Jun 28, 1995 ... Five things every Joaquin Miller parent should do: 0. Stay Informed. Read the
Walkie Talkie, the school newsletter sent home with your ...
JOAQUIN MILLER 2004 - 2005
A HANDBOOK FOR PARENTAL INVOLVEMENT Joaquin Miller Elementary School 5525 Ascot Drive Oakland, CA 94611 (510) 879-1420 (510) 879-1429 Fax www.joaquinmiller.org
Five things every Joaquin Miller parent should do: 0
Stay Informed. Read the Walkie Talkie, the school newsletter sent home with your youngest child every other Wednesday. Check those backpacks. Also visit the school’s website www.joaquinmiller.org for current information and register for the school’s community email by visiting our website.
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Volunteer in your child’s classroom, for a school-wide activity, or for a fund-raising event. Get involved.
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Participate in E-Scrip. Raise money for the school simply by shopping for groceries and other every day supplies.
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Support the PTA. Parent contributions fund $135,000 in school programs and supplies (including the library staff, computer lab and teacher's assistants), about $420 per student. PTA meetings are usually the 3rd Thursday of each month, 7:00 p.m., in the Multi-Purpose Room. Child care provided for $2.00/child.
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Come to the Fall Auction. Not only is it the single most important fundraising event in the school calendar, it is a blast. AND it is a great way to meet other parents. SAVE THE DATE: NOVEMBER 6, 2004.
Table of Contents From the Principal............................................................................................................................1 From the PTA ..................................................................................................................................2 Directories and Schedules...............................................................................................................3 Joaquin Miller Faculty and Staff..........................................................................................4 PTA Executive Board ..........................................................................................................6 Oakland Unified School District Officials...........................................................................7 Bell Schedule .......................................................................................................................8 Calendar of School Events...................................................................................................9 2003-2004 Oakland USD Calendar ...................................................................................10 Parent Groups.................................................................................................................................11 Parent Teacher Association (PTA) .................................................................................12 Joaquin Miller Standing Committees.................................................................................13 Dad’s Club .........................................................................................................................14 Fund Raising and Volunteering .....................................................................................................15 Fund Raising ......................................................................................................................16 Volunteer Activities and Programs....................................................................................18 Valuable Information For Volunteers................................................................................20 Additional Information ..................................................................................................................23 Enrichment Programs.........................................................................................................24 Multiculturalism, Diversity and Human Relations ............................................................25 To Ease Traffic Congestion ...............................................................................................26 Earthquake Preparedness ...................................................................................................27 Emergency Food Bags for Students...................................................................................28 Guidelines for Advertising in the Walkie Talkie...............................................................29
School Policies...................................................................................................................30 Student Supervision Policy ....................................................................................30 School Office Hours ..............................................................................................30 Lunch Fees .............................................................................................................30 Release of Pupils during the School Day...............................................................30 Pupil Attendance....................................................................................................31 Automated Attendance Calling..............................................................................31 Textbooks...............................................................................................................31 Classroom Visitations ............................................................................................31 Lost and Found ......................................................................................................31 Personal Possessions..............................................................................................32 Sexual Harassment.................................................................................................32 Homework Policy ..................................................................................................33 School Rules for Students......................................................................................34 Play Structure Rules for Student............................................................................35 Medication at School Form ...................................................................................36
