Office Hours 8:00 AM – 3:50 PM

Students May Enter the Building 7:45 AM

Breakfast Will Be Served 7:45 AM

Classes Begin 8:05 AM

Tardy After 8:10 AM

Morning Pre-K Lunch 10:50 – 11:10 AM

Lunch for Kindergarten Students 11:00 – 11:45 AM

Eating in the Cafeteria 11:00 – 11:25 AM

Recess on the Playground 11:25 – 11:45 AM

Afternoon Pre-k May Enter the Building 11:30

Afternoon Pre-k Lunch 11:40 – 12:00

Morning Pre-K Dismisses 11:15 AM

Early Childhood Class Begins 12:15 PM

Kindergarten and Afternoon Pre-k Dismisses 2:45 PM

Early Childhood Dismisses 3:00 PM

In order for a child to be admitted to school as a pre-kindergarten student, he/she must meet two requirements. First, the student must be four years old on or before September 1; and second, they must be unable to speak and/or comprehend the English language or be from a family whose income, according to standards set by the State Board of Education, is at or below the subsistence level. In order for a child to be admitted as a kindergarten student, the child must be five years of age on or before September 1.

At enrollment, the parents must provide the school with a birth certificate, a current immunization record, and a social security number. Also, a record of income will be needed for pre-k students to verify the fact that the family income is below subsistence level. A Food Stamp or AFDC number will be sufficient for the verification.

If a birth certificate is not presented by the end of the first month after enrollment, the student will not be allowed to continue in school. In order to obtain a birth certificate:

if the child was born in Ward County, contact the County Clerk.

if the child was born in another county in Texas, contact the County Clerk of that county or write the Bureau of Vital Statistics, Texas Department of Health, Austin, Texas.

if the child was born in another state, write to the Bureau of Vital Statistics of the state in which the birth occurred.

Safety is our prime concern. Your cooperation is appreciated in making our loading/unloading zones safe. Parents bringing their children by automobile should unload and pick up children using the north or south side streets to the school (Eleventh or Twelfth Streets). Please avoid loading and unloading children in front of the school as this area is reserved for teachers’ parking. Also do not load or unload students in the circle drive on the northeast corner of the school as this is used for bus loading and unloading. We would recommend parking as near the curb as possible to load or unload students. Several crosswalks are painted on the streets. Parents are encouraged to walk their child to the school side of the street.

Students are to enter the building through the side doors that face Eleventh and Twelfth Streets and either proceed to the cafeteria, if they are eating breakfast, or enter the classroom wing to deposit book bags in their locker. After leaving their personal belongings in the school, they will then proceed to the playground for supervised recess until school begins. In the case of inclement weather, the students will be supervised in the gym during this before-school time.

If there is to be a change in the daily schedule of how your child gets home, please send a note to the teacher. Please do not send word by your child. We must have a note. Phone calls concerning a change will be accepted ONLY in emergency situations. It is expected that changes in the child’s ride home will be kept to a minimum due to the danger which results from the confusion generated by changes.

Buses run daily for eligible bus riders. Eligible bus riders are defined as students living two (2) or more miles from the school. However, the Monahans-Wickett-Pyote ISD also provides bus transportation for in-town students to and from the school closest to the student's home address. If you have a question about a route, run time, etc., please call the Transportation Department at 943-2172 and speak to Gina.

We are extremely concerned about your child’s safety and will do everything in our power to see that all children will have a safe and pleasant ride. The District has developed a list of transportation rules, which are included near the back of this handbook. Please review these with your child even if he/she is not a regular bus rider.

Please note: When students ride in a District van or passenger car, seat belts must be used at all times. Also, if a student is going to ride the bus, it is suggested by this campus that the student do so every day for several weeks so that the routines are learned. A wristband will be put on the student at the beginning of school. This band should be worn for the first four to six weeks. This colored band will assist to make sure the students are placed on the correct bus. It is expected that changes in the child’s ride home will be kept to a minimum due to the danger which results from the confusion generated by changes.

Students miss out on a great amount of learning when they miss one day of school. Kindergarten is much more academic than it was just a few years ago. Please make sure your child gets to school daily. Regular attendance also helps keep local taxes down since the State provides money for school operations based on attendance rates.

School attendance legislation (Senate Bill 247) states that a student may not be given credit for a class unless the student is in attendance at least 90 percent of the days the class is offered. A child must, therefore, attend 162 of the 180 school days, which dictates that a child cannot miss more than 18 school days per year or 9 days per semester. If Kindergarten students are assigned to an accelerated reading instruction program under state law, compulsory attendance applies. Parents will be notified in writing if their child is assigned to an accelerated reading instruction program as a result of the reading diagnosis test. [EHBC (Legal)]

The bill does provide, however, the exception that an attendance committee can give class credit to a student who is in attendance fewer than 162 days if the committee determines that the student’s nonattendance was due to extenuating circumstances.

