Student Handbook Raintree Elementary - St. Mary Parish Schools
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Raintree Elementary
Student Handbook
2020-2021
“Today I will SOAR!”
Growing our Future
-When Kids Lead-
Mrs. Tonya Hills
Principal
Mr. Paul Godfrey
Assistant Principal
501 Raintree Drive Phones: (337)923-0494
Baldwin, LA 70514 Fax: (337) 923-6859
SOAR…
Strive to be a problem solver, Obey the rules, Act responsibly, and Respect others.
1
Principal’s Message
Dear Parents,
Welcome to the 2020-2021 school year at Raintree Elementary. On behalf of the faculty, staff,
administration, we would like to say thank you for a successful 2019-2020 school year. Although the year
abruptly ended in March due to the coronavirus Covid-19 causing a pandemic, the support and
commitment from you as parents were greatly appreciated. With the continuation of the pandemic, my
priority is to ensure that all Raintree Elementary students receive the best education possible. All my
decisions will be with each student’s best interest and safety in mind. We are looking forward to an
amazing school year.
As the challenges and complexities of teaching children increase, it becomes more evident that we all
need to work together as a team to ensure that our children reach their potential. In response to new
protocols in education and in society as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic, we believe that all of us – the
school and the community – must work together in an extended family environment to ensure success for
all of our students. We invite you to be an active participant at Raintree Elementary through PTO,
fundraisers, parent/family nights, and/or as a parent volunteer. Education research clearly validates that
parent participation in their child’s school coincides with a greater likelihood of academic success for
their child.
One of our top priorities is keeping you informed of what is happening at school. We guarantee that we
are taking necessary precautions and procedures for the health and safety of all students and staff. Up-to-
date and additional information on academics and safety will be sent to you through weekly test papers,
monthly newsletters, notes home, and electronic messages. Current information will also appear on
our school web page. If you have questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to give your child’s
teacher or administration a call. I look forward to creating a long and rewarding relationship with you
and your family.
This handbook is prepared to provide information on school policies and procedures at Raintree
Elementary. The handbook is meant to supplement the Guide for St. Mary Parish Public Schools with
further information that directly affects the day-to-day operations of Raintree Elementary. Any
suggestions or recommendations for the improvement of this handbook will be appreciated. By working
together in a spirit of cooperation, we can achieve our school mission to raise the academic achievement
for all students. Please keep this handbook readily available during the school year. I am sure that it will
assist you in answering many questions throughout the year. Updates and additional information will be
sent to you through JCall/JText and Facebook. They will also appear on our school’s website page. Please
feel free to review the Raintree Student/Parent Handbook which can be accessed on our school’s website.
You can like us on Facebook: Raintree Elementary School. Please note that expectations, policies, and
dates are subject to change.
Sincerely,
Tonya Hills
Principal
2
Vision
Raintree Elementary is a place where meaningful learning experiences are
provided in a structured, safe, nurturing, and enjoyable environment where all
children are given opportunities to succeed and achieve as they prepare for
post-secondary education.
“Growing our Future”
Mission Statement
The Raintree Family will raise expectations for all learners.
Today I will Soar:
Strive to be a problem solver, Obey the rules, Act Responsibly, and Respect others.
Raintree Elementary Philosophy
Children entering primary school do so with needs and apprehensions that must
be met and dealt with before learning takes place. The community in which Raintree
Elementary is located is in a continuous state of flux. The students moving in and out
of this school bring diverse backgrounds and levels of readiness. Some have skills
sufficient to enter school, while some are without pre-school experience necessary for
beginning school.
We believe our program must identify these needs and determine the degree of
readiness of each child entering Raintree Elementary, whether it is Pre-K,
Kindergarten, First, Second, Third, Fourth, or Fifth grade level. We believe our school’s
success will be directly proportional to the degree of happiness exhibited by the
children in our school and the degree of dedication of the faculty and staff.
We also believe the education of a child can only be accomplished with the
cooperation and help of the parents. The faculty and staff of Raintree Elementary
believe it must continually make every effort to solicit involvement of parents in the
educational program. Raintree Elementary, through its faculty and curriculum, is
putting forth every effort to meet the needs and demands of its students. This is
accomplished through the balanced curriculum offerings that develop the whole child
and an untiring effort by the staff to continually improve all facets of the instructional
program.
3
Raintree Elementary
2020-2021
Signed Papers Checklist
Be sure you have signed the following and returned them to the school.
Complete and sign all information sheets and return to school tomorrow.
Student Handbook – Signatures at the bottom of this page indicate that you read
and understand the policies.
Email Acceptable Use Policy – By signing this form, you and your child are
agreeing that he/she will use the email and internet appropriately. (Found on
page 28)
Permission to Photograph/Display Photos – By signing, you are agreeing to
allow your child’s photo to be used for school purposes only. (Found on page 29)
School-Parent Compact for Achievement – (Found on pages 30-31)
Keep at Home
School Bus Behavior Contract – if your child rides a bus to or from school
(Found on page 32)
Student information sheet (Handed out by teacher) – Complete and return—
Call the office when things change during the year. We need to be able to contact
you or a relative in case of emergencies.
Parish Newspaper Cover Letter – (Handed out by teacher) Sign and Return
Health Information Sheet/Questionnaire – (Handed out by teacher) Complete
and Return – complete BOTH sides
Student Residency Form – (Handed out by teacher) Compete and Return
Home Language Survey – Complete and Return
Migrant Form – Complete and Return
School Insurance Form – (Handed out by teacher) if needed
Raintree Elementary Health Center Consent Form - (Packet handed out by
teacher)
By signing below, you are acknowledging that you have received Raintree Elementary’s Student
handbook and understand the policies and procedures for the 2020-2021 school year.
Student Signature:
Parent Signature:
THANK YOU FOR TAKING THE TIME TO READ OUR HANDBOOK!
