Dear Parents and Guardians,

Welcome to the start of a great year! We look forward to working together with parents, teachers, and students in order to create the best learning environment for our students.

In order to ensure a smooth school year, the parent-student handbook outlines policies, procedures, and all other information regarding EWRSD Elementary Schools. Please read the handbook carefully and review its contents with your child(ren). All EWRSD students and parents are expected to adhere to school procedures.

In addition to our rich academic programs, the EWRSD elementary school experience values character education and citizenship. We look forward to enriching your child’s experience both academically and socially emotionally.

It is important that home and school partner and work together to help students learn and grow. You are encouraged to attend the numerous school and PTO sponsored events. Our PTOs are very active and offer wonderful experiences for our communities. Feel free to contact us and keep the lines of communication open. The district website offers contact information and you are encouraged to use the parent portal.

The staff is ready for an academically rigorous and fun school year. We look forward to a great year!

Sincerely,
Elementary School Administration

Students participate in an integrated language arts program to provide the components of balanced literacy. Teachers utilize the Readers Workshop approach to deliver instruction through the use of Fountas and Pinnell Classroom (K - 2) and School Wide (3 - 5). Students develop word knowledge; decoding, phonics, and spelling through the use of Fundations. The reading and writing connection is fostered through the Writers Workshop approach (K - 2) and Empowering Writers (3 - 5). Most importantly, students are encouraged to participate in independent reading throughout the day to practice learned skills, increase stamina and build their passion for knowledge and interests.

Teachers work with the students in areas of problem solving during math instruction through our Envisions Math program. Lessons involve students in a variety of activities that include hands-on materials and technology while stressing higher levels of abstract thinking.

Science involves students in real life activities through a discovery approach that introduces them to physical, earth, and life science. Students will be introduced to Science programs which offers STEM lessons based on inquiry and a strong connection to technology.

Social Studies involves a connection to literacy through a cross-curricular approach. Students are introduced to curriculum concepts and are able to explore and deepen their understanding of these topics through technology, reading, and writing.

The district also offers a gifted and talented program for eligible students in grade 3 - 5. The gifted and talented program provides an option for students who would benefit from a program that complements and expands the existing curriculum. Additionally, we offer a bilingual education program and ESL support for identified students.

For more information on our curriculum and instruction you may visit: EWRSD Website and follow the link to Curriculum and Instruction under Departments.

Affirmative Action/discrimination

All students shall have equal educational opportunities regardless of race, color, creed, religion, sex, ancestry, disability, national origin, social/economic status, limited English proficiency, or sexual orientation under the East Windsor Regional School District’s adopted resolution.

After/before School and Summer Support Programs

The district holds a variety of after-school and summer programs to support students. A variety of data is compiled in order to determine participation in these programs. If your child is selected to participate in one of these programs, a letter will be sent home for participation. Examples: Summer Academy, After-School Tutoring, etc.

Arrival and Dismissal

1. Students should not arrive at school earlier than 8:40 AM. Supervision is not provided prior to that time.

2. Upon arrival, walkers and students being dropped off should enter the building through the designated doors.

3. Students arriving at school after 8:45 AM must report to the Main Office to obtain a late pass. Parents dropping off are asked to walk student(s) to the Main Entrance doors.

4. At dismissal, students are to leave the building via assigned exits. Students are expected to leave the grounds immediately unless they are involved in a supervised after school activity.

5. Bus students are expected to board their buses in an orderly manner and to conduct themselves on the buses in accordance with safety rules.

6. Bus students must present a written note to their classroom teacher from their parent/guardian if they will not be riding the bus on any given day.

7. If there is a change in a child’s dismissal, please notify the office.

Assessment

The district utilizes a variety of formative and summative assessments to gather data for instruction. Below is a sample list of the variety of assessments.

Formative:

Formative assessment occurs in the classroom and allows for teachers to check for understanding during instruction. The purpose of these smaller assessments is to differentiate for the needs of students. Examples are: exit slips, personal whiteboard responses, Google form responses, turn and talk, etc.

Benchmarks:

Writing Prompts - Writing assessment that is scored through a rubric and reflects literacy skills taught in our classrooms.

Running Records - Reading assessment that is completed by the classroom teacher 1:1 with the student. The assessment captures fluency and comprehension for the student and their reading level ability.

Math Benchmark - K-5 math assessment to measure student mastery on the skills and strategies articulated in the district grade Level Mathematics curriculum. This assessment is given at the beginning, middle, and end of the year.

NJSLA - Modern Assessment that replaces previously standardized tests. This assessment addresses the New Jersey Student Learning Standards, evaluating students’ reading, writing, and math skills in a standardized format. This measure is norm referenced and compares students to like students across New Jersey. The assessment is administered once during the school year for grade 3-5, generally late spring.

STAR Early Literacy - K-1 computerized assessment that gathers data on the eight domains of literacy instruction. Students take this assessment four times per year.