Cullender Kindergarten’s attendance committee will review petitions from parents of students who have fewer than 162 days attendance for the year. A student may be excused for temporary absence due to the following:

Resulting from any cause acceptable to the teacher, principal, or superintendent including personal illness, illness or death in the immediate family.

For the purpose of observing religious holy days, including traveling for that purpose, if before the absence the parent submits a written request for the excused absence.

For treatment by health care professionals if the student begins classes or returns to school on the same day of the appointment or treatment.

Required screening, diagnosis, and treatment for Medicaid-eligible students or absence required by state or local welfare authorities.

If the attendance committee finds there are no extenuating circumstances for the absence or if the student does not meet the conditions set by the committee to earn or regain credit, the student will not receive credit for the class. If a petition for credit is denied, the student or parent may appeal the decision to the Board of Trustees by completing a written request to the Superintendent. In order for this committee to make appropriate decisions concerning attendance, it is mandatory for Parents to submit written notes to the school stating the reason for the absence in the event that the child is referred to the committee for review. The statements of reasons for absences for the student will be necessary information. Copies of notes from parents regarding students’ attendance will be filed and held until the end of the school year. Those files will be released to the attendance committee should the student be referred to that committee for hearing.

Teachers will permit students to make up work missed regardless of the reason for the absence. Lack of attendance by kindergarten students (& pre-k) usually is not the decision of the student, and therefore, reducing the student’s opportunity for success by not allowing make-up work should not be the purpose of our policies regarding student attendance.

Outstanding attendance recognition will be at the end of each six-weeks reporting period and at the end of the school year. In order to receive an Outstanding Attendance standing, a student must not be reported as absent to the State of Texas’ Accounting Agency. Attendance is taken each day at 10:00 AM and every student in class at this time is reported as "in attendance" to the State Accounting Agency. If a student leaves during the day for a medical or health-related reason but returns to the school during the same day with a doctor’s note, he/she will not be counted absent even if they are not in attendance at the 10:00 AM reporting time.

Perfect attendance will be awarded only at the end of the school year. To receive a Perfect Attendance standing, a student must not have been reported absent to the State Accounting Agency or have been tardy or released early from school for any reason. In other words, a kindergarten child must be in attendance at school from before the tardy bell at 8:10 to the last bell at 2:45 PM everyday. Additionally, a student must have enrolled in the Monahans-Wickett-Pyote ISD for a full year (180 days). Students who enroll after the first day of school and students who transfer from another school during the year are not eligible to receive a Perfect Attendance award.

Parent requests – We encourage you to try and schedule your child’s doctor and dental appointments either before or after school hours. If this is not possible, you must personally check your child out of school through the main office by obtaining consent from the attendance clerk. For your child’s safety, the teacher will not release a child to anyone who has not cleared the early dismissal through the office. Additionally, it is suggested for your child’s benefit, as well as the teacher’s, that you send a note by your child the morning of the early dismissal stating the reason and time in order for the teacher to plan accordingly.

Scheduled dismissals – Early dismissal days are noted on the school calendar, and if not, written notification will be sent home prior to the dismissal in order that you may make appropriate plans.

All students are entitled to enjoy the basic rights of citizenship recognized and protected by law for persons of their age and maturity. The school will foster a climate of mutual respect for the rights of others. Students are expected to respect the rights and privileges of other students, teachers, and District staff. The District’s rules of conduct and discipline are established to achieve and maintain order in the school. Students who violate the rights of others or who violate District or school rules will be subject to disciplinary measures designed to correct the misconduct and to promote adherence by all students to their responsibilities as citizens in the school community.

Students are responsible for conducting themselves properly, in a manner appropriate to their age and level of maturity. Student responsibilities for achieving a positive learning environment at school or school-related activities include:

Attending all classes, regularly and on time.

Being prepared for each class with appropriate materials and assignments.

Being appropriately dressed and groomed.

Showing courtesy and respect toward others.

Behaving in a responsible manner

Paying required fees and fines, unless these are waived.

Avoiding violations of the Code of Student Conduct.

Obeying all school rules, including safety rules.

Seeking change in school policies and regulations in an orderly and responsible manner, through appropriate channels.

The District has authority over a student during the regular school day and while going to and from school on District transportation. This jurisdiction includes any activity during the school day on school grounds, attendance at any school-related activity, regardless of time or location, and any school-related misconduct, regardless of time and location. A violation of law and the student code of conduct involving retaliation against an employee, even though it occurs off school grounds and not at any school-related activity, is also subject to District jurisdiction as described in the section entitled DISCIPLINE below. The official District "Student Code of Conduct" is on display at the Principal’s Office.

