Student Parent Handbook 2019-2020 - Please Read and Remove Student Parent Handbook for your reference at home - Pulaski International ...
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Student Parent Handbook 2019-2020 Please Read and Remove Student Parent Handbook for your reference at home. Por favor lea y conserve El manual del Estudiante Padres para su consulta en casa.
Table of Contents
Principal’s Message 4
Daily Operations and Procedures 5
School Hours and Attendance 5
Drop Off & Pickup 5
Tardy Arrivals 5
Early Dismissal 5
Busing 6
Dress Code 6
Attendance and Absence Policies 7
School Communications 8
School Meals & the Federal Family Income Form 9
Outdoor Recess Policy and Inclement Weather 9
Lockers 10
Calendar 10
Academics 10
Curricular Offerings 10
International Baccalaureate (IB) World School 10
Student Evaluation Standards 11
Report Cards 11
The Principal’s List 11
Homework Policy and Ways to support your child at home 12
Internet Usage 13
Library / Media Center 14
Lost Library Books 14
Field Trips 14
Promotion Policy 14
Graduation 15
Continuous Improvement Work Plan (CIWP) Areas of Focus for 208-2020 15
Recreational Reading Requirement 15
Social Emotional Learning 15
Student Code of Conduct 15
Pulaski’s Expectation for PBIS 16
Detention Policy 16
Counseling Services 16
Personal Electronic Equipment and Personal Property 16
Celebrations 17
Safety, Security and Medical Information 17
Building Security 17
2Fire, Disaster and Lockdown Drills 17
Medical and Dental Records 17
Emergency Forms 18
Medication 18
Allergies/Medical Issues 18
Care of Emergency Injuries 18
Emergency School Closing 18
Health and Wellness 18
Healthy Eating 19
Nut and other Food Allergies 19
Admissions 19
Admission requirements for K-8 students 19
Students Applying to the Preschool Program - Ready to Learn 19
Enrollment and Health Requirements 19
Parental Involvement 20
Parent Involvement and Volunteer Opportunities 20
Local School Council roster 20
Forms and Fees 21
School Fee 21
Parent Forms 21
Manual para padres y estudiantes en español 22
3Principal’s Message
Welcome to all returning students and to those who are new to Pulaski this year.
We hope you had a great summer and that students and their families are ready to return to the
business of learning. We believe that communicating expectations and other important
information is key to the start of a clear, open, collaborative partnership.
This agenda is important for students and parents and we hope you find it useful this year.
Inside you will find the Parent/Student Handbook providing important information, guidelines
and policies that will help everyone build a stronger Pulaski It is a tool for students and families
to log assignments, and learn about various updates, policies and procedures.
In addition to monitoring, the agenda book can be used as a parent-teacher communication tool.
We encourage family members to attend Local School Council meetings, parent workshops,
parent-teacher conferences, and special family night events. Parents are also welcome to
volunteer throughout the school. By working together, we can keep our energy focused upon
student learning, building on the success and accomplishments of the last year.
Mission
Pulaski is a caring community that provides a culture of collaboration, intellectual rigor, civic
consciousness, and holistic growth, while embracing the mother tongue and fostering second
language acquisition. We are committed to student-centered learning, enhanced by the process
of inquiry, action, and reflection with the goal of developing innovative global citizens.
Vision
Our vision for Pulaski International School of Chicago is to promote intellectual and social
collaboration among parents, students, staff and community members to achieve academic
excellence and international mindedness. We seek to foster a community of knowledgeable,
curious lifelong learners who are equipped with the skills and attitudes to think and act beyond
themselves.
Colors
The official colors of Pulaski International School are emerald green and gold.
Song
The Gold and Green Raise three cheers for our Pulaski School,
Onward we march together, Voices ring;
Faithful may we always be; Gold and Green, just see our colors fly,
No thought of time or weather; While we sing.
Hearts filled with hope and ecstasy; Forward march, let this our motto be:
Bravely we’ll fight our battles, “Victory!”
Happily we’ll meet success; Through all kinds of weather
But the things for which we strive We will jog along together,
Are honor and happiness. True and loyal we shall ever be!
4Daily Operations and Procedures
School Hours and Attendance
The regular school day hours are 8:45 a.m. to 3:45 p.m.
The entry bell rings at 8:40 a.m. Please make sure your child arrives at
school by 8:45 a.m.
Adult supervision will be on the playgrounds beginning at 8:20 a.m.
Regular school attendance is important if a student is to make academic progress. Pulaski
students are expected to come to school every day and arrive on time.
Drop Off & Pickup
Please schedule your arrival for drop off and pick up no more than five minutes before the
entrance or dismissal bell. During the drop off time before school, ‘Kiss and Go’ parent
volunteers are stationed on Dickens and Leavitt to assist your child getting out of the car and
safely to a supervised location. Please do not double park or park illegally to escort your child to
school for drop off or at pick up time. In order to ensure safety we must keep halls and
doorways clear of visitors. Please wait outside for your child by his/her dismissal door. You will
not be permitted to meet him/her by the classroom. Your cooperation in helping us maintain
building security for the safety of our students is greatly appreciated.
Tardy Arrivals
Students are expected to be in their homeroom by 8:45 a.m. Late arrivals interrupt the
educational process. Students arriving late will be marked tardy. Students arriving after 8:50
a.m. must obtain a late pass from the Security Desk. Excessive tardies will be referred to the
counselor for investigation and may result in a detention, silent lunch or disciplinary action as
stated in the Student Code of Conduct. Please ensure that your child arrives at school on time.
Students arriving on a late school bus will not be marked tardy.
Late Arrival: Students who arrive late, after 9:45 must be accompanied by a parent / guardian
into either the Main building or Annex building to sign-in and receive a tardy pass.
Early Dismissal
Students leaving school prior to the close of the school day must be picked up by a parent,
grandparent, guardian or designated adult listed on the emergency form. Children will not be
released to anyone not listed on the emergency form or the school records. Please remember to
update the emergency information if it changes. An early dismissal form must be completed in
the Main Building Office, even for students in the Annex Building. Teachers will not release any
student without authorization from the Main Office. If a student misses more than one hour of
school, a half-day absence is noted in the records. If a late arrival or early dismissal is
absolutely necessary, please try to keep it within one hour. There will be no early dismissals
after 3:15pm.
