Hope
Township School
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PO Box 293, 320 Johnsonburg Road, Hope, NJ 07844
- (voice) 908-459-4242 (fax) 908-459-5553
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2007-2008 TABLE OF CONTENTS I. Educational Outcome Goals 4
II. Day-To-Day Operations 4 A. Daily ScheduleB. Lunch and Recess Schedule C. Kindergarten Schedule D. Pre-K Schedule E. Absence from School F. Non-School Vacations G. Pupil Tardiness H. Early Excuses I. Visiting Friends after School J. Parking/Student Pick-Up and Drop-Off K. Before and After Care L. Student Use of Bicycles M. School Safety Patrol N. Animals O. Flag Salute
III. Pupil Programs of Study ..8A. Homework
IV. Reporting Pupil Progress ..9 A. Grading and Report CardsB. Progress Reports C. Calculating Grade Point Average
V. Recognition Of Pupil Achievement .10A. High Honor Roll B. Honor Roll C. Panther Pride Honor Society D. Additional Awards and Recognition
VI. Special Outings and Events 11A. Field TripsB. School Parties/Celebrations C. School Dances VII. Student Support Services 12A. Guidance and Counseling ServicesB. Child Study Team C. Pupil Assistance Committee D. Gifted and Talented / Academic Enrichment
VIII. Health Services 13A. Health Record Update B. Administration of Medication C. Physical Examination D. Health Screening E. Strep Testing
IX. Parent Participation and Communication 15 A. Visiting Your SchoolB. Community Involvement C. HPUI (Hope Parent University Institute) D. Conferences with Teachers E. School Meetings F. Parent Teacher Association (PTA) G. School Newsletter H. Public Suggestions and Concerns
X. Emergency Procedures and School Closings 16 A. Fire DrillsB. Bus Evacuations C. Lock Downs D. Emergency Closing E. Delayed Opening F. Emergency Dismissal G. Emergency Hotlines
XI. General Information 19A. New StudentsB. Pupil Records / FERPA C. Student Accident Insurance D. School Buildings and Grounds E. Student Fund Raising XII. School Bus Safety 20A. Parent ResponsibilityB. Student Responsibility
XIII. Student Rights and Responsibilities .21
A. Student Code of Rights and Responsibilities B. School Discipline C. Expected Student Behaviors D. Classroom Rules E. Cafeteria Rules F. Playground Rules G. Halls, Building and Grounds Rules H. Non-School Related Materials I. Student Dress and Grooming J. Care of School Property K. Use of Technology and Media Center L. Drugs, Alcohol and Anabolic Steroids M. Smoking N. Teacher Authority Corporal Punishment of Pupils O. Disciplinary Action P. Possession of Weapons Q. Detention R. Rules for Detention S. In-School Suspension T. Out of School Suspension
XIV. Disclosures
A. Right To Know / PEOSHA Disclosure 30B. Affirmative Action C. Section 504 D. Notice Concerning Open Public Records Acts Pupil Rights Amendments (PPRA) E. Policies & Regulations F. Hope Township School Technology Acceptable Use Policy G. Parent Permission and User Agreement Form (Technology) H. Photo/Video/Yearbook Picture Release I. Handbook Acknowledgement Form
Educational Outcome Goals
The Board of Education, having consulted with teachers, pupils, parents and other community members, has adopted the following educational outcome goals for the students of Hope Township School. These goals shall be reviewed at least once every five years.
The educational program in Hope Township shall enable each pupil: 1. To acquire basic skills in obtaining information, solving problems, thinking critically and communicating effectively. 2. To acquire a stock of basic information concerning the principles of the physical, biological and social sciences, the historical record of human achievements and failures, and current social issues. 3. To become an effective and responsible contributor to the decision-making processes of the political and other institutions of the community, county, state and world. 4. To acquire the knowledge, skills and understanding that permit him or her to play a satisfying and responsible role as both producer and consumer. 5. To acquire job entry level skills and the knowledge necessary for further education. 6. To acquire the understanding of and the ability to form responsible relations with a wide range of other people including those with differing social and cultural characteristics. 7. To acquire the capacities for playing satisfying roles in family life. 8. To acquire the knowledge, habits and attitudes that promote sound personal and public health, both physical and mental. 9. To acquire an understanding of ethical principles and values and develop the ability to apply them to his or her own life. 10. To develop an understanding of his or her own worth, abilities, potentials and limitations. 11. To learn to enjoy the process of learning and to acquire the skills necessary for a lifetime of continuous learning and adaptation to change.