Respect the rights and property of others.

Be prepared and on time.

Walk quietly and orderly from place to place.

Dress appropriately.

Follow directions and obey all classroom procedures.

Good discipline is really another word for respect – respect for authority, respect for self and respect for procedures. Discipline is an attitude which begins at home, is reinforced at school, and is applied through life. Developing a positive attitude toward discipline requires four considerations:

Communication – Behavior standards and discipline standards need to be clearly understood by student, parents and teachers. When possible, parents need to be alerted to a student’s behavior before there is an incident that requires punishment.

Expectation – Parents must expect their children to behave at school and make that expectation clear. The school must expect children to behave in a way conducive to their learning.

Identification - The real cause of misbehavior must be identified if change is to occur. Restlessness and boredom can be a cause, but should not be used as an excuse for a negative attitude or lack of respect.

Action – The best way to discipline is to address a bad situation before reaction to it requires punishment. Students need to be treated fairly and honestly, and problems must be dealt with expeditiously if we want them to learn from their mistakes. Ignoring a problem or "wishing" it away only delays the problem or makes it more difficult to solve.

A Student Code of Conduct has been adopted by the Monahans-Wickett-Pyote School Board and is available for viewing in the office of each school in the district. The Student Code of Conduct addresses discipline violations and penalties, and all students attending school in the MWP ISD will be expected to adhere to this policy. The principal or other appropriate administrator will continue to be authorized to consider the circumstances of each disciplinary situation, including the following factors:

The seriousness of the offense.

The student’s age.

The frequency of misconduct.

The student’s attitude.

The potential effect of the misconduct on the school environment.

Corporal punishment is limited to spanking or paddling the student, and is governed by the following guidelines:

The student is told the reason for the corporal punishment.

Corporal punishment may be administered only by the principal or a teacher.

The instrument to be used will be approved by the principal.

Corporal punishment will be administered in the presence of one other District professional employee and out of view of other students.

A record will be maintained of each instance of corporal punishment, and an attempt to contact parents/guardians will be made – either verbally or through writing.

The school counselor is available to assist students with a wide range of personal concerns, including such areas as social, family, emotional or academic needs. The counselor may also make available information about community resources to address personal needs. Please contact the school office to find the times when the counselor is on this campus.

Please note: The school will not conduct a psychological examination without first obtaining the parent’s written consent, unless required by state or federal law.

When law enforcement officers or other lawful authorities wish to question or interview a student at school:

The principal will verify and record the identity of the officer or other authority and ask for an explanation of the need to question or interview the student.

The principal ordinarily will make reasonable efforts to notify parents unless the interviewer raises what the principal considers to be a valid objection.

The principal ordinarily will be present unless the interviewer raises what the principal considers to be a valid objection.

Education succeeds best when there is a strong partnership between home and school, a partnership that thrives on communication. Parents are partners with teachers, administrators, and the Board and are encouraged to:

Encourage your child to put a high priority on education and to commit to making the most of the educational opportunities provided by the school.

Review the Student Handbook with your child prior to signing and returning to the school the written statement that you understand and have received a copy of this Student Handbook.

Review the district-adopted Student Code of Conduct with your child prior to signing and returning to the school the written statement that you understand and have access to the Student Code of Conduct.

Become familiar with the academic program, including special program, offered in the District and feel free to ask the principal any questions, including concerns about placement, assignment, or early graduation.

Attend Board meetings to learn more about ongoing operations of the District.

Exercise your right to review teaching materials, textbooks, and other aids, and to examine tests that have been administered to your child.

Be aware of your right to temporarily remove your child from an instructional activity that conflicts with your religious or moral beliefs. However, such a removal cannot be for the purpose of avoiding a test and may not prevent the student form attending for an entire semester. Further, such removal does not exempt the student from satisfying grade level or graduation requirements as determined by the school and by the Texas Education Agency.

Review your child’s school records when needed. Monitor your child’s progress; contact teachers as needed. Take advantage of all opportunities to stay informed regarding your child’s activities, as well as school activities and issues generally. Follow up on a matter not resolved administratively by presenting it to the Board for review according to policy.

Become a school volunteer. For further information, contact Randy Johnson at 943-5252. The activities are varied including District committees that assist the Board of Trustees in formulating educational goals and objectives for campuses and the District.

Participate in campus parent organization. Cullender’s is called the "Little Lobo Club."