4
St. Mary Parish School Board
Important Dates
2020-2021
Teacher In-service Days.........................................................................................................August 4-7, 2020
Orientation/Open House (5:30 pm) ......................................................................................TBA--Virtual
K-5 Students (Group A) .........................................................................................................August 10/12, 2020
K-5 Students (Group B) .........................................................................................................August 11/13, 2020
Teacher In-service Day ..........................................................................................................August 14, 2020
Pre-K Students’ 1st Day (1/2 class) .........................................................................................August 19/20, 2020
All Pre-K Students .................................................................................................................August 21, 2020
Early Release/Teacher In-Service ……………………………………………………………………………… August 26, 2020
Labor Day Holiday (No School) .........................................................................................September 7, 2020
Progress Reports/Early Release for Conferences ..................................................................September 10, 2020
Early Release/Teacher In-Service ……………………………………………………………………………… September 30, 2020
End of 1st Nine Weeks ............................................................................................................October 8, 2020
Fall Break (No School) ........................................................................................................October 9-12, 2020
Teacher In-Service (No School) ..........................................................................................October 13, 2020
Report Cards ..........................................................................................................................October 14, 2020
Election Day – Schools and Offices Closed ....................................................................November 3, 2020
Teacher/Para In-Service Day.................................................................................................November 4, 2020
Progress Reports/Early Release for Conferences ..................................................................November 18, 2020
Thanksgiving Break ………………………………………………………………………………………………… November 23-27, 2020
Early Release-Holiday ...........................................................................................................December 22, 2020
Christmas Holiday .................................................................................................................Dec. 23-Jan. 4, 2021
End of the 2nd Nine Weeks .....................................................................................................January 5, 2021
Teacher/Para In-Service (No School) .................................................................................January 5, 2021
Students Return to School .....................................................................................................January 6, 2021
Report Cards ..........................................................................................................................January 6, 2021
Martin Luther King Day (No School) ..................................................................................January 18, 2021
Progress Reports/Early Release for Conferences ..................................................................February 9, 2021
Mardi Gras Holiday ...............................................................................................................February 15-19, 2021
Early Release/Teacher In-Service ……………………………………………………………………………… March 3, 2021
End of the 3rd Nine Weeks .....................................................................................................March 17, 2021
Report Cards ..........................................................................................................................March 18, 2021
Easter Holiday .......................................................................................................................Mar. 29-Apr. 5, 2021
LEAP Testing Window ...........................................................................................................April 6-May 14, 2021
Progress Reports/No Early Release.......................................................................................April 28, 2021
High School Graduations .......................................................................................................May 13-14, 2021
Pre-K and K Last Day.............................................................................................................May 20, 2021
8th Grade Graduation .............................................................................................................May 21, 2021
Last Full Day/End of the 4th Nine Weeks ..............................................................................May 25, 2021
Report Card Day ....................................................................................................................May 26, 2021
Memorial Day ........................................................................................................................May 31, 2021
*Due to the early PRINTING OF OUR HANDBOOK, CHANGES MAY OCCUR THROUGHOUT THE SCHOOL YEAR. Therefore, we need you to pay attention to
flyers, and calls that you may receive. Also, please update any changes to your contact information for our J-call calling system so that you can receive important
information regarding Raintree Elementary.
5Raintree Elementary
Bell Schedule
2020-2021
7:20 Student Arrival
7:40 Breakfast in the Classroom
7:50 Breakfast Ends/Morning Routines Begin/Virtual Harambe’
8:00 Tardy Bell & Instruction Begins
12:40 Recess Begins
12:55 Recess Ends
2:55 Early Bus Dismissal – Bus #26
3:00 Student Dismissal
REMINDERS:
-Breakfast is from 7:40-7:50. Make sure to have your child at school in time for
breakfast.
-At 8:00, instruction begins. Students will be marked tardy if they come at 8:00 a.m.
-Students are not to be checked out from the office after 2:40 p.m. and especially not
while dismissal is underway. All students will be in their normal dismissal locations for
buses and cars. With approximately 400 students, it is important for dismissal to run
smoothly. If for some reason your child is needed during this time, call the office prior to
2:30 so that our secretaries are informed.
6ARRIVAL AND DISMISSAL PROCEDURES
When arriving to school in the morning, bus riders will be unloaded under the bus apron and enter either
the side entrance or the main bus entrance depending on grade level. Car riders will be unloaded in the
front of school and enter the main school entrance by the office. If arriving at 8:00 a.m. or later, the
student must be checked in by an adult.
Parents should give students instructions for after school plans before students leave to come to school.
We cannot trust elementary students to tell us if their means to getting home has changed. Therefore,
parents must send a written note for any changes in how a student gets home. With nearly 400
students, we cannot give daily messages. Every message takes away from instructional time. If an
emergency happens and plans need to change during the day, please notify the office in writing or in
person well before 2:30. Messages cannot be delivered after 2:30. Thanks for your assistance in
making dismissal smoother by planning ahead.
Students are assigned bus numbers from their home addresses. A change in bus is a liability issue. It is
not permissible for a parent to request that a student ride a different bus unless this arrangement has
been worked out and documents signed with the bus driver, principal, and parents prior to the request.
Keep the same dismissal plan daily – remember that the teacher cannot escort every child at dismissal.
All classes have car riders, and bus riders. A duty teacher will supervise your child, so it is important that
they go home the same way each day. Example: If they are a bus rider and a grandparent needs to get
the child after school one day, ask them to meet the bus instead of switching your child’s dismissal plan to
a car rider.
EMERENCY DISMISSAL
If an emergency causes an early dismissal, the school will send a JText or a JCall that includes instructions
for dismissal procedures.
ATTENDANCE
ALL students are expected to attend school regularly and to be on time each day to benefit from the
instructional program and to develop habits of punctuality, self-discipline, and responsibility. There is a
direct relationship between attendance and academics. Students who have good attendance generally
achieve higher grades, enjoy school more, and are much more employable after leaving school.
