toys, Cell Phones, And Electronics................................................................................................................................................... 24 Backpacks.................................................................................................................................................................................................... 24 The Gilman School Store...................................................................................................................................................................... 24 Lost And Found......................................................................................................................................................................................... 24 The Gilman Exchange............................................................................................................................................................................. 24
table of contents beyond the classroom................................................................................................................................................................. 25 After School Program............................................................................................................................................................................. 25 Sibling Study Hall.................................................................................................................................................................................... 25 After-School Activities........................................................................................................................................................................... 25 After-School Music Lessons................................................................................................................................................................. 25 Field Trips.................................................................................................................................................................................................... 25 Community Outreach Projects........................................................................................................................................................... 25 Counseling Services ................................................................................................................................................................................ 26 rules and regulations................................................................................................................................................................ 27 Appearance And Dress Code................................................................................................................................................................ 27 Carpool/Parking........................................................................................................................................................................................ 27 Campus Security....................................................................................................................................................................................... 28 School Nurse And Health Center...................................................................................................................................................... 28 COVID-19s............................................................................................................................................................................................. 30 Medications........................................................................................................................................................................................... 30 Lower School Illness Policy............................................................................................................................................................ 30 Lower School Lice Policy................................................................................................................................................................. 30 Student Conduct And Behavior.......................................................................................................................................................... 30 Honor............................................................................................................................................................................................................ 31 The Gilman Five........................................................................................................................................................................................ 31 Anti-Bullying Policy................................................................................................................................................................................ 31 Online Bullying ........................................................................................................................................................................................ 32 lower school events, activities, and traditions............................................................................................... 33 Student Council........................................................................................................................................................................................ 33 Big Buddy/Little Buddy Program....................................................................................................................................................... 33 Upper School/Lower School Mentoring Program....................................................................................................................... 33 Birthdays...................................................................................................................................................................................................... 33 Fifth Grade Music.................................................................................................................................................................................... 33 Grandfriends’ Day.................................................................................................................................................................................... 34 Lower School Closing Exercises......................................................................................................................................................... 34 parent involvement..................................................................................................................................................................... 35 Communication With Non-Custodial Parents............................................................................................................................. 35 Parents At School...................................................................................................................................................................................... 35 Parents Association.................................................................................................................................................................................. 35 appendix.................................................................................................................................................................................................. 36 Parents Association Board of Governors......................................................................................................................................... 37 Gilman Publications................................................................................................................................................................................ 37 Campus Map.............................................................................................................................................................................................. 38
gilman school
gilman school mission Northern Parkway and Roland Avenue. In December of that
year the name of the School became “The Gilman Country
Gilman School is a diverse community dedicated to School for Boys” in honor of Dr. Daniel Coit Gilman, the
educating boys in mind, body, and spirit through particular first president of Johns Hopkins University. Dr. Gilman
emphasis upon academic excellence, athletic participation, was neither a founder nor a trustee, but he was greatly
and aesthetic appreciation. Gilman seeks to produce men interested in the School and gave invaluable advice to Mrs.
of character and integrity who have the skills and ability to Carey and the Founders. In 1951 the name was shortened
make a positive contribution to the communities in which to simply “Gilman School.” In 1947, Bradford Jacobs, of the
they live and work. class of 1938, a distinguished editor for the Baltimore Sun,
wrote a history of the School entitled Gilman Walls Will
school history Echo which is available in the library.
A centennial history of Gilman School, Gilman Voices
The School was established in 1897 and is said to be the
edited by Patrick Smithwick, class of 1969, is also available
first country day school in the United States. It grew from
in the library.
the idea of a Baltimore mother, Mrs. Francis King Carey,
who gained the support and advice of many distinguished Under the direction of the Department of Libraries, the
citizens of Maryland. Gilman Archives provides the School with an interesting
and informative link to its rich past. The Archives was
Mrs. Carey believed that there was need in the city for a
established permanently in September, 1974, and is located
school which would be as strong academically as any of the
in Carey Hall. The goal of the Archives is to organize all
famous boarding schools and which would also provide
memorabilia in such a way that present and future Gilman
every boy with opportunities for healthful participation in
generations may find what they want easily and quickly.
sports in a country atmosphere. By such a program the boys
Included in the Archives are photographs, both academic
would have all the advantage of living at home. From its
and athletic, newspaper clippings concerning the School
founding to the present, the School has followed this full-
and its alumni, documentary and historical material, and
day program of classes, study activities, and sports for every
past and present copies of school publications including
boy during the afternoon period.
the School’s newspaper, literary magazine, and yearbook.