5Busing
All students who receive busing must abide by the rules that are established for safety while
riding the bus to and from school. Upon the second disciplinary issue, a student may be
suspended from the bus. Parents/guardians will be notified. They will be expected to make
travel arrangements on their own for the length of the transportation suspension.
If a parent/guardian does not want their child to ride the bus in the afternoon, a signed note
must be brought to the office with that specific request. Please do not call the school to let the
office know that the child cannot ride the bus. The request to not ride the bus must be in
writing as it is our way of verifying that the request is from a parent or guardian.
If there is a last minute change and you need to pick up your child, please meet the bus monitor
at the bus at 3:40 p.m. and the bus monitor will release your child to you after verification has
been made by the office.
Dress Code
PreK – 8th Grade
Students and parents may choose clothing that is appropriate for school. Pulaski Spirit Wear is
encouraged and can be worn on any day of the week. During the winter, please dress children
appropriately for the weather and outdoor time during the school day.
PE Attire: On days that students attend PE, students must wear rubber-soled athletic shoes.
Pulaski School Clothing Dress Code Guidelines for ALL students
Pulaski IB World students are growing and continuing to develop self-discipline and personal
responsibility as global citizens. As they learn about their place in the world, Pulaski strives to
give our students opportunities to make good choices and grow in their personal responsibilities.
Giving our students their own choices for appropriate school clothing allows them to begin
making these decisions while still supported by their home and school community. Please take
this opportunity to talk with your child(ren) about this new responsibility and about making good
choices.
Minimum Requirements:
● Clothing must cover areas from one armpit across to the
other armpit, down to approximately 3 to 4 inches in length
on the upper thighs (see image below). Tops must have
shoulder straps. Rips or tears in clothing should be lower
than the 3 to 4 inches in length.
● Shoes must be worn at all times and should be safe for the
school environment (bedroom shoes or slippers and
flip-flops shall not be worn, except for school activities
approved by the principal).
● See-through or mesh garments must not be worn without
appropriate coverage underneath that meets the minimum
requirements of the dress code.
6● Headgear, including hats, hoodies and caps are not allowed unless permitted for religious,
medical or other reason by school administration.
Additional Requirements:
● Clothing may not depict, imply, advertise or advocate illegal, violent, or lewd conduct, weapons or
the use of alcohol, tobacco, marijuana or other controlled substances.
● Clothing may not depict or imply pornography, nudity or sexual acts.
● Clothing may not display or imply vulgar, discriminatory or obscene language or images.
● Clothing may not state, imply or depict hate speech/imagery targeting groups based on race,
ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, religious affiliation or any other protected
classification.
● Sunglasses may not be worn inside the building.
● Clothing and accessories that endanger student or staff safety may not be worn.
● Apparel, jewelry, accessories, tattoos, or manner of grooming that, by virtue of its color,
arrangement, trademark, or any other attribute, denotes membership in a gang that advocated
illegal or disruptive behavior is prohibited.
The administration reserves the right to determine what constitutes appropriate dress. Students
who do not adhere to these guidelines will not be allowed to attend class. Parents will be called
if appropriate clothing is not available or the student refuses dress-code appropriate clothing.
Attendance and Absence Policies
Per CPS policy, the only acceptable reasons for excused absences are: illness, observance of a
religious holiday, death in the immediate family, or family emergency. If your child is absent, due
to illness or other acceptable reasons, please call the school by 9:15 a.m. on the day of the
absence and send a note to the classroom teacher explaining your child’s absence the day the
student returns to school. If your student has had a communicable disease, a doctor’s note is
required before he/she may be readmitted to class.
Grades K-2nd Attendance 773-534-4395
Grades PreK, 3-8th Attendance 773-534-4390
Absences without a valid written note on file are considered unexcused.
** Please note: once a child is marked absent in the computer, Chicago Public Schools
automatically places a telephone call to the student’s home, regardless of whether the child
arrived late. The school is unable to stop these automatic telephone calls.
Absences of more than three days are referred to the attendance monitor or counselor for
investigation. If your child is absent more than five consecutive days and there has been no
contact during that time, a five day absentee letter will be mailed to your home. Students with 5
or more days of unexcused absences are considered “Truant”.
Planning Family Vacations: Please note that absence for f amily vacations are not excused
according to Chicago Public Schools Policy. It is important to note that students miss important
information when they are absent, which in turn impacts their learning and achievement.
Pulaski’s curriculum is collaborative and participatory. Absent students miss a significant
amount of classroom learning that cannot be replicated with worksheets or practice pages. In
7the case of a planned absence, the teacher will not provide work in advance. Please plan
vacation days when school is not in session. The school calendar is provided at the beginning
of the school year to help with planning vacations during school holidays. Absences due to
family vacations during the regular school year are highly discouraged and are considered
unexcused absences. Furthermore, our school attendance rate is impacted when children are
taken out of school for family vacations. This, in turn, affects our school rating.
School Communications
School-wide Communications: Pulaski International uses e-newsletters and the Pulaski website
as a school-wide communication tool with all parents and guardians. Please make sure the
school has your current email address so that you can receive the communications about
school and parent events, updates, announcements and other important information. Your
classroom teacher may also use a digital communication system, which you will sign up for
directly through the teacher.
Parent-Teacher Communications and Email Guidelines: Your child’s classroom teacher will
communicate with you using email or other communication system of choice. The partnership
between parents and teachers is extremely important in the successful education of students.
Pulaski recognizes that email is a valuable communication tool that is widely used across our
society. The administration and staff value communication between home and school, however,
our highest priority is to attend to your son/daughter and his/her class work and curriculum. If
you email your child’s teacher, please remember that they are working with your child during the
school day and may not be able to respond to you immediately. The school’s expectation is that
your teacher will respond to parent emails within 24-48 business hours of receipt. Thank you for
your patience and understanding when waiting for a response.
