Patrick Lyndon School Handbook of Expectations

A Community of Learners  

EXPECTATIONS OF THE LYNDON COMMUNITY

 1.  Students at the Lyndon School are respectful and appropriate.  They conduct themselves with integrity and strong character.

 2.  Students follow directions.

 3.  Students do not interrupt or disrupt.

 4.  Students are prepared for class.

 SPECIFIC EXPECTATIONS

 Academic Dishonesty/Cheating/Plagiarism

The Lyndon School maintains high performance standards for all students.  The grading and evaluating of student work is an integral part of the educational process.  Student performance must reflect student learning.  Any student caught cheating or plagiarizing materials will not receive credit for the assignment and will face disciplinary consequences.

Backpacks/School Bags

For safety purposes, students are not allowed to carry backpacks from class to class or leave them unattended in classrooms.  Backpacks and school bags must be kept in lockers throughout the course of the school day.  Students are only permitted to carry their backpacks when they arrive at school or report to homeroom for dismissal.

Bullying/Intimidation/Threats

In order to create a safe learning environment, the Lyndon staff will not tolerate bullying or intimidation of any kind.  Students have been trained in appropriate methods of conflict resolution.  Students that bully classmates will face disciplinary consequences.  Continued bullying will be considered harassment.

Bus Behavior

Students are expected to maintain safety on the bus.  Students should stay seated and keep their hands to themselves.

Classroom Behavior

Students must spend class time actively engaged in learning.  Behaviors such as talking out of turn, throwing objects, wandering around the classroom at inappropriate times, or disrupting others interfere with the learning process.  Students must follow teacher directions and follow classroom rules in order to maintain the learning environment.

Computer/Technology Use

Technology is an important part of the Lyndon curriculum and should be used for school purposes only.  Students should not visit inappropriate web sites or chat rooms.  Students may only use computers with permission and staff supervision.

Cutting Class or Skipping Assigned Detention

Students are expected to attend all of their classes every day in order to benefit fully from classroom instruction.  Students assigned detention are expected to report on the day assigned.   

Dress Code

Students must come to school dressed safely and appropriately.  Clothing must be modest and cannot picture profanity, violence or explicit pictures or phrases.  For specific questions regarding appropriate dress and the Monday dress code, see the attached letter.

Electronic Devices

CD Players, radios, etc. can cause a serious disruption to the educational learning environment.  Such items are likely to be lost, damaged, or stolen from desks or lockers.  These devices are not permitted at school and will be confiscated.

 Fighting/Inciting a Fight

Lyndon students are expected to use appropriate methods of conflict resolution.  The school environment must be safe for all students.  Fighting will not be tolerated.  Severe fights may be treated as assault and result in legal action.

Food and Drink

Nutritious food and drink should be consumed during meal times in the cafeteria.  Bringing food and drinks into the hallway or classroom results in messes and disrupts learning time.  Students may only consume food or drink in the classroom if it is part of the lesson and/or sanctioned by the teacher.  Food is never allowed in the hallways.

Forgery

Notices sent home to families are important means of communication between the school and home.  Parents and/or guardians are expected to sign report cards, mid-term warning notices, etc.  Students are not allowed to sign anyone else's name.

Gum

Gum chewing leads to classroom disruptions, messes, and/or property damage and interferes with students' abilities to communicate orally.  The Lyndon School is a Gum-Free Zone.

Hallway Behavior

Middle school students must transition from one class to another.  In order to do this quickly and safely students must behave appropriately in the hallways.  Running, pushing, taking the belongings of others, throwing or kicking objects down the hallway, and shouting create problems and disruptions that interfere with learning time.  Students should walk from one class to another without horseplay and excessive noise.  No student should be in the hallway during class time without teacher permission and a hall pass. 

Littering

Lyndon students are encouraged to develop a sense of respect for their environment.  Students must dispose of trash appropriately.  Littering is not permitted. 

Prepared for Class

Responsibility is an important part of becoming a good student and citizen.  Students must be responsible for arriving to class prepared and ready to learn.  This includes bringing all of the materials necessary to fully participate in each class.