September 7, 2004 WELCOME TO JOAQUIN MILLER ELEMENTARY SCHOOL Dear Parents, WELCOME. You are an important and integral part of Joaquin Miller School and a key partner to your child’s academic success. Throughout the years, parents have worked hard to help make Joaquin Miller an exceptional school. Last year alone, parent volunteerism exceeded 20,000 hours. Thanks in large part to the extraordinary time, effort, dedication and energy given by our parents to support programs that enrich our children's education, Joaquin Miller will remain a school focused on equal access and high standards for all students. The beginning of the school year is an ideal time to review your priorities and make a commitment to the children and programs that matter most to you. At Joaquin Miller School, our Family of Teachers, Staff and Parents contribute tremendously to improving the quality of learning for students and establishing a safe school environment. Our children need your continued help and support. There are a variety of ways in which you can make a difference throughout the school year. I encourage you to become active in the many fulfilling and exciting opportunities available at our school. Children learn best when they attend school on a consistent and punctual schedule. They also are encouraged and energized when they see their parents involved in their learning process, both at school and at home. I invite you to visit our school and support the efforts of both the children and their teachers. Please remember to come into the Office and sign-in upon your arrival at the school. In addition, be sure to look for, read and note important school dates listed in the Walkie Talkie, our school newsletter distributed every other Wednesday. Staff and I look forward to building a United Joaquin Miller Team, with both you and your child, to improve student achievement and build academic success. Sincerely,
Linda Lu Principal
Joaquin Miller School PTA 5525 Ascot Drive Oakland, CA 94611 September, 2004 Dear Joaquin Miller Families, Welcome to another exciting school year at Joaquin Miller. For returning families, find peace in knowing that we are starting our school year with the same incredible teacher and staff team that we finished with last year. While there had been much concern over potential staffing changes within the district, Joaquin Miller will continue in the fine educational tradition that we have come to expect and appreciate. For new families, the entire JM community welcomes you to this exceptional educational experience. The PTA Board promises to keep the JM families informed, involved and gratified with fine balance between “fun” raising and fundraising, starting with our rejuvenated Back to School picnic on Sunday, September 19th! We encourage all families to find a way to make a difference at JM. There are many ways to get involved to help the children at Joaquin Miller - you can volunteer in the classroom and volunteer with the PTA to help fund the extra programs that make Joaquin Miller the exceptional school that it is. Your involvement not only enriches the lives of the children, it enriches your own life. So, stay informed and get involved! In order to keep you informed, there are many tools at your disposal-our bi weekly Walkie Talkie newsletter, our awesome website and the communication with fellow families and your very accessible PTA Board members. If you have any concerns, comments or suggestions, please feel free to contact any board member directly, and/or come to the PTA meetings. So, to get started with our new year, please take the time to read through this handbook, and complete the JMPTA Annual Application and become a member of this successful and energetic team. We look forward to working with you throughout the school year. Sincerely, Nancy Levey JMPTA President 530-6275 2
DIRECTORIES AND
SCHEDULES
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JOAQUIN MILLER FACULTY AND STAFF 2004-2005 PRINCIPAL LINDA LU FACULTY Peggy Allan Chris Barrett Karen Fong Diane Groome Ifetayo Hill-Roy Cynthia Jue-Leong Patricia Kaplan Joyce Melton Kathleen Moran
Rita Meagher Christine McQueen Stephanie Milliken Susan Scott Dana Sudduth Jacquelyn Treese Sara White Marianne Williams
STAFF Angie McPeters
School Secretary
Victor Ramos
Supervising Custodian
Michael Puzon
Evening Custodian
TBA
Cafeteria Manager
Joann Cooper-Campbell
Instructional Assist., RS Program
Betty Dean
Instructional Assist., SDC Program
Giovanna Otfinowski
Psychologist
A.J. Robinson
Speech Therapist
Barbara Thompson
Attendance Clerk/Noon Supervisor
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PTA FUNDED STAFF 2004-05 Catie Anderson
Physical Activity Program
Laura Lee Carolyn Heywood
Computer Coordinators (shared position)
Angie McPeters
Noon Supervisor
Matt Moorish
Recorder Instructor, Grade 3 only
Carole Brodsly, Cindy Gullikson
Librarians
Elaine Condos
Teacher Assistant
Claudette Gunsalus
Teacher Assistant
Dawn Hyde
Teacher Assistant
Melissa Miller
Teacher Assistant
Nick Le
Teacher Assistant
Dewi Asri
Teacher Assistant
(shared position)
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Joaquin Miller PTA Executive Board 2004-2005
President
Nancy Levey
530-6275
[email protected]
1st Vice President
Nancy Lindsay
444-4807
[email protected]
2nd Vice President
Patty Scanlon
482-3278
[email protected]
3rd Vice President
Katie Barron
530-7535
[email protected]
Recording Secretary
Gail Louis
531-1612
[email protected]
Treasurer
Heather Swallow
382-9005
[email protected]
Financial Secretary
Cindy Baringer
530-4860
[email protected]
Historian
Linda Brown
482-2335
[email protected]
Parlimentarian
Dominic Savant
531-4460
[email protected]
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OAKLAND UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT OFFICIALS 2004-2005 GARY YEE SCHOOL BOARD MEMBER, DISTRICT 4 OAKLAND UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT 1025 2ND AVENUE OAKLAND, CA 94606 (510) 879-8199 DR. RANDOLPH WARD STATE ADMINISTRATOR OAKLAND UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT 1025 2ND AVENUE OAKLAND, CA 94606 (510) 879-8200 DONALD EVANS EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR (for Joaquin Miller) 1025 2nd Avenue #320 OAKLAND, CA 94606 (510) 879-2923
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JOAQUIN MILLER SCHOOL BELL SCHEDULE 2004 - 2005 REGULAR DAY SCHEDULE KINDERGARTEN A.M. 8:00 A.M. - 11:30 A.M. 8:30 A.M. – 12:00 P.M.
210 MINUTES 210 MINUTES
GRADES 1-5 8:30 A.M. - 10:00 A.M. 10:00 A.M. - 10:15 A.M. 10:15A.M. - 12:00 P.M. 12:00 A.M. - 12:35 P.M. 12:35 P.M. - 1:40 P.M. 1:40 P.M. - 1:50 P.M. 1:50 P.M. - 2:50 P.M.
90 MINUTES RECESS 105 MINUTES LUNCH 65 MINUTES RECESS 60 MINUTES 320 MINUTES
MINIMUM DAY SCHEDULE KINDERGARTEN: A.M. 8:00 A.M. - 11:30 A.M. 8:30 A.M. – 12:00 P.M.