When using email, please follow these guidelines:
● Please do not send time-sensitive messages by email. For example, do not use email to
inform a teacher that your child is not going home on the bus. A teacher may not read
your message until after school has been dismissed.
● Your child’s academic progress, learning expectations or behavioral issues are best
addressed through a phone call or by scheduling a conference with your child’s teacher.
An email message on these matters is not appropriate. However, it is fine to schedule a
meeting via email.
● Please refrain from copying administrators on emails to teachers. As with all
communication, parents are asked to speak with teachers first regarding any questions
or concerns. If necessary, parents may call to schedule an appointment with an
administrator after speaking with a teacher.
● Please remember that email is not necessarily confidential. Confidential information
should be conveyed by phone or in person.
Parents can always use email to schedule meetings with teachers, provide brief updates that
are not time sensitive, and send any other general messages.
8School Meals & the Federal Family Income Form
Chicago Public Schools, a participant in the National School Breakfast and Lunch Programs,
serves nutritious meals each day. Pulaski International participates in the Universal Grab & Go
program. Students do not pay for Universal Breakfast and they may select a hot or cold
breakfast. Student participation is optional.
Pulaski International also provides a full lunch to students. It is provided at no cost if students
take at least three meal items (protein, grain, fruit, vegetable, and/or milk.) If a student wants
individual items, he/she must pay for them. Participation is optional. Students may also bring
their own packed lunch.
Family Income Information Form (FIIF)
The Community Eligibility Provision (CEP) of the Healthy, HungerFree Kids Act of 2010 allows
CPS to offer free breakfast and lunch to all students. Pulaski will now collect the Family Income
Information Form (FIIF) in order to determine the appropriate allocation of the Title I, SGSA and
ERate funds, as well as student eligibility to waive other fees such as book, testing fees, school
fees, etc. It is imperative that every Pulaski student submits a Family Income Information Form
every school year.
This form is very important for Pulaski because it determines how much federal funding our
school will receive for general operations to support our students. These funds help pay for
teaching positions, as well as other support staff at Pulaski. If the form is not filled out or the
applicant puts “N/A” for the income section, the form is not recorded and cannot be used to help
determine the federal funds that Pulaski receives. Please note the District requires forms to be
submitted for each student, regardless of financial need.
If household finances change during the school year, those changes need to be reported to the
school in order to update the FIIF. Forms are available in the Main and Annex Building offices. If
you have any questions regarding this process, please call the office at 773.534.4395.
Outdoor Recess Policy and Inclement Weather
Recess provides students the opportunity to take a break from their class work, engage in play
with their peers and participate in unstructured activities. Students are expected to abide by
school rules when using playground equipment. We have an alternate recess plan in case of
inclement weather, when the temperature is at freezing or below (wind chill, precipitation, and
playground conditions are also taken into consideration). All recess decisions are subject to
Principal discretion.
Pulaski International School encourages fresh air and physical activity for all of its students. To
support this philosophy, we will send students outside for recess as often as the weather
permits. Please familiarize yourself with our winter recess guidelines:
● Dry conditions and 25º F or above - Outdoor Recess
● 20º-25º F with a wind-chill (‘feels like’) temperature of 20º F or above - Outdoor Recess
● 20º-25º F with a wind-chill (‘feels like’) temperature below 20º F - Indoor Recess
● Below 20º F - Indoor Recess
● Ice, wet or unsafe playground conditions - Indoor Recess
9Please make sure to have your child(ren) dressed appropriately for the weather each day. We
want to ensure everyone is warm while enjoying outdoor time during recess. Outdoor morning
drop-off and pick-up will follow these same guidelines. All recess decisions are subject to
Principal discretion.
Lockers
Lockers are provided for students in grades 3-8 and are used under teacher supervision. For
security purposes, all lockers must have a school-purchased combination lock, which can be
purchased for $5.00 at the Main Office. Previously purchased school locks can be used each
year.
Calendar
For a listing of current events at Pulaski, visit the school website at: www.pulaskischool.org
For a copy of the 2019-2020 CPS academic calendar (English and Spanish), please visit:
http://www.cps.edu/Calendar/Pages/Calendar.aspx
Academics
Curricular Offerings
Our outstanding faculty works towards a shared goal of excellence while being attuned to the
individual needs of each student. We are committed to developing the whole child. Aside from
an excellent academic program in the core content areas of language arts, social science, math
and science, we provide instruction in design and technology, music, visual arts, physical
education and health, library science and Spanish language. In addition, there are after school
programs that offer activities to engage students in language arts and math instruction, the arts,
and sports and fitness. Core curricular documents are available at www.pulaskischool.org,
along with descriptions of before and after school offerings.
At Pulaski International School, we know that we cannot do the job of educating all of our
children alone and that we all must work in partnership with parents to bring the best education
to all of our students.
International Baccalaureate (IB) World School
International Baccalaureate (IB) is a recognized leader in the field of international education. It is
a non-profit, mission-driven foundation that offers three challenging programmes for pupils aged
3 to 19. IB supports the Pulaski International School mission to develop inquiring and
10compassionate lifelong learners who strive for their personal best in academics, civic
consciousness, individual responsibility and personal skills.
The IB Program of Inquiry provides a framework for teachers to develop transdisciplinary
education units. Instructional activities encompass characteristics of the IB Learner Profile (see
below). These characteristics inspire, motivate, and focus the work of Pulaski’s teachers. To
learn more about the IB organization and the IB Learner Profiles, visit http://www.ibo.org.
IB Learner Profile
Principled Reflective Open-minded Thinkers
Caring Balanced Risk-takers Inquirers
Communicators Knowledgeable
Student Evaluation Standards
The marking symbols of A, B, C, D and F are used to indicate a child’s academic progress,
achievement and effort in each subject area in grades 1-8. Class work, daily homework and
projects are expected to be submitted on their date due.