Public Displays of Affection

Lyndon students are expected to maintain the professional environment of the school and to respect the personal boundaries of others.  Staff members encourage appropriate greetings such as smiling, polite verbal greetings, etc.  Inappropriate touching is not permitted.

Tardiness

Arriving late to class is very disruptive to the learning environment and causes students to miss valuable classroom instruction.  Students are required to arrive to class on time.  Students that arrive late to class without a written excuse from a teacher/parent will be considered tardy.

Vandalism

Students must learn to respect the property and belongings of others.  Any student caught vandalizing school property or the belongings of a staff member or student will be asked to repair/replace the item and face disciplinary consequences.

Zero Tolerance Policy

The Lyndon School strives to maintain a safe, productive, learning environment.  Drugs, alcohol, and weapons of any kind are not permitted at school.  Any student that brings such items to school will be suspended pending expulsion according to the BPS Zero Tolerance Policy.

Public Displays of Affection

Lyndon students are expected to maintain the professional environment of the school and to respect the personal boundaries of others.  Staff members encourage appropriate greetings such as smiling, polite verbal greetings, etc.  Inappropriate touching is not permitted.

Tardiness

Arriving late to class is very disruptive to the learning environment and causes students to miss valuable classroom instruction.  Students are required to arrive to class on time.  Students that arrive late to class without a written excuse from a teacher/parent will be considered tardy.

Vandalism

Students must learn to respect the property and belongings of others.  Any student caught vandalizing school property or the belongings of a staff member or student will be asked to repair/replace the item and face disciplinary consequences.

Zero Tolerance Policy

The Lyndon School strives to maintain a safe, productive, learning environment.  Drugs, alcohol, and weapons of any kind are not permitted at school.  Any student that brings such items to school will be suspended pending expulsion according to the BPS Zero Tolerance Policy.

PATRICK LYNDON SCHOOL

Phone: 617-635-6336

Fax: 617-635-6828

20 Mount Vernon Street

West Roxbury, MA 02132

http://boston.k12.ma.us/lyndon

Lyndon School Handbook

MISSION STATEMENT

As Albert Einstein reminds us, human beings are born with an insatiable desire for knowledge. It is this innate sense of human curiosity that the Lyndon School hopes to capitalize upon as it strives to create the highest quality learning environment possible for its students. The school's overarching goal is to foster a life-long love of learning in students while helping them develop the specific skills needed for ongoing academic success and personal maturation. We work to help students become successful, contributing community members and responsible future citizens.

A LETTER FROM THE LYNDON MANAGEMENT TEAM

In September 1995, the newly renovated Lyndon Pilot School opened with great fanfare. As a Pilot school, we address education reform by incorporating high academic standards, extensive parent/guardian and community involvement, and a unique management structure.

We hope it will not take long for you to become familiar with the Lyndon's community of Learners concept. While amazing things happen in our classrooms, we recognize that children, family members, and staff are all engaging in a continual learning process at school, at home, and in the community.

Parents and guardians are an important part of this process; you'll find that your involvement is enthusiastically received at the Lyndon. We hope you will take advantage of at least one of the many opportunities for parent/guardian involvement here. Whether you attend PTA meetings, hold a position on the School Site Council, help out as a room parent, talk to your child about his/her school day, or spend time helping your child with homework, you are both enhancing your child's education and making a valuable contribution to the Lyndon Pilot School's Community of Learners.

Sincerely,

Sherry Brooks-Roberts, Site Facilitator

Kate Johnson, Coordinating Teacher

School Hours: 9:20 a.m. to 3:20 p.m. (Walkers Dismissed @ 3:20 p.m.)