Day-To-Day Operations Daily Schedule
Students in Grades K-8 should arrive at school by 8:45 to ensure a timely transition to Homeroom 8:50 - 8:57 Homeroom 8:58 - 9:43 Period 1 9:44 - 10:29 Period 2 10:30 - 11:15 Period 3 11:16 - 12:01 Period 4 12:02 - 12:47 Period 5 12:48 - 1:33 Period 6 1:34 - 2:19 Period 7 2:20 - 3:13 Period 8
Lunch and Structured Recreation Schedule
Kindergarten & Gr. 8Lunch 12:02 12:23 Structured Recreation 12:23 12:47 Grades 1, 3, 6 Lunch 11:16 11:39 Structured Recreation 11:40 12:01
Grades 2 and 4 Structured Recreation 11:16 - 11:36 Lunch 11:37 12:01
Grade 5 & 7 Structured Recreation 12:02 12:22 Lunch 12:23 12:47
Absence From School Parents are requested to notify the school nurse at 459-4687, between 8:40 and 9:00AM, each day a student is absent with the reason for the absence. Such notification is required in order to ensure the safety of each child. On the day of the student's return to school, the student must present a note, signed by a parent or guardian, indicating the date and reason for the absence. If a student should return without a note, the parent or guardian will be contacted. A note is required for an absence of any reason. Excused absences are limited to illness, death in the family and approved religious holidays. An absence of five consecutive days requires a doctor's excuse. Please be advised that if a child is out ill, he is not permitted to attend an after-school or evening activity. Any student who wishes to be excused for any other reason must receive the Administration's approval in advance. All excuses are kept on file until the conclusion of the school year. Any student with total absences in excess of 18 days, will be reviewed regarding possible retention. NJSA 18A:38-25. Compulsory Education. Attendance Required. Attendance required of children between six and 16; exceptions.
Every parent, guardian or other person having custody and control of a child between the ages of six and 16 years shall cause such child regularly to attend the public schools of the district or a day school in which there is given instruction equivalent to that provided in the public schools for children of similar grades and attainments or to receive equivalent instruction elsewhere than at school. NJSA 18A:38-27. Truancy and juvenile delinquency defined. Any child between the ages of six and 16 years who shall repeatedly be absent from school, and any child of such age found away from school during school hours whose parent, guardian or other person having charge and control of the child is unable to cause him to attend school and any pupil who is incorrigible, actually vagrant, vicious, or immoral in conduct, shall be deemed to be a juvenile delinquent and shall be proceeded against as such.
Non-School Vacations Students who plan to be absent from school because of vacation must provide advanced notice in the form of a letter, written by their parent or guardian, explaining the reason for the absence and the educational value of the trip. Unnecessary absences tend to minimize the value of school and may interfere with student progress. The classroom teacher will only be required to provide a general listing of the material expected to be covered during the child's absence. It is not reasonable to assign a week's worth of specific, detailed assignments or homework when the child is not present to benefit from daily instruction. Any missed tests or quizzes will be made up at the discretion of the teacher. The student is responsible for any material covered and work assigned while away. If a parent is away for business or vacation, and their child needs to stay with a relative or friend, the Administration will need, in writing, all emergency contact information.
Pupil Tardiness Students are expected to arrive at school on time. Developing habits of punctuality and regular attendance help to foster success through school and into adult life. A student who is not in homeroom by 8:50 AM is considered tardy and must be signed in at the main office by a parent or guardian. Only those who have obtained permission from the Administrator or Administration will not be marked tardy. After three tardies in a marking period, parents will be contacted in writing. Five tardies will result in a parent phone call. Excessive tardiness will be addressed through disciplinary measures, and may result in truancy charges. (Pupils who come to school on a bus that is late are not considered tardy).