Grant or deny any written request from the District to make a videotape or voice recording of the child unless the videotape or voice recording is to be used for school safety; relates to classroom instruction or a co-curricular or extra-curricular activity; or relates to media coverage of the school as permitted by law.

Non-school materials: Written materials, handbills, photographs, pictures, petitions, films, tapes, or other visual or auditory materials may not be sold, circulated or distributed on any school campus by a student or a non-student without the approval of the principal and must be in accordance with campus regulations. (Such requests are routinely referred to the Supt.’s office for approval District-wide.)

Approval Required: All material intended for distribution to students that is not under the District’s editorial control must be submitted to the principal for review and approval. If the material is not approved in writing within 24 hours of the time it was submitted, it must be considered disapproved. Disapprovals may be appealed by submitting the disapproved material to the Superintendent; material not approved by the Superintendent in writing within three days is considered disapproved. This disapproval may be appealed to the Board at its next regular meeting when the student will have a reasonable period of time to present his or her viewpoint.

The District provides special programs for gifted and talented students, bilingual students, migrant students, students with limited English proficiency, dyslexic students and students with disabilities. The coordinator of each program can answer questions about eligibility requirements and programs and services offered in the District or by other organizations. A student or parent with questions about these programs may also contact Randy Johnson at 943-5252.

The learning experiences of pupils at Cullender Kindergarten are based on the Kindergarten Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS) and the Pre-k Curriculum Guidelines developed by the Texas Education Agency. The following programs are used as some of the methods of teaching these concepts.

Scott Foresman Reading Program: This program is one which ties grades K – 3 together as a total reading development program. It uses a variety of literature to introduce letters, letter – sound associations, general knowledge concepts of our surroundings and introduces science, math and social studies topics.

Computer Labs: The backbone of our computer labs is the Creative Education Institute (CEI) phonics based therapy program. It allows a student to move at their pace through the letter sound associations and into "words." It is an intense program requiring regular attendance and a small teacher to student ratio. The Creative Writing Lab is based on concepts taken from the "Writing to Read" program which encourages students to put their thoughts in written form. Early in the year the program focuses on writing their names and gradually develops into students writing sentences and possibly short paragraphs. The Creative Writing Lab will be used by both pre-k (on a limited basis) and kindergarten students. The CEI lab is for Kindergarten students only.

Saxon Phonics: On the Kindergarten level, Saxon Phonics begins by working with auditory discrimination skills to see if the children are aware of the different sounds of the English language and are ready to learn to read. When they are ready, the teacher begins by teaching the name, sound, and written form of each letter. In order to provide plenty of time for practice, one week is devoted to each letter. When the next letter is taught, the students review all previously taught letters, as they do every day for the entire year to make sure they have enough exposure to master each letter. After learning three letters, the children begin to blend letters together to create words and unblend words to learn to spell.

Saxon Math: This is a success-oriented program which enables all children to develop a solid foundation in the language and basic concepts of all areas of mathematics. This program consists of two main parts. First is the Meeting in which students practice daily identifying the month, date and year; as well as, identifying a pattern, recognizing numbers and counting. The second part of this program is the lesson which introduces a new objective daily through hands-on experiences, discussion and exploration. Saxon Math is used in both Pre-k and Kindergarten.

Other formats such as "Workshop Way" and "Whole Language" are used at times and in some classrooms to add structure to the presentation of concepts.

Cafeteria services are available to our kindergarten and pre-k students. Milk is served with all meals in the cafeteria. If your child is allergic to milk, we must have a doctor’s statement on file. A thermos will be allowed for the following two reasons only:

There is a statement from your doctor stating your child is allergic to milk.

Your child brings a lunch from home.

Breakfast is also served in the cafeteria. Serving time is from 7:45 AM to 8:00 AM. In order to provide children with ample time to finish breakfast, students must arrive to school before 8:00 AM in order to be served breakfast. The school day begins at 8:05.

Whenever possible, we recommend the purchase of meal tickets. This eliminates your child having to carry money to school. Checks should be made out for the exact amount to Cullender Kindergarten.

Parents of kindergarten students are invited to eat lunch at Cullender after the first three (3) weeks of school. The first few weeks are important for teaching the routines to the children. After that first three weeks, if you decide to eat with your child, please send a note to your child’s teacher, or call the school office (943-5252) no later than 9:00. Pre-k students are not allowed to eat with parents at school.

Sack Lunches/Lunch Boxes: Students may bring lunches from home. Milk may be purchased for $ 0.30 each. If drinks are sent from home, please do not send carbonated drinks since these are not allowed during the noon meal. Please write your child’s name inside his/her lunch box or on the exterior of the sack for easy identification.