20 Mount Vernon Street

West Roxbury, MA 02132

GRADES K1-3

Phone: 617-635-6824

Fax: 617-635-6828

 GRADES 4-8

Phone: 617-635-6336

Fax: 617-635-1532

SIGNING UP FOR SCHOOL

Under Boston's student assignment plan for elementary and middle schools, the city is divided into three geographic zones: East, West, and North. Lyndon Pilot School students come from the West Zone which includes Roxbury, Jamaica Plain, Roslindale, West Roxbury, and portions of Dorchester. Students are assigned to the Lyndon Pilot School via the Boston Public Schools Choice Plan. Parents/guardians of new-to-Boston Public School students or requesting a transfer must apply at the West Zone Parent Center, which is located at:

West Zone Parent Center

Jennie Barron Building
515 Hyde Park Avenue
Roslindale, MA 02131
Phone: 617-635-8040

Please call or visit the West Zone Parent Center and request a guide for parents/guardians and students entitled Introducing The Boston Public Schools to learn more about age requirements, applications, when to apply, what to bring when you apply, immunization requirements, and details on exactly how the Boston Public Schools assign students.

 WHAT IS A PILOT SCHOOL?

When faced with the important decision of selecting a school for their child, many times parents and guardians ask the question, exactly what is a Pilot School? Pilot Schools in Boston were created to explore new approaches to teaching and learning; schools where students, faculty, and administrators are encouraged to test new educational strategies and to share best practices with other schools throughout the City of Boston.

Pilot Schools in Boston have a special status as one of the select groups of in-district charter schools in the United States that have the support of the local teachers union as an equal partner in their creation. A product of the contract between the Boston Teachers Union and the Boston Public Schools, Pilot Schools have in many cases been designed and are governed by parents, teachers and administrators to provide a high quality educational experience for every student and to develop strong connections between school and community.

Integrated, Theme-Based Curriculum: To encourage students to construct knowledge for themselves in an active, exploratory mode.

Looping: Teachers in Grades K2 through 5 remain with their class for two consecutive years to foster a vital sense of familiarity and continuity.

Bilingual Education: To ensure that Spanish-speaking students gain English language mastery while retaining and celebrating their native culture and language.

Technology: To gain computer literacy and technological skills as resources that enrich the total quality of the instructional program.

Portfolio Assessment: to provide a more accurate reflection of the student's true capabilities, to provide parents and guardians with an in-depth view of their child's progress, and to allow the students to be critical assessors of their own work.

Parent/Guardian Participation: The Lyndon Pilot School's commitment to its students is displayed in its pledge to the parents/guardians. Parents and guardians can expect full participation in their child's schooling in a number of different capacities such as parent/guardian forums, fundraising projects and hiring personnel. In cooperation with parental/guardian involvement, the school's unique administration, consisting of a Management Team of three and an organizational structure that includes a teacher-led Education Committee, a School Site Council, and a Parent Teacher Association (PTA), aims to capitalize on the collective wisdom of a wide range of individuals. This helps to ensure that the school is responsive to parental/guardian and community concerns.

Community: The teachers at the Lyndon develop an inter-disciplinary curriculum around the on-going theme of Community. Sub-themes are developed throughout the school curriculum in relation to the strong theme of community. Students study computer, science, and music in cross-classroom groupings to promote the integration of bilingual with monolingual students. Lyndon students can expect an enriched curriculum that encourages them to construct knowledge in an active, exploratory mode. The Lyndon Pilot School is committed to developing students with strong academic skills and the ability and confidence to use those skills cooperatively to solve problems. The school community sets an example for children of respectful behavior, a love of learning and personal growth.

School Governance: The Lyndon Pilot School is governed by a School Site Council (SSC) which is made up of five teachers, five parents/guardians, and two community members. The SSC is responsible for developing a comprehensive school plan, monitoring the performance of the school community, and preparing the school's budget. As a Boston Public School Pilot, the Lyndon is free from many school department and union regulations.

School Leadership: The Lyndon Pilot School is led by a team of three teachers called the The Lyndon Management Team. The Management Team consists of one site facilitator and two coordinating teachers servicing the Upper and Lower School facilities.

School Organization: In Grades K2 through 5, there are two classes for each grade: two monolingual classes and one Limited English Proficient class for every two grades. Each team of teachers stays with a class for two years, which strengthens the ties between children, parents/guardians, and teachers.

In Grade 6, there are three monolingual classes to allow our 5th Grade bilingual students to transition into a monolingual setting.

In Grades 7 and 8, there are two monolingual classes.