210 MINUTES 210 MINUTES
GRADES 1-5 8:30 A.M. - 10:00 A.M. 10:00 A.M. - 10:15 A.M. 10:15 A.M. - 12:00 P.M. 12:00 P.M. - 12:35 P.M. 12:35 P.M. - 1:25 P.M.
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90 MINUTES RECESS 105 MINUTES LUNCH 50 MINUTES 245 MINUTES
JOAQUIN MILLER SCHOOL 2004-2005 CALENDAR OF SCHOOL EVENTS Subject to Change
September
October November
Kindergarten and New Student Orientation Tea –September 1 Students Return To School –September 7 PTA Membership Drive Back-To-School Picnic – Sunday, September 19 First PTA Meeting- Thursday, September 23 Curriculum Night-Date TBA School Picture Day for all students - October 13 Halloween Parade and Party - October 29 Khadra Dance Performance, Grades 4 and 5, November 1 Fall Auction - November 6, Sequoyah Country Club PTA Roster Distribution to Parent Members Thanksgiving Recess – Nov 22 - 26 2nd Grade Feast – Date TBA Community Open House for New Students-Date TBA
December
Winter Recess – December 20 through December 31
January, 2005
Martin Luther King, Jr. Oratorical Fest – Date TBA Khadra Dance Performance, Grades 2 and 3-Jan 24
February
JM Family Night at Chevy’s Restaurant (Alameda)Valentine’s Day Party - February 14
March
Science Fair – Date TBA Walk-A-Thon – March 19
April
Khadra Dance Performance (Grades K and 1)- April 4 Spring Break - April 11-15 2005-2006 PTA Budget Proposed PTA Nomination Process Begins for 2005-2006 Open House – Date TBA Spring Testing – April -May
May
June
Yard Sale/School Beautification - Date TBA Kindergarten/New Students Registration for Fall 2005 Begins – May 2 PTA Officers and Budget Approved –May 19 Teacher/Staff Appreciation Luncheon – Date TBA 5th Grade Graduation Party – Date TBA Last Day of School – June 22
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PARENT GROUPS
The two major parent groups at Joaquin Miller are: 0
the Parent Teacher Association (PTA)
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the Dad's Club
These groups play a prominent role in the success of Joaquin Miller. Their effectiveness depends on parent volunteers who participate in their respective activities. The following information is provided to help you understand their purposes and roles. Our continued success is dependent on your generosity of time, effort, and resources.
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PARENT TEACHER ASSOCIATION (PTA)
The Joaquin Miller PTA is a local unit of the Oakland Council, Peralta District of the California Congress of Parents, Teachers, and Students, Inc. At Joaquin Miller we have traditionally enjoyed a membership rate of about 95% of our families. Membership is obtained through paying District PTA dues. At the beginning of each school year the PTA distributes membership forms. PTA membership ($20.00/year) entitles your inclusion in the Joaquin Miller Roster, an invaluable resource. Each family receives the PTA Roster as a current member of the PTA. PTA meetings are held at 7:00 p.m., on the third Thursday of each month of the school year, unless otherwise changed by the Executive Board. Childcare is provided for $2.00/child. The PTA funds a number of important programs for the school, including: • • • • • •
Our state of the art computer lab Our full staffed library Sports/Motor Development Classes Living History Enrichment Programs Cultural enrichment and assemblies Teachers’ assistants and supplies in the classrooms
Some of the notable recent accomplishments of the PTA have been: • • • • •
Purchase of 20 iMacs for the Computer Installation of mini blinds in all classrooms Purchase of a digital kiln for the school and ceramics instruction Purchase of playground equipment for the school yard Beautification of school planter beds
The PTA raises funds through a variety of sources, including donations, eScrip and memberships. The single most important fund-raiser is the ANNUAL FALL AUCTION, which last year was responsible for 77% OF THE PTA’S INCOME. The work of the PTA is carried out through its Executive Board and through numerous program committees and chairs. The current standing committees/assignments as of the beginning of the year (at least as we think they are!) appear on the next page. Please notify Principal Linda Lu, any member of the PTA Board, or the identified chairs if you would be willing to help out on one of these committees or programs.