At first the School was known as “The Country Day School
for Boys.” It was located at Homewood in the historic If anyone has an item that has any connection with
Carroll mansion on land that is now part of the Johns Gilman’s past or present, no matter how trivial it may
Hopkins University campus. After the University acquired seem, please donate it to the Archives. The item may be
the property, the trustees foresaw that it would not be an important artifact of great significance to the School.
practical to continue in rented facilities. They set about The Archives is open during school hours and invites any
searching for a site that could be bought, and in 1909 moved member of the Gilman community to stop by and enjoy a
the school to its present spacious location on the corner of glimpse into Gilman’s past.
page 14the lower school
lower school The Lower School encourages in each student a sense of
philosophy responsibility for himself and commitment to serve his
community. The school promotes respect for the dignity
The Lower School philosophy tailors Gilman’s mission and rights of others, recognizing that much is learned from
of educating students in mind, body, and spirit to fit boys the diverse cultural and ethnic backgrounds of the school
in pre-kindergarten through grade five. Our program community.
recognizes the unique needs of young boys, channeling
their natural energy, curiosity, and exuberance into learning
activities. The Lower School is challenging, warm, friendly, lower school profile
and supportive. The Lower School faculty is a highly qualified and
I. MIND passionate team of teachers and educational specialists.
All faculty members who teach academic subjects hold a
The academic program in the Lower School equips
Bachelor’s Degree or its equivalent from an accredited
students with strong fundamental skills across the
college or university. Over 70% also hold advanced degrees.
curriculum. We also encourage recognition of the
arts as important in and of themselves as well as being The Lower School includes grades pre-kindergarten through
inherent in all aspects of the curriculum. The program five and enrolls approximately 300 boys. The ratio of
stimulates creativity, initiative, and independent students to teachers is approximately 7:1 overall with typical
thought. It rewards hard work and encourages an instructional class sizes of 12-15.
appreciation of the value of learning.
II. BODY
Our goal in the Lower School is to teach and promote
fitness and habits of good health and sportsmanship.
To this end, each child regularly participates in
physical education, including swimming. The
program teaches coordination, balance, speed, and
other individual skills. It exposes boys to team sports
through non-contact activities such as flag football,
softball, and soccer.
III. SPIRIT
We believe that a person’s character forms his worth.
Thus, character development is at the heart of the
Lower School program. As each boy enters school each
morning, a handshake with an adult sets a tone of
civility and respect that is echoed throughout the day
in classes and in interaction with teachers and other
students. In addition, values and character are the
focus of the Weekly Meeting.
page 15the school day
(Assuming On-Campus Learning)
lateness
On regular school days, any student who arrives after 8:00
lower school hours a.m. will be marked “absent” and must report directly to the
Monday – Friday 8:00 a.m. to 3:15 p.m. office to sign in and obtain a late pass before going to his
classroom. We urge boys to arrive before 7:55 a.m. so they
can organize books and belongings before classes begin.
arrival Habitual lateness may be cause for disciplinary action.
Lower School students should arrive at school by 7:55 a.m.
For your son’s safety, parents must not bring children to
Gilman prior to 7:45 a.m.
absences
Please contact Tammy Testerman, the Lower School
Supervision begins when the doors are unlocked at 7:45 a.m.
Administrative Assistant, at ext. 381 before 8:00 a.m. on the
If not arriving late, boys should proceed directly to their
first day of any absence.
homeroom upon entering the building. Homeroom period
begins promptly at 8:00 a.m. Consistent attendance is essential; however, when children
are ill they should stay home. Please see the Lower School
This school year, our Tri-School Community -- Bryn Mawr,
illness policy on page 23.