STUDENT DROP-OFF & PICK-UP

Please do not drop off students at the Upper or Lower School before 9:15 a.m. as teachers are not on duty until that time. The school cannot be responsible for students who have been dropped-off before this time. Please be certain that a staff member or other reliable adult is available before leaving your child in the schoolyard.

If your child is a walker they will be dismissed at 3:20 p.m. through the school parkinglot. Please pick up your child in this location.

Students being dropped off late or picked up early need to report to the Office. Please understand that escorting your child directly to or from their classroom is prohibited, as it may be disruptive to other students and teachers.

We ask that all parents/guardians respect the parking guidelines at both sites. Cones are positioned daily to indicate No Stopping Zones. Also, please be considerate of our Lyndon neighbors when choosing where to park. Your cooperation will allow for safe and easy access/passage of our school buses and, most importantly, our students.

TRANSPORTATION

SCHOOL BUS: According to BPS's Transportation policy, students qualify for transportation to and from school if they live more than one (1) mile from their kindergarten or elementary school or one-and-a-half (1.5) miles from their middle school. When you are informed about your child's school assignment, you will also be advised if your child is eligible for school sponsored transportation. If your child does qualify, you will receive a subsequent notice outlining your child's bus stop location, time of pick-up and drop-off, and bus number(s). Please note that bus service for eligible middle school students may be by school bus, MBTA service, or a combination of both. Free MBTA passes are given each month to eligible students.

IMPORTANT: Please note that bus drivers will drop off students, including kindergartners, at their bus stop even when a parent/guardian is not there.

If you have any questions regarding school bus transportation, you can contact the BPS's Transportation Department at 617-635-9520 (year round) or the BPS Transportation Hotline 617-635-9046 (mid-August through mid-September).

MBTA: 

For information to access the Lyndon via the MBTA bus routes and schedules serving your area, please call the MBTA at 617-222-3200.

MEETINGS/EVENTS TRANSPORTATION: If you need transportation to attend our evening meetings or other events, please notify your child's homeroom teacher or contact any PTA officer, who will be glad to assist in making arrangements for you.

STUDENT ATTENDANCE

Student attendance has been directly linked to their academic success. It is expected that parents/guardians ensure that their children attend school every day. We understand that children do get sick and emergencies do arise, however, barring these particular circumstances, students are expected to come to school. School begins each day at 9:20 a.m.. At this times, Lyndon students should be in their homeroom class ready to begin their academic day. If a student arrives to their homeroom after the designated start time, they will be marked tardy. Upon three unexcused tardies (for a definition of excused please see the Boston Public School (BPS) Policy Handbook), parent/guardian will be notified in writing by a member of the Management Team.

If your child is going to stay home from school on a particular day, please call the school between 9:00 and 9:30 a.m. and leave a message for your child's teacher. When your child returns to school after an absence, you must send a note to your child's teacher documenting the dates and reason for the absence. If you do not forward a note to your child's teacher, the absence will be recorded as unexcused. For information regarding excessive excused absences (more than three in one marking term), please refer to the BPS Policy Handbook.

If you need to remove your child from school prior to dismissal time on a given day, please sign the early release notebook located outside your child's school office.

It is imperative that your child comes to school on time and ready to learn. Excessive tardiness cannot be tolerated. Parents/guardians will be notified if tardiness appears to be an issue. If the problem persists, the attendance officer will be included in a parent/guardian conference.

If your child does arrive late to school, they should report to their school office and request a late pass, then proceed to their classroom and submit the pass to their teacher.

SCHOOL CANCELLATIONS AND DELAYED OPENINGS

On occasion, it may be necessary because of inclement weather or other emergency situations to either (1) cancel all classes for the day or (2) delay the opening of school. These decisions will be made only if the weather conditions are of a serious nature and create hazardous road conditions. Parents and guardians should listen to the major local radio or television stations for announcements beginning at 6:00 a.m. (Please do not call the Lyndon to determine whether or not there is school; the phone lines need to be clear to receive transportation and emergency reports.) If Boston Public Schools are not announced, there will be school as usual. If Boston has No A.M. Kindergarten, Lyndon full-day Kindergarten will still be in session. If Boston cancels all Kindergarten classes, Lyndon Kindergarten will be canceled. If school is in session and parents/guardians choose not to send their child, he/she will be marked absent unless there are confirmed transportation problems. Whatever the BPS decides (to close schools, to delay the opening or to open schools at the regular time), our judgment is never intended to supersede yours when it comes to the safety and well-being of your child.

