PRESCHOOL 2020-2021 PARENT HANDBOOK
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PreSchool
2020-2021 Parent Handbook
5781 • t”pa,
Many of our usual policies and procedures will be superseded by our COVID-19 protocol,
the details of which will be sent out at the end of August and updated as necessary
throughout the year.
Learning together. For life.
1
Table of Contents
Table of Contents ............................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 2
Welcome ................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 3
Mission Statement ........................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 4
Philosophy ............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 5
School Year Calendar ..................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 6
Administration Extensions/Hotline Numbers ...............................................................................................................................................................7
Arrival & Dismissal Procedures ............................................................................................................................................................................................... 8
BT Plus ......................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 9
Emergency Communications........................................................................................................................................................................................11
Lunch ...................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 12
Kashrut Policy ........................................................................................................................................................................................................................ 13
Nut Awareness Policy ....................................................................................................................................................................................................... 13
Parent/School Communication ............................................................................................................................................................................................. 16
Website ....................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 16
Social Media Policy ....................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 18
Bullying and Harassment .......................................................................................................................................................................................................... 19
Discipline Policy.............................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 22
Important Information for Parents ...................................................................................................................................................................................... 23
Important Licensing Policy Information ......................................................................................................................................................................... 24
Medical Information ..................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 25
Immunization Policy.......................................................................................................................................................................................................... 25
AIMS Statement on Parents and Independent Schools......................................................................................................................................... 27
Parent Association .........................................................................................................................................................................................................................29
PreSchool Dress Code ................................................................................................................................................................................................................ 30
General Information ..................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 31
FAQ’s: Our PreSchool Reopening Plan ............................................................................................................................................................................33
2Welcome
Dear Families,
Welcome to the new school year!! We are so excited to have the children back “home” whether it’s online or in
person, for the great school experience called Beth Tfiloh.
As you know, we are grounded in the Reggio Emilia Approach, which was built with children at its center, and joy at
its core.
That is a perfect parallel to the Jewish concept of…………. ִﬠְב ֣דוּ ֶאת־ ְיֹה ָ֣וה ְבִּשְׂמחServing G-d with Joy
which is prominently displayed in the preschool lobby.
Our teachers and staff are committed to this concept, which you will hear more about as our theme for the year.
We look forward to a year of learning and joyful experiences with all of our children here at BT or in cyberspace!
Thank you for entrusting your children to us, and sharing in our mission.
Melissa Lebowitz
Director of the PreSchool
3Mission Statement
Beth Tfiloh Dahan Community School is a Jewish co-educational college preparatory school; its purpose
is to educate Jewish students from preschool through high school. The student body is diverse, including
families with varying religious, economic, cultural, and social backgrounds. Beth Tfiloh Dahan
Community School has been, and continues to, be unique in philosophy and curriculum, stressing the
values and traditions of our rich Judaic heritage and American democratic ideals, while preparing
students to meet local and global challenges of contemporary society.
Building Jewish Continuity
Beth Tfiloh Dahan Community School is committed to a modern approach to traditional Judaism and welcomes
children from a broad range of backgrounds and beliefs, recognizing and respecting the spiritual dignity of those
beliefs. Emphasis is placed on Torah, the love of G-d, love of Israel, and all of humanity in an atmosphere that
encourages social consciousness, community leadership, and a commitment to the highest standards of ethical
behavior. Beth Tfiloh Dahan Community School's responsibility to the Jewish community is to educate generations
of American Jews who are committed to Jewish practices and beliefs, knowledgeable about their heritage, versed in
Hebrew Language, and devoted to the Jewish community and the State of Israel.
Focusing on the Individual
Each student is encouraged to reach his or her full potential. The school embraces a range of learning styles and has
an academic support program and enrichment opportunities along with social and emotional support in every
division. A variety of electives and extracurricular programs in both Jewish and secular studies helps to tailor the
educational program to the needs and interests of each student.
Academic Excellence
We strive to provide a rigorous secular and Judaic program with the primary goal to develop each individual's
intellectual capabilities. The curriculum emphasizes content mastery, skill development, critical thinking, creativity,
self-knowledge, positive interpersonal relationships, independence, and love of learning in a nurturing environment.
Cutting edge technology is integrated in and supports the entire program. Comprehensive programs in arts and
athletics enrich the school’s academic offerings.
Commitment to the State of Israel
Beth Tfiloh Dahan Community School recognizes and affirms that the creation of the State of Israel is one of the
seminal events in Jewish history. Recognizing the significance of the State and its national institutions, we seek to
instill in our students an attachment to the State of Israel and its people, as well as a sense of responsibility for their
welfare.
4Philosophy
Beth Tfiloh PreSchool is dedicated to the belief that young children are active learners and that the PreSchool years
are of utmost importance to a child’s development. Our school provides an integrated combination of
developmentally appropriate activities as well as Jewish learning. Beth Tfiloh’s environment is warm, safe and
stimulating. It reflects the developmental needs of each individual child. Beth Tfiloh PreSchool welcomes children
of all abilities.
Our curriculum is child centered and focuses on the individual needs of each child. Our work stands on three
values: Joy, Discovery and Respect. We want each child to fully engage and enjoy his/her childhood as we
challenge each child to discover, think, develop ideas and take initiative. We believe that play is the basic right of
children and that it is through play that children develop curiosity and imagination. Every child reaches his or her
potential through child-initiated, adult-supported experiences. We respect each child’s individual interests and
capacity to learn. Our students develop a positive self-image and empathy through facilitated and caring
interactions with adults.