Gilman, and Roland Park Country -- has collectively
decided on four Wednesday dates that school will begin Every effort will be made by teachers to help each boy
at 10:00 a.m.: catch up with his classmates after he has been absent due
to illness or other excused absence. We encourage parents
• Wednesday, October 7, 2020
to call in and request work for any extended absence.
• Wednesday, February 10, 2021 Homework/class work, if requested, may be picked up in
• Wednesday, March 3, 2021 the Lower School Office after 3:00 p.m.
• Wednesday, April 14, 2021 Teachers are not responsible for catching up boys with
unexcused absences. For your son’s progress and the quality
These late-start dates are an initiative intended to provide
of our teaching we request that parents do not extend any
your son’s teachers dedicated time for collaboration and
vacation period or long weekend; extensions are considered
professional development.
unexcused absences.
We ask that you please mark your calendars accordingly. If
Please make every effort to schedule dental and medical
your schedule allows, we hope you will be able to use late-
appointments outside of school hours.
start dates to arrange any doctor or dentist appointments,
Excused Absences: illness or injury, religious observance,
or to simply spend some extra time with your son.
inclement weather, family emergency, school visits.
Excused Late Arrival or Early Dismissal: tutoring,
Please note that these late openings apply to boys in all emergency medical appointment, inclement weather.
three divisions. Lower School students should not arrive at
Any absence, late arrival, or early dismissal not listed as
school until 9:45 a.m.
excused above will be noted as unexcused.
page 16the school day
dismissal emergency school
Normally, we place Lower School students into cars for closings
afternoon dismissal from 3:15-3:45 p.m. Children who walk or In inclement weather or any other extraordinary
ride a bike home or to a nearby school need to report to the Lower circumstance, Gilman may alter its regular arrival/dismissal
School office to sign out before they leave the building. Students times (close for the day, open late, or dismiss early).
who leave school, then return the same day, must sign back Parents will receive a text message and email
in with Tammy Testerman when they return. Boys who ride communication regarding school cancellations, delays, or
bikes to and from school must wear helmets and be able to early closures. Students and parents can also check Gilman’s
secure their bikes. website (www.gilman.edu), listen to a radio station (WBAL
In the interest of safety, it is important that all students or other snow-day report station), or tune into a local TV
be picked up no later than 3:45 p.m. (2:30 on 2:00 dismissal station for a specific announcement concerning Gilman.
days) The safety of our students and families is our chief
Due to COVID-19, it is especially important that Lower consideration when making these decisions. Of course, we
School boys are not allowed to roam the campus without cannot know specific weather conditions in all parts of
the supervision of a parent or designated adult or older the Baltimore area. If you feel at any time that your son
sibling. cannot travel safely to school, or that he should not stay for
The Lower School playground will be off limits until the full school day, we will understand and support your
further notice. decision. We only ask that you inform the Lower School
Administrative Assistant.
On certain days noted in the Lower School Parent Calendar,
we will dismiss all students at 2:00 p.m. to provide extra We urge you to pick up your son as soon as possible to
time for faculty professional development. enable our faculty and staff to get home safely.
Your Lower School calendar also indicates certain days
when school dismisses at 12:00 noon for a holiday period or
a faculty professional afternoon. In the interest of safety,
it is important that all students be picked up no later than
12:30 p.m. on 12:00 dismissal days.
Click here to view the Early Dismissal Schedule.
page 17the classroom
class grouping / homework
homerooms The primary purposes of homework are:
Students are grouped in a variety of ways in order to provide • To develop responsibility, good study habits, and
for both class and individual needs. Grouping promotes independent learning.