STAR Reading - 2-5 computerized assessment that gathers data on foundational skills, informational reading, literature reading, and language. Students take this assessment three times per year.

STAR Math - 1-5 computerized assessment that gathers data on skills taught through math instruction. Students take this assessment three times per year.

Attendance and Absences

Students are expected to attend school every day unless they are ill, have a family crisis (i.e. death in the family), or for religious reasons, etc. A child who does not attend school on a regular basis limits his/her learning. A child who attends school every day is more likely to be successful academically.

Absences can be reported online via Genesis on the Parent Portal. You can also call the absentee line to report the absence. When leaving a message, please indicate the following:

• Your Child’s Name

• Homeroom Teacher

• Reason for Absence

• Expected Date of Return

If your child is running a fever or ill, please keep him/her home. Students should be fever free and vomit free for 24 hours before returning to school.

When your child returns to school, please provide a note to the child’s teacher explaining the reason for his/her absence. All students absent due to communicable disease must be readmitted to school through the Health Office.

For more information on our attendance policy you may visit: District Attendance Policy

Back to School Night

Back to School Night is an opportunity for parents/guardians to meet the staff and to become acquainted with school programs, expectations, and procedures. Please join us for an informative evening. Check the school website or look for a flier sent home with specific information.

Birthday and Celebrations

We are sure that you are aware that many children in today’s world face health issues concerning food. Many of our students deal with serious food-related problems that can require emergency procedures. The health, safety and well-being of children are always our first concern. Therefore, we adopted a no food policy for class celebrations.

Teachers have developed many ways to celebrate traditions without food while preserving the enjoyment that goes along with celebrating birthdays and holidays. Such examples include playing games and making special crafts during holiday parties. Students cannot distribute individual items to other students. Your child’s teachers will share other ideas during Open House.

Bus Transportation

The school district provides transportation for children living within the district to and from district schools as well as non-public schools. However, the district does not provide transportation to or from for-profit schools. Transportation is provided and supervised under the rules and regulations set forth by the NJ State Bureau of Pupil Transportation and the rules and regulations of the East Windsor Regional School District.

Bus Routes and Stops

1. Routes are arranged so vehicles serve the greatest number of children safely within a reasonable time and cost.

2. Vehicles will not leave the main route to pick up students.

3. Vehicles will at no time cross lanes, unpaved roads, or cul-de-sacs.

4. Routes and stops are reviewed annually to determine the safest, most efficient, and timely routes.

5. Any questions regarding stops and routes should be addressed to the Transportation Supervisor only and not to the driver.

6. There will be no provisions for stops at a child care provider’s location. The stop must be in the same attendance area as the child resides, and the child utilizes such a stop five days a week. A “Child Care Provider Request Form” must be submitted to the Transportation Department ten days prior to the start date.

7. Students who request to ride another bus may do so only on an emergency basis such as an early dismissal due to inclement weather, and the parent must contact the Transportation Department directly. The request may be honored if space is available. The Transportation Department must approve all changes.

Assignment of Students

Prior to the opening of school in September, students will be assigned to a specific vehicle, and a specific bus stop. Bus passes are available in the Genesis parent portal.

Bus Transportation - Student Responsibilities

Before boarding the bus:

• Be at your stop at least five minutes before the bus arrival time. The bus cannot wait for students; students should be waiting for the bus.

• Remain on the curb at least three (3) feet back – NEVER stand in or move into the road as the bus approaches.

• Wait until the bus comes to a complete stop before moving toward the door.

• Form an orderly line for boarding the bus. Don’t push or shove.

• Wait for flashing red lights, traffic to stop, and driver okay before crossing the street or road to board the bus.

• Do not destroy or damage property at a bus stop.

• Students are responsible for any bus or bus seat damage or any property damage caused by them while at a bus stop.

While riding the bus:

• Move quickly to your assigned seat. Do not stand or move from your seat while the bus is in motion.

• Driver or School Administrator will assign seats. Sit in your assigned seat to and from school.

• Students are required to wear seat belts.

• Never throw anything out of the bus window.

• Keep hands, arms and other parts of the body inside the bus at all times.

• Keep feet, legs and other objects out of the aisles.

• Do not eat or drink on the bus. Help keep the bus clean. Throw trash in garbage can, not on the floor.

• Do not deface in any way. All students are responsible for any damage they cause to the bus. Report any damage to the bus to the driver.

After leaving the bus:

• Move quickly away from the side of the bus, up onto the curb or off the roadway.

• When necessary to cross the street or road, move 10 feet in front of the bus and wait for the driver’s signal to cross. Move rapidly to the other side. NEVER GO TO THE REAR OF THE BUS AND CROSS THE STREET OR ROAD.

• Do not stop to pick up papers or books that drop by the wheels of the bus or in the roadway while crossing in front of the bus or cars. Go quickly to the other side of the street and wait for a parent or driver to signal that it is okay to pick up dropped items.

BUS TRANSPORTATION - Parent Responsibilities

The regulations and responsibilities should be reviewed with your child(ren), not only for her/his safety, but to ensure the safety of all children riding the school bus.