The automated system will make phone calls if your child is marked absent, tardy, or checked in and/or
out. If your child is absent from school, please notify the school (337-923-0494) before 8:10 a.m.
Parents/students should become familiar with the parish attendance/tardy policy found in the St. Mary
Parish School Newspaper and listed below. Parents/students should bring a doctor’s excuse (no
photocopies or handwritten notes) to the front office upon returning to school.
The policy states that a child can only miss 11 unexcused days of a school year. After 11 days, a child may
receive a non-attendance F and may repeat the grade. The St. Mary Parish School Board policy on
attendance is as follows:
GENERAL PROVISIONS FOR THE ATTENDANCE POLICY
1. Absences described in the policy are to take care of:
7a. Personal illness
b. Professional appointment that could not be scheduled outside of a regular school day
c. Other serious or personal problems
2. School sponsored or sanctioned activities will not count toward total absences.
3. Principals and their staff will contact parents whenever illegal or suspicious absences occur. The
principal may send a referral for investigation and/or home visits to the Supervisor of Child
Welfare and Attendance.
4. The St. Mary Parish School Board Office of Special Education provides Homebound Instruction to
pupils who have health problems requiring them to miss school for at least (10) days.
(See Homebound Policy)
5. A student suspended from school for disciplinary reasons will have those days charged against the
total number of absences.
6. It is extremely important that students and parents realize and understand that days of absence
built into the attendance policy are not to be used as skip days, but rather they should be used
only as indicated in this policy.
7. All students enrolled in alternative to regular placement will adhere to the same attendance policy
as regular students.
8. A student will not be allowed to leave school early unless a parent or guardian personally signs
the student out of the office.
9. A check out will count as an absence. In case of extenuating circumstances parents may appeal to
the principal.
10. After 5 absences or after 9 tardies, students will be referred to the Supervisor of Child Welfare and
Attendance.
ATTENDANCE POLICY
Elementary students are required to attend one hundred sixty (160) days per year to receive credit in all
full credit courses.
• 1st NOTICE: 3 days absent…phone conference with office staff or administration.
• 2nd NOTICE: 5 days absent…referral to the Supervisor of Child Welfare and Attendance/DA.
• 3rd NOTICE: 11 days absent…conference with principal and referral to Supervisor of Child Welfare
and Attendance.
**Additional days absent may result in loss of credit.**
Instruction begins at 8:00 a.m. Please have your child to school by 7:45 so that they are ready to
begin at the 8:00 instruction bell. Doors close at the bell – walking in at the bell means they will
be marked tardy. Students should be in the classroom for the 8:00 bell.
Tardies:
• Three (3) Tardies: Notified by letter.
• Six (6) Tardies: Notified by letter, school conference, referral to the Child Welfare and Attendance
Supervisor.
• Nine (9) Tardies: Will result in a referral to the Child Welfare and Attendance Supervisor. If a
hearing is required, parents, students, and supervisors shall be present at the hearing.
8BUS POLICY
BUS EXPECTATIONS
• Students are to ride only their assigned bus.
• Addresses for bus riders need to be added to the Bus Transportation Sheet that will be sent home.
Any changes in address need to be reported to the office immediately.
• Students may NOT ride a different bus without written approval from a parent/guardian.
• Bus students must:
1. Follow the school expectations and bus driver’s requests
2. Be present at their stops 10 minutes before school pickup time
3. Keep the bus clean
4. Obey any bus patrol orders
5. Obey the bus driver promptly
6. Refrain from teasing, scuffling, or creating a disturbance
7. Keep arms, legs, and head inside the bus
8. Stay seated when the bus is moving
9. Avoid transporting large items; items must fit under the seat
10. Whisper
11. Obtain permission before opening the windows
12. Ride in the assigned bus and seat
13. Get off the bus at the assigned location ONLY
FIGHTING ON THE BUS
Fighting on the bus could result in a three-day (3) suspension from school and an additional seven-day
(7) suspension off the bus. Parents are responsible for transportation if children are suspended from the
bus.
Note: Violation of bus expectations may result in disciplinary action from administration. Parents are
responsible for transportation if children are suspended from the bus.
CHECK-IN & CHECK-OUT PROCEDURES
Students checking into school at or after the 8:00 bell must be signed in at the front office by a
parent/guardian. Students can check out for emergencies only: doctor visits, illness, or other allowable
reasons. Parents must come to school and sign students out. Students should notify their teacher if they
are ill and need to check out. The teachers will notify the office/nurse to call home. Student must be sent
to the office to call for medication only. Emergency contacts listed on the family information sheet will be
deemed acceptable to check a student out of school.
The automated system will make phone calls if your child is marked absent, tardy, or checked in and/or
out. If your child is absent from school, please notify the school (337-923-0494) before 8:10 a.m.
Parents/students should become familiar with the parish attendance/tardy policy found in the St. Mary
Parish School Newspaper
Excessive check-outs will add to absences and referral to the Supervisor of Child Welfare and Attendance.
No check-outs will be allowed after 2:40. This will allow for a routine and safe dismissal. If you need
your child before 3:00, make sure to check them out before 2:40. We MUST receive WRITTEN
notification of changes in transportation. Phone calls will not be accepted.
9COMMUNICATION
Our two main sources of communication will be through our website: stmaryk12.net/res and Jtext/Jcalls.
Other communication will be in the form of flyers, notes, or possibly a post on our Facebook page. Like us
on Facebook: RES.
CONFERENCES
Parent/Teacher conferences are the cornerstones for a successful school year for your child and yourself.
Please keep in contact with your child’s teacher, regardless of the progress of your child. This will let your
child know that you are serious about their education. To set up a conference, call the school and the
secretary will assist you. Your child’s teacher will notify you of his/her times at which they are available
for conferences. For parent/teacher conference days, your child’s teacher will contact you to set up a time
to meet. If a conference is not needed at that time, the teacher may not set up a time with you. If you as
the parent feel one is needed, you may call and schedule a time. If concerns are not resolved, make an
appointment with an administrator. We want to foster good parent/teacher relationships by synergizing
for the well-being of your child. Please see the Important Dates list for pre-scheduled conference days.