social/emotional maturity as well as cognitive development
and growth. • To learn effective time management
Each grade level has multiple homeroom groups. Placement • To apply learned concepts
in homerooms is determined after discussion and reflection • To reinforce rote material to assist the student in
by faculty and the Lower School Head. These groups are arriving at conceptual understanding more easily
heterogeneous, providing an opportunity for well-balanced • To reduce the time we must spend in class on drill
peer interaction. While we welcome parent input about
their child’s personality or learning style, we do not accept • To offer opportunity for individual and/or group
requests for a specific teacher or classmates, and once made, research and projects
all decisions are final. Homework is assigned in grades one through five on a daily
Due to COVID-19, rather than traveling between basis. Homework for Prep-One is at the discretion of the
classrooms for resource subjects (science, music, design and homeroom teacher. Individual teachers explain guidelines
woodworking, studio arts, foreign language, and library) for homework and homework procedures at the beginning
students will remain in their homerooms and the teachers of the year.
will come to those rooms. The numbers below represent guidelines for an average
student on an average night. If a student varies significantly
schedule: monday - from these norms on a regular basis, his teachers and parents
friday cycle should assess why and determine what, if any, adjustments
should be made to his homework load.
The Lower School schedule is based upon a traditional There will be occasional nights when the amount of
five-day cycle. homework may be significantly more or less than these
norms. Teachers will help boys to identify those times well
in advance and help them organize to avoid long nights.
If, in your judgment, your son has spent far too long on an
assignment, please tell him to stop, and attach a note from
the parent to the teacher explaining the circumstances.
page 18the classroom
typical nightly report cards
homework load The Lower School academic year is divided into trimesters,
Grade 1 15-30 minutes with a Grades & Comments Report provided shortly after
Grade 2 30-45 minutes the end of each trimester. Via the Parent Portal, parents will
have access to the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd Trimester reports.
Grade 3 45-60 minutes
In most subjects in grades one through five, teachers
Grade 4 about 1 hour assess students according to effort, conduct, and skills.
Grade 5 about 1 1/4 hours For children this age, it is important to stress effort over
achievement. We encourage each boy to always do his best.
Skills grades are a means of identifying a child’s current
PLUS: position on a developmental continuum. They are neither a
1. Outside reading (pleasure reading) can vary between measure of his worth nor a prize for intelligence or effort.
5-20 minutes per night, as appropriate for grade and For that reason, report cards are intended for parents’
child. eyes. Most children are not mature enough to understand
2. Long-term projects (term papers, debates, projects, the nature of skills grades, and many equate them with
etc.). Teachers will assign projects well in advance and “smartness” or “dumbness.” We encourage parents to
indicate interim dates when each stage is due. summarize effort and conduct grades with their children --
but to reserve skills marks for their own information.
Homework may be assigned over weekends but not over
holidays except for work on long-term projects. One point Children already know how their skills are progressing, as
of homework is for the boys to become more independent their teachers share this information with them daily. We
workers. Thus, it is best if parents limit their involvement recommend that parents review work that comes home with
to checking that the work is completed and discussing their sons and discuss both effort and skills as reflected in
books and other reading at mealtime. From time to time, that work.
you may need to give your son a bit of extra help, but if this To assist parents in interpreting effort, conduct, and skills
happens frequently, please let us know. Parents are asked grades a key for both K-2 and 3-5 is shown below.
to provide a quiet, well-lit place for the student to work.
Parents and students are encouraged to ask questions and
seek additional clarification about assignments, as needed. Report Card Key for Pre-K, Kindergarten and
Prep-One
parent conferences The Pre-K, Kindergarten and Prep-One report cards are
narrative-based, and the students do not receive a number or
Parents are invited to meet with their son’s teachers twice letter grade.
a year for a virtual discussion of his effort and progress. We
encourage all parents and guardians to participate in these
conferences. We ask that non-custodial parents please meet
at the same time as the custodial parent.
The 2020-2021 Parent-Teacher Conference Days are:
Friday, October 2 - Pre-K - 5th grade conferences
(school closed for all students)
Friday, January 22 - Pre-K - 5th grade conferences
(school closed for all students)
Conferences will be conducted via Zoom with your son’s
homeroom teacher. Other teachers may join the conference
as well. Parents are welcome to schedule an appointment
with any faculty member and/ or the Head of Lower School
at any time to discuss their son’s progress.
page 19You can also read