1. Help your child(ren) to be on time at the bus stop. It is the parent’s responsibility to transport the child(ren) directly to the assigned school if the bus is missed. Please do not follow the bus to another stop along the route. Children may only board the bus at their designated stop.

2. Do not ask the driver to stop at places other than the designated stop. Drivers do not have the authority to change routes, stops or times.

3. Instruct your child(ren) to cooperate with the driver.

4. Insist on correct behavior in waiting for and riding the school bus.

5. Accompany very young children to the bus stop each morning and meet the bus in the afternoon.

6. Cooperate with school officials regarding discipline that supports safe riding behavior. Parental assistance in this matter is very important.

7. If you need to talk to the driver about your child(ren) or routes, call the Transportation Department. Do not delay the bus.

8. Parents are responsible for any property damage at a bus stop and/or any damage caused to a school vehicle by their child(ren).

9. Parents of Kindergarten students or designee are required to supervise their child/ren at their bus stop at all times. Should a parent or designee not be present at the time of bus drop off, they will receive a phone call informing them to pick their child up at the school.

Bus Discipline

N.J. Statute 18A:25-2 states that the “driver shall be in charge of the school bus at all times and shall be responsible for order. The driver shall never exclude a student from the bus, but if unable to manage any student, shall report the matter to the Principal of the school the student attends.

A student may be excluded from the bus for disciplinary reasons by the Principal, and the student’s parents shall provide transportation to and from school during the period of such exclusion.”

The bus driver will forward all written referrals to the building Principal after review by the Transportation Department.

• First Offense (Warning): Discussion with the Principal or Assistant Principal with notification sent to parents.

• Second Offense: Exclusion from the bus for one day.

• Third Offense: Exclusion from the bus for five days.

• Subsequent Offense: Exclusion from the bus will be determined by the Administration on an individual basis.

Serious violations may require skipping steps and imposing immediate extended exclusion from the bus and/or school. This is in addition to the school discipline policy.

Examples of serious violation:

• Fighting, threatening or aggressive conduct

• Possession of drugs, alcohol, or weapons

• Lighting a lighter or match

• Throwing objects in/out of or at a bus

• Protruding body parts out of the bus

• Damaging the school bus

• Other behavior related to safety and well being of others

Below is a link to the Chartwells website. Feel free to visit to gather more information about lunch information for the school year.

Chartwells Website

School is a place that requires a student’s undivided attention and full participation. The use of cellular phones is not permitted. In the event of an emergency, please call the Main Office. Cell phones should be turned off and placed in backpacks. Cell phones should not be out throughout the school day including the bus. If a cell phone is out throughout the school day, staff members will confiscate the phone and turn it into the main office. A parent or guardian may be required to collect the phone at school.

Kidcare is a recreational before and after school care program for students enrolled in grades K-5 in the East Windsor Regional School District. We provide a safe, friendly and stimulating program through both group and individual activities. Outside activities, gym activities, homework assistance, crafts and quiet play help to create a positive before and after school experience for your child.

In the event your child will be absent from Kidcare, you MUST contact your child’s Kidcare site. A contact card will be given to you on the first day your child attends Kid care with contact information. This procedure is vital to the safety and security of your child. If we cannot locate your child and no notification is received, the local police may be called.

Please visit the link below to access more information on our Kidcare Program.

KidCare Website

During instructional time, teachers will not be able to receive parent phone calls. If a parent calls to speak with a teacher during instructional time, he/she will be forwarded to the staff member’s voicemail. We ask that you be patient in receiving a response. Urgent messages should be left with the Main Office. The suggested time to contact a teacher is before or after school. Staff will return all correspondence within 24 hours of receipt.

In order to maximize communication between the school and the home, notices will be email blasted home through School Messenger as well as posted on the website. Please make sure that the main office has your current email address. If you do not have computer access, please notify the office and paper copies will be provided for you.

We will also be utilizing the Parent Portal as a way for teachers to communicate with parents. The Parent Portal gives parents information on their child’s daily schedule, academic grades, and report card information. Parent Portal access is suspended and/or limited in the summer.

Parent Portal

Parents are encouraged to attend parent-teacher conferences. This is a time when the parents can meet with the teacher and receive updates regarding their child’s progress. During this time, strategies will also be discussed in order to best support the student at home and in school.

Fall Conference dates are announced by the school administration.

Safety and security is one of our top priorities for every elementary student. As a result, we must make sure to have accurate information relating to parent custody.

If your child is living with one parent who has legal custody and the non-custodial parent is not permitted to contact the child at school, or remove the child from school, the Main Office must be provided with custody papers and/or written evidence indicating the same. If these papers are not provided, we cannot refuse access to the child by the non-custodial parent.

Any change in the custodial status must be reported to the Main Office.