We lay the foundation for a lifelong love of Judaism through the teaching of Jewish values, concepts and
traditions. We foster a love for Israel and the Hebrew language.
We encourage parent involvement in their child’s education through opportunities for adult education, classroom
participation and family enrichment. We provide ongoing assessment of each child through parent-teacher
conferences and open communication. We believe that atmosphere of mutual support between parents and staff is
essential is creating an effective learning environment.
Teachers, Assistants, and Specialists
All staff members are experienced, highly motivated and devoted early childhood educators. They are required to
be certified in Early Childhood Education. All participate in programs for continuous professional advancement in
order to be aware of the ever-changing needs of today’s Jewish families and to the findings of current educational
research.
The staff works closely with the students and parents to provide a warm, loving and secure environment. Our first
priority is the children’s well-being physically as well as emotionally and mentally. We work to establish a strong
sense of independence and high self-esteem for each child.
5School Year Calendar
6Administration Extensions/Hotline Numbers
All Beth Tfiloh staff can be reached by a direct line: 410-413-2_ _ _ (the 3-digit extension)
Main phone number: 410-486-1900
Rabbi Mitchell Wohlberg Dean Ext. 215
Dr. Zipora Schorr Director of Education Ext. 305
Mrs. Laurie Kott Director of Admissions Ext. 308
Mrs. Allison Magat Director of Tuition and Financial Aid Ext. 310
PreSchool direct number: 410-526-9995 Fax: 410-526-5280
Mrs. Melissa Lebowitz Director, PreSchool Ext. 554
Mrs. Phaygi Chinn Administrative Teacher Resource Ext. 303
Ms. Ellen Feldman Administrative Assistant Ext. 445
Mrs. Wendy Quartner School Nurse Ext. 512
Mrs. Jessica Bazian School Nurse Ext. 512
Hotlines
Weather/Announcement: (410) 413-2345 /bethtfiloh.com/mybt
Sports Information: (410) 486-1900 menu option 6 then 4
Transportation Information: (410) 486-1900, menu option 6, then 5
Trip Information: (410) 413-2345
7Arrival & Dismissal Procedures
Hours of Operation
Two’s, Nov. 2s & Feb. 2s
Two Days (T, Th)..........8:45-11:30 am
Two Days (T, Th)..........8:45 am-1 pm (Lunch in school)
Two Days (T, Th)..........8:45 am-3:30 pm (Lunch in school)
Three Days (M, W, F)..........8:45-11:30 am
Three Days (M, W, F)..........8:45 am-1 pm (Lunch in school)
Three Days (M, W, F)..........8:45 am-3:30 pm (Lunch in school)
Fridays till 2 pm
Five Days ..........8:45-11:30 am
Five Days ..........8:45 am-1 pm (Lunch in school)
Five Days ..........8:45 am-3:30 pm (Lunch in school)
Fridays till 2 pm
Three’s
Three or Five Days (M-F)..........8:45 am-1 pm (Lunch in school)
Three or Five Days (M-F)..........8:45 am-3:30 pm (Lunch in school)
Fridays till 2 pm
Four’s
Five Days (M-F)..........8:30 am-1 pm (Lunch in school)
Five Days (M-F)..........8:30 am-3:45 pm (Lunch in school)
Fridays till 2 pm
8BT Plus
We are delighted to again offer our popular BT Plus program to provide extended day options for your child. Your
child will remain in the nurturing care of our very own PreSchool staff, who will provide age appropriate and
enjoyable activities throughout the afternoon.
Fridays: Please note that BT Plus will begin at 2 pm on Fridays all year long. BT Plus Friday dismissal will be at
3:30 pm starting on November 7, 2020. BT Plus will dismiss at 5:00 pm on Fridays.
Two’s
3:45 - 5 pm
1 - 2 pm Fridays only
2 - 3 pm Fridays only
2 - 4 pm Fridays only (3:30 pm from November 6, 2020-March 19, 2021)
2 - 5 pm Fridays only (3:30 pm from November 6, 2020-March 19, 2021)
Three’s, Four’s
3:45-5 pm
1-2 pm Fridays only
2-3 pm Fridays only
2-4 pm Fridays only (3:30 pm from November 6, 2020-March 19, 2021)
2-5 pm Fridays only (3:30 pm from November 6, 2020-March 19, 2021)
Inclement Weather
If we find it necessary to delay the opening or close school because of inclement weather (snow, ice, etc.),
information will be announced on the Beth Tfiloh Weather Hotline number: 410-413-2345 and posted on our
website. In addition, you may tune in to Radio Station WBAL, 6:30 am to 8:20 am. You may also subscribe to text
message notifications. Please see instructions below.
Arrival
ALL students will need to have their temperature checked at the Health Station before entering the carpool lines.
This will be in the far lot and designated by cones and a tent. All children and parents are required to wear masks
during Arrival and Dismissal times.
Arrival for PreSchool 4s will be between 8:30 am and 8:45 am. Parents can drop off their 4s children at any point
during these 15 minutes. There is a designated carpool line for PS 4s. There will be staff outside and inside to ensure
that we are abiding by social distancing guidelines as children enter the building and wait with their classroom
teachers.