Grade Scale
90% - 100% A - Indicates consistent excellent quality and quantity of work
80% - 89% B - Indicates consistent good quality and quantity of work
70% - 79% C - Indicates satisfactory achievement
60% - 69% D - Indicates below average work
59% and below F - Indicates unsatisfactory progress
Report Cards
Reports cards are printed electronically and distributed every ten weeks. Parents are strongly
encouraged to pick up their child’s report card on Nov. 13 (Qtr 1) and April 22 (Qtr 3) at
Parent/Teacher Conferences. During conferences, you will discuss your child’s academic
progress with your child’s teacher. Please make arrangements for a conference with your child’s
teacher if you are unable to attend on the designated date. Report cards are sent home with
students Feb. 7 (Qtr 2) and June 16 (Qtr 4). Quarterly progress reports will be distributed on Oct
4 (Qtr 1) Quarter 1, Dec 13 (Qtr 2), March 6 (Qtr 3), May 22 (Qtr 4). Parents are encouraged
to call for an appointment with a teacher whenever they have a question concerning their child’s
academic progress or school behavior.
The Principal’s List
Each quarter students may earn placement on the Principal’s List for attendance, demonstration
of IB attitudes and/or academic excellence. If a student has had perfect attendance for the ten
week marking period, he/she is eligible based on the attendance. Students are also eligible if
they are nominated by their teachers for the demonstration of the IB attitudes. Additionally,
students are eligible to be included on the Principal’s List for academic excellence if they meet
the following criteria:
★ Honor Roll: All As and Bs
11★ High Honor Roll: All As
Homework Policy and Ways to support your child at home
The purpose of homework is to reinforce, review and provide practice on concepts that have
been introduced in the classroom. Assignments should be reasonable, interesting, meaningful,
and within the capabilities of the students. Parents should give their children support by
reviewing homework and test papers.
We believe how a student studies is as important as how long a student studies. We offer the
following suggestions to help your child do his or her best:
● Come prepared to class.
● Use what you learn and apply it to other situations.
● Listen and get involved in the class.
● Always do your best.
● Ask questions if you do not understand.
● Take pride in yourself and your work.
● Plan for and schedule time for homework.
● Show your homework assignments to someone in your family.
Homework for students in all grade levels:
● Completion of homework assigned over breaks is optional. Families are strongly
encouraged to spend time outside of school doing family activities (going to the library,
cultural events, museums, etc.)
● Homework accounts for 10% of a student’s grade total in 1st-8th grades
● All teachers will provide parents with links to extra resources and websites for families
who want to pursue more enrichment in reading or math at home.
● If homework is being completed too quickly or is too much of a struggle, please let your
student’s teacher know!
Homework policy grade level specifics will be shared on “Meet the Teacher Night” and is posted
on the Pulaski website.
Kindergarten - 3rd Grade Homework Time per night, including reading
The amount of time spent on homework is at the discretion of the teacher and parent.
● K/1st grades: Students read with adult OR independently for AT LEAST 10 minutes
nightly (child reads, adult reads to a child, or a combination of both)
● 2nd/3rd grades: Students read independently for AT LEAST 20 minutes nightly.
● Math homework is assigned nightly.
● Homework may be assigned in other subjects. When possible, teachers will give
advance notice of this homework.
4th - 5th Grade Homework Time per night, including reading
Up to 40 minutes each night
● Students read independently for AT LEAST 20-30 minutes nightly.
12● Math homework is assigned nightly.
● Occasional Science or Social Studies homework is assigned that is meaningful and
reviews concepts learned that day/week.
● Students need to be organized and accountable if they have homework in single-subject
classes.
6th - 8th Grade Homework Time per night, including reading
Up to 60 minutes each night
● Students read independently for AT LEAST 30 minutes nightly. (*They may read for
Language and Literature (L&L) class or another subject.)
● Math homework is assigned nightly.
● Science and Individuals and Society (I &S) homework may vary, average 1-3 times per week.
● Students need to be organized and accountable if they have homework in a
single-subject class.
● If a student does not have homework on a specific night, the expectation is that they
read and review their notes or practice concepts on websites provided by their teachers.
Homework has value when it aligns to one or more of the following objectives: Reviewing
concepts taught in class, providing an avenue for home/school communication, developing
responsibility and executive functioning (get the job done skills), and encouraging daily literacy
habits. Homework should always adhere to a “quality over quantity” approach. In lieu of sending
lengthy assignments home each night, we encourage families to use this time to develop life
skills, spend quality time together as a family and engage in rich, non-academic activities.
Homework during planned family vacations: In the case of a planned absence, the teacher will
not provide classwork or homework in advance. Teachers will give missed assignments to
the student upon his/her return to school and the student will need to complete the assignments
(if possible) in a time period equal to the amount of time the student was absent. Please plan
vacation days when school is not in session. Missing school can lead to poor grades and, in
some cases, academic failure. The school calendar is provided at the beginning of the school
year to help with planning vacations during school holidays. Absences due to family vacations
during the regular school year are highly discouraged.
Internet Usage
Our library media center, computer lab and classrooms have access to the Internet. Teachers
are available to assist students with the use of the computers. In order for students to use the
Internet, they must agree to follow the Chicago Public Schools Internet Users Policy as found in
the CPS Student Code of Conduct Handbook. Misuse will result in the revocation of privileges
and possible disciplinary action.
Pulaski International School has an IB Academic Honesty Policy for MYP students, this outlines
proper usage of the Internet for academic work. The Academic Honesty Policy and other
Pulaski IB policies can be found on the Pulaski website.
13To ensure students' safety and modeling proper digital citizenship behaviors while online per
children's Internet Protection Act (CIPA), Pulaski will continue using a program called
GoGuardian that allows all staff to monitor student activity on chromebooks or desktops in real
time.
Library / Media Center
The school library contains various reference materials along with Internet access. Students are
encouraged to use these resources for their enjoyment as well as for completing assignments.
The media center also includes a collaborative space for students to be inspired to learn about
careers in TV and multimedia. We also encourage Pulaski families to visit their neighborhood
library frequently.
Lost Library Books
Students are responsible for the care and protection of all library books that are checked out.
Students will be charged a fee for damage beyond normal wear and tear. If a book is lost, the
student is charged for the replacement value. If the book if later found and returned in good
condition, the student’s money will be refunded. Report cards will be issued from the office at
the end of the school year for any students owing money for lost or damaged books.