In case of inclement weather, you will be notified via the School Messenger automated calling and email system. In addition, you may check the following information sources: Comcast Channel 27, Verizon Channel 38, News Channel 12, (Storm Emergency Page), or the District’s website. If you need to drop your child off for school, please adhere to the delayed opening schedule. There is no supervision for students who arrive earlier than the times indicated.

East Windsor Regional School District's Elementary Schools Student Code of Conduct:

Respect Yourself, Respect Others, Respect Your School. Our Code of Conduct outlines expectations for student behavior and discipline procedures in alignment with District Policy 5600, with an emphasis on restorative practices, social-emotional learning (SEL), and equitable disciplinary measures.

Behavioral Expectations & Social-Emotional Learning (SEL)

To support student success, we promote five key SEL competencies:

• Self-Awareness – Recognizing emotions, strengths, and areas for growth.

• Self-Management – Regulating emotions, handling stress, and setting goals.

• Social Awareness – Understanding others’ perspectives and demonstrating empathy.

• Relationship Skills – Building positive relationships and resolving conflicts.

• Responsible Decision-Making – Making ethical and respectful choices.

By fostering these skills, students learn to take ownership of their actions and contribute to a respectful and supportive school culture.

Student Responsibilities

Students are expected to: ✅ Treat peers and staff with respect and kindness. ✅ Engage in safe, responsible, and ethical behavior at all times. ✅ Follow school rules regarding academic integrity, attendance, and digital citizenship. ✅ Report concerns related to safety, harassment, bullying, or misconduct to a trusted adult.

Unacceptable Behaviors & Consequences

The following behaviors violate our Code of Conduct and will be addressed through a tiered system of interventions and logical consequences:

Disciplinary Infractions Include, but Are Not Limited to Any of the Following:

• Use of profanity.

• Attempting to take personal property by means of force or fear.

• Open defiance of the authority of any teacher or person having authority over a student.

• Continued willful disobedience to a person in authority including administrators, teachers, educational assistant, etc.

• Falsifying of signatures on notes, report cards or school documents.

• Physically assaulting another student or school employee.

• Willfully defacing school property.

• Illegal items or those considered to be harmful to the person or others are not permitted in school or on school property. Such items include: weapons; firecrackers; drugs; alcohol; toy weapons; squirt guns; etc.

• Verbal or written threats or harassment.

In addition to these, students are expected to follow the specific conduct guidelines listed below. Violations of these guidelines will be addressed through a tiered approach to behavior management.

Tiered Approach to Behavior Management

The examples in the list below are not exhaustive or comprehensive. The table below illustrates how the tiered approach would work in the elementary school setting. The administrative team reserves the right to skip steps as necessary.

Restorative and Supportive Interventions

Our discipline system prioritizes restorative practices that help students repair harm and rebuild relationships. These interventions may include:

• Restorative Meetings – Guided discussions to address conflicts and find solutions.

• Peer Mediation – Student-led conflict resolution with adult supervision.

• Reflection and Apology Letters – Encouraging accountability and personal growth.

• Community Service or Repairing Harm – Helping students contribute positively.

Students are encouraged to learn from their mistakes rather than simply receiving punitive consequences.

Equitable Discipline & Family Engagement

EWRSD is committed to fair, unbiased discipline that does not discriminate based on race, gender, disability, language, or cultural background. Our goal is to correct behavior through learning, not just punishment.

• Annual Policy Review: Families and students will have opportunities to provide feedback on the Code of Conduct.

• Communication with Families: Parents will be promptly informed of serious behavioral concerns and involved in resolution plans.

• Access to Support Services: The school provides counseling, peer mentoring, and referrals to community resources to support students in making better choices.

How Schools Respond

Conflicts: Often addressed through teacher redirection, restorative conversations, or peer mediation. Conflict involves a mutual disagreement where both students contribute to the problem, and there is generally no power imbalance or intent to cause lasting harm. Schools respond by helping students develop communication, empathy, and problem-solving skills.

Threats: May lead to emergency safety protocols, immediate administrative review, and possible law enforcement involvement. Responses include risk assessments and, when necessary, suspensions or legal action.

HIB Incidents: Must be formally investigated by the school’s Anti-Bullying Specialist. Schools are required to notify parents, conduct investigations within 10 school days, and implement support or discipline based on findings.

Understanding the Difference: Conflict vs. Threat vs. HIB

Glossary of Terms for Families

The following glossary provides definitions for key terms related to our Code of Conduct:

Students are required to dress in a manner that does not distract or disrupt the educational process. Clothes worn to school should be tasteful and appropriate. Any clothing which would cause a distraction will be considered inappropriate. Parents will be contacted should this be an issue.

Dress Code Policy (Revised for Equity & Inclusivity)

EWRSD’s dress code ensures student safety, comfort, and ability to learn without reinforcing stereotypes or inequities.

Students MAY wear: ✅ Clothing that expresses personal style while remaining appropriate for a learning environment. ✅ Religious, cultural, or gender-affirming attire. ✅ Shorts, skirts, and dresses that allow free movement.