-------Parent/Teacher Conference Dates: September 10, November 18, and February 9.--------
CORONAVIRUS RESPONSE
In response to the Covid19 pandemic and for the health of students and staff, we have developed routines
and procedures for cleaning and safety. Our guidelines and practices are in line with recommendations
from the CDC, Office of Public Health, and St. Mary Parish School Boards. Students and parents can rest
assured that stipulations are being followed closely and effectively as required. In the event of distant-
learning, Raintree’s faculty and staff will put forth all efforts to ensure learning continues. Due to this
pandemic, many things discussed in this handbook such as clubs, field trips, etc. are subject to change
based on the recommendations of health officials.
DEBTS
Any student who has a cafeteria, library, or other debt to Raintree Elementary and no contact with the
school has been made for a plan to pay down the debt will not be allowed to participate in extra-
curricular activities.
DRESS CODE
Guidelines for Masks
Masks must be worn in an appropriate manner by faculty and students in grades 3-12.
Students:
Masks are to align with the dress code policy but should not become a discipline issue.
• No logos except those that have the school’s name, mascot, or other logo as approved to promote
school spirit.
• May be solid in color or appropriate print
• No inappropriate statements, pictures, or gestures
• No bandanas of any color are not to be utilized as face coverings
• Plastic face shields are not to be worn by students
• Neck gators may be worn with appropriate print
10• While inside the school facility, students in grades prekindergarten through 2 may wear a face
covering.
STUDENT UNIFORM POLICY
There is a mandatory uniform policy for all students in St. Mary Parish. This policy will be implemented
during this school year. The information below is a guide to utilize when purchasing clothing for
student(s).
Basic Uniform
1. Pre-K – 8th Grades – White or navy blue short or long-sleeved polo “golf” or oxford style shirts are
to be worn by all elementary and junior high school students. “Polo” shirts must have at least two
buttons and a collar. Pockets are permissible. Oxford shirts must button all the way down. Shirts
must be tucked in at all times. Name brand emblems are not allowed on shirts. ANY long or short-
sleeved undershirt worn must be of the uniform color (white or navy blue.)
2. Male students must wear khaki-colored, uniform style pants or shorts. Pants/ shorts can be
pleated or straight fronts. Pants/shorts must fit properly at the waist and must be neither too
tight nor too baggy. Pants/shorts must be worn so that the waist of the garment cannot go lower
than the hipbone. No side pockets are allowed on the lower legs of pants/shorts. No external
pockets are allowed on the pants/shorts. Exaggerated size pant bottoms (not to exceed 22” in
circumference) and/or fraying of hems are not allowed. No visible name brand emblems are
allowed on these garments. Khaki-colored jean/denim style pants/shorts, overalls, corduroys,
warm-ups, cargo, and drawstring clothing are not considered to be acceptable uniform style pants.
3. Female students must wear khaki-colored, uniformed style pants, or shorts, skirts, skorts, or
jumpers. These garments can be pleated or straight fronts. These garments are to be the
appropriate size for the student, and must fit properly at the waist, (no hip-huggers or low riders),
and must be neither too tight not too baggy. No side pockets are allowed on the lower legs of
pants/shorts. Exaggerated size pant bottoms (not to exceed 22” in circumference) and/or fraying
of hems are not allowed. Short skirts cannot be wrapped around or have splits in front or back.
Hemlines of shorts, skirts, skorts, or jumpers cannot exceed two inches above the knee. Only
longer skirts (27” or more) may have splits in back or side. No side pockets are allowed on short
or long skirts. No external pockets are allowed on pants/shorts or skorts. No visible name brand
emblems are allowed on these garments. Khaki-colored jean/denim style pants/shorts, overalls,
corduroys, warm-ups, cargo, Capri, leggings, and drawstring clothing are not considered to be
acceptable uniform style pants.
4. Students must wear solid white, brown, black, navy blue, or khaki/tan colored socks with no logos
or emblems on them. Socks must be worn above the ankle and must be visible at all times. (No
anklets or footie socks allowed.) The same colored tights or stockings may be worn instead to
accompany the uniform.
5. Students must wear a solid khaki, black, navy blue, or brown (leather or cloth) belt with the
uniform style pants. Standard size buckles are required – not to exceed 2” in height. (No big
buckles are allowed.)
6. Students must wear shoes such as tennis, casual, or dress styles. No sandals, thongs, boots (to the
knee) or other inappropriate footwear are allowed. Shoes must have a complete front and back.
Shoes requiring laces must have the laces and be kept ties at all times during the day.
Additional Garments
1. Solid navy blue, white, khaki/tan, or school-colored sweatshirts, sweater or sweater vests may be
worn over polo or oxford shirts. No contrasting colors, stripes, etc. will be allowed. Sweatshirts,
sweaters, and/or sweater vests may have official school mascot/logo on them. Sweatshirts must
11be pullover in nature and may have hoods. The hood must be removed once inside. Uniform shirt
collars must be visible at all times when wearing these garments.
2. A lightweight jacket, parka, or windbreaker can be worn when experiencing cooler weather (fall)
or when buildings are too cool for students. The garment must be solid brown, black, navy blue,
khaki/tan, or white. No contrasting colors, stripes, etc. will be allowed. These garments must be
free of name brand emblems. Official school mascots/logos may be located on these additional
garments. School-issued jackets may be taken into consideration as part of the uniform.
3. If masks are required for the grade-level, make sure they are school appropriate. The mask should
not have writing, pictures, etc. that is inappropriate for school.
4. Bags and purses are not to be worn throughout the day. If these items are brought to school, they
must be hung on the school bag hook with the school bags.
Additional Information
1. Students who transfer into St. Mary Parish will be allowed two weeks to purchase uniforms and
comply with the policy.