Field Trips
Field trips are planned by school staff at various times throughout the school year. Field trips
must have an educational purpose and relate to the curriculum. Written consent of a parent is
necessary before a child is permitted to go on a field trip. We ask for your cooperation in
returning this paperwork in a timely manner. Additional fees may be requested for field trips. If
you are unable to afford the additional fees please send a note to your child’s teacher. At a
minimum, one adult per ten students is required for a field trip. Trips without the required
number of adult chaperones may be cancelled. If your schedule permits, please accompany
your child’s classroom on a field trip!
In order for parents to chaperone field trips, they must go through the CPS Parent Volunteer
Registration Process. Please visit www.cpsvolunteers.org and click on “Complete A Volunteer
Application” to begin the process to help volunteer at Pulaski.
Promotion Policy
Students in grades 3, 6, and 8 must meet the criteria for promotion described in the Chicago
Board of Education Promotion Policy (posted on www.pulaskischool.org). Parents are urged to
keep in close contact with their child’s teacher in order to monitor their child’s progress. Parents
are also encouraged to register or login on the CPS Parent Portal ASPEN
(https://cps.edu/Pages/parentresources.aspx) to monitor student progress, attendance, and
school assignments.
14Graduation
All 8th grade students are expected to meet graduation requirements by receiving passing
academic grades, maintaining good attendance, meeting the minimum requirements as
determined by the student’s District-Wide Assessment (DWA) scores in reading and math,
followed by a review of the student’s academic performance. In addition, all students must
receive a passing score on The Constitution of the United States of America and The
Constitution of the State of Illinois exams. These exams are given in 7th grade. All requirements
must be met to receive an 8th grade diploma and to participate in graduation activities. A fee
schedule, list of all activities, and requirements for graduation will be printed in the winter and
spring. Students may lose the privilege to participate in graduation activities for serious and/or
repeated infractions of the Student Code of Conduct. The criteria for participation and exclusion
will be explained to students by the classroom teacher. The written criteria will be sent home for
parents to review.
Continuous Improvement Work Plan (CIWP) Areas of Focus for 2018-2020
Strategy 1 – Collaborate and work with Related Service Providers (RSP) to plan, implement
and monitor targeted student supports with varied instructional strategies and Social Emotional
Learning (SEL) supports of varying degrees of intensity for all students
Strategy 2 – IB units (PYP/POI and MYP/Subject Guide Overview) are aligned to standards and
strategies that support trans-disciplinary learning that will benefit all learners (Gen Ed, DL, ELL,
ESL Gifted)
Strategy 3 – Establish clear school policies and reinforce goals for SEL for all staff and students
where we provide structured opportunities to build positive relationships and a sense of
community among students, staff, and parents.
Recreational Reading Requirement
All Chicago Public School students are required to read a minimum of 25 books during the
school year. To become good readers, children need lots of practice. Please encourage your
child to read daily and keep track of the number of books read.
Social Emotional Learning
Student Code of Conduct
The Student Code of Conduct guidelines are followed when students fail to comply
with the Code. The Chicago Board of Education amends the Student Code of
Conduct Handbook annually. Please be sure to review the Code of Conduct when it
is sent home. You and your child will be asked to sign a receipt acknowledging that
you have both read the Student Code of Conduct Handbook during the first week in school. If
for any reason you do not receive this handbook, it is available at the school office in English
and Spanish.
15While Pulaski International School implements the Student Code of Conduct, our school
promotes positive student behavior by implementing PBIS (Positive Behavior Interventions &
Supports).
Pulaski’s Expectation for PBIS - We all strive to model the “Pulaski Way”
1. Be Respectful
2. Be Responsible
3. Be Positive
4. Be Safe
In addition, the Pulaski International IB Primary Years and Middle Years Programme focus on
the development of positive attitudes towards people, the environment and learning. The IB
attitudes are explicitly addressed throughout our curriculum: Appreciation, Commitment,
Confidence, Cooperation, Creativity, Curiosity, Empathy, Enthusiasm, Independence, Integrity,
Respect and Tolerance. This approach to positive student behavior aims to improve student
academic and behavior results. Second Step is a social emotional curriculum that is taught in
grades PreK-5, students in grades 6th-8th will take part in mixed advisory meetings and the entire
school will participate in Calm Classroom.
Detention Policy
Pulaski has a detention policy for 5th-8th grade students. This policy works to improve student
conduct and attendance. Detention is held before or after school or in some cases during lunch.
Parents will be notified with plenty of time to make specific arrangements if the child must serve
a detention. More information will be provided at “Meet the Teacher Night.”
Counseling Services
Pulaski International School offers a range of counseling services for students. The school
counselor is responsible for the academic and social needs of our students. Additionally, 6th-8th
grade students receive guidance for high school selection and placement. Emergency individual
counseling is available as the need arises. Parents are encouraged to seek assistance from a
counselor if a special circumstance is affecting the child’s school work.
Students who exhibit academic or behavioral difficulties may be individually evaluated by the
Special Education Team under the direction of a counselor or case manager. Students with
attendance difficulties are given counseling services on a continuing basis.
Personal Electronic Equipment and Personal Property
Pulaski strongly discourages students from bringing personal electronic equipment and
other personal items to school, including sports equipment and balls. Please be sure your
child leaves their equipment (phones, iPads, games, balls, etc.) at home. If students must carry
a piece of electronic equipment, please complete the Permission Form that will be sent home
separately, and submit it to your child’s homeroom teacher. Equipment must be turned off and
be kept in the student’s locked locker. The school is not responsible for the security of any
16equipment. If a student uses personal equipment while in school, it will be confiscated
and returned to parents and guardians only.
Celebrations
Teachers will let students know if an in-class celebration will occur. It is not mandatory for
children to pass out items to share, but if you wish to participate, please distribute small
inexpensive items, instead of food or treats. There will be times when food may be used for
celebrating events, such as the end-of-school party. All classroom celebrations will be
coordinated by the teacher and are responsible to ensure student health concerns are taken
into consideration.
Safety, Security and Medical Information
Building Security
All school visitors must enter through the main entrance and sign in at the Security
Desk. Visitor passes to individual classrooms will be issued at the Main and Annex
Offices. Your cooperation signing in is appreciated.