Students MAY NOT wear: 🚫 Clothing that contains hate speech, profanity, or offensive graphics. 🚫 Outfits that pose a safety hazard (e.g., sharp accessories, extremely loose or dragging clothing). 🚫 Clothing that reveals undergarments or lacks adequate coverage.

Dress code enforcement will be equitable and discreet. Students will not be removed from class for minor dress code violations but may be asked to adjust attire in a respectful and non-punitive manner.

Hat & Headwear Expectations

While we respect student individuality and style, hats, hoods, or other headwear (excluding religious or cultural attire) are not to be worn inside the school building during school hours. The goal of this policy is to minimize distractions and foster a respectful learning environment.

Consequences for wearing hats during school hours:

• First offense: Verbal reminder and request to remove the hat.

• Second offense: The hat will be confiscated and held in the main office for parent pickup.

• Third (and subsequent) offenses: The hat will be confiscated for parent pickup and disciplinary consequences.

Staff will address hat violations with discretion and professionalism. Students are encouraged to respond respectfully when redirected.

Drills are scheduled by law twice a month. One will be a fire drill and the other will be a crisis drill. Procedures are outlined by each teacher. For safety reasons, students are expected to follow the teacher’s instructions, exit the classroom in a single line, refrain from conversation, use assigned exits and report to the assigned outdoor area.

Schools are required to hold a minimum of two of each of the following security drills annually:

• Active shooter

• Evacuation (non-fire)

• Bomb threat

• Lockdown

Examples of other types of security drills:

• Shelter-in-place

• Reverse evacuation

• Evacuation to relocation site

• Testing of school’s notification system and procedures

• Testing of school’s communication system and procedures

• Tabletop exercise

• Full scale exercise

During the school year, students will be dismissed early due to conferences, etc. It is necessary that adult supervision be provided for your child when they arrive home.

The times for early arrival and dismissal can be found on the district calendar and website.

• District Calendar

• School Start/Stop Times

In the event that the school has an early dismissal due to inclement weather, parents should have an alternate plan for what their child should do (i.e. if they are not to go home, or someone else is picking them up, or they are going to another person’s home, etc.). Also, please make sure all information such as home/cell/work phone numbers are up-to-date.

If it is necessary for a student to be dismissed prior to the end of the school day, the parent must send a note to the teacher in the morning on that day. The student will be called to the office when the adult arrives at school. While most students are released only to parents/guardians, another adult will be allowed to take the student if permission IN WRITING is received from a parent. Anyone picking up a student, parent/guardian/designee, is required to show ID to staff. The parent (or authorized adult) must sign-out the student in the office before leaving the building with him/her. (Board Policy #5113). Please note that any calls to change student dismissal must be received prior to 3:00 in order to guarantee that your request can be honored. Dismissal procedures begin at 3:15. Once they begin, we will be unable to make any changes. Emergency requests should be presented at the office. Students will not be released to others without authorization.

Throughout the year, students may participate in field trips. These trips are a valuable part of an educational experience. The same rules of conduct required in school are enforced on these trips. Extra care and caution on field trips are necessary because of the different environment. Parents will be informed of all field trips. A completed parental permission form must be on file in order for a student to participate in a school field trip.

New Jersey State Law (18A: 36-6) requires students to salute the flag and to recite the Pledge of Allegiance daily. Students having objections to full participation will stand or sit respectfully. If possible, please inform the teacher and building administration of your intent.

District Flag Salute Policy

Students are to wear gym shoes when participating in Physical Education class. No gym uniform is required. Shoes with wheels are not appropriate for Physical Education class or school in general. They pose a safety violation and should not be worn to school.

School Health Regulations

School health services are provided by the school physician and school nurse for several purposes. They include:

1. Care of emergency sickness or injury IN SCHOOL.

2. Communicable disease prevention and control.

3. Determination of health records.

4. Follow-up and interpretation of health needs for pupils and parents.

First Aid

First aid is administered to any child injured AT SCHOOL. If the injury or illness is such that the student should either be taken home or receive further medical attention, parent(s) will be notified. It is the responsibility of the parent to transport a sick child. It is also extremely important that you provide the school office with current home, emergency, beeper and/or cellular telephone numbers. Questions regarding school health matters should be directed to the school nurse.

Immunizations

Students registering in the school district must be in compliance with the N. J. State Immunization Law (N.J.A.C.857-4:16) for Dtap, Polio, Measles, Mumps, Rubella, Hepatitis B and Varicella. Students not in compliance will be excluded from school until evidence of inoculations is presented to the Health Office.

Screenings

Yearly screenings for students will be conducted on height, weight, and blood pressure. Periodic hearing & vision screenings are also conducted. Scoliosis screenings are conducted on 5th grade students with parental permission.

Medications

The Board will not be responsible for the diagnosis and treatment of pupil illness. The administration of prescribed medication to a pupil during school hours, or where a student is participating in a school related activity however, will be permitted.