Early Excuses Pupils may be excused from school only by the Administration. The request must be made in writing and include the time of his/her departure and return, and the reason for the early dismissal. Students will be called to the office when the parent/guardian arrives to pick them up. All students must be signed out before exiting the building. Students are reminded that anyone who leaves the building during the school day without being properly excused is considered truant and subject to disciplinary action. Students that leave early are considered TARDY. After three tardies in a marking period, parents will be contacted in writing. Five tardies will result in a parent phone call. Excessive tardiness will be addressed through disciplinary measures, and may result in truancy charges.
Visiting Friends After School Students wishing to visit friends after school must have a signed note indicating parental permission. Due to the capacity and routing of buses, a student cannot go on a bus different than their own. The district cannot issue bus passes for students to visit friends if the friend normally rides a different bus.
Student Drop-Off and Pick-Up School buses will drop-off and pick-up students in the circular driveway in front of the gymnasium. NO OTHER VEHICLES ARE PERMITTED IN THIS DRIVEWAY DURING DROP-OFF/PICK-UP TIMES. Parents who are dropping-off or picking-up students will use the parking lot adjacent to the side of the gymnasium. All drivers are urged to use the utmost caution when entering or leaving this parking lot to ensure the safety of our students. Please maintain a SLOW speed at all times. If you are discharging a student in the morning at the lower lot drop off area, please do so in a timely manner. There may be other vehicles and parents lined up behind and extending onto Rt. 519. If it is not a quick drop-off, please pull into a parking space and escort your child to the entrance.
Students should not be arriving at school prior to 8:30 a.m. For the safety of your child, please be advised that there is no supervision before 8:30 a.m. Please use the lower lot when dropping off students before 8:50 a.m. Only those students who are later than 8:50 a.m. may use the upper parking lot, and must be signed in by a parent.
All bus and car-line students will be dismissed from the gymnasium at the end of the school day. A student who normally rides the bus, must have a written note or be signed out by a parent or guardian for car-line dismissal.
Before and After Care The North Warren YMCA has initiated the YMCA KIDZ KLUB, an exciting new before (7:00 AM - 8:40 AM) and after (3:10 PM 6:00 PM) school child care program held at the Hope Twp. School. This program is run independently from the school. For complete registration information/packet, or to learn more about this program, please call the Y office and ask for Karen King, Director, at 908-362-8217. Information flyers are also available at the Main office of Hope School.
Use of Bicycles Parents must provide written permission for their child to ride a bicycle to and from school. Permission slips are available in the main office. Students are reminded that a helmet must be worn while riding a bicycle. The school does not permit the use of minibikes, skateboards, in-line skates, 4 wheelers, ATVs or motorcycles for travel to or from school. The school is not responsible for bicycles left outside during the school day. School Safety Patrol The Hope Township School sponsors a School Safety Patrol each year. Eligible members are students in the eighth grade. It is important for parents to assist us in reinforcing and emphasizing the need for all students to respect the authority of the Safety Patrol members when they are on duty in the building and on school grounds. Safety Patrol students have no authority on the school bus except to report problems to the driver or administrator. Any student who does not successfully fulfill his/her responsibilities, or meet eligibility requirements, may be removed from their post by the advisors or Administration. Flag Salute Each morning, pupils are expected to salute the flag and recite the Pledge of Allegiance. The salute shall be rendered with the right hand over the heart. Pupils who have permission not to participate are expected to respect the rights of those participating.
AnimalsDue to the potential complications of an animal bite and allergic reactions, it is our policy that students not bring animals to school while school is in session. Under special circumstances an animal would be allowed in school if it were directly involved in a program. See the Administration for approval.