2. Clothing must be neat, clean, modest, and properly worn and the correct size for the student. Blue
jeans are allowed (when designated by the principal) but must meet the same criteria as the
uniform pants. Accessories, book sacks, book covers, or any other item containing graffiti, or
writing/symbols which may be perceived as vulgar, profane, disruptive, gang-related, violent,
heavy metal, tobacco, or alcohol-related language are not to be worn or brought on the school
campus.
3. Spirit shirts may be worn with approved pants/shorts, skirts, etc. on such designated days as
determined by the principal. The students have the option of wearing the spirit shirt or the
standard school uniform.
4. School appropriate masks are to be work for students 3rd through 5th grade.
5. The school principal/designee will make final decisions on acceptance of garments within the
uniform policy guidelines.
DESIGNATED JEAN DAYS
Only solid blue jeans are allowed on designated jean days. Jeans should not have holes or designs on
them. Colored jeans are not allowed. Jeggings and joggers of any kind are not allowed.
GROOMING
The St. Mary Parish School Board feels it is the responsibility of each student to use good judgement in
one’s total appearance so that the attention of others is not distracted from the purpose of school.
Cleanliness and safety will be a basic consideration. Suitability of all rules will be judged and enforced by
the school administrators.
1. School uniforms must be clean and neat.
2. Haircuts and hairstyles must be neat, clean, and presentable. (Hair rollers or “set” is prohibited.)
3. Nose rings, tongue rings, earrings, fingernails, haircuts, hair styles will be prohibited if they
present a danger to the student’s health and safety or if it creates classroom or school disorder.
4. No visible body rings are allowed except in the lobe of the ear. The only earrings allowed will
be stud/post earrings.
SPIRIT DAYS
Students will be allowed to wear jeans every Friday for $1. Colored jeans, jeans with holes, decorative
print jeans, and denim leggings are not allowed. Jean shorts and skirts must be no shorter than 2-inches
above the knee. Jean days serve as a reward for students as well as a fundraiser for specific causes. If a
child comes to school in jeans with out his/her money, detention will be assigned. Students must arrive to
12school with jean money. Parents may not drop off jean money in the office. If students repeatedly come to
school in jeans without $1, the privilege will be lost.
YEARLONG JEAN PASS ($25)
We will offer a yearlong jean pass for $25. Students with this pass may wear jeans every Friday. A
onetime payment will be due at the beginning of the school year. Teachers will keep a log, so they know
who does not need to pay each week.
NONCOMPLIANCE PROCEDURS FOR DRESS
The student dress code policy shall apply to all students in all schools in St. Mary Parish. A student’s
clothing must be appropriate, standard school uniform as determined by the St. Mary Parish School
Board and as interpreted by the principal. The principal will make the determination regarding the
acceptability of a student’s uniform dress, accessories, and appearance. A phone call by administration
will be made for the parent to bring a change of clothing. Also, student will be assigned to alternate recess
on the days he/she is out of “dress code”. Note: Noncompliance of wearing a mask is considered a
violation of the dress code.
**The school principal will refer students who are in continuous noncompliance of the dress code policy
to the Child Welfare and Attendance Supervisor. At this time, the Superintendent or his designee for
possible court action against the parent and/or student will make a disposition.
ELECTRONICS/CELL PHONES/PERSONAL ITEMS
• Students in Grades PK- 5
• Electronic Telecommunication Devices are not permitted on campus during regular school hours
for any reason for students in PK – 5th grades.
EVACUATION AND LOCKDOWN DRILL EXPECTATIONS
Fire and tornado drills will be held on a regular basis. Evacuation routes are posted in each classroom.
Students should respond quickly and quietly to the teacher’s directions during drills or emergences.
Students who may be out of class or between classes should exit as quickly and quietly as possible and
report to a teacher. Lockdown and evacuation drills will be practiced. During lockdown drill, students are
to remain quit throughout the entire drill.
EXTRA-CURRICULAR ACTIVTIES
CLUBS/ORGANZIATIONS
Raintree Elementary is excited to offer students extra-curricular activities in clubs and organization.
Please look for membership applications in September. Clubs are mostly free to participate though there
may be minimal costs for some activities. Some clubs, such as National Junior Beta Club, may have a
membership fee that may include a club shirt. All clubs will meet monthly from 3 p.m.to 4 p.m. (dates to
be determined).
4-H will be offered, and the 4-H organization sets the fee and guidelines.
FAMILY NIGHTS/SPECIAL EVENTS
Other events such as family nights will be held throughout the year. After further guidance, the dates and
times will be sent home. We encourage you to join the Raintree family to create a learning community.
13FAMILY AND EMERGENCY INFORMATION
It is essential that the records of a school are as accurate as possible. You, as parents, know how quickly
children can become ill or injured. It is imperative that we contact a parent, relative, or friend to care for
the child. In the case of extreme illness or injury and we can’t contact a parent, it is the school’s policy to
contact Acadian Ambulance Service, Baldwin Police Department, or to take any action we deem
appropriate, with parents responsible for the cost. Please update contact information anytime there is a
change. If you have not received a JCALL or JTEXT within the first two weeks of school, please contact us
to correct numbers. Current cell phone numbers are needed for parents to receive JTEXTS. With almost
400 students, errors can happen when typing in numbers. Please inform the office staff if you are not
receiving these messages and you know of others that have.
FEES
Raintree is committed to adhering to guidelines for student fees established by St. Mary Parish Schools.
FIELD TRIPS
Parents will receive notices of field trips well in advance of the trip and will be asked to sign permission
slips. Field trip fees must be paid in advance. Deadlines are set for field trip money. We cannot accept late
payments. Field trips require the school to send payments in advance; therefore, refunds will not be given
for students or chaperones for any reason.
Parents are welcome to chaperone field trips. In order to help chaperone, parents must come into school
with their drivers license in order to receive a school issued ID tag. There are a few other requirements:
every parent reserves a spot with the teacher and pays in advance for the trip, provides his/her own
transportation, assists and monitors a small group assigned by the teacher for the whole trip, follow the
school’s tobacco and drug policy, and conducts himself/herself in a respectful and professional manner.