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JOAQUIN MILLER STANDING COMMITTEES 2004-2005 COMMITTEE
MEMBERS
PHONE
EMAIL
Margaret Murn Katie Barron Lysa Hale Hope Tollesfrud Back-to-School Picnic PTA Board Dad’s Club-John Wong-Rolle Computers Michael Bazeley ESCRIP Larry Levitt and Terri Van Hare Fall Auction Alice Hale Stephanie Chatterjee Graduation Party TBA Health and Safety/EQ Water Rob Kayen
339-8664 530-7535 530-5082 530-3018
[email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]
530-6175 530-5082 336-0495
[email protected] [email protected] [email protected]
336-3044 482-4647
[email protected] [email protected]
531-1612
[email protected]
Landscape Committee Library
Carolynn Aikawa Carole Brodsly Cindy Gullikson
482-0968 339-8273 530-6270
[email protected] [email protected] [email protected]
Margaret Murn
339-8664
[email protected]
Margaret Murn Debbie Bonzell Katie Barron Nancy Levey Gail Louis Cindy Gullikson Kara Grover Gigi Benson-Smith
339-8664 531-8992 530-7535 530-6275 531-1612 530-6270 531-2437 482-9941
[email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]
Madeleine Reed Linda Lu Cynthia Frenz Liz Hughes Cindy Lynds Patti Scanlon Jamie Woolf
562-5803 879-1420 482-1219 531-4619 482-3502 482-3278 531-9611
[email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]
Rick Heeger Maria Fay Leslie Foge Debbie Fong Mary Ann Hanis Nancy Lindsay Gail Louis Pam Sogge & Rick Jonasse
336-3044 336-0357 530-7987 530-5910 531-4975 530-1349 531-1612 482-3383
[email protected]
After School Enrichment Arts Enrichment
Multiculturalism/Diversity and Human Relations Cultural Enrichment and Assemblies Music Program Outreach Parent Educator Program PTA Bulletin Board PTA Membership & Roster Public Relations Room Coordinators School Pictures Spring Fair
Teacher/Staff Appreciation Volunteer Coordinator Walkathon
Walkie Talkie Yard Sale/School Yearbook
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[email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]
DAD’S CLUB The Dad's Club, as its name indicates, is composed of father's of Joaquin Miller Students. Although it is an informally organized group, it has a prevailing presence in the Joaquin Miller Family and community. Members of the Dad's Club contribute their time, effort and resources to Joaquin Miller in many ways. Traditionally, the Dad's Club sells hot dogs, Polish sausages, soft drinks, and water at the Picnic, Walkathon, Spring Fair and Yard Sale. Funds raised through these sales are spent on improvements to the school facilities. Dad’s Club members have built and repaired such things as playground equipment and planter beds, installed shelves and bookcases in the classrooms, and replaced earthquake water and other supplies. They also assist in setting up, tearing down and storing booths and stands for events such as Walk-A-Thon and Yard Sale. Contact: John Wong-Rolle 530-6175
[email protected]
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FUND RAISING AND VOLUNTEERING
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Fund Raising Fund-Raising events at Joaquin Miller are essential if we are to continue offering our children the best possible education. The money we raise is put to many uses: • • • • •
Salaries/Fees for the adjunct staff/programs that would not be funded by the district (such as the Librarians, Sports, Computer Coordinators, classroom assistants, Recorder instructor) Computers and software Playground and Sports equipment Instructional material, equipment, books, and teacher workshops Student projects, field trips and assemblies
The following are our principal fund-raisers. Please contact any member of the PTA board to express your interest in helping make these events an even greater success. THE FALL AUCTION is the JMPTA’s biggest fundraiser of the year. It includes a buffet dinner, no-host bar, and Silent and Live Auctions featuring items ranging from dinners at some of the finest restaurants in the Bay Area, to merchandise, handmade treasures and more. This year’s auction is scheduled for November 6th at Sequoyah Country Club. The auction is a winner at all levels- it raises money for our children’s education, it provides tax deductions for both the donors and bidders, and it is a marvelous way to spend an evening with other parents of JM students. The Live Auction features many dinner and social events, such as elegant gourmet meals, a Murder Mystery party, an evening at Woodminster Musical Theatre, and the famous Photo Safari, which give parents further opportunities to have fun together, and help build the JM community. Volunteers are needed to do many things, including: • follow up on solicitation letters • help sell raffle tickets • put together Class Baskets • work on craft items and wreaths to sell • set up Silent Auction tables • help with promotion and decorations • help with data entry and checkout the night of the auction If you want to volunteer, or find out more about this wonderful event, contact the Auction Co-Chairs, Alice Hale (336-3044) and Stephanie Chatterjee (482-4647). Volunteering is a great way to help the school, meet other parents, and have a lot of fun!
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THE E-SCRIP PROGRAM provides an opportunity for gaining revenue for our school without requiring additional out-of-pocket expenses or time in parents’ busy schedules. The school receives a percentage of the eSCRIP amount purchased, from participating merchants. After filling out the brief application form, your participation requires only the time needed to shop at participating establishments. THE WALK-A-THON is a day-long event scheduled in the Spring for Joaquin Miller students and families. This activity affords the children an opportunity to raise money for their school. They obtain sponsors who agree to donate according to how far the children walk. Walk-A-Thon Day is full of challenges and excitement for the walkers, who may earn T-Shirts and a variety of awards. THE CHILDREN LOVE THIS EVENT. Parent Volunteers are needed to register participants, staff the check points, hand out juice bars, make badges, and to set-up and take-down stations. THE YARD SALE allows you to clean your closets and garage while raising money for the school, and your donation is tax-deductible to boot! This event is usually held in early May. Start setting aside for this great event now!
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Volunteer Activities and Programs Special Talents of our Joaquin Miller Parents are a great strength for our school. You may be unable to commit to time in the classroom, but is there something else you could offer to our school? Can you sew costumes, correct class assignments, do artwork, calligraphy, lead classroom singing, play the piano or guitar for singing, paint, do construction, talk about or demonstrate a hobby/vocation, lead or direct any cultural or ethnic activities? Can you be available to assist at a fund-raising activity? Your talents will be coordinated to enhance programs for children. Needs vary from year to year.