Pupil Programs of Study
Hope Township School serves a student population that ranges from Pre-K through eighth grade. As such, a differentiated educational program is necessary to meet the needs of its developmentally diverse student constituency. The grade levels are divided into four grade level "clusters": Pre-K-2; 3- 4; 5-8. Each program is designed to address the unique academic, social, emotional and physical needs of children within the respective grade level grouping. Homework Regularly assigned homework, faithfully done by students, is considered part of the learning process at Hope Township School. Homework is meant to reinforce and extend learning that takes place in the classroom, develop effective study habits and organizational skills, improve student performance, engender a sense of personal responsibility and provide a day-to-day link between home and school.
Students are expected to complete all assigned work to the best of their ability. On rare occasions, family obligations or emergencies may prevent the completion of a homework assignment. Under such conditions, parents should write a note to the teacher explaining the circumstances. Make up of missed assignments will then be at the discretion of the teacher.
The duration of time spent doing homework varies in accordance with grade level expectations. The following are general guidelines for the total amount of time a student should spend completing daily homework assignments:
Kindergarten: 10 minutes Grade 3: 20-30 minutes Grade 6: 35-50 minutes Grade 1: 10-15 minutes Grade 4: 25-35 minutes Grade 7: 40-60 minutes Grade 2: 20 minutes Grade 5: 30-45 minutes Grade 8: 50-70 minutes
Reporting Pupil Progress
Grading and Report Cards for Grades K-2 Students in grades K-2 will be assessed on specific skills that align with our school curriculum and New Jersey Core Content Curriculum Standards. Students will be graded by: N Needs Improvement. This means the student has not shown progress in this skill. S - Satisfactory. This means the student is showing progress in this skill. O - Outstanding. This means the student has mastered the grade level requirements associated with this skill. U Unsatisfactory. This means the student is unable to fulfill the requirements of this skill. Students in grades K-2 will be assessed in the special subject areas during the second and fourth marking periods only. * Students in Kindergarten will receive a report card for the second and fourth marking periods. Students in grades 1 and 2 will receive report cards for each marking period.
Grading and Report Cards for Grades 3-8 The Board recognizes that a system of grading can help students, teachers and parents monitor achievement and assess progress toward personal educational goals and objectives. The grade reporting system for assigning marking period grades is as follows:
Excellent. Quality of work is in the superior range. Contributes beyond class assignments, grasps all facts essential to skill areas, shows superior initiative and interest, and integrates all subject areas. A+ 99 - 100 A 94 - 98 A- 92 - 93
Good. Quality of work is in the above-average range, is prepared for all lessons, has good understanding of subject matter, works with initiative and self-direction, and hands in written work that is well done. B+ 90 - 91 B 85 - 89 B- 83 - 84
Fair. Quality of work is in the average range. Works well under teacher direction, but sometimes needs extra help and guidance. C+ 81 - 82 C 76 - 80 C- 74 - 75
Weak. Quality of work is in the below-average range. Shows little progress but has mastered a few skills. D+ 72 - 73 D 67 - 71 D- 65 - 66
Failing. Quality of work is not satisfactory and indicates that skills have not been mastered. F below 65
Incomplete. Submitted work is insufficient to warrant any of the above grades. This grade (I) is given to students who have experienced extended periods of illness or those who have not completed assigned work for other approved reasons. If a student receives this mark, a conference should be arranged to inform parents of extent of the work to be completed. If all work is completed within a reasonable amount of time, as defined by the teacher and Administration, the grade will be changed to a mark deemed appropriate by the classroom teacher. If the work is not completed during the allotted time, a failure is recorded for the subject.
Progress Reports In addition to marking period grades, a mid-semester progress report will be sent home for each student in grades 1-8, during the first and third marking periods. K-8 teachers will send home progress reports during the second and fourth marking periods on an as needed basis. This report is intended to help parents monitor the progress and achievement of their child.
Calculating Grade Point Average For determination of GPA, core courses include Language Arts, Social Studies, Science, Math. For seventh and eighth graders, Spanish is also included as a core course. Because Language Arts is taught as two integrated Reading and Writing courses, it has a weighted factor of ten (10). Social Studies, Science, Math and Spanish have a weighted factor of five (5). All other courses carry a factor of one (1).