The school has the ability to employ various security measures, including wand metal detector
screening, student and personal property searches and locker searches. While these measures
are rarely necessary, we must have these options available to ensure the safety of all students.
Parents will be notified after any search or screen if performed.
Fire, Disaster and Lockdown Drills
Emergency drills, including fire, tornado and lockdown drills are necessary for the safety of
students and staff. A prolonged loud ring announces a fire drill, at which time everyone must exit
the building at the direction of their teachers. Ten short rings announce a disaster or lockdown
drill, which requires students to take assigned positions in the halls or classrooms at the
direction of their teachers. Appropriate student behavior is expected during drills.
Medical and Dental Records
The State of Illinois requires that every elementary school child have a complete physical exam
before entering Kindergarten, 5th and 9th grades. Medical forms are available in the school
office.
Students transferring from another school district, regardless of grade, must have a current CPS
Medical form (which includes up-to-date immunization records) on file at Pulaski. You will be
notified if your child is not in compliance. If the appropriate medical forms are not on file, your
child will be excluded from classes. Avoid an interruption to your child’s education and make a
doctor’s appointment immediately.
Dental exams are required of all students entering Kindergarten, 2nd and 6th grades. CPS
Dental forms are available in the school office.
17Emergency Forms
Each child must have a current Emergency Form on file in their homeroom. The form details the
student’s home address, phone number, parent/guardian email address, parent/guardian’s work
information, phone number of the student’s physician and two names and phone numbers of
family members or friends to be used in case of an emergency when the parent/guardian cannot
be reached. Please update these forms as soon as there is a change in the information
provided. Emergency forms will be sent home at the beginning and midpoint of the current
school year.
Medication
Whenever possible, we encourage medication to be administered at home. Only designated
staff members may administer medication to students. Written permission from a parent or
guardian must first be provided along with a required doctor’s form. Only medication properly
labeled and in the original pharmacy container will be administered. The Chicago Board of
Education may reject requests at their discretion. Contact the school nurse for the necessary
forms by calling 773.534.4390 or email Joseph Schissel jwschissel@cps.edu
Allergies/Medical Issues
Please make sure the school nurse, the office and your child’s teacher are aware of any
allergies or medical issues your child may have. Please contact the school counselor to set up
an appointment early in the school year to discuss any concerns and set up a plan of action.
Care of Emergency Injuries
Sick or injured children will be given emergency care until parents arrive. Parents should report
to the Main Office to have the child released to their care. In a serious emergency, 911 will be
called and the student will be taken to the nearest hospital for medical attention.
Emergency School Closing
Poor weather conditions or other unforeseen issues may require a school closure. In the event
that Pulaski International School is closed, the school will notify all families via robo call and/or
email, an online communication system, or school website. Please make sure you have an
updated and accurate phone number and email address on file at the school for emergency
events such as this.
Health and Wellness
At Pulaski International School, we address health and wellness as part of the
curriculum. Students participate in recess and “brain breaks” every day and are
encouraged to make health choices with food.
18Healthy Eating
In an effort to maintain the goals set forth in the Chicago Public Schools Local School Wellness
and Healthy Snack and Beverage Policy, we encourage families to follow the snack/beverage
recommendations listed below. This list promotes a healthy lifestyle and is beneficial for both
the physical and cognitive development of our students. These foods also help reduce the
possibility of allergic reactions. Please consider sending the following foods to school with your
child for snacks or as part of a healthy lunch: fresh fruit, fresh vegetables, fruit cups or canned
fruit in natural or light juices, raisins or other dried fruit, yogurt, pretzels, healthy popcorn, whole
grain crackers, cheese, baked chips, water, unsweetened fruit or vegetable juices, low-fat milk.
Also, food of any kind is not permitted for birthday treats to celebrate your child’s birthday. If
brought to school it will be sent home. As an alternative to food treats, your child may bring a
book to give to the classroom library, ask the classroom teacher if there are supplies needed for
the classroom, or small gifts (pencils, eraser, stickers, etc.) to pass out to his/her classmates.
Nut and other Food Allergies
Classrooms with students who have nut allergies are considered nut-free. The cafeteria school
menu does not contain nuts. Each lunchroom has a table dedicated as nut-free for any child
with a nut allergy to sit during lunch. If your child brings his or her own lunch, please refrain from
including any lunch items that include nuts. Pulaski staff encourages parents to continually
remind their child(ren) not to share their lunch or someone else’s lunch. Supervising lunchroom
staff are vigilant about food sharing at lunchtime, especially with the younger students.
Admissions
Admission requirements for K-8 students residing within the school’s
attendance boundaries; residing outside the school’s attendance boundaries or
applying to the Gifted Bilingual Program, please visit www.gocps.edu to learn
more.
Students Applying to the Preschool Program - Ready to Learn should contact Chicago
Early Learning at www.gocps.edu or call the Chicago Ready to Learn hotline at 312.229.1690.
Parents are notified by the CPS Ready to Learn program if their child is accepted. Pulaski will
then contact families for registration.
Enrollment and Health Requirements
All documents needed to register a child at a Chicago Public School, including health
requirements, are provided at the following web link:
www.cps.edu/Schools/Enroll_in_a_school/Register/Pages/Step3Register.aspx
19Parental Involvement
Parent Involvement and Volunteer Opportunities
We believe in strong parent involvement, input and support. Specific
opportunities are designed to encourage parental involvement and support
the school, including:
● IB Investigation Days
● Family Nights – Meet the teacher/ Curriculum, Fitness, Literacy, STEM, Arts and Culture
● Local School Council (LSC) Meetings
● Special Interest classes for Parents
● Kiss & Go Morning Drop-off Volunteer Program
● NCLB and Bilingual Action Committee (BAC) Parent Meetings and Workshops
● Friends of Pulaski (FOP) Meetings
● Field Trip Chaperones
In order to volunteer at Pulaski or attend field trips, the interested party must complete
an online application at www.cpsvolunteers.org. After submitting their online application,
they must visit Pulaski and present a valid photo ID to Mrs. Sherman or office staff.