Arrival PreSchool 3s and 2s students anytime between 8:45 am and 9:00 am and will have two designated lines for
carpool. They will be entering the building through separate entrances. The 3s will be entering through the LS Main
entrance and the 2s will enter through the Zimmerman entrance on the side by the soccer field and brought to their
classroom teacher.
9Dismissal
Dismissal for 2s and 3s will be 3:30 pm-3:45 pm. 4s will be dismissed from 3:45pm-4:00pm
More details will follow.
Late Pick-Up Policy
Your child looks forward to seeing you on time every day.
If, however, circumstances cause you to be late at dismissal (or BT Plus), your Beth Tfiloh account will be assessed a
fee of $25. This fee will appear on your monthly FACTS statement.
If you have an emergency and cannot pick up your child(ren) on time, please call the PreSchool Office at
410-413-2303. If we cannot be reached, please call the Lower School Office at 410-413-2500.
If you need to contact the PreSchool after 4 pm, please call the security desk at 410-413-2333, and they will contact
the BT plus teachers.
Thank you for your cooperation.
10Emergency Communications
In the event of an unscheduled school closing or other event requiring emergency communication with members of
our school community, Beth Tfiloh may utilize the following avenues of communication, as appropriate for the
particular circumstance:
• Information Hotline: 410-413-2345
• Text messages & email: Beth Tfiloh parents and students can choose to receive text messages and email
alerts for important announcements. These notification settings are available on our website and all parents have
the ability to access and change their text settings at any time. To enable text messaging and email alerts, go to
bethtfiloh.com/mybt to login to the BT Website. Click on your name (upper right-hand corner), then “Settings,"
and then “Notifications.” Verify (or add) your email address and your text number. Click “Edit Options” to
choose which notifications you wish to receive and click “Save”. You will then be sent a text message with an
activation code to activate text messaging. For illustrated instructions, go to www.bethtfiloh.com/notifications.
To update your email address contact Laura Wolf at lwolf@btfiloh.org.
• Website: A notice will be posted on the Recent Activity feed of our MyBT portal (bethtfiloh.com/mybt).
• Radio & Television: An announcement will be posted on WBAL Radio 1090 AM, and on WBAL TV Channel 11.
• Social Media: Follow our Facebook page: Facebook.com/bethtfiloh.
11Lunch
At Beth Tfiloh PreSchool we encourage and promote independent eating. Although we are happy to help with the
opening of food containers and packaging, we allow our children to choose the order and amount food they eat.
Please keep this in mind when packing their lunches.
When packing lunch from home, BT encourages parents to give their children a well-balanced lunch containing
nutritious foods they will enjoy. We also understand that lunches have been carefully prepared according to family
nutritional preferences and needs (i.e. allergies, etc.). We therefore don’t allow trading or sharing lunches or snacks
with classmates.
Lunches do not have to be only sandwiches. Wide-mouthed insulated containers are available at discount and drug
stores. These can be used to send a variety of good things for lunch. Most foods can be put in the freezer the night
before to chill substantially. The following ideas and suggestions are for good nutritious lunches:
• Dairy products (e.g. cheeses, cream cheese, cottage cheese, yogurt)
• Eggs or egg salad
• Tuna salad
• Salmon (smoked or regular)
• Jams and jellies
• All vegetables and fruits, coleslaw or salad
• Water or juices
• Fresh fruit with yogurt or cottage cheese and a fruit muffin or bread
• Bagel with lox and cream cheese, tomato slices, celery/carrot sticks, and fruit
All lunches must be packed in a disposable lunch bag and each item as well including disposable drinks.
Items needing to be refrigerated must be packed in a clear Ziploc bag at home, labeled with the child’s name
Students are not to bring Lunchables or any other items that have no Kashrut certification. These items are
unacceptable under our Kashrut policy.
Precautions are taken for children with peanut allergies.
12Kashrut Policy
Kashrut at School
Kashrut is an important concept of Judaism that is taught at Beth Tfiloh. It is approached with sensitivity, especially
because there are so many different levels of Kashrut observance represented among the Beth Tfiloh school
population. Our goal at Beth Tfiloh is to ensure that every child is comfortable at our school, whatever his/her
background may be.
Beth Tfiloh's in-house food preparation for our school lunch program and other school and synagogue events is
under the Kashrut supervision of Rabbi Chaim Sitrin, Mashgiach.
Lunches brought from home must be dairy or pareve only. (Pareve is a category of foods that is neither meat nor
dairy; examples are vegetables, grains, fruits, juice, rice, and fish). Students may not bring meat or poultry products
into school.
All food, including snacks or cakes, brought into school to be shared with the class must have Kosher certification.
Absolutely no homemade food items may be distributed, even if the family has a Kosher home. Any food served
after lunch on a meat hot lunch day must be pareve.
For specific questions, please contact your school office.
Kashrut Outside of School
We take great pride in the fact that Beth Tfiloh Dahan Community School embraces the concept of Klal Yisrael (the
diversity of the Jewish community) and aims to create an environment that is inclusive of all of our children,
respecting the dignity of all levels of religious observance. We believe that derech eretz, thoughtfulness and respect
for one another, concepts our children learn here at Beth Tfiloh, extend beyond the classroom and inform our
treatment of others outside of our school walls.