Grade equivalents are as follows: A+ 4.33 B+ 3.33 C+ 2.33 D+ 1.33 A 4.00 B 3.00 C 2.00 D 1.00 A- 3.66 B- 2.66 C- 1.66 D- .66
Recognition of Pupil Achievement
Pupils in grades six through eight who distinguish themselves by high academic achievement will be recognized on an honor roll at the end of each marking period.
*High Honor Roll The high honor roll will include all pupils who have achieved a grade of A- or better in each subject. *Honor Roll The honor roll will include all pupils who have achieved a grade of B- or better in each subject and a GPA of 3.00 or better.
Panther Pride Honor SocietyPanther Pride Honor Society was established in Hope in the 2001-2002 school year to promote appropriate recognition, specifically to Hope students in grades 7 & 8, who reflect outstanding accomplishments in the areas of scholarship, leadership, service, character, effort and citizenship. Hope students who have a grade point average of 3.5 or better, with no grade below a C, will be considered. Fourth marking period grade point averages for Grade 6 will also be considered.
Additional Awards and Recognition Because it is not possible to anticipate the achievements of pupils in all areas of school and community life, the administration and faculty are committed to recognizing outstanding student accomplishments that may occur outside the traditional academic arena. Any such accomplishment should be reported to the Administration.
*Revised October, 2002
Special Outings and Events
Field Trips Class field trips are periodically planned by teachers and are considered an extension of the classroom learning experience. Transportation costs to these school approved events are supported by Board of Education monies, if such funds are available. Parents may be asked to share in the cost of the trip by paying for the admittance fees and possibly transportation. In the event of a field trip requiring extensive travel, parents may be asked to help defray the cost of coach transportation in place of a school bus. If the cost of a field trip is a financial burden, the parents should contact the Administration. Information about field trips will be provided well in advance. Signed parental permission slips are required for student attendance. Students are expected to follow all school rules and specific teacher directions while on the trip. School Parties/Celebrations All parties/celebrations must be approved in advance and will be planned and administered by the cluster teachers. Parties/celebrations will be consistent with Board policy and cluster decisions. Board policy prohibits teachers from accepting gifts. Please speak with the teacher prior to sending in items or food for the class. Anything brought in must come to the main office first. Please refer to the Nutrition Policy in back of this handbook. This policy was instituted in 2006.
School Dances Dances are for Hope Township residents in grades 5 - 8. Out of town guests are, as a general rule, not permitted. Occasionally, exceptions may be made if approved at least 24 hours in advance, in writing, by the school administration. Once admitted into the dance, students are to remain inside until picked up by a parent or designated responsible adult. No students are permitted in any other area of the school or property outside of the dance area. Adult chaperones, which may include faculty or parent volunteers, are the responsible adults at these social functions. All food and beverages will be available through the dance sponsor only. All students are to maintain behavior and dress that is accordance with school guidelines. All school rules apply (no cell phones, etc.) Anyone failing to conduct themselves in an acceptable and appropriate manner will be subject to disciplinary action and exclusion from the dance and future social events. A student must be present in school all day in order to attend a dance or other social function.
Student Support Services
Guidance and Counseling Services The school counselor is available for students who need assistance throughout the school year. The following services are available to students: - Orientation for new students - Crisis intervention and counseling - Ongoing counseling on an individual or group basis with written parental approval - Information pertaining to "outside" services (psychologist, counseling, etc.) - Information regarding report cards, standardized testing, etc.