Their photo ID will be checked and a copy will be made for school record. Applications
cannot be approved by Pulaski or CPS until the volunteer has shown a valid ID (State
ID, Driver's License, Military ID and/or Passport photo). Potential chaperones are
encouraged to begin the process a month ahead of the scheduled field trip.
Volunteers can apply for either level 1 or 2. See website for descriptions of each level.
New parent volunteers are required to complete a CPS Volunteer application, which includes a
background check. The process is only conducted online and paper applications are not
available. Please visit www.cpsvolunteers.org and click on Form Interest Volunteer to begin the
process to help volunteer at Pulaski. Former parent volunteers who have already completed this
process do not have to do it a second time. We can’t do it without you!
Local School Council (LSC)
The LSC and the principal work together to maintain the school’s high standards of education.
The LSC consists of the following members: the principal, two teachers, one non-teacher staff
member, six parents, and two community members. LSC members are elected for a two year
term. Meetings are open to the public.
The members of the Local School Council for 2018-2020 include:
Diana Racasi, Principal Maria Ocampo, Parent Representative
Kathia Adame, Teacher Representative Evelia Trujillo, Parent Representative
Angela Chagoya, Teacher Representative Milton Uribe, Parent Representative
Maribel Lugo, Non-teacher Representative Oscar Valencia, Parent Representative
Melissa Kieta, Parent Representative Jason Horwitz, Community Representative
Irma Lizcano, Parent Representative Michael Tresnowski, Community Representative
20Forms and Fees
Please sign and return the following required forms and fees to your child’s
teacher by September 13, 2019.
School Fee- $75
In order to offset costs, each student is expected to pay a school fee of $75, which will be
collected from students at the start of the school year. The fee will be used to purchase an
agenda book for 2nd- 8th grades, all students K-8 will get a Pulaski t-shirt, instructional materials,
including classroom workbooks and Scholastic magazines; and technology repairs, support with
school field trips for students in need.
Please send your child’s student fee to his/her teacher by September 13. If circumstances do
not allow you to meet this deadline, please make special arrangements at the Main office. To
qualify for the fee waiver, the Family Income Information Form (FIIF - see below) must be
completed and returned to the school. For those who qualify, the CPS Fee Waiver Form
(https://clerks.cps.edu/Finance/Forms/School_Fee_Waiver_Form.pdf) may be filled out and
returned to the school.
Family Income Information Form (FIIF)
The Community Eligibility Provision (CEP) of the Healthy, HungerFree Kids Act of 2010 allows
CPS to offer free breakfast and lunch to all students. As such, Free and Reduced Meal (FRM)
applications will not be collected from parent/guardians of CPS students. All schools will now
collect the Family Income Information Form (FIIF) in order to determine the appropriate
allocation of the Title I, SGSA and ERate funds, as well as student eligibility to waive other fees
such as book, testing fees, school fees, etc. It is imperative that every Pulaski student submits a
Family Income Information Form every school year.
Parent Forms to be returned for each student by September 13, 2019.
● CPS Emergency Form
● School Fee - $75 per student
● Family Income Information Form (FIIF)
● CPS Health Forms (immunization, updated physical, and updated dental exam)
● Student Code of Conduct Handbook - Sign the last page of the book and return it.
● Acceptable Usage Policy - Pulaski often uses pictures of our students on our school
website, and for brochures and flyers. Please sign and return the Acceptable Usage
policy so that we know if we can use your child’s picture. Please note that student names
are never included in any web-based or printed materials
21Manual para padres y estudiantes en español
Por favor lea y conserve El manual del Estudiante / Padres para su consulta en casa.
Índice
Mensaje de la Directora 24
Operaciones diarias y Procedimientos 25
Horario y asistencia de la escuela 25
Llegada y Salida de los estudiantes 25
Tardanzas 25
Salida temprana de clases 25
Transportación 25
Código de vestimenta 26
Políticas de Asistencia y Ausencias 27
Comunicación en la escuela 28
Programas de Desayuno/Almuerzo & Forma Federal de Ingresos 29
Recreo y las inclemencias del tiempo 29
Armarios 30
Calendario 30
Programa académico 30
Currículo 30
Bachillerato Internacional (IB) Escuela del mundo 30
Evaluación de los estudiantes 31
Boleta de calificaciones 31
Lista del Director 31
Política de tareas y formas de apoyar a su hijo (a) en casa 31
Uso del Internet 33
Biblioteca/Centro de medios 33
Libros extraviados 34
Excursiones 34
Política de promoción 34
Graduación 34
Plan continuo de mejoramiento de trabajo (CIWP) Áreas de enfoque para 2018-2020 34
Requisito de lectura recreativa 35
El aprendizaje social y emocional 35
Código de Conducta del estudiante 35
Expectativas de Pulaski para asegurar comportamiento positivo (PBIS) 35
Acción Disciplinaria (Detención) 35
Servicios de consejero 36
Dispositivos Electrónicos y pertenencias Personales 36
Celebraciones en la escuela 36
22Seguridad e información Médica 36
Seguridad del edificio 36
Simulacros de incendios, desastres y cierre de emergencia 37
Registros médicos y dentales 37
Formas de emergencia 37
Medicamentos 37
Alergias/problemas médicos 37
Cuidado de accidentes/enfermedad 37
Cierre de la escuela por situaciones de emergencia 38
Salud y Bienestar 38
Alimentación Sana 38
Nueces y otros alimentos que producen alergias 38
Admisiones 39
Admisión para estudiantes en grados K-8 39
Los estudiantes que solicitan al programa preescolar. Listos para aprender (Ready to Learn) 39
Requisitos de inscripción y de Salud 39
Participación de los padres 39
Participación de los padres y oportunidades para ser voluntarios 39
Concilio Escolar (LSC) 40
Formas y Cuotas 40
Cuota Escolar 40
Formas 41
23Mensaje de la Directora
Bienvenidos a todos nuestros estudiantes y para todos aquellos de nuevo ingreso en Pulaski para este
2019-2020.