Any birthday party, Bar/Bat Mitzvah, or other event that includes Beth Tfiloh classmates should be an opportunity
for all guests to fully participate and feel welcome.
Acceptable bakeries: Rosendorff’s, Goldberg’s, Sion's, Pariser’s, Seven Mile Market, or Dunkin’ Donuts (Colonial
Village and Reisterstown Rd. near Old Court locations only)
Most grocery stores carry Kosher items, which are acceptable if they carry the following symbols of Kashrut
certification:
Please note:
The letter “D” together with one of the symbols above indicates “Dairy.”
The letter “K” without any accompanying logo is not an acceptable certification.
See also the school’s Nut Awareness Policy.
To enable our school community to achieve the ideals of inclusivity, respect and thoughtfulness, we have included
the following resources:
Guidelines and FAQ’s about Kosher Food
13Nut Awareness Policy
Our aim is to provide a safe learning environment for all people in our school community. To support this, Beth
Tfiloh Dahan Community School is a “Nut-Aware School.” This policy aims to increase our community awareness,
in order to minimize the risk to children with documented allergies to nut products.
Anaphylaxis is a severe form of allergic reaction which is potentially life threatening. There are many causative
agents for anaphylaxis with nuts often being the precipitating factor. Anaphylaxis is preventable. Avoidance of
specific triggers is by far the best option. Management is via immediate injection of adrenaline and emergency
transfer to the hospital.
This means that we encourage parents, children and staff to avoid bringing foods that contain nuts to school.
Products that contain nuts include:
• Peanut butter
• Nut spreads such as Nutella
• Most fruit and nut bars, energy bars, and muesli bars
• Many cereals, crackers, and cookies
• Some biscuits
• Chocolates and any other products that have nuts listed in the ingredients
• Bamba
School Responsibilities
• Reinforce appropriate avoidance and management strategies.
• Keep updated Health Care Plan information.
• On advice from a Health Care Plan, individual classes may need to develop class specific measures.
• Ensure that the cafeteria and other school lunch providers are sensitive of the Nut Awareness Policy.
• Provide additional information to classes with children who have had previous anaphylactic reactions to
nuts.
• Ensure that any food items donated for school events such as special holidays are nut-safe.
Parent Responsibilities
Parents/caregivers of children with previous anaphylactic reactions:
• Provide the school with a Health Care Plan with a documented plan for first aid response and an
Epi-pen/Auvi Q to be kept in a clearly defined location agreed to by parents and the school.
• The name and contact details of the doctor who signed the Health Care Plan.
• Support the class teachers and other staff in implementing the Health Care Plan.
All Parents are asked to support the school’s Nut Awareness Policy by:
• Being sensitive and supportive to the needs of students with a history of anaphylaxis.
• Providing children with healthy food options that do not contain nuts.
• Encouraging children to wash their hands before and after eating.
14Staff Responsibilities
All Staff are asked to support the school’s Nut Awareness Policy by:
• Incorporating it as part of the class health program.
• Teaching children the importance of washing their hands before and after eating.
• Reminding students and parents of the Nut Awareness Policy prior to school events where food is available
for sharing and /or purchase.
• Have up to date training in:
§ What is an allergy?
§ What is anaphylaxis?
§ What are the triggers for allergy and anaphylaxis?
§ How is anaphylaxis recognized?
§ How can anaphylaxis be prevented?
§ What should be done in the event of a child having a severe allergic reaction?
§ Epi-pen/Auvi Q use
Promoting the nut awareness policy
The policy will be promoted by:
• Parents and caregivers being informed via this newsletter
• Publication on the school website
• Staff being informed and provided with training opportunities
15Parent/School Communication
Communication is a crucial part of our program, we believe that the connection between ourselves, our children and
our families is what makes our program unique and successful. In our program you can expect at least three types
of communication:
1. Daily emails & Seesaw Posts: Each day, your child’s teacher will send you an email. These emails bring you
into our daily adventures, so you can connect with your child at home. These emails often highlight
comments or ideas from different children throughout the year.
2. Documentation stories: These are stories that are specifically about a special moment that your child
experienced by his/her self or with their class. They may get sent to you by email and/or hung on the
classroom or hallway walls.
3. Parent-Teacher conferences: You will have a chance to meet with your teachers for a conference two times
per year. At this conference you will discuss your child’s acclimation to school, social/emotional, physical,
language and academic development. The teacher will show you documentation that demonstrates their
progress and answer any questions you may have.
4. Parent-Teacher communication: If you have a need at any time to speak with your child’s teacher, please feel
free to call or email during the day. The teacher will respond to you by the end of the day.
5. If there is an emergency, please call the PreSchool office at 410-413-2303.
6. If your child is enrolled in our BT Plus program and you need to contact the teacher, please call
410-486-1900 x371.
Website
The Beth Tfiloh "PreSchool Today” Resource page is located on our secure MyBT portal (login required) and
provides access to announcements, news, events, flyers, forms and other resources specifically for PreSchool
students and parents. The PreSchool homepage is available to students and parents by logging into our secure web
portal using the “Sign In” link OR by going directly to www.BethTfiloh.com/MyBT. Once you have successfully
logged in, you will be able to view news, resources, the school calendar, update your profile, and search the school
directory.