Child Study Team In accordance with NJ State Law, the Child Study Team (CST) of Hope Township School is comprised of a Psychologist, Learning Disabilities Teacher Consultant, Social Worker, Speech Therapist, Nurse and a Consulting Physician. The purpose of the team is to aid teachers, parents and students in providing the proper educational atmosphere in which all students may perform and learn to the best of their ability. Requests for CST services can be made by parent, teacher or administrator by filling out a referral form and stating the reasons for the request. Requests for services may include an Educational Evaluation, Psychological Evaluation and/or Guidance Counseling. Parents are always made aware of any referral to the team of their child so that they may be directly involved in the screening and placement process if necessary. (See Regulation 2460.1)
Pupil Assistance Committee The school may provide additional educational resources for children in need through the Pupil Assistance Committee (PAC). This group is comprised of teachers, special educators and an administrator. As one of their tasks, the PAC may devise a Pupil Assistance Plan designed to address difficulties that a student is experiencing in the regular education class. Parents of pupils referred to PAC are encouraged to participate in the development and implementation of the Pupil Assistance Plan.
Gifted and Talented Hope Township School, using multiple measure criteria developed by teachers and approved by the Hope Board of Education, identifies gifted students and provides these qualifying students with appropriate instructional adaptations and services. A student may qualify for the program in Language Arts or Mathematics. Students will be evaluated annually for these programs.
Academic Enrichment Recognizing the unique gifts and talents of all students, the Academic Enrichment program offers all students the opportunity to extend their academic performance. As such, the extended learner program will be open to all students and includes three components: 1. A skill strengthening program: to reinforce the fundamental skills of learning. 2. An enrichment program: to develop problem-solving and higher level thinking skills. 3. A talent program: to cultivate students' special skills or abilities that may lie outside of the traditional academic arena (i.e. art, music, physical education).
Health Services
Health Record Update Please notify the school nurse regarding any new immunizations received or major illnesses that occurred during the summer months.
Administration of Medication The Board of Education disclaims any and all responsibility for the diagnosis and treatment of any pupil illness. At the same time, the Board recognizes that a pupil's attendance may be contingent upon the timely administration of medication duly prescribed by a physician. The Board will permit dispensation of medication in school only when the medication is administered in accordance with this policy. For the purposes of this policy, "medication" means any prescription drug or over-the-counter medicine or nutritional supplement. Aspirin and cough drops are considered medication and subject to the same procedures as prescription drugs. No medication will be administered to pupils in school except by the school nurse, another registered nurse, or the pupil's parent. Medication must be delivered to the school nurse in its original container by the pupil's parent and must be accompanied by the parent's written request for its administration and by the physician's written and signed statement of the medication's name, purpose for the specific pupil, timing, dosage, possible side effects and the time when its use will be discontinued. Medication no longer required must be promptly removed by the parent. An exception is made for pupils with asthma or another potentially life threatening illness, who shall be allowed to self-administer medication when a nurse is not physically present at the scene, provided permission for such self-medication is on file in the office of the school nurse and comply with the conditions for granting permission contained in Regulation #5330 RF. The privilege to self-administer medication may be revoked if the student fails to comply with this policy or the regulations of self-medication. (NJSA 18A:6-1.1; 18A40-6; 18A:40-7) (NJSA 45:11-23)
Physical Examination Each student must have a physical exam upon entry into the school district either in Pre-K, Kindergarten, or upon transfer in the older grades. This exam should be done by a health care provider or advanced practice nurse chosen by the students parents/guardians.
The Hope Township Board of Education stresses the importance of students obtaining subsequent examinations by your health care provider at least once during each of the students developmental stages:
When it is time for your child to have his physical exam, it is recommended that you obtain a physical form from the nurses office and have it filled out by your private physician. The school nurse will record this on your childs school health record.
If you do not have a private physician or you have any other question concerning physicals, please call the nurses office.
Health Screening
Health Screenings are procedures designed to detect previously unrecognized conditions as early as possible in order to provide early intervention and remediation and to limit potential disability or negative impact on scholastic performance.
NJ Law requires that all students aged 10 to 18 be examined for scoliosis every 2 years. The examination will be conducted in school. Parents will be notified if the need for a medical examination is indicated. If you do not want your child examined in school, and wish to have your child examined at your own expense, please notify the school nurse immediately in writing.
Students are also screened annually for Height, Weight, B/P, Vision, and Hearing according to N.J. State Guidelines and school policy. A referral form will be sent home to a parent if their child has difficulty with any of these screenings. If you do not want any of these health screenings to be done in the school, please put this in writing and send it to the nurse before the end of September. Any letters must be specific as to the type of screening refused and the school year.