The following are the major ongoing programs that require volunteer support. Please contact the chairperson of the committee, a board member, or Principal Linda Lu if you want to participate or need more information. WALKIE TALKIE is the Joaquin Miller Newsletter. It is distributed every-other Wednesday to the youngest child in your family. The Walkie Talkie keeps parents abreast of important future Dates To Remember, gives information about school related activities and programs, and often includes messages from the Principal and the PTA. The editor needs volunteers to collate our school’s newsletter -- a pleasant vantage place to watch Joaquin Miller at work. Contact Mary Ann Hanis. ROOM COORDINATORS help promote parent-teacher classroom activities. They establish a class phone tree, plan Halloween and Valentine's Day Parties and solicit parents to help with excursions, special class activities, Walk-A-Thon, and a Spring Fair Booth. A good working relationship with the teacher develops. A fast dialing finger is helpful. Contact Madeleine Reed. LIBRARY Volunteers are essential to maintaining and operating the school library. The PTA employs part-time Librarians, but volunteers are needed to serve on the Library Committee, stock shelves and help students check in and out books. The Librarian establishes a volunteers staff schedule. The environment is relaxed and the children benefit greatly. Contact Carole Brodsly or Cindy Gullikson. COMPUTERS are a great way for Volunteers to learn about computers - no previous experience is necessary. The PTA-paid Coordinators offer computer orientation classes at the beginning of the school year (days and times are published in the Walkie Talkie). The coordinators develop curriculum and lesson plans for the program and help volunteers, teachers, and students all year. Contact Laura Lee or Carolyn Heywood.
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PARENT AIDES are requested by teachers to help with math, reading, paper correcting, or special events in the classroom. Parents should talk with their child's teacher or room coordinator about scheduling and duties. PLAYGROUND AIDES help the Yard Supervisors during the lunch recess, from 11:50 p.m. to 12:45 p.m. Contact Linda Lu. TUTORS for English Language Learners are sometimes needed. Interested parents are asked to indicate days and times of availability. Contact Linda Lu. BACK-TO-SCHOOL-PICNIC Co-Chairpersons coordinate the school-wide picnic, scheduled at the beginning of the school year. The Co-Chairpersons select the location, coordinates the games, food donations, cooking and publicity. If you would be interested in volunteering for this event, contact the Dad’s Club or any PTA Board member. BULLETIN BOARD Chairperson maintains the PTA Bulletin Board, located outside the school office, with current information, on a monthly basis. The Chairperson may also be asked to prepare posters or signs for PTA activities. GRADUATION PARTY The Chairperson (a 5th Grade parent) selects an event, coordinates food donations, plans game activities and arranges for student’s transportation if necessary. HEALTH AND SAFETY Once a year, Chairperson checks and replenishes, the school’s Earthquake/Emergency supplies as well as individual classroom Emergency Backpacks. The Chairperson also maintains the Earthquake Emergency Forms located within each classroom’s Emergency Backpack in addition to maintaining the master file in the office. The Chairperson also makes recommendations to the PTA Executive Board regarding the maintenance of the health and safety needs of the school. Want to help out? Contact Rob Kayen. ROSTER MEMBERSHIP Chairperson conducts the annual Membership Drive in September and compiles the school Roster. The Chairperson arranges for typing, printing, and distribution of the Roster in addition to compiling and maintaining a current list of PTA Members. TEACHER/STAFF APPRECIATION Luncheon Chairperson coordinates theme, food and decorations for the Teacher/Staff Appreciation Luncheon. The Chairperson arranges the room and plans the serving of the luncheon. Contact Patty Scanlon. YEARBOOK Chairperson solicits photographs, taken by parents, of various school and classroom activities and compiles them into a school yearbook. The Chairperson also coordinates yearbook sales. Contact Pam Sogge.
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VALUABLE INFORMATION FOR VOLUNTEERS
SOME SIMPLE WAYS TO MAKE YOUR VOLUNTEER EXPERIENCES POSITIVE, GRATIFYING AND FUN!
RESPONSIBILITIES • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
Stay home when you are sick Call the school or classroom teacher (preferably the day before if possible), if you are unable to come and/or try to get a substitute to work your assignment Attend orientation meetings or training sessions for your area of volunteering Be consistent and prompt Introduce yourself to other volunteers Treat others (the children and other adults), as you would like to be treated Spend your time with the students and set aside time to discuss personal problems with the teacher outside of class time Leave the actual teaching to the teacher. Please remember, the Joaquin Miller Staff is in the supervisory capacity Discuss student problems with the teacher only Do not discuss a student’s academic progress or behavior with the child’s parent or another student Do not criticize another volunteer. Let him/her learn from your example. If the problem persists, discuss this with the teacher, your program coordinator, the Volunteer Coordinator, or the Principal To ensure student safety and the security of the school, ask the identity of unfamiliar faces in the hall, and inform them that all visitors must sign-in the Visitor's Book in the office Seek help and report any suspicious behavior
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TO REGISTER AS A VOLUNTEER, PLEASE DO THE FOLLOWING: If you complete numbers l and 2 below, this registers you as an Oakland Public Schools Volunteer. Being registered as an OPS Volunteer gives you additional insurance coverage, in case of injury while carrying out your volunteer assignment. l.