Before any medication may be administered to any pupil during school hours, the Board will require the written request of the prescribing physician and the parent/legal guardian. All medications, including non-prescription medications, to be administered to pupils must be prescribed. In addition, the Board requires the written order of the prescribing physician to include:

• the name of the medication;

• the purpose of the medication;

• the dosage;

• the time at which and/or the special circumstances under which medication will be administered;

• the length of time over which the medication is to be given may not exceed one (1) school year;

• the possible side effects of the medication.

This document will be kept on file in the office of the school nurse. Forms for Medication administration are available from the school nurse.

Pupils are not permitted to carry prescription or non-prescription medication(s) in school or during school sponsored activities unless permission has been granted to self-administer medication in accordance with The Self Administration of Medication Policy.

All medications, whether prescribed or over the counter, shall be administered by only the school nurse or school nurse substitute, the parent/guardian or the pupil himself/herself.

Pupils may be permitted to self-administer medication without the supervision of the school nurse for asthma or other life-threatening illnesses when the parental and prescribing physician request for self-administration meets the requirements established by the Board of Education.

All medications shall be brought to school by the parent/guardian or adult pupil and shall be picked up at the end of the school year or at the end of the prescribed period of medication administration, whichever is earlier.

Administering Medication on Field Trips

In those situations where a student attends a field trip and is not permitted to self-administer medication or the medication being taken does not qualify for self-administration, the parent(s)/guardian(s) of the student should make every effort to adjust the time of the dosage so the student does not require the medication during the trip.

In those cases where according to the prescribing physician, medication must be administered during the trip, the parent/guardian may accompany the student on the trip and administer the medication to the student.

Homework is an extension of the school day’s activities. Students are expected to complete all homework assignments and bring them into school on the due date. Homework is usually due the next school day unless special instructions have been given by the teacher.

Further information can be found within the link below: District Homework Policy

If a student is late to school, they must receive a late pass from the clerk in the Main Office. If they are consistently late without an excuse, the parents may be called in for a meeting at the school including school personnel and truancy officers. Please make every effort to impress upon your child/children the importance of getting to school on time. Parents dropping students off after the school day has begun will not be permitted to escort the child(ren) to class. For younger students, a staff member will be called to assist when needed.

Further information can be found within the link below: District Late Arrival Policy

All students are assigned lockers. Combinations should not be shared with anyone, besides the classroom teacher. Students will be responsible for the condition of his/her locker. All lockers are subject to search without notice.

Search and Seizure Policy

Students are responsible for any books they borrow from the Library. Library books can be checked out for a period of two weeks. Any books that are lost will be charged to the student. Students will not be allowed to check out additional books and/or materials until their obligations have been satisfied. Parents will be notified of any charges that are owed.

The Main Office is open from 8:00 A.M. to 4:00 P.M.

The PTO is an active, school-based group composed of parents, teachers and the Principal who support and sponsor activities for the students. All parents are invited to attend the PTO meetings and become actively involved in all PTO sponsored functions.

• Ethel McKnight

• Grace N. Rogers

• Perry L. Drew

• Walter C. Black

Parents should park in the assigned visitors section of the parking lot. If these are full, please park at any unassigned slot. Please pay attention to all municipal traffic signs. Do not park in the fire lane.

Valuables such as jewelry, electronic items, video games, stuffed animals and dolls should not be brought to school.

In the event they are lost or stolen, the school cannot be held accountable for this matter. Parents are strongly encouraged to have children leave such items at home.

Promotion from one grade level to the next usually occurs at the end of each school year. Developmental needs occasionally suggest an alternate placement is needed in order to better accommodate the progress of an individual student. Decisions regarding promotions and retention are the responsibility of the building administration in consultation with the teaching staff.

Further information can be found within the link below: District Promotion/Retention Policy

During the school day, students receive lunch and recess. Recess time is a part of the necessary requirements for keeping students physically fit. Students will go outside unless the weather is poor. Children should dress appropriately for outside recess, including winter clothing/accessories and closed-toe shoes. Parents should not request their child to stay inside during recess. Alternate arrangements will be made for students who need to miss recess due to a medical issue.

Grades or scores appearing on report cards indicate what the student has done, how well he/she has progressed, and how much he/she has learned. Every student is expected to:

• Work to the best of his/her ability.

• Bring and/or use properly any necessary materials, notebooks, writing instruments, tests, etc.

• Display an eagerness to learn and a positive approach to work.

• Participate actively in daily lessons.

• Direct all attention to the lessons.

• Prepare all assignments promptly, accurately, completely and neatly.

• Prepare thoroughly for tests.

• Seek extra help/assistance whenever necessary.

• Cooperate with the teacher at all times and follow directions.

Report cards will be issued three times during the school year for students in grades Pre-K - 5. The dates for marking periods and distribution are communicated by the school.

Below are some definitions of terms that will be helpful for you in understanding the K-5 report cards:

Achievement Based Report Card - Students receiving letter grades or numerical grades based upon their assessments. The scoring of these grades will be based upon rubrics that are created by district teachers and administrators.