The Beth Tfiloh website includes the following helpful resources:
CHILDREN – direct links to your child’s grade level page and other group pages.
GROUPS – provides access to the BT Parent and BT Student group page, with general information relevant to all
parents and students.
16RESOURCES – “PreSchool Today” and other frequently used resources for parents and students, including a link to
the Academic Portal with report cards and emergency information, Health Information with your child’s health
forms and records, Dress Code Information with links to approved vendors and more.
NEWS – a running list of Recent Activity specific to you and your child’s classes and groups.
CALENDARS – school-wide and division calendars with filtering options.
DIRECTORIES – a searchable directory of Beth Tfiloh students, parents, faculty & alumni.
NOTIFICATIONS – choose how you wish to receive important school notifications. Click on your name,
click “Settings” and select “Notifications.” For more details see, www.bethtfiloh.com/notifications.
Our website also includes an Information Hotline at www.BethTfiloh.com/hotline, which includes timely messages
and school closings due to inclement weather.
For login questions, use the Login Help link, view our online Website Help at www.bethtfiloh.com/help, or contact
Laura Wolf at 410-413-2431. For other questions about our school website, contact Erin Smith at esmith@btfiloh.org
or 410-413-2322.
17Social Media Policy
This policy and accompanying guidelines are designed to create an atmosphere of goodwill, honesty, and individual
accountability for all members of our school community while using social media. All Beth Tfiloh Dahan
Community School students and parents/guardians represent the school, even when they are communicating
electronically and posting on social media outside of school. Any individual who violates this policy may be subject
to disciplinary action as appropriate. In addition, students who fail to abide by the terms and conditions of this
policy may lose their opportunity to take part in projects utilizing online sites and/or access to future use of online
tools.
Policy
All Beth Tfiloh students and parents shall abide by the policy set forth below in all electronic and online
communications as they relate to the Beth Tfiloh school community:
• Maintain an atmosphere of goodwill, respect, and derech eretz (as defined in Code of Conduct).
• Follow the school’s Code of Conduct and Bullying Policy. Cyberbullying will not be tolerated.
• What is inappropriate in the school environment is inappropriate in electronic and online communications.
While it is acceptable to disagree with someone else’s opinions and provide constructive criticism, it must be
done in a respectful way that is not hurtful to others.
• Representing oneself falsely through the use of someone else’s identity is illegal and will be treated as such.
• Conduct oneself with derech eretz and in accordance with this policy when posting pictures or videos of any
activities or individuals at activities taking place on school grounds or at school-sponsored events. Do not
post embarrassing or maliciously-intended pictures or videos of such activities. Posting appropriate pictures
or videos with the consent of the subject(s) is permissible.
• Do not post or otherwise distribute any information that might be deemed personal about other students.
Tagging or otherwise identifying students in photos, videos, or other posts is strictly prohibited, unless they
have consented to such action.
• Parents/guardians are required to comply with the core principles of the AIMS publication, “Parents and
Independent Schools,” in electronic and online communications, as in all of their endeavors.
• Efforts by parents/guardians to lobby other parents via social media or other means would be in violation of
school policy.
Guidelines
• Be aware of what you post online. Social media venues are public by default. What you contribute leaves a
digital footprint for all to see. The manner in which you represent yourself online is an extension of yourself.
Do not post anything you would not want friends, enemies, parents, teachers, other schools, or a future
employer to see.
• Be safe online. Never give out personal information such as last names, phone numbers, addresses, exact
birthdates, and pictures with identifying information.
• Do not share your passwords with anyone besides your parents/guardians and teachers.
• Disable location-based tagging for all photos and status updates.
• If you come across inappropriate material that makes you feel uncomfortable or you find is disrespectful, tell
a trusted adult.
Do not post pictures of other individuals online without their consent.
18Bullying and Harassment
It is fundamental to the values of Beth Tfiloh Dahan Community School that we create and ensure for students a
warm, welcoming and secure learning environment. Bullying is clearly at odds with these values and will not be
tolerated. It may come in various forms and can leave victims hurt, distressed, and frightened, preventing successful
learning from taking place. Our Bullying Policy and Social Media Policy go hand in hand. Please read and refer to
both policies when necessary.
Prohibition against Bullying: Bullying of students occurring in school is prohibited and will not be tolerated.
Our Code of Conduct outlines derech eretz, the expectation of positive behavior and respect for all. This policy
governs behavior in, but is not limited to: school buildings; school grounds; school-sponsored activities including
social events, field trips, sports events, and similar school-sponsored events and functions; and travel to and from
school and/or school-sponsored events, and any form of electronic communication, such as but not limited to
texting, emails, and social media.
Definition of Bullying: Typically, bullying is a continuing pattern of intimidation, harassment, or abuse by one
or more persons against another person or persons, through verbal, nonverbal, physical, digital, or written
interactions in a relationship characterized by a real or perceived imbalance of social or physical power or strength
or an attempt to gain dominance over another. It can take many forms and occur in virtually any setting. Bullying
includes, but is not limited to, the following types of behavior:
• Unwelcome sexual advances
• Physical or emotional aggression against students
• Assaults on student property
• Cyberbullying (bullying through the use of technology or any electronic device, which includes sharing of
offensive language or images)
• Oral or written threats, including by electronic means
Intervention and Response to Alleged Bullying: Bullying is not acceptable at Beth Tfiloh; it undermines
the school’s mission and has strong effects on students. All claims will be considered urgent and will receive a full
investigation to determine appropriate action. Teachers and administrators work to investigate the full scope of
each incident to evaluate the impact or outcome of the behavior, and thus whether or not an individual’s behavior is
considered bullying. (See Chain of Command at end of policy.) The appropriate Divisional Administrative Team,
consisting of the division’s guidance counselor, assistant principal, and principal, will assess the incident. School
officials will act promptly to impose corrective action as necessary.