Volunteer Time Sheet
Each time you come to help at Joaquin Miller, attend a meeting or attend a training/orientation session, fill in the "Time - In" and "Time - Out" section in the Volunteer Registry, located in the School Office. 2.
Negative TB Verification
State Law requires that every volunteer working with children have a TB Test every three years. Be sure to have a current Negative TB Skin Test Verification Form on file with the PTA Volunteer Coordinator. 3.
Automobile Insurance Verification Form
Prior to driving on each field trip during the school year, be sure to stop by the Office and complete an automobile insurance form. All students must wear a seat belt while being transported to and from an event. 4.
Helping at Home
If you help at home, be sure to document the time on the Volunteer Time Sheet, and return to the Volunteer Coordinator's Box by June 3rd.
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ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
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ENRICHMENT PROGRAMS
ARTS ENRICHMENT classes provide a holistic approach to supplement and enrich the education of our children. The classes offered in this program enhance the learning experiences of those students who choose to participate. Classes are presented in several sessions. Some classes are repeated, while others are only offered once a year. Registration fees vary and are individually set for each class. Contact Margaret Murn, Jamie Woolf or Hope Tollefsrud. FEE INVOLVED. A sample of class offerings include: Drama Cooking Mad Science Cartooning Photography
Chess Math Magic Drawing and Painting Sewing Carpentry
THE PTA MUSIC PROGRAM is coordinated by the Chairperson of the PTA Music Committee, assisted by other VOLUNTEERS. Students in grades 3-5 learn to play musical instruments, some of which may be provided by the school district, upon availability. Students present and perform in musical concerts, twice during the school year. Contact Margaret Murn. FEE INVOLVED.
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MULTICULTURALISM, DIVERSITY AND HUMAN RELATIONS Multicultural education, as defined by the District's Multiculturalism, Diversity and Human Relations Committee, approved by the Board of Education on June 28, 1995, is a perspective that recognizes: the political, social, and economic realities that individuals experience in culturally diverse and complex human interactions; the importance of culture, nationality, sexuality, gender, ethnicity, religion, socio-economic status; the varied qualities and needs of students in the educational process; and promotes harmony, unity, friendship, respect, love and mutual understanding. The goals of the "JM Multiculturalism, Diversity and Human Relations Committee", composed of parents and staff, are to promote understanding and respect for each person's self-worth, human rights, ethnic and cultural heritage and to eliminate all forms of discrimination through multicultural activities and instructional assistance. Over the years, teachers and parents have developed multicultural curricula and instructional activities designed to cultivate and maintain high academic standards. Examples of the various programs that have been presented are: 1st Grade - “Asian-American Day:” Celebrating the contributions of Asian-Americans from various lands through music, food, arts and crafts . 2nd Grade - "The FEAST:" Re-enacting The First Thanksgiving between Native Americans and Pilgrims. 3rd Grade - "Early Oakland:" The Rancho Period, Spanish/Mexican influences and City of Oakland History. 4th Grade - "African - American Immigration To California l930 -1940:" Students also study the internment of Japanese Americans during World War II. 5th Grade - “Colonial America Day:” A study of the founding of our country.
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TO EASE TRAFFIC CONGESTION
IN ORDER TO EASE THE GROWING TRAFFIC PROBLEM THAT OCCURS AT DROP-OFF AND PICK-UP TIMES AT JOAQUIN MILLER EACH DAY, PLEASE ADHERE TO THE FOLLOWING RULES:
There will be a NO STANDING/NO PARKING RED ZONE designated for the last l5 feet before exiting the Joaquin Miller driveway. This will allow two lanes of cars to exit simultaneously--one turning left (up Ascot) and one turning right (down Ascot). By alleviating the back-up created by a left-turning car, other cars that are turning right will be able to pass. This should more effectively channel cars into and out of our parking lot.
KEEP THE LOOP FLOWING 0
This NO PARKING ZONE will be enforced at all times during the school day. Please inform baby-sitters, relatives, friends and others driving to JM that the RED ZONE should be treated as it would be on public streets.
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Please take care not to block the JM driveway exit when turning left onto Ascot Drive. Stay as far left in the exit zone as possible. This will allow other cars to exit the JM driveway and turn right onto Ascot Drive.
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Do not park (or stop) on Ascot Drive, directly across the street from JM or Montera. Street traffic MUST be able to pass on the right while you are waiting to enter our school parking lot. Even one car parked across from JM totally blocks through traffic. There are City of Oakland NO PARKING signs in these locations which must be heeded if through-traffic is to be maintained.
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BE PATIENT AND BE COURTEOUS. CHILDREN FOLLOW OUR EXAMPLES.