Strep Testing Strep Testing is provided cooperatively between the school and parents for a nominal fee.
Parent Participation and Communication
Visiting Your School All parents are welcome to visit their school. In order to ensure the safety of the students, persons wishing to visit the school are asked to make arrangements in advance through the school office. Upon arrival, all parents, visitors, and vendors must proceed directly to the school office where they can register and receive name tag and information or instructions.
Community Involvement The administration and faculty of Hope Township School are always interested in continuing and expanding parent participation in selected activities. Participation in curriculum development, policy formation and after school activities provide an excellent opportunity for meaningful involvement. Anyone interested in volunteering their time to assist in the library, production lab, chaperone a field trip, teach students hobbies after school, or serve as a class mother/father should contact the school office.
Hope Parent University Institute (HPUI) Throughout the school year, Hope Township School offers parents a variety of workshops designed specifically with topics of high interest, and taught by our educational staff.
Conferences with Teachers Conferences with teachers are a professional matter and should be conducted under the most desirable and confidential conditions. Parents are asked to contact teachers directly, or through the main office, so that a meeting can be scheduled at a mutually convenient time.
In addition to meetings called on an "as need" basis, two Parent/Teacher Conferences are scheduled each school year. Prior to the conference dates in Fall and Spring, a notice providing more detailed information will be sent home with your child.
School Meetings The following list of meetings are open to the public. Parent participation is strongly encouraged. The exact dates and times will be reported in the weekly school newsletter.
School Board Meetings - 2nd and 4th Tuesdays of the month, 7:00 PM Community Meetings: Special Purpose or Board of Education Meetings to review - 1. Prior district objectives summary report 2. Current district objectives 3. Standardized test results of NJ PASS, NJ ASK, NJ ASK 8 (formerly GEPA) School Advisory Committee - Parents and members of the community meet with the Administration on an as needed basis.
Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) Hope Township PTA provides parents, teachers, and community members the opportunity to unite to improve childrens lives by addressing health, education, and social concerns. Book Fairs, Family Fun Nights, and assemblies are a few examples of the activities which the PTA is involved in organizing. All parents are urged to join the PTA. Meetings are held at the school at 7:00PM., usually the first Monday of the month. Meeting dates are announced in the calendar and/or newsletter.
School Newsletter Panther Prints, the Hope Township School newsletter, is produced biweekly and sent home with students. Future events and pertinent educational information is included in this parent produced publication. Anyone interested in helping with the school newsletter should contact the school office.
Public Suggestions and Concerns Any person having a legitimate interest in the school shall have the right to present an inquiry, request, suggestion or concern in reference to the staff, curriculum, physical plant, grounds, administration, pupils or any other pertinent matter. The public is asked to refrain from calling individual Board of Education members about specific concerns.
Instead, individuals are encouraged to adhere to the following procedures as outlined in Board of Education Policy #9130: 1. Any such matter shall first be discussed with the staff member most directly involved. 2. If the matter is not satisfactorily resolved, the individual shall bring the concern to the attention of the Assistant Principal. 3. The Assistant Principal will schedule a meeting with the concerned individual and review: a. the specific nature of the matter and the steps already taken to resolve it b. the solution, if any, and the reasons supporting it. 4. If the matter is still not satisfactorily resolved, the individual will schedule a meeting with the Superintendent/Principal. 5. If the matter still remains unresolved, the entire Board of Education will render a final decision on the issue.
Emergency Procedures and School Closings
NTI Call System Hope Township School utilizes an automated call system to let parents know about upcoming events, school closings, etc. If school is not yet in session, and closes or has a delayed opening for weather or any unforeseen reason, a call will go out to a familys home telephone number in the morning. If school is in session, and needs to close on an emergency basis, a call will go out to every telephone number you provide us for our data base. We will utilize this system whenever possible, but please do not rely on this system as your only source of information for closings or delays. (Refer to radio station listings).