Photographs of other students are not allowed. Please respect the privacy of all students.
No siblings or small children will be allowed to attend field trips. No check-outs will be allowed from an
off-campus site. All students attending a field trip must return to school in the bus. Students will not be
allowed to leave from field trips with parents. We are responsible for the children from the time they
leave campus until they return to campus. Please do not ask for this policy to be changed.
FUNDRAISERS
Raintree will sponsor fundraising activities to help finance school needs. When students participate in
fundraisers, we ask parents to assist their children to ensure success of the sale and safety of their child.
Items of the fundraiser become the responsibility of the student once issued to him/her. Items and
money must be returned by the assigned date. Please deliver large amounts of fundraiser money to the
office. Do not send large amounts of fundraiser money to school with your child. If a problem has
occurred with fundraising in the past, the student will not be allowed to participate.
GRADING POLICY
PROMOTION REQUIREMENTS
A student must earn four quality points to pass a course for the year (two points must come in the second
semester). In addition, the student must pass the fourth nine-weeks. The final letter grade shall be
determined by averaging the two (2) semester letter grades. Subject grades are averaged to determine
grade-point averages. Total points are determined using A=4, B=3, C=2, D=1, F=0.
14GRADING SCALE
In the reporting of student progress, it becomes important to be sure that the grades reflect a true picture
of each student's standing at the grade level where placed. Also, since the grades are used in promotion
and retention of students, it becomes essential that each teacher determine grades using a uniform
basis. Consequently, only letter grades shall be recorded on the report card. The existing report card
form shall display the percentage to letter grade correlation.
The St. Mary Parish School Board shall use the uniform grading scale established for all schools in
Louisiana for grades K-12, as follows:
Grade Percentage
A 100-93
B 92-85
C 84-75
D 74-67
F 66-0
HONOR ROLL
Students holding a 3.0 -3.9 average in a report card grading period for K - 5th graders. A certificate
presented to the student.
PRINCIPAL’S LIST
Students holding a 4.0 grade-point average (All A’s) in a report card grading period for K-5th graders. A
certificate presented to the student with a jean pass to use on a designated day.
BRINGING UP GRADES (BUG)
K-5th grades for the second and third nine-weeks grading periods – Teachers from each grade level will
choose up to ten students who have shown academic growth by bringing up his/her grades; certificates
will be presented to students.
PROGRESS REPORTS
Progress reports are issued 4 ½ weeks into each nine-weeks. The students are to bring this home. Please
call teachers with concerns, as there is still time at this point to help students bring up grades. Parents
must SIGN and return this to school. By doing so, we ensure parents are informed of their child’s grades.
This year’s dates include September 10, November 18, February 9, and April 28.
ACCELEERATED READER (AR)
Students in grades 2nd-5th may read AR books and complete tests to increase reading comprehension.
Incentives will be given to students who reach their goals. Additional incentives are given for the highest
word count and the most AR points. If a student reads one million words, he/she will receive the Word
Millionaire award from our school district, St. Mary Parish Schools.
REPORT CARDS
Report cards are issued each nine-weeks. Students must return the signed envelope to their teacher each
nine-week period. Please monitor progress using the Parent Command Center. This year’s dates include:
October 14, January 6, March 18, and May 26
15SCHOOL BUILDING LEVEL COMMETTEE (SBLC)
Any student that may have academic or behavioral concerns could be referred to the SBLC. Parents will be
notified when their student is referred and will be invited to attend the meeting to discuss any concerns the
staff member(s) or parents may have about the student. Those that are generally on the committee are the
classroom teachers, an administrator, the school’s pupil appraisal, curriculum facilitator, parents, and the
SBLC coordinator.
STUDENT OF THE YEAR REQUIREMENTS
Students in grade 5 will be nominated by their teachers based on criteria outlined by St. Mary Parish
School Board.
MEALS
Students are encouraged to eat breakfast and lunch at school. Raintree qualified for the CEP grant. All
students will eat FREE for breakfast and lunch.
Students who do not plan to eat lunch provided by the cafeteria should bring their lunch to school with
them in the morning. Parents may not habitually drop off student lunches in the office. All lunches not
prepared in the cafeteria must be in appropriate packaging/containers. No packaging from outside
vendors is allowed in the cafeteria. Example vendors include: McDonald’s, Burger King, Sonic, and Pizza
Hut.
BREAKFAST IN THE CLASSROOM
Raintree Elementary received a grant for a grab and go breakfast. As students enter the building, they will
grab a bag breakfast from the carts manned by the cafeteria staff. Students will enter the classrooms at
7:45 with their homeroom teacher. From 7:45-7:55, students will eat their breakfast and be ready to start
instruction at the 8:00 bell. There are procedures that faculty and staff will follow to ensure this runs
smoothly and cleaning protocol will take place.
CAFATERIA GUIDELINES AND EXPECTATIONS
Students are to enter the cafeteria in an orderly fashion. Prior to entering the serving lines, students must
wash their hands with soap and water. There will be assigned seating in the cafeteria and voice levels
should be kept to a minimum.
MEAL PRICE CHART…… Raintree students eat FREE!
16**Meal prices are subject to change.**
MEDICACTION POLICY
Please note that it is unlawful for the school to administer or for students to take any form of medication
without a form completed by the child’s physician and a permission form signed by the child’s parents.
These forms may be obtained in the school office. Additionally, any medication to be administered at
school must be sent in a container appropriately labeled by the pharmacist or physician. This policy
includes all prescription and non-prescription medicines needed by a child on a regular or “as needed”
basis (i.e. inhalers for asthma patients.) Children may not be in possession of any prescription or non-
prescription medicine including aspirin, cough drops, eye drops, etc. Teachers are under strict orders to
pick up any medicines and send them to the office. Parents must come to school to pick up the medicine.