Free and Reduced Lunch Program: The District participates in the National School Lunch Program and offers free and reduced priced meals based on a student’s financial need. There is an application for the Free and Reduced Lunch Program. These may be picked up from Mrs. Celia Acosta in the cafeteria during non-serving times. Please call 943-5252 if there are questions about the program.

All articles that have been found should be turned in to the office. A student losing an article should be encouraged to check the Lost and Found located in the foyer area. Parents are requested to label personal items such as sweaters, caps, coats, jackets, lunch containers, etc.

We strongly encourage frequent communication between teachers and parents regarding the progress students are making. Please get to know your child’s teacher. A home-school partnership is critical to each student’s success.

The school year is divided into six-week periods. Parents will receive a written report card at the end of each reporting period – normally the Wednesday after the 6-weeks ends. These grading periods are noted on the school calendar. Please sign and return the report cards the day after you receive them. Achievement or progress in pre-k and kindergarten shall be reported to parents as Satisfactory, Needs Improvement or Unsatisfactory.

End-of-the-year academic awards are not given at this young age. Pre-k and kindergarten children are not eligible for the District’s recognition of academic excellence since numerical grades are not given at these grade levels.

A student’s records are confidential and are protected from unauthorized inspection or use. A cumulative record is maintained for each student from the time the student enters the District until the student withdraws or graduates. This record moves with the student from school to school.

By law, both parents, whether married, separated or divorced, have access to the records of a student who is under 18 or a dependent for tax purposes. A parent whose rights have been legally terminated will be denied access to records if the school is given a coy of the court order terminating these rights.

The principal is custodian of all records for currently enrolled students at the assigned school. The Superintendent is the custodian of all records for students who have withdrawn or graduated. Records may be reviewed during regular school hours upon completion of the written request form. The records custodian or designee will respond to reasonable requests for explanation and interpretation of the records.

Certain officials from various government agencies may have limited access to the records. The District forwards a student’s records on request and without prior parental consent to a school in which a student seeks or intends to enroll. Parental consent is required to release the records to anyone else.

The parent’s or student’s rights of access to, and copies of, student records do not extend to all records. Materials that are not considered educational records, such as; a teacher’s personal notes on a student that are shared only with a substitute teacher, records pertaining to former students after they are no longer students in the District, and records maintained by school law enforcement officials for purposes other than school discipline do not have to be made available to parents or the student.

Certain information about the students within District is considered directory information and will be released to anyone who follows procedures for requesting it, unless the parent objects to the release of any or all directory information about the child. This objection must be made in writing to the principal within 10 school days after the issuance of this handbook. Directory information includes: a student’s name, address, telephone number, date and place of birth, participation in officially recognized activities and sports, dates of attendance, awards received in school, and most recent previous school attended.

As noted elsewhere in this handbook, communication between the home and the school is vital and is strongly encouraged. The school will provide report cards, specific parent conference dates and times, open house opportunities and many other opportunities for feedback. Parents may request conferences (as may teachers) during the teacher’s "conference period." At Cullender Kindergarten, this is from 3:00 PM to 3:50 PM on most days. A parent who wishes to confer with a teacher may call the office or send a note for an appointment during this time period or request that the teacher call the parent during the conference period or at another mutually convenient time.

A school nurse is on campus only a couple days a week. She assists with handling accidents, medications and she assures that all students comply with immunization requirements. It is requested that the parent notify the nurse if there are health concerns with a child and that the school be kept informed of the current phone numbers and emergency information. If a child becomes seriously ill at school, the parent will be contacted immediately. If he/she cannot be reached, the emergency contact information will be used. Please remember that seriously ill children cannot be kept at school. A child must be sent home if he/she presents any of the following: fever, suspected contagious diseases, vomiting or diarrhea.

Parents of a student with a communicable or contagious disease are asked to telephone the school nurse/principal so that other students who have been exposed to the disease can be alerted.

The school cannot administer medicine, including aspirin, unless an authorization form for the administration of the medicine is submitted to the office by the parent. These authorization forms can be obtained from the office. All written releases of medicine must include the child’s name, the prescription name and number, and the amount of dosage to be administered. All medications must be labeled and left at the office, along with the written authorization for the administering of the medicine. All prescriptions which can have all doses administered at home will not be administered at school. Basic guidelines require that only those specifically required to be administered during school hours will be dispensed at school by the school personnel.

Each year parents are asked to complete an emergency care form that includes a place for parental consent for school officials to obtain medical treatment for the students, as permitted by law. Information concerning a student’s address and telephone number, as well as emergency contacts, is pertinent to the well being of the children. Please make sure that the office has the name and telephone number of a person who can be contacted in case you cannot be reached. Furthermore, please notify the school if you change addresses or telephone numbers during the year. It is very important that our records are kept up to date.