Depending upon the severity of the incident, the Divisional Administrative Team may implement a student safety
plan; separate and supervise the students involved; provide staff support for students; and/or develop a supervision
plan with parents/guardians. In addition, the Divisional Administrative Team may require the offender(s) to work
with school personnel on better behavior; recommend that the offender(s) obtain counseling or other therapeutic
services; and/or impose disciplinary action or other measures, as deemed necessary. The parents/guardians of
students who bully others shall be notified and may be summoned to school to seek their support to change the
behavior of their child.
19Possible Consequences:
• Conference with the student and/or parent(s)/guardian(s) to provide student with corrective feedback
• Review of behavioral expectations
• Mediation of conflict between student or students and staff on a case by case basis
• Creation of behavior contracts that include expected behaviors, consequences for infractions, and incentives
for demonstrating positive behaviors
• Student completion of community service tasks
• Development of an open communication system between parents/guardians and school officials in order to
address in a collaborative manner issues the student may be facing
• Reflective activity, such as writing an essay, about the offense and how it affected the student, others, and
the school
• Loss of a privilege
• Adjustment of the student's class schedule or placement to maximize behavioral improvement
• Creation of a check-in/check-out intervention plan for the at-risk student with a caring adult in the school
who tracks the student's behavioral progress and addresses his/her individual needs on a daily basis
• Requirement of daily or weekly check-ins with an administrator for a set period of time
• Referral of student to counselor, social worker, or outside support source
• Working with the student to choose an appropriate way for him/her to apologize and make amends to those
harmed or offended
• Recommendation that the student receive outside professional services
• Detention or in-school suspension, during which the student completes his/her work
• Suspension
• Expulsion
• Police report
• Recording incident on student’s academic record for an unspecified period of time
We are committed to the view that ALL members of our school community-students, staff, and parents/guardians -
have a shared responsibility to ensure that a climate of derech eretz exists where bullying is unacceptable and will
not be tolerated. In the event that the school administration deems a child’s behavior as detrimental to the safety of
other members of the school community, the most severe consequences will be imposed.
Chain of Command
• School employees shall promptly report incidents of bullying to a member of the Divisional Administrative
Team.
• A member of the Divisional Administrative Team shall promptly share information with the Director of
Education.
• The Director of Education shall confer with the Divisional Administrative Team.
• On a case-by-case basis, a member of the Divisional Administrative Team shall contact the
parents/guardians of the student(s) involved and might summon the parents/guardians to school for a
meeting with certain teachers and/or members of the Divisional Administrative Team.
20Advice for Parents/Guardians
Parents/guardians can help by discussing bullying with their children, particularly these key points:
• NO person should suffer physical harm or personal abuse.
• It is an act of courage to report bullying, if it is happening to you OR if, as a bystander, you see it happening
to someone else.
• Bullying is NOT a part of the normal growing up experience. Discuss with your child what is friendly vs.
unfriendly teasing, or bullying vs. not bullying.
• Fall-outs and changes of friendship groupings are common in young people, but efforts should be made by
all to ensure this does not lead to the isolation of any individual.
• The school takes reports of bullying seriously and is prepared to discuss the matter in confidence.
• Each case is treated individually; some require no more than a quiet word, but extreme cases will result in
firm action, including police involvement if necessary.
Advice for All Students
• TELL SOMEONE - discuss with, write, or email an adult you trust, such as a parent, guardian, teacher, tutor,
guidance counselor, principal, or coach.
• REMEMBER - the school will investigate claims of bullying and will do so in a sensitive way, so that those
concerned are treated fairly and justly.
• If you are a bystander, ELIMINATE bullying by REPORTING incidents you see. Do not join in with bullying.
• SUPPORT those who experience bullying.
• VALUE the diversity that exists in our students and do not let differences give rise to inappropriate
behavior.
If you are being bullied – TELL someone that you trust. You have the right to be and feel safe. IT’S NOT YOUR
FAULT!
If you are bullying someone --
• Do you know why and how you are bullying others?
• Bullying at school will not win you any real friends.
• Ask for help to stop you from bullying others; try talking to an adult you trust.
BULLYING IS UNACCEPTABLE AND IS NOT TOLERATED.
SOURCES:
www.kidscape.org.uk
www.olweus.org/public/bullying.page
21Discipline Policy
Joy, Discovery, and Respect are our values. These values are deeply embedded in all that we do including in our
approach to discipline.
“Each child has within a spark of divinity.”
Social challenges are a natural part of children's growth and development. At Beth Tfiloh, we see these as
opportunities to teach self-regulation and social skills that will last a lifetime. Because our school's curriculum is
based on a strong understanding of developmentally appropriate practice, our teachers view each child as unique
and competent.