It is hoped that these small steps will substantially improve the flow of traffic entering and exiting Joaquin Miller School each day. THANK YOU FOR YOUR ATTENTION, HELP AND SUPPORT OF THIS REQUEST. HOPEFULLY THIS AND FUTURE EFFORTS WILL INCREASE SAFETY FOR OUR STUDENTS AND REDUCE STRESS FOR PARENTS.
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EARTHQUAKE PREPAREDNESS SHOULD
A WIDESPREAD MAJOR EMERGENCY OCCUR , ALL STUDENTS WILL BE KEPT AT THE SCHOOL WHERE EVERYTHING POSSIBLE WILL BE DONE TO CARE FOR AND COMFORT THEM. F OR THE PURPOSE OF DEFINITION, A MAJOR EARTHQUAKE IS ONE THAT WOULD PREVENT NORMAL TRANSPORTATION TO AND FROM SCHOOL ; IT WOULD ALSO DISRUPT TELEPHONE COMMUNICATIONS. ALL BRIDGES IN THE B AY A REA WOULD IMMEDIATELY BE CLOSED AND INSPECTED FOR STRUCTURAL DAMAGE.
If an earthquake occurs, please remember the following: • • • •
We will do our best to aid, care for, and comfort your child. Do not try to telephone the school. Do not expect the school to telephone you. Listen for radio reports on local conditions.
Remind your children that in case of a major earthquake, they must stay at school. No student will be permitted to leave the school without permission from a member of the administration. Permission will be granted under these conditions: l. 2. 3.
To the parents when they are able to reach the school to pick them up OR When they are put in the custody of previously designated members of the family, OR When they are put in the custody of a previously designated adult friend or neighbor of the family .
IMPORTANT: An Emergency Form will be sent home with each child at the beginning of the school year. One copy will remain in the office and one copy will be placed in the Emergency Backpack located in each classroom. Please carefully fill out the forms sent home with your child and return to school by the end of the first week. Because of possible traffic disruption, at least two persons living in the Montclair area should be designated. To survive a natural disaster with a minimum of trauma and confusion, students, parents, faculty, and staff must work together. To create the safest possible conditions for students of Joaquin Miller, all of us must understand and adhere to the above procedures. 27
EMERGENCY FOOD BAGS FOR STUDENTS In case of a major earthquake or other disaster, Joaquin Miller maintains some necessary emergency supplies for use by all students (water, blankets, and bandages). Supplies are stored in the PTA Shed and Cargo Container, at the school. For Earthquake Preparedness, we are asking each family to provide a “goodie bag” for each of your children. It should contain items your child likes and will eat during an emergency situation. Some suggestions are: • • • • • • • • • •
Canned fruit Canned pudding Small package of dried fruit Granola bar Small package of crackers Small package of trail mix Two or three juice boxes – no bottles, please Two plastic spoons Photo of your family Prescription medication (original bottle,) with directions and a measuring spoon
Please include two or three of the above items (not all) in your child’s “goodie bag”. All foods should have pull-top lids and be easy to open. Please do not include foods that require a can opener or are perishable. Please put items in a gallon size ziplock bag, labeled with your child’s name. Please have your child bring his/her “goodie bag” to school by Monday, September 13, 2003. All “goodie bags” will be stored in your child’s classroom and will be returned to you at the end of the school year. Thank You for your cooperation and support as we continue to provide the safest environment possible for your child in cases of major disaster/disruption.
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GUIDELINES FOR ADVERTISING IN THE WALKIE TALKIE The Joaquin Miller PTA School Newspaper, The Walkie Talkie, is sent home with the youngest child in each family every other Wednesday - please look for it. The Walkie Talkie is the bi-weekly newsletter sponsored and issued by the Joaquin Miller PTA. Its purpose is to serve as a means of communicating with parents to announce school events, PTA functions, and child-related community matters. It is not a forum for debate. The main body of the paper will contain only information that pertains to school and children's activities. Concise informational announcements and limited advertising may be accepted by the Walkie Talkie, consistent with its purpose and subject to the guidelines set forth below: 1. Short personal ads by members of Joaquin Miller families or staff are accepted for a minimal charge of $2.00 per line if the ad sells services ( i.e. babysitting) or personal property ( i.e. musical instruments). 2. Short ads by individual members of the Montclair Community are accepted, free of charge, if the ad gives away pets or personal items. 3. The Walkie Talkie will accept prepared, single-page ads from businesses offering services related to curriculum, remedial education services or special training/tutoring so long as the services support the goals and objectives of the school (see PTA Guidelines to National Principals for Corporate Involvement in the School, 1996). A fee of $10.00 - $25.00 will be assessed for this service. The business must provide sufficient printed copies of the accepted ads ( i.e. 400 copies). 4. The Walkie Talkie will accept ads for childcare, camps and classes offered to school-age children. A $10.00 fee will be assessed. Fees will be waived for nonprofit or state/local government sponsored programs. 5. Commercial ads are generally not accepted, except as set forth in paragraphs 3 and 4 above. 6. For all other business ads, please advertise in the Fall Auction Booklet. ITEMS WHICH ARE SUBMITTED AND DO NOT CONFORM TO THESE GUIDELINES MAY BE EXCLUDED OR EDITED BY THE PRINCIPAL, PTA PRESIDENT OR THE WALKIE TALKIE EDITOR.