Fire Drills Fire drills are held twice a month, as mandated by NJ State Law. Students are expected to remain silent and follow all directions given by teachers.
Bus Evacuation Bus evacuation drills will take place in the Fall and Spring. During these drills, students will be asked to exit the bus from the rear door to simulate emergency conditions.
Lock Downs During the course of the school year, students may participate in a lock down drill. This allows students to practice finding their safe spot in the event of an emergency.
Emergency Closing Throughout the school year, there may be days when the school must be closed because of inclement weather. The following is a list of radio and television stations that make local announcements: Clear Channel Radio Nassau Broadcasting WNNJ 103.7and 1360 AM WSBG 93.5 WHCY / MAX 106.3 WTHK 97.5 WSUS 102.3 WWYY 107.1 WVPO 840 AM Channel 69 News (New Jersey) WILT 960 AM On the web: Go to www.lehighvalleylive.com and look for the link at the top of the page.
A delayed opening will be utilized if road conditions are marginal in the early morning hours. If a delayed opening is announced, all bus pick-ups will take place one or two hours later than normal. Delayed openings will be announced by the radio stations indicated above, beginning at approximately 6:30 AM. If road conditions have not improved by 8:00 AM, the delayed opening will be canceled and school will be closed for the day. Radio stations will make the announcement of the full day closing shortly after 8:00 AM.
ONE-HOUR DELAYIf school is delayed one hour, all students are expected to arrive at school at 9:45 a.m. Homeroom begins at 9:50. With a one-hour delay, the lunch program will be available and time for eating lunch will be provided during the shortened day.The Hope Township School NTI call system will be utilized whenever possible.
TWO-HOUR DELAYFor a two-hour delay, all students are to arrive at 10:45 a.m. Homeroom begins at 10:50. Since lunch will not be served, students are asked to bring a lunch/snack to school. Lunch/milk will not be available for purchase. The Hope Township School NTI call system will be utilized whenever possible.
EARLY CLOSINGOn occasion, Hope School may need to close early on an emergency basis. If you need to make alternate plans for your child(ren) when there is an early closing, please discuss those plans ahead of time with your child(ren). The Hope Township School NTI call system will be utilized whenever possible.
Early Emergency Dismissal In the event of an emergency closing, parents must provide a contingency plan for their children. An authorization form, provided by the district at the beginning of the year in your childs Back to School Packet, must be completed by parents, indicating the emergency plan that their child should follow. Please keep all records updated. In order to ensure your childs safety, in the event of an emergency closing, please discuss and familiarize your child with your emergency plan. The Hope Township School NTI call system will be utilized whenever possible.
Transportation EmergencyIf a parent is concerned because a bus is late dropping off a student, the bus company should be contacted. The bus company has the most accurate information about bus status once the students are on the bus. The bus company number is: First Student Bus Co. 908-637-4232 In the event of an emergency, should the school be contacted about a bus delay, a message will be placed on the main office phone: (908) 459-4242.
Emergency Hotlines
The following is a list of resources that may be contacted in case emergency: 1. 24 Hour Crisis Hotline 454-5141 2. First Call for Help 689-7335 (A referral service that directs people to where they can get help) 3. New Jersey Drug Hotline 1-800-729-6686 4. Family Guidance Center 454-5141; 908-689-1000; 908-689-4470 (Any crisis involving children and adults such as depression, suicide and physical abuse. In case of abuse DYFS is contacted. Also offers out-patient counseling.) 5. AlAnon-Ala Teen 973-744-8686 (Support groups for adults and teens dealing with alcoholism in the family) 6. Narcotics Anonymous 800-992-0401 7. School Alcohol Programs 800-322-5525 (Treatment/education for adolescents, family members and school personnel with an alcohol or drug related problems.) 8. Pregnancy Center for Women 908-684-3099 9. Division of Youth & Family Services (DYFS) 1-877-652-2873 (1-877-NJ ABUSE) 10. Runaway Hotline 800-231-6946 General Information
New Students New students who register while school is in session may begin classes the day after registration provided that appropriate records have been received.
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