Our classrooms inspire children to be actively engaged which in turn prevents typical preschool challenges. Should
behaviors arise, we practice redirection, logical and natural consequences and conflict resolution. We demonstrate
our confidence in children by providing them the opportunity to make choices in their environment and to have
flexibility in their own school experience.
In cases of more complex challenges we will work together with your family to create a plan for your child’s success.
As with all other areas of our program we value our open communication with our families. Families are always
encouraged to reach out for support by speaking with us to get a full picture of their child’s environment.
22Important Information for Parents
Child Abuse/Neglect
Beth Tfiloh Dahan Community School and its faculty and staff are mandated reporters of child abuse and neglect
under Maryland law, and, as such, the school has established a Reporting Protocol for Suspected Child
Abuse/Neglect. If any member of our faculty or staff has reason to suspect abuse has occurred at home, school, or
anywhere else, the school is required to make a report to local law enforcement authorities and/or Child Protective
Services. The school administration will contact and notify the non-offending parent(s) or caretaker of the student in
question after the school has discharged its duty as a mandated reporter and provided that this communication is
authorized by Child Protective Services and/or law enforcement officials. Any further questions about this policy
can be directed to Dr. Zipora Schorr, Director of Education, the principal of your child’s division, or the applicable
school counselor.
Right of Privacy
Access to and release of pupil’s records must be with the written permission of the student’s parent or legal guardian
or a student of 18 years of age and over. No records will be transferred without written permission of the student’s
parent or legal guardian or student 18 years of age and over. Only parents, legal guardian, or students 18 years of
age and over will have access to the student records. This takes place only in the presence of a School Official. A
log will be maintained concerning the name of the viewer, date accessed, and a description of the records viewed.
Nondiscrimination Policy
Beth Tfiloh Dahan Community School is a member of the Association of Independent Maryland Schools (AIMS)
and abides by the following policy on admission: “Beth Tfiloh Dahan Community School is committed to the
principle of nondiscrimination on the basis of race, color, national and/or ethnic origin, or sexual orientation.”
AIMS Statement of Confidentiality
As an AIMS (Association of Independent Maryland Schools) member school we agree to abide by the procedures
and statement expressed below.
• The Family Rights and Privacy Act (Buckley Amendment) does not apply to Admission Folders.
• All information provided on a recommendation form will be held in strictest confidence and will not be shared
with students, parents or guardians.
• If a student is rejected for admission, the recommendation will be destroyed.
• If a student is admitted and if the school wishes to retain the recommendation, it will be filed separately and
not added to the student's permanent record folder.
23Important Licensing Policy Information
Registration/Schedule Changes
Due to licensing regulations we are unable to accommodate short term changes to your child’s schedule.
This means that students may be here during their contracted times only, per your application.
For long-term changes: Changes in scheduling to reduce the number/length of days will be accepted until
November 1st. After that date, there will be a $25 surcharge. There is no surcharge to increase the
number/length of days (subject to availability). All changes must be made through the PreSchool office.
We have many special events during the school year. If an event is during a time your child is not
registered for, you are welcome to attend and remain with your child. Please discuss with your child’s
teacher in advance.
Napping Policy
As required by the Maryland State Department of Education licensing for pre-schools, Beth Tfiloh
PreSchool requires that all children rest for a minimum of 1 hour per day. While many of our children
utilize this time for an afternoon nap, others may rest on their cot with a quiet activity (i.e. read, books on
tape, etc.).
24Medical Information
A nurse is available from 8 am to 3:45 pm in the Health Suite. In the event of an emergency, the nurse is contacted
immediately and it is she who makes the decisions about appropriate plans of action. For the safety and well-being
of all children and staff, it is Beth Tfiloh's policy that parents notify the nurse when a child is on medication.
The Baltimore County Health Department dictates that the school is not permitted to administer any medication
without written consent from a physician. All prescription medication must be handed directly to a school nurse.
In addition, no student is permitted to self-administer medication.
Approved non-prescription medications will be made available, with written parental consent, in an effort to relieve
minor discomforts which impede student learning.
The use of crutches, orthotic boots, and wheelchairs may be necessary when faced with an injury. However, having
these items in school can be both dangerous and disruptive. If these, or similar devices are required, the school
requires a note from a recommending physician.
Health and Safety
Please keep your child home if:
• Your child has a fever greater than 100 degrees.
• Your child is vomiting.
• Your child has a heavy nasal discharge or constant cough.
• Your child has an untreated parasitic condition such as lice or pinworm.
• Your child has had two or more episodes of diarrhea within 24 hours.
• Your child has a communicable or contagious disease. Notify the school immediately if your child has a
communicable disease. A physician’s note is required for readmission after your child has had a
communicable or contagious disease.
A child may only return to school after being symptom-free for 24 hours. Please note: there are
separate protocols for symptoms of COVID-19.
Immunization Policy
Beth Tfiloh mandates that all students have all immunizations required under Maryland law, without regard to
religious exemption or medical contraindication. The complete list of required immunization is available on
students' Magnus Health Portal and on the Maryland Department of Health website
at phpa.health.maryland.gov. All new students (and students in specified grades) must provide an Immunization
Certificate signed by their health care practitioner, indicating that their immunizations are up to date, and
upload the certificate to their Magnus Health Portal. Any questions should be directed to our School Nurse.