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SCHOOL POLICIES STUDENT SUPERVISION POLICY YARD SUPERVISION FOR STUDENTS IS NOT AVAILABLE PRIOR TO 8:20 A.M. EACH MORNING OR AFTER 2:50 P.M. EACH AFTERNOON. Parents are asked to make transportation needs accordingly, both in the morning and/or after school for their child(ren). On Minimum Days (each Wednesday), students in Grades 1-5 are dismissed at 1:25 p.m. THERE IS NO SUPERVISION FOR STUDENTS AFTER 1:25 P.M. ON WEDNESDAYS. SCHOOL OFFICE HOURS The school office is open from 8:00 a.m. – 3:45 p.m., daily. The phone number is (510) 8791420. Please try to limit phone calls between 12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m., as the lunch hour can be quite busy with limited staff available to assist you. LUNCH FEES Several choices of pre-packaged lunches are available to Joaquin Miller students, on a daily basis. Menus are distributed by the District at the beginning of each month and are sent home attached to the Walkie Talkie. The cost for a student lunch is $1.75 daily, which includes milk. Milk is also available for individual purchase at $.45 a carton. Students may pay for their lunch on a daily basis. For your convenience, parents may pre-pay for 10 lunches by sending a check for $17.50, made payable to Joaquin Miller Cafeteria, to the School Office. Please be sure to write your child’s name in the memo section of the check. Your child will be credited for 10 lunches and will only be charged for the lunches that he/she actually buys. Pre-payments are good for the entire year, or until the student purchases 10 lunches. RELEASE OF PUPILS DURING THE SCHOOL DAY We will not, under any circumstances, allow your child to leave the school grounds without permission during school hours. If your child needs to leave school early for an appointment, please send a note stating the time of departure, purpose of departure and to whom the student should be released to. Your child should bring this note to the School Office upon their arrival at school, and a Permit To Leave School will be issued to your child.
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PUPIL ATTENDANCE California State Law requires every child of school age to attend school and for us to record all absences and tardies accurately. Upon your child’s return to school, please send a note stating the specific dates of absence/tardiness and the reason for absence/tardiness. Parents may also call the School Office (879-1420) to notify us of your child’s absence/tardiness on the day(s) of such occurrences. Please note, new District Policy requires our School’s Attendance Clerk to contact parents of absent students, during the day, on day(s) the student is absent. AUTOMATED ATTENDANCE CALLING Parents are encouraged to register to use the District’s Automated Attendance Calling System to verify absence(s) over the phone. The system is activated between the hours of 7:00 p.m. and 9:00 p.m. on the day(s) of your child’s absence. Please stop by the School Office to complete the necessary forms. TEXTBOOKS Students will bring home textbooks and library books throughout the school year. Please help your child learn to assume responsibility for his/her books and other school property. All books need to remain in good condition and not be damaged or lost during the school year. Parents will be asked to pay for damaged or lost textbooks and library books. A student will not receive another textbook to use or library book until payment has been made. CLASSROOM VISITATIONS Parents are welcome to visit their child’s class during the school day. Prior to visiting the classroom, we ask that you report to the Office and sign-in in the Visitor’s Log Book. Please do not interrupt academic instructional activities and limit conversations with either the students or teacher. PARENT/TEACHER CONFERENCES If you would like to conference with your child’s teacher, please send a note with your child stating the best time and date to schedule an appointment. Classroom interruptions and distractions must be kept to a minimum; therefore teachers are not able to hold impromptu conferences with parents during instructional periods. LOST AND FOUND Please label your child’s clothing and other personal property with their full name and room number on it. All personal items found will be placed in the Lost and Found Rack at the end of the hallway, leading to the Upper Grade Yard. Smaller items will be placed in the Lost and Found drawer in the school office. 31
PERSONAL POSSESSIONS Students are not allowed to trade, sell or buy personal property at school. Items such as candy, gum, trading cards, radios, electronic games or toys should be kept at home. Money should be limited to the amount needed for lunch or milk purchases only. Any item confiscated from students will only be returned to parents, following a Principal/parent/student conference. SEXUAL HARASSMENT The Governing Board of the Oakland Unified School District is committed to maintaining a learning environment that is free of harassment. The Board prohibits the unlawful sexual harassment of any student by any employee, student or other person at school or at any school related activity. Students will receive age-appropriate information related to sexual harassment. All students will be assured that they need not endure any form of sexual harassment which impairs their educational environment or well being at school. Students should contact the Principal or teacher if they feel they are being harassed. Any student who engages in the sexual harassment of anyone at school or at school related functions shall be subject to disciplinary action, up to and including expulsion. PRIVATE SCHOOL RELEASE OF INFORMATION POLICY The school will release, upon written request by the parent, copies of records for your child that will include attendance/tardy records, report cards and test scores from prior years. Personal Reference Forms will not be completed by staff members per District guidelines.
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