Standards Report Card - Students receiving scores towards a specific grade level standard. Students' scores will show their progress towards mastery of a grade level skill. The standards assessed will be reflective of Common Core and District Curriculum.

Trimester - Division of the school year into three terms providing teachers with a longer period of time to gather data.

A student's locker and/or possessions may be searched by a school official when there is reasonable suspicion that a law or a school rule has been violated. Should a physical search be necessary, a staff member of the same gender as the student will conduct the search. Attempts will be made to contact parents/guardians in these situations.

Search and Seizure Policy

Grades K-5

Regular: 8:45 AM - 3:30 PM

Delayed: 10:15 AM - 3:30 PM

Early Dismissal: 8:45 AM - 1:25 PM

Parents and guardians are welcome to visit the school. In order for the educational program to continue when visitors are present and to ensure the safety of our students, visitor guidelines are necessary. 48 hours advance notice is requested when planning to visit the school, and all visitors to our school should have an appointment to enter the building.

All visitors to the school must report to the office to sign-in and receive a visitor’s sticker. Bringing a sibling that does not attend the elementary school is not permitted. Younger siblings can be distracting to teachers and students. We ask that you do not enter the building at the end of the school day, but instead wait outside of your child’s entrance door. If you need to talk to the teacher, you will need to schedule a mutually convenient time with the teacher.

• No visitors are to enter the building with students during arrival.

• If you require assistance, an appointment should be made prior to coming to the school.

• At the buzzer, it is expected that all visitors will state the purpose of their visit and/or specify with whom they have an appointment.

• When a visitor is buzzed in, he/she must report to the Main Office immediately upon entry.

• Visitors will be required to show photo identification, and sign in to obtain a Visitor’s Pass.

• It is imperative that visitors do not hold the door open for others behind them. Each visitor must be acknowledged by the Main Office.

• If you will be picking up your child early, please notify the Main Office in writing or via phone call. If it is an emergency pick-up, please call the Main Office to alert the staff as soon as possible.

• Teachers are not to be interrupted to discuss the progress of a child during a class visit. Please make an appointment with the teacher if a conference is needed.

Smoking/vaping is prohibited in the school building and on all school properties. Schools are a drug-free school zone including all alcoholic and tobacco products.

Parents may send a snack to school with their child. Your child’s teacher will provide you with information about suggested snacks and the snack schedule. All snacks for the classroom should be nut free.

Any parent has the right to review their child’s permanent record file. Arrangements must be made with the Principal. Such requests must be granted within five days after receipt of the request. This right is guaranteed under the New Jersey Administrative Code Title IV.

The district maintains permanent student records which are required by law and are relevant to the education of the student including the final grades for each year and results of standardized tests. The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) afford parents and students over 18 years of age certain rights with regard to the student’s education records.

The Board of Education provides books free of charge for classroom work. Students are expected to be responsible for the books issued to them. These are on loan to students. The students will be responsible for lost books and books which have been abused. Parents of students who have outstanding fines will be notified of the fine. Fines will be assessed for damaged books at the end of the school year.

A list of school supplies will be posted on the school website prior to the start of the school year.

The basis for all suspension or expulsions is a direct quote from Chapter 18A:37-2 in the New Jersey Statutes Annotated which reads as follows: “Any pupil who is guilty of continued and willful disobedience or defiance of the authority of any teacher or person having authority over him/her, or the habitual use of profanity or obscene language, or who shall cut, deface or otherwise injure any school property, shall be liable to punishment and to suspension or expulsion from school.”

Conduct which shall be reasonable cause for suspension or expulsion of a pupil shall include, but not be limited to any of the following:

1. Willful disobedience on a continued basis.

2. Conduct of character to constitute a danger to the physical well being of other pupils or school personnel.

3. Physical assault upon another pupil or school employee.

4. Willfully causing or attempting to cause substantial damage to school property.

Suspensions require a mandatory Pupil Re-admittance Conference with the Principal and the parent/guardian. You will be notified by the Principal when this conference will take place. During this conference, a course of action will be determined to resolve any issues with regard to inappropriate behavior. Re-admittance will also be decided during the course of this meeting.

Each teacher has a web page as part of the school website. This is an effective way for teachers to share information about the school day. The web pages are created through grade levels which supports our philosophy of teamwork.

Parents must come to the Main Office to fill out the necessary forms when withdrawing their child from school. Student records will be forwarded to the student’s new school upon request from that school. Under no circumstances will a parent be permitted to take the students’ records with them.

East Windsor Regional School District Elementary Schools Students and Computer/Technology Users Technology, Computer and Internet Use

As a technology device user, I agree to follow the rules and code of ethics in all of my work with technology device and the Internet while attending the school in East Windsor Regional School District (EWRSD):

1. All use of school technology, including technology devices and Internet must be in support of education and research consistent with the purposes of the East Windsor Regional School District.