25Lice Policy
Each case of head lice is addressed individually by our school nurse. Once it is determined that the family is treating
the case thoroughly, the child will be permitted to attend school, with their hair covered or pulled back. Prior to re-
entry into the classroom, the child must first report to the nurse for a recheck. The nurse will continue to monitor the
child and check possible contacts as needed.
About head lice: Head lice require human hosts and cannot be spread by or survive on animals. Although unable to
jump or fly, head lice can easily maneuver through strands of hair. Head lice are common across all socio-economic
lines and are not a sign of uncleanliness.
Sleepovers, children playing closely together, and sharing of brushes and hats create prime opportunities for the
head-to-head contact allowing head lice to spread. Braid or tie back long hair and remind your children to avoid
direct head-to-head contact. Diligent weekly screening is your best course of action.
Lice Happens, a professional head lice removal company, recommends that parents screen their children’s hair by
first detangling damp hair after a shower or bath, then running a metal nit comb through the hair and wiping the
comb on a paper towel to see if the comb renders any lice or nits. Terminator Lice Combs are available for purchase
in the Lower and Upper School Health Suites.
26AIMS Statement
on
Parents and Independent Schools
To be successful, every independent school needs and expects the cooperation of its parents, who must understand
and embrace the school’s mission, share its core values, and fully support its curriculum, faculty and staff. When
joined by a common set of beliefs and purposes, the independent school and its parents form a powerful team with
far-reaching positive effects on children and the entire school community.
Working together, parents and school professionals exert a strong influence on children to become better educated;
they also help them to mature by modeling adult working relationships based upon civility, honesty, and respect.
In practice, the greatest impediment to effective teamwork between independent schools and parents grows out of
misunderstandings about school decision-making processes: Who makes decisions in independent schools? How
are those decisions made? Independent schools must communicate their procedures to parents, who, in turn, share
the important responsibility to become informed members of the school community.
Parents and the Board of Trustees
In most independent schools, decision-making authority at the highest level resides in a volunteer Board of Trustees
whose membership often includes current parents. The Board of Trustees does not intervene in the daily affairs of
the school, such as curriculum development and hiring, evaluating, or firing of faculty and staff. Instead, the Board
focuses on three areas critical to the success of any independent school: it selects, evaluates, and supports the Head
of School, to whom it delegates authority to manage the school; it develops broad institutional policies that guide
the Head in running the school; and it is accountable for the financial well-being of the school. In the conduct of its
official business, the Board acts only as a whole; individual Trustees, including the Board Chair, have no authority to
act unless specifically authorized to do so by the Board acting as a whole.
• AIMS encourages parents who are interested in high-level decision making to stay informed about the work of the
Board of Trustees by reading school publications, talking to the Head of School, and attending appropriate
meetings.
• Parents with concerns about the school or with decisions made by the administration or faculty are encouraged to
inquire about and follow the school’s review process, but they should not expect the Board of Trustees to act as an
appeals board. In a day school, trustees often interact with others within the school community and hear concerns
about the daily operation of the school. As a matter of good practice, the trustee reports those concerns to the Head
of School.
Parents and the Faculty and Administration
Parents play an essential and positive role in the life of an independent school. Not only are parents advocates for
their children, they also support the faculty and administration through extensive volunteer activities and events.
The relationship between parents and the faculty and administration is formally governed by the school’s written
enrollment contract and handbook, in which its procedures are spelled out. When parents choose to enroll their
27child in an independent school, they agree to subscribe to its mission, follow its rules, and abide by its decisions.
However, most teachers and administrators would agree that trust and mutual respect are the most essential
underpinnings of effective working relationships with parents.
• AIMS encourages parents to work productively with teachers and administrators by staying informed about their
child and important events in the life of the school. Thoughtful questions and suggestions should be welcomed by
the school. It is incumbent upon the school to provide parents with timely and pertinent information.
• Parents best support a school climate of trust and respect by communicating concerns openly and constructively
to the teacher or administrator closest to the problem. Efforts by parents to lobby other parents will be viewed by the
school as counterproductive.
• While parents may not agree with every decision by the school, in most cases, the parent and school will find
enough common ground to continue a mutually respectful relationship. In the extreme case, however, an impasse
may be so severe that the parent cannot remain a constructive member of the community. In such cases, both the
parent and the school should consider whether another school would be a better match for the family.
The Parents Association and the School
The Parents Association in an independent school provides a vital and much-appreciated service to school
leadership and the entire school community. Because the Parents Association is so important, and its volunteer
activities potentially so wide-ranging, AIMS recommends the following steps to structure and clarify the
Association’s role.
• The Board of Trustees, in consultation with the administration, should develop a set of written by-laws for the
Association that make clear its procedures and role as a service organization.
• The by-laws should clearly state the Association’s mission to support the decisions and policies of the Board and
administration. The Parents Association neither participates in policy-making by the school, nor functions as a
lobbying group.
• The finances of the Parents Association should be supervised and regularly monitored by the school and should be
part of the school’s annual audit process.
• The Head of School should be closely involved in the Association nominating process. Cooperation and teamwork
between the Head of School and the officers of the Parents Association are crucial to the health of the school
community.
• It is appropriate that the Parents Association advertise its activities and events. However, the Association is not a
public relations arm of the school and should play no role in the school’s efforts to communicate about itself.
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