Student safety on campus or at school related events is a high priority of the District. With safety in mind, the District has implemented policies and committed resources. However, the District can address only part of the challenge; the essential remaining part is the cooperation of students, including:

Avoiding conduct that is likely to put the student or other students at risk.

Following the Code of Conduct and any additional rules for behavior and safety set by the principal and teachers.

Remaining alert to promptly report safety hazards, such as intruders on campus.

Knowing emergency evacuation routes and signals.

Following immediately the instructions of teachers, bus drivers, and other District employees who are seeing to the welfare of students.

The District is not responsible for medical costs associated with student injuries. The District does make available, however, optional, low-cost student accident insurance program to assist parents in meeting medical expenses. These will be distributed to parents when they became available to the District.

Students, teachers and other District employees will participate in drills of emergency procedures. When the alarm is sounded, students should follow the directions of teachers quickly, quietly and in an orderly manner.

Emergency Bells: 3 short bells fire; leave the building

The taxpayers of the community have made a sustained financial commitment for the construction and upkeep of school facilities. To ensure that school facilities can serve those for whom they are intended – both this year and in the coming years – littering, defacing, or damaging school property is not tolerated. Students will be required to make restitution for damages they cause and shall be subject to disciplinary consequences in accordance with the Student Code of Conduct.

Each student has the right to individually, voluntarily, and silently pray or meditate in school in a manner that does not disrupt instructional or other activities of the school. The school will not require or coerce a student to engage in or to refrain from such prayer or meditation during any school activity.

A student must be fully immunized against certain diseases or must present a certificate or statement that, for medical or religious reasons, the student should not be immunized. The school nurse can provide information on age-appropriate doses or on an acceptable physician-validated history of illness required by the Texas Department of Health. Proof of immunization may (in some cases) be personal records, from a licensed physician or public health clinic with a signature or rubber-stamp validation.

If a student should not be immunized for medical reasons, the student or parent must present a certificate signed by a U.S. licensed physician that states that, in the doctor’s opinion, the immunization required would be harmful to the health and well-being of the student or any member of the student’s family or household. This certificate must be renewed yearly unless the physician specifies a life-long contraindication.

If a student’s religious beliefs conflict with the requirement that the student be immunized, the student must present a statement signed by the student (or by the parent if the student is a minor) that states that immunization conflicts with the beliefs and practices of a recognized church or religious denomination of which the student is an adherent or member. This statement must be renewed yearly.

The Monahans-Wickett-Pyote ISD will comply with the Texas Department of Health Requirements. If for any reason your child has not started the required immunizations, you will have thirty days to comply with this policy or your child will be withdrawn from school.

Parents have the right to inspect all instructional materials to be used in connection with a survey, analysis or evaluation of information in any of the areas listed below. In order to ensure that parent and student rights are protected, the school will ask for written parental consent before allowing a student to participate when an educational program requires such information. The areas are:

Political affiliations.

Mental and psychological problems potentially embarrassing to the student or family.

Sexual behavior and attitudes.

Illegal, anti-social, self-incriminating, and demeaning behavior.

Critical appraisals of other individuals with whom the student or the student’s family has close family relationship.

Relationship privileged under law, such as relationships with lawyers, physicians, and ministers.

Income, except when the information will be used to determine the student’s eligibility to participate in a special program or to receive financial assistance under such a program.

Students must not engage in unwanted and unwelcome verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature directed toward another student or a District employee. This prohibition applies whether the conduct is by word, gesture, or any other sexual conduct, including requests for sexual favors. All students are expected to treat other students and District employees with courtesy and respect; to avoid any behaviors known to be offensive; and to stop these behaviors when asked or told to stop.

A substantial complaint against a student will result in appropriate disciplinary action, according to the nature of the offense. See the Student Code of Conduct for information regarding disciplinary sanctions.

The District will notify the parents of all students involved in sexual harassment by student(s) when the allegations are not minor, and will notify parents of all incidents of sexual harassment or sexual abuse by an employee. The District encourages parental and student support in its efforts to address and prevent sexual harassment and sexual abuse in the public schools. To the greatest extent possible, complaints will be treated as confidential. Limited disclosure may be necessary to complete a thorough investigation.

Students and/or parents are encouraged to discuss their questions or concerns about the expectations in this area with the teacher, the counselor, the principal or designee, or Mr. Tom Johnson, who serves as the District Title IX coordinator for students.

A complaint alleging sexual harassment by another student, or sexual harassment or sexual abuse by a staff member may be presented by a student and/or parent in a conference with the principal or designee or with the Title IX coordinator. A person who is the same gender as the student ordinarily will hold the first conference with the student. The conference will be scheduled and held as soon as possible within five days of the request. The principal or Title IX coordinator will coordinate an appropriate investigation, which ordinarily will be completed within ten days. The student or parent will be informed if extenuating circumstances delay completion of the investigation.