If school is closed, the day will be made up at the end of the school year. If the school opening is delayed, the length of the delay will be announced. This means, for example, that if your child's school regularly opens at 9:15 a.m., it will open either one (1) or two (2) hours later on that day at either 10:15 a.m. or 11:15 a.m., respectively. Please do not bring or send your child to school before the delayed opening time. For delayed openings, dismissal will be at the regular time.

If your child is transported by school bus, the pick-up time on a delayed opening day will be either one (1) or two (2) hours later than usual. For example, a two (2) hour delayed opening for a 9:00 a.m. pick-up will result in an 11:00 a.m. pick-up time. Please remember that inclement weather causes traffic delays and, as a result, some pick-up and drop-off times may be further delayed.

If you transport your child to school, you must pick your child up at the regular dismissal time. Please remember that school dismissals will be at the regular time on days of delayed openings.

THE MANAGEMENT TEAM

The Lyndon Pilot School Management Team consists of two teachers:

Grades K1, K2, 1, 2, and 3: Sherry Brooks-Roberts
Grades 4, 5, 6, 7, and 8: Kate Johnson

The overall role of the Management Team is to ensure the full implementation of Lyndon Pilot School's policies and standards as well as to facilitate smooth functioning of the school. To accomplish this goal, certain responsibilities have been divided among the team:

Grades K1, K2, 1, 2, and 3: Sherry Brooks-Roberts

Grades 4, 5, 6, 7, and 8: Kate Johnson 

The Management Team is also responsible for representing the school at Cluster 8 monthly meetings, Superintendent's monthly meetings, and all supplemental administrative meetings.

 Back to Top

SCHOOL SITE COUNCIL (SSC)

The Lyndon Pilot School is governed by an elected School Site Council (SSC) which is made up of five teachers, five parents/guardians, and two community members. This Council works together on programs and planning to ensure the integrity of a School-Based Management/Shared Decision-Making policy.

The SSC is responsible for developing a comprehensive school plan, preparing the school's budget, monitoring the performance of the school community including general updates, budget reviews, communications, hiring/evaluations, PTA committees, and continuously evaluating the focus areas for the Council.

An open SSC meeting is held monthly where all parents/guardians are invited to attend and observe.

 Back to Top

PARENT TEACHER ASSOCIATION (PTA)

The Lyndon School is the only public school in the City of Boston with a PTA (Parent Teacher Association). In line with its parent organizations (the Massachusetts and National PTA), the Lyndon PTA's objective is to improve the lives of children and families via a threefold mission:

The Lyndon PTA presides over many events throughout the school year aimed at fulfilling this mission. These activities require not only the dedication and hard work of its members, but also funding. The PTA sponsors multiple fundraising events annually, which generate the income that makes it possible for great things happen at our school.

The Lyndon PTA is chaired by elected committee members including a President, Vice President, Treasurer and Secretary whose positions are filled via an annual election normally held at the end of the academic year at a special PTA meeting. Once the votes have been cast and counted (each Lyndon family is allowed to cast one vote for each position), the elected officials will hold their respective positions for the following academic school year of September through June. Typically, PTA meetings are held on the first Thursday of each month. PTA notices, including agendas for upcoming meetings, special events and fundraising activities are regularly sent home with the students.

You will find that family participation is welcomed and encouraged at the Lyndon. We hope that you will consider joining the Lyndon PTA.

 Back to Top

VOLUNTEERISM

WE NEED YOU! Whether you're a novice or accomplished volunteer/committee member, as a community of learners we value your enthusiasm, expertise, and participation.

Whether you're available time is early morning, during the school day or in the evening, there are worthwhile, fun and rewarding activities that can accommodate your schedule.