2. Use of school technology or the Internet for purposes that are disruptive to the educational process is prohibited.

3. All technology users have the same right to use the equipment. Do not waste or take supplies that are provided by EWRSD. When working at any computer workstation, talk softly and work in ways that will not disturb others.

4. Do not make unauthorized copies of software or programs found on school technology devices.

5. Do not copy, install or download information onto the hard drives of any EWRSD device without authorization from a teacher or supervisor.

6. The illegal installation of copyrighted software for use on district technology devices are prohibited.

7. Use of district and school technology, computer or Internet to access, distribute, or process pornographic material, inappropriate files, personal e-mail or files dangerous to the integrity of the computer or network is prohibited. These restrictions apply to any instant messenger, wikis, blogs or social networking sites, including but not limited to Wikispace, AIM, Yahoo Messenger, Google Chat, mySpace, Chromebooks, Ipads, Laptops, Kindles, Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, BeReal, Twitter, etc.

8. Students may use the Internet only with direct teacher supervision. Students will notify a teacher if inappropriate files or websites are seen on the computer screen.

9. Attempting to or gaining unauthorized access to system programs, data or computer equipment is prohibited. Students must access the computer system using their own username and password and are responsible for establishing and maintaining a reasonably secure password. Students will keep their password private.

10. Password accounts associated with educational sites and district technology are to be used only by the authorized owner of the account for the intended purpose. Users shall not intentionally seek information on, obtain copies of or modify data or passwords belonging to other users. Users will not share their usernames and passwords with other students.

11. No use of district technology or Internet shall serve to destroy or modify data, hardware or software and students are not permitted to change system settings.

12. Students should avoid providing personal information, including names, addresses, and photographs while using the Internet.

13. Students are prohibited from using district technology resources to find, create, or send information to spread lies or misinformation; or harass, harm, or bully others. Students who make harassing or threatening references to school, students, staff members or school activities on school or personal communication accounts are subject to potential disciplinary and legal action.

14. ChatGPT Expectations: ChatGPT or similar Artificial Intelligence (AI) technologies can serve as effective tools to support and enhance the teaching and learning process within our schools. However, to ensure academic integrity and ethical and responsible use, students must receive permission from their teachers before utilizing ChapGPT or similar AI technologies to assist with school related assignments.

From time to time, EWRSD will make determinations on whether specific uses of the network are consistent with the acceptable use practice. There is no implied privacy in the individual use of the EWRSD technology, technology device or network. EWRSD will maintain a log of student computer usage for periodic review. EWRSD will maintain the ability to monitor student computer usage in “real time” to ensure compliance with the AUA. Violations of the rules and code of ethics described above will be dealt with seriously. Violators will lose computer privileges and may be subject to other disciplinary actions including law enforcement notification if appropriate. Inappropriate use of personal computer systems outside of school may result in a loss of computer privileges in school. EWRSD reserves the right to temporarily remove a user account on the network to prevent further unauthorized activity. *********************************************************************** Each student in the district will be issued an electronic device to support their learning experiences throughout the school year. As an educational tool, students are expected to handle their assigned device with care. Parents will be responsible for the cost associated with the repair or replacement of a device that appears to be intentionally damaged, misused, or lost. I have read and discussed the above Acceptable Use Agreement for Computer Users and Students and agree to abide by them and all other reasonable expectations of the school and computer and technology use while a student in the EWRSD. The acknowledgement of this document is valid for the current school year.

I have read and discussed the above Acceptable Use Agreement for Computer Users and Students and agree to abide by them and all other reasonable expectations of the school and computer and technology use while a student in the EWRSD. The acknowledgement of this document is valid for the current school year.

The Student Handbook Parent/guardian and Student Acknowledgement, Must Be Signed and Returned to Your Child’s Homeroom Teacher at the Start of the School Year. Thank You.

District Calendar

Superintendent of Schools: Mark Daniels, 443-7717, ext. 2020

Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum and Assessment: Sandy Small, 443-7717, ext. 2038

Assistant Superintendent of Personnel: Samantha Felicetta, 443-7717, ext. 2018

Business Administrator/Board Secretary: Paul Todd, 443-7717, ext. 2028

Director of Student Services: David Roe, 443-7717, ext. 2010

Supervisor of Student Services: Michelle Lawton, 443-7717, ext. 2032

Transportation Supervisor: Jen Figa, 443-7874, ext. 2501

Director of Buildings and Grounds: Patty Malta, 443-7846, ext. 6700

Supervisor of K-2: Christine Steiner, 443-7717, ext. 2026

Supervisor of 3-5: Kevin Weiss, 443-7717, ext. 2030

K-12 Art, Computers, Music, and Library: Libby Gopal, 443-7717, ext. 2023

K-12 Health, PE and Athletics: TBD, 443-7738, ext. 1157

K-5 ESL, Bilingual and World Languages: Renee Faller, 443-7717, ext. 2041

K-12 BSI, Special Education, and Intervention Programs: Chris Gabbai, 443-7717, ext. 2000