The student will not be required to present a complaint to a person who is the subject of the complaint.

If the resolution of the complaint is not satisfactory to the student or parent, the student or parent within ten days may request a conference with the Superintendent or designee by following the procedure set out in Board policy. If the resolution by the Superintendent or designee is not satisfactory, the student or parent may present the complaint to the Board as provided by policy.

Homework is used as a means of practicing toward mastery of intended learning outcomes. This is an important time for parents to spend with their children and to stress the importance of completeness and responsibility. Homework, at this level, should take approximately ten to fifteen minutes each day and should become a regular part of your child’s after-school activities.

For your child’s protection, and to do away with as many class interruptions as possible, we have the following rule:

Parents and other visitors are welcome to visit Cullender Kindergarten. All visitors must first report to the principal’s office. Visits to individual classrooms during instructional time shall be permitted only with the principal’s approval, and such visits shall not be permitted if their duration or frequency interferes with the delivery of instruction or disrupts the normal school environment.

Parents may be asked to help with the Fall Festival, Christmas, Valentine, and/or Easter parties. Students may share refreshments on their birthday during the last thirty (30) minutes of the school day. Birthday invitations may not be distributed in class unless there is one for each child, and students’ addresses may not be released from the school office.

No toys or balls of any kind are to be brought to school. The physical education teacher will provide balls and other equipment when it is permissible to play. The playground is well equipped with different activities for play allowing the children to have an enjoyable time without the inclusion of additional balls or toys.

Parents who have a complaint should first discuss the matter with the teacher. If the outcome of that discussion is not satisfactory, parents may request a conference with the principal. If not satisfied at this level, a conference with the Superintendent or designee may be requested; and, ultimately, may appear before the Board of Education, in accordance with board policy.

Parents should contact the school one to two days in advance if they plan to withdraw their child from school due to an impending move. This will aid the teachers and staff in preparing student records for transfer. Parental cooperation in this matter is appreciated.

This school periodically applies pesticides. Information concerning these applications may be obtained from Mr. Tom Johnson at 943-6711.

School Board meeting notices are posted on the window facing South Betty Street of the building where the meetings are normally held which is located at 606 S. Betty in Monahans, TX.

We strongly encourage parents to play an active role in determining how their children dress for school. We feel that careless or overly informal dress may reflect a student’s attitude toward learning. The District’s Dress Code is established to teach grooming and hygiene, instill discipline, prevent disruption, avoid safety hazards, and teach respect for authority. The Monahans-Wickett-Pyote ISD has developed the following dress guideline for all elementary schools.

Dress/Attire: Girls are encouraged to wear dresses, skirts and blouses, slacks or jeans. Dresses and skirts should be of a suitable length, not shorter than slightly above the knee. Blouses should be tucked in unless tailored to be worn on the outside. Girls may not wear tank tops, halters, tops which bare the midriff, suggestive clothing or odd regalia.

Boys are encouraged to wear slacks or jeans and to wear shirttails tucked in unless designed to be worn on the outside. Wearing socks is encouraged unless the footwear is designed to be worn without socks. Shoes with cleats, spikes or taps are not permitted. Boys will not be allowed to wear earrings, suggestive clothing, see-through shirts or half-shirts (midriff showing), tank tops unless covered by a shirt, or odd regalia such as headbands, etc.

Shorts are allowed for both boys and girls as long as they are of a suitable length being not shorter than slightly above the knee. Shorts should be of an acceptable color and style (no short-shorts or tight, form-fitting biker-style shorts).

Students are not allowed to wear any article of clothing that contains or alludes to any obscene words or gestures. No clothes may be worn which have words, phrases, pictures or logos that relate directly or indirectly to alcoholic beverages, tobacco or drugs. Shirts with wrestling themes are discouraged and may be banned in some instances. Tattoos, which are on exposed parts of the body, must be covered while at school. If they are temporary tattoos, they must be removed.

Hair: Girl’s hair must be neat and clean, with no rollers or hair ornaments, which might hurt others. There may be no unusual hair spray coloring, etc.

Boys’ hair must be neat, clean, trimmed and cut so as not to touch the eyes or extend below the top of the collar of a standard dress shirt. There is to be no head or hair ornamentation such as unusual hair spray coloring, rat-tails, initials or numbers cut in the hair, scalp designs, rollers or hairnets. Additionally, the hair may not be shaved close to the head with longer hair covering the shaved area; even if the longer hair meets the hair standard of not extending below the top of the collar of a standard dress shirt.