Esperamos que hayan tenido un verano fabuloso y que los estudiantes y sus familias estén listos para
volver a la tarea del aprendizaje. Creemos que la comunicación de expectativas y de información
importante es clave para el inicio de un trabajo en conjunto, claro, abierto y colaborativo.
Esta agenda es importante para los estudiantes y los padres y esperamos que la encuentre de utilidad
para este año. En el interior encontrará el Manual para padres / alumnos que proporciona información
importante, pautas y políticas que ayudarán a todos a fortalecer a Pulaski. Es una herramienta para que
los estudiantes y sus familias registren sus tareas y aprendan sobre diversas actualizaciones, políticas y
procedimientos.
Además de la supervisión, la agenda del estudiante puede ser utilizada como una herramienta de
comunicación entre padres y maestros, alentamos a los miembros de la familia para asistir a las sesiones
del Concilio local de la escuela, talleres para padres, conferencias de padres y maestros y de los eventos
especiales para las familias después de la escuela. Los padres de familia también son bienvenidos a ser
voluntarios en la escuela. Al trabajar juntos, podemos mantener nuestra energía centrada en la
edificación del aprendizaje de los estudiantes hacia el éxito y de sus logros del año pasado.
Misión
Pulaski ofrece una cultura de colaboración y reflexión, rigor intelectual, conciencia cívica, y crecimiento
integral, que se apoya en la lengua materna mientras fomenta la adquisición del segundo idioma.
Estamos comprometidos con el aprendizaje centrado en el estudiante y reforzado por el proceso de
investigación, la acción y la reflexión con el objetivo de desarrollar ciudadanos globales e innovadores.
Visión
Nuestra visión en la Escuela Pulaski Internacional de Chicago es la de promover la colaboración
intelectual y social entre los padres, estudiantes, personal y miembros de la comunidad para lograr la
excelencia académica y un pensamiento internacional. Buscamos fomentar una comunidad de
estudiantes bien informados, alumnos curiosos a lo largo de su vida, equipados con las habilidades y
actitudes para pensar y actuar más allá de sí mismos.
Colores
Los colores oficiales de Pulaski son el verde esmeralda y el oro.
Himno de la escuela
The Gold and Green Raise three cheers for our Pulaski School,
Onward we march together, Voices ring;
Faithful may we always be; No thought of time or weather;
Gold and Green, just see our colors fly, While we sing.
Hearts filled with hope and ecstasy; Bravely we’ll fight our battles,
Forward march, let this our motto be: “Victory!”
Happily we’ll meet success; Through all kinds of weather
But the things for which we strive We will jog along together,
Are honor and happiness. True and loyal we shall ever be!
Operaciones diarias y Procedimientos
24Horario y asistencia de la escuela
El horario de clases regular de la escuela es de 8:45 am a 3:45 pm
La campana de entrada suena a las 8:40 a.m. Por favor asegúrese de que su hijo/a llegue a la escuela a
las 8:40 a.m. La supervisión con un adulto presente en los patios de recreo comienza a las 8:20 am
La asistencia regular es importante para que un estudiante pueda tener un progreso académico. Se
espera que los estudiantes de Pulaski asistan a la escuela todos los días y que lleguen a tiempo
Llegada y Salida de los estudiantes
Por favor haga arreglos para llevar y recoger a los estudiantes no más tarde de cinco minutos antes de la
hora de entrada o salida. Durante la llegada antes de clases, habrá padres voluntarios de “beso y
despedida” que estarán sobre la calle Dickens y Leavitt, para ayudar a su hijo (a) a salir de su vehículo
de forma segura y acompañarlo a un lugar con supervisión. Por favor, no se estacione en doble fila o de
forma ilegal para acompañar a su hijo a la escuela en la entrada o a la salida. Con el fin de garantizar la
seguridad de los estudiantes debemos tener pasillos y puertas libres de visitantes. Por favor espere a su
hijo (a) fuera de la puerta de salida designada. No se le permitirá reunirse con él / ella en el salón de
clases. Apreciamos su cooperación la cual nos ayuda a mantener la seguridad de todos nuestros
estudiantes en nuestros edificios.
Tardanzas
Los estudiantes deben de estar en su salón a las 8:45 a.m. Las tardanzas interrumpen las clases. Los
estudiantes que lleguen tarde se les registrara en su asistencia. Los estudiantes que lleguen después de
las 8:50 a.m. deben obtener un pase de llegada tardía en el escritorio de seguridad. Las llegadas tardías
frecuentes se referirán a la consejera para así ser investigado y podrán resultar en detención o el
estudiante tendrá que almorzar en silencio o una acción disciplinaria como lo marca el Código de
Conducta de los Estudiantes. Por favor asegúrese que su estudiante llegue a la escuela a tiempo. Los
estudiantes que lleguen tarde debido a la logística del autobús escolar no serán marcados tarde.
Llegada tarde: los estudiantes que lleguen tarde, después de las 9:45 deben estar
acompañados por un padre / tutor en el edificio principal o en el edificio anexo para registrarse
y recibir un pase de entrada.
Salida temprana de clases
Los estudiantes que salgan temprano de la escuela tienen que ser recogidos por un padre, tutor o la
persona designada en el formulario de emergencia. Los niños no podrán salir de la escuela con nadie
que no esté en el formulario de emergencia o en el registro de la escuela. Un formulario de salida
temprana deberá ser completado en la oficina principal, incluyendo a los estudiantes que se encuentran
en el edificio anexo. Los maestros no permitirán la salida de ningún estudiante sin la debida autorización
de la oficina principal.Si un estudiante se ausenta más de una hora de clases, se le anotara en su
registro medio día ausente. Si es absolutamente necesario llegar tarde o salir temprano, por favor trate
de que sea menos de una hora.No habra salidas tempranas despues de las 3:15 pm.
Transportación
Todos los estudiantes que reciben transportación en el autobús escolar tienen que cumplir con las reglas
de seguridad establecidas cuando viajan hacia y desde la escuela. En caso de una segunda infracción, el
estudiante puede ser suspendido del servicio del autobús.Padres o tutores serán notificados y tendrán
que hacer otros arreglos para llegar a la escuela durante la suspensión.
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