Express your interest to your child's teacher, a member of the Management Team, PTA officer or School Site Council member. Volunteers are needed for both on-going and short-term committees and events. A sample of some of the opportunities include:

 Back to Top

SCHOOL DIRECTORY

The Lyndon PTA provides all parents/guardians with a School Directory applicable to the current academic year. Each year, students will receive a form to be completed by the parents/guardians for voluntary inclusion in the Directory. This convenient Directory is comprised of valuable and informative details such as:

Please remember that this Directory is confidential and should be used discreetly and exclusively by parents/guardians for Lyndon School activities.

 Back to Top

COMMUNICATIONS COMMITTEE

The Communications Committee is a branch of the School Site Council. This committee provides meaningful devices for keeping the Lyndon community informed about Lyndon School policies and activities. Examples of communication methods include but are not limited to:

The following outlines the procedure for school-wide distribution of handouts/notices to be sent home via student backpacks:

Please type your handout/notice.

Submit your notice to Mrs. Brooks-Roberts for editing/approval/translation into Spanish. Please also submit the following information with your notice:
Your Name
Your Telephone Number
Date Submitted
Date Spanish Translation is Required

Mrs. Brooks-Roberts will delegate translation to a bilingual teacher, parent, etc. and will be responsible for the handout distribution deadline.

Mrs. Brooks-Roberts will be responsible for proofreading and final approval of the English and Spanish versions of all notices. The person who initiated the notice is responsible for the typing of the Spanish translation.

If the Spanish translation has not been completed within 24-hours, the handout, with Mrs. Brooks-Roberts pre-approval, may be copied and distributed in English only. The Spanish version must follow ASAP.

Make sufficient copies for school-wide distribution. The number of students per classroom is available in the main office of both school sites.

Place the appropriate number of copies into piles for distribution into each classroom.

Place the corresponding pile of copies into each teacher's mailbox before 11:00 a.m. for distribution that day.

Give one extra copy to the secretary at each school site to be filed in a handout folder.

Every teacher is responsible for ensuring that handouts are distributed to each student THAT DAY. If handouts are placed in the mailboxes after 11:00 a.m., teachers are responsible for ensuring that handouts are distributed to students on the following school day.

Students are ultimately responsible for placing handouts into their backpacks every day and informing parents/guardians that there is a notice for them to review.

Parents/guardians are responsible for reading notices on a daily basis.

It is important to remember to deliver notices to both school sites.

Back to Top

MARKING PERIODS

The Lyndon Pilot School operates with three marking periods for grades K-5 and four marking periods for grades 6-8. In the middle of each marking period, students in danger of failing will be sent home with a warning notice for their parents/guardians. Generally, students bring their report cards home for their parents/guardians to review and sign and return to their teacher. At their own discretion, teachers may elect to present report cards at parent/teacher conferences. If this is the case, you will be advised by your child's teacher that you need to set up a time to meet.

 Back to Top

Stanford 9: Beginning in Grade 2, students are required to take The Stanford Achievement Test Series, Ninth Edition (Stanford 9) achievement test in reading and mathematics. Stanford 9 is a standardized series of tests designed to measure and assess the student's and school's educational achievements. Stanford 9 tests are one of the most highly regarded achievement tests and are used by school districts all over the country. A mixture of multiple-choice items which 1) are patterned upon classroom or real-life situations; 2) often invoke actual performance from students; 3) measure strategies or processes; and 4) integrate process with knowledge coupled with supplementary open-ended sub-tests, help us gain a clearer picture of both the magnitude and depth of our students educational accomplishments. Stanford 9 follows prevalent educational rationale and incorporates the developmental nature of learning.

MCAS: The Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System (MCAS) is a required test in every Massachusetts public school district to serve as one basis of accountability for students, schools, and districts. All public school students in grades being tested are required to participate. Beginning in 2001, the test will be administered annually to students in Grades 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, and 10. Beginning with the graduating class of 2003, students must pass the MCAS test as one condition of eligibility for earning a high school diploma. Testing elements of MCAS include English Language Arts, Mathematics, Science and Technology, History