In case of the occasional need, a parent may come to school and personally administer medication as
needed.
MAKE-UP WORK
Students who miss school for any reason, illness, suspension, school activities, etc., are responsible for
the work missed during their absence. Parents/students must make arrangements with their teacher
within two (2) days of returning to school for making up the missed schoolwork. If out more than one
day, please call the office for the teacher to get the work together so that someone can pick up the child’s
work.
NURSING DEPARTMENT
The school nurse is available each day at Raintree Elementary. The nurse’s primary function is to handle
student health records and carry out any program that is mandated by the state and/or parish. Students
17who are not in compliance with health regulations or have a communicable disease or condition will be
suspended from school until the condition has been remedied or compliance has been attained.
ORIENTATION/OPEN HOUSE
Open house will virtual this year. With the pandemic, we are waiting on further guidelines and
instructions. We will send out the date, time, and link as soon as we know more, and we welcome all
parents to attend virtually and meet their child’s teachers.
PARKING/TRAFFIC
Parking is not prohibited in the fire zone, no parking zones, and in the front canopy area. Make sure to
park in the designated visitor parking or empty unreserved parking spot in the parking lot. Follow all
‘ONE WAY’ signs to avoid any traffic congestion. The bus driveway is for buses only during the school day.
Avoid this area.
PARTIES
Any approved class parties will be held at the end of the day at times the teacher deems proper and the
St. Mary Parish School Board approves. Parents should check with their child’s teachers about
refreshments prior to the day in question.
There have been changes concerning birthdays for students. No individual birthday parties will be
allowed at any grade level. The office will not be accepting cupcakes, balloons, or any paraphernalia to
celebrate birthdays. It is time consuming and it can be very overwhelming for the office staff and also for
teachers. However, to be sure that each child will be able to celebrate his/her birthday, on every first
Wednesday of EVERY month beginning in August. The children that celebrate their birthday in that
particular month will be given a cupcake and celebrated with an administrator.
Below you will find calendars at your disposal so that you will know the exact dates of each birthday
recognition. Please NOTE: If a Wednesday falls on a day that we are not in school, ether one or two days
after, the birthday recognition day will be celebrated. Thank you so much for your cooperation and
understanding.
Date of Celebration Months Celebrating
August 19, 2020 July, August
September 9, 2020 September
October 7, 2020 October
November 11, 2020 November
December 2, 2020 December
January 7, 2021 January
February 3, 2021 February
March 10, 2021 March
April 7, 2021 April
May 5, 2021 May, June
18PHONE CALLS
Students will not be allowed to use the phone at all. If a message is needed, please call the office and one
of our secretaries will handle it.
PICTURES
Individual fall and spring pictures will be taken at school. All students will take pictures, and proof sheets
will be sent home. Parents will be notified in advance of the day pictures will be taken. Please dress your
children in school-appropriate clothes and shoes.
RECESS EXPECTATIONS
Students are allowed free play outside every day during afternoon recess from 12:40 p.m. to 12:55 p.m.
Students choose individual playground equipment or team sports of their choice. Teachers and
administrators are on duty to join in the fun and safeguard students. Expectations are for students to:
1. Go to the restroom during the recess break before playing
2. Put all trash in the trashcans
3. Play fair
4. Take turns
5. Be courteous to all students
6. Avoid all rough-housing, horse-playing, play-fighting or hitting of any sort
**Adjustments may be needed according to health and safety policies. **
SAFETY
Parents/students should report any unsafe conditions. Students should refrain from running, throwing,
horse playing, wrestling, or any activity that could create an unsafe condition or situation. Students will
receive consequences for unsafe behavior if needed.
SCHOOL-WIDE DSICIPLINE PLAN
Our philosophy, as reflected in the Raintree Elementary School discipline plan, is to encourage a student
to take responsibility for his/her own behavior and to teach him/her to choose appropriate behavior. We
believe a strong partnership between the school and families is important. With complete understanding
and cooperation between the two, we can work together in the best interest of your child. As part of our
school wide discipline plan, students will be held accountable for not following school expectations, and
they will be acknowledged for demonstrating positive behaviors. Please assist us by helping your child
understand behavior is a choice.
Teachers use a conduct system to reinforce good behaviors and redirect inappropriate behaviors. This
system allows students to received warnings and opportunities to correct his/her behavior before
receiving a minor discipline referral (MDR) or a major discipline referral.
BULLYING, HARASSMENT, INTIMIDATION, AND THREATS
Raintree Elementary School is a Bully-Free Zone. Enforcement of the Bullying policy is essential to
safeguard the care, well-being, and security of all students and staff at Raintree. In accordance to ACT
861, bullying is defined as a pattern of behavior of any one or more of the following
191. Written, electron, or verbal communications including but not limited to calling names,
threatening harm, taunting, or spreading untrue rumors.
2. Physical acts, including but not limited to hitting, pushing, and tripping.
3. Gestures, including but not limited to obscene gestures.
4. Repeatedly and purposefully excluding from activities or groups.
If, after a thorough investigation, the school determines that an act of bullying has occurred, inclusive of a
meeting with the parent or legal guardian of the students involved, the school official shall:
1. Take prompt and appropriate disciplinary action, pursuant to R.S. 17:416 and 416.1, against the
student that the school official determines has engaged in conduct which constitutes bullying, if
appropriate.
2. Report criminal conduct to law enforcement, if appropriate.
3. Disciplinary action will be in accordance with the St. Mary Parish School Board’s CODE OF
CONDUCT.
SCHOOL PROCEDURES
Students are expected to follow all school rules and policies and to obey all adults that are members of
the faculty and staff. Our school follows our mission of Today I will SOAR:
Strive to be a problem solver, Obey the rules, Act Responsibly, and Respect others.
5 Whole Brain Teaching School-wide rules are implemented.
1. Follow directions quickly.
2. Raise your hand for permission to speak.
3. Raise your hand for permission to leave your seat.
4. Make smart choices.
5. Keep your learning community happy.
20Raintree Elementary School Wide Discipline Policy
1st Offense
• Teacher states rule and reason.