The driver is in full charge of the bus students. Students must obey the driver. Insubordination will be an automatic five (5) day suspension from the bus or more, on the first offense.

Students will not be allowed to fight on the bus at any time. First time offense, the principal will suspend the student for five (5) days; the second offense, the student will be suspended for ten (10) days; and the third offense, the student will be suspended for the remainder of the semester or thirty (30) days, whichever is greater.

Students, while riding the bus, may not have in their possession any of the following: weapons, explosives, fireworks, open knives, sharp pointed objects, pea-shooters, water balloons, or any other article that might cause pain or damage to other students. (automatic 5 day suspension or more)

Damage to the bus, other than regular usage, will be paid for by the student (example: cutting seats). (automatic 5 day suspension or more)

Students, while riding the bus, will not be allowed to smoke, chew any kind of tobacco, or use obscene language or obscene gestures. (automatic 5 day suspension or more)

Students will not throw, pitch, or shoot articles within the bus, or throw articles out the bus window.

All bus students will go in front of the bus, not behind, to cross to the other side. (one warning only, automatic suspension on the next offense.)

Students will not bring glass on the bus or use the back door unless it is for an emergency. There will be no animals on the bus at any time.

Students may not extend arms or heads out the bus window.

Students shall bring a signed note from their parent for permission to get off the bus at a stop other than those previously designated as their stop.

There will be no band instruments allowed on the bus if they are not in a case. No tubas will be allowed.

Students shall conduct themselves in an orderly manner when boarding or leaving the bus. No pushing or shoving at any time. There will be no eating or drinking on bus routes.

Students must ride the bus to which they are assigned. No student may change from one bus to the other without the consent of the Transportation Department (943-2172).

Students will not be permitted to handle or play with any emergency device on the school bus. (Back door handles, window releases, or hatch tops on the roof) The back door will be used for emergency use only. (automatic 5 day suspension on next offense.)

For the violation of these rules, or the failure to obey the bus driver, students will be reported to their principal who can bar any student, temporarily, or permanently, from riding the school buses.

Participation in physical education is an important part of physical development, coordination, social development, and health concepts and skills.

A child will be excused from physical education (PE) activities if the PE instructor is provided a written note from the child’s parent or guardian requesting it. A parent/guardian note will be accepted for three (3) consecutive days only.

In order to be excused from PE activities for more than three (3) consecutive days, the child must present to the PE instructor a written doctor’s order. The orders provided by the physician will be followed solely, even if parents request a change to allow the child to participate.

If a child must avoid physical activity during PE, then he/she will also need to be excused from physical activity during recess time. A designated area will be provided for the student during recess in order that he/she will not participate in any physical activity during this time.

Parental notes presented to the PE instructor may not designate particular activities to be avoided during PE. For example, a note can not specify that a child not participate in running, but can participate in any other activity during PE time. If a parental note is presented to the PE instructor, the child will miss all PE activities for the period stated on the note.

It is possible that a student at Cullender Kindergarten would have access to the Internet. Internet usage will be limited and supervised. If the parent does not want their child to have such access, this must be noted in writing and provided to the principal. The signature sheet for this handbook has a place to note this. The MWP ISD has a Board policy concerning access to this technology, which will be followed.

I have received a copy of the Cullender Kindergarten Student Handbook for 2000-2001. I understand that the handbook contains information that my child and I may need during the school year. If I have any questions that cannot be answered by reading this handbook, I will direct my questions to my child’s teacher or principal.

I understand and consent to the responsibilities outlined in the District’s Student Code of Conduct, which is available for review in the front foyer of Cullender Kindergarten. I also understand and agree that my child will be held accountable for the behavior and consequences outlined in the Student Code of Conduct at school and at school-sponsored and school-related activities; including school-sponsored travel, and for any school-related misconduct regardless of time or location. I understand that any student who violates the Student Code of Conduct is subject to disciplinary action up to and including corporal punishment or criminal prosecution in cases where violations of the law have occurred.

Regarding student records, federal law requires that "directory information" on my child be released by the District to anyone who requests it unless I object in writing to the release of any or all of this information. This objection must be filed within ten school days of the time this handbook was given to the student. Directory information includes the following:

Student’s name

Address and telephone number

Date and place of birth

Participation in officially recognized activities and sports

Dates of attendance

Awards received in school

Most recent previous school attended

In exercising my right to limit release of this information, I have marked through the items of directory information listed above that I do not want released about my child.

I understand that my child may have access to the Internet at times while at school. I give permission for my child to participate in the District’s electronic communications system.

Comments: ______________________________________________________________________

___________________ ____________________

(Name of student) (Teacher’s Name)