• Student receives verbal warning; conduct remains on green.
2nd Offense
• Teacher states rule and reason.
• Student moves conduct clip to yellow.
3rd Offense
• Teacher states rule and reason.
• Student moves conduct clip to orange.
4th Offense
• Teacher states rule and reason.
• Student moves conduct clip to red.
• MINOR, parental contact (documented on MINOR), parent receives yellow
Copy of MINOR, teacher assigns recess detention
4 MINORS = major referral (attach 3 minor referrals)
If the behavior warrants a major referral, have the major referral written prior to
requesting an administrator if possible.
*Administrators have both the authority and duty to assign/modify disciplinary
consequences for misbehaviors according to St. Mary Parish Code of Conduct.
Participation in incentive activities and/or non-educational activities may be
jeopardized by inappropriate behavior.
21POSITIVE REWARDS
Teachers often recognize their students for demonstration of good character, behavior, improved work
ethic, or improved behavior.
• Positive Office Referrals are rewarded for extraordinary and exemplary circumstances such as
acts of kindness, great character, exemplary grades, etc. A certificate will be written by a staff
member and the awarded student go to the office for a prize and to be recognized by office staff.
• Eagle bucks will be rewarded for day-to-day positive behavior and academics. Teachers will escort
students to the Eagle store at the end of each nine-week period to spend their Eagle bucks.
• Golden Eagle of the Month-Teachers choose one student that makes a positive impact for
recognition as the Golden Eagle of the month for his/her class.
• Perfect Attendance-Students with perfect attendance for the month will be recognized in their
class and receive an incentive. Students who have perfect attendance for the entire school year
will receive a certificate.
Teachers and staff use their discretion on how Eagle Bucks and Positive Office Referrals are distributed.
MINOR INFRACTION REFERRALS
In the event of a negative behavior occurrence, the student will be issued a Minor Infraction Referral. The
referring teacher will indicate which infraction(s) was committed. The referral will be sent home for a
parental signature. These referral sheets are warnings that serve as reminders for students to modify
their behavior, make better choices, and act appropriately and respectfully. Along with the minor
infraction, the student may serve recess detention or another consequence for the behavior.
If a student earns four (4) Minor Infraction Referrals, he/she will receive a major referral. Offending
students will be assigned after-school detention. You will be notified by administration and a letter will
be sent home to sign. It will be the parents’ responsibility to provide transportation home from the after-
school detention. For the second semester, minor infraction count will start over. For example, if the
student earned one minor infraction in the first semester, in January starts the second semester, the
count will start back at zero.
The referrals also serve to help students accept consequences for their choices. Within a given period,
children earning referrals due to negative behavior will be prohibited from participating in certain
reward activities (dances and dress-down days.) Those special events will be reserved for students who
choose to act appropriately.
MAJOR REFERRALS
Students whose behavior warrants a major referral will be sent to the office for an administrator. An
administrator will contact you about the behavior and consequence given.
AFTER SCHOOL DETENTION
The student adjustment center will be held on Wednesday from 3:00 – 5:00 p.m. Students are assigned to
either 1-hour or 2-hour detentions. Notices will be sent home on the day of the infraction and a reminder
note will be sent home the Tuesday before the actual detention. All students must be signed out by an
adult. To avoid late arrivals, parents are asked to arrive as early as 4:50 p.m. All students must be picked
up by 5 p.m. A subsequent consequence such as additional detention hours or a one-day suspension will
result if a student does not show up for detention without contacting the administrator or detention
teacher.
22IN-SCHOOL SUSPENSIONS (ISSP)
The St. Mary Parish School Board has instituted an In-School Suspension program. This program is
designed to keep students in school, promote acceptable behavior, and keep students paced with the
regular classes as a result to suspension. When students are assigned ISSP, they will receive a form to
take with them on their assigned date. A parent must accompany any student who is suspended from
school before they can return. It is the student/parent responsibility to make arrangements to make up
missed work within (2) days after returning to school or the student will receive a zero (0) on all work
missed.
In the event of an In-School Suspension (ISSP), parents must bring students to school and sign them in
and out on the 1st offense. On the second offense, the parent must sign student in and out, as well as
spend 2 hours in the ISSP room. The third offense adds a full day to the parents’ obligation.
NOTE: ALL DISCIPLINE MATTERS ARE LEFT TO THE DISCRETION OF THE ADMINISTRATORS.
Below are some of the possible offenses for consequences:
• Disrespect to teacher or peers: SAC, or suspension (depending on severity)
• Cursing classmates, faculty, or staff: SAC or suspension
• Fighting: 1 – 3 days suspension, according to parish policy
• Stealing: SAC or suspension and REIMBURSEMENT
SEARCH AND SEIZURE
The administration of Raintree Elementary reserves the right to search any desk, person, or possession
when the health and safety of the students are involved. The school may be inspected by law
enforcement agencies with probable cause.
SNACKS AT SCHOOL
No gum, candy, chips, or sunflower seeds can be consumed in the classroom unless as a reward from a
teacher. We encourage students to buy snacks and drinks during the afternoon recess. Students must
arrive at school with snack money. Snack money may not be dropped off in the office. Students may bring
water to school. Water must be in the original clear water container. Flavor additives are not allowed.
SPECIAL SERVICES
There are many special service programs at Raintree Elementary. These programs require parental
permission, and we ask your cooperation in signing the necessary forms and returning them as quickly as
possible. If you have any questions concerning the programs, please contact the school, and we will be
happy to answer them.
SPRING TESTING
LEAP 2025 Tests will be administered to students in grades 3-5 during the months of April-May in the
core subjects-ELA, Math, Science, Social Studies. More information will be provided during the Spring
semester. Testing dates will be announced at the beginning of the school year.
ELPT Tests will be administered to any student where English is his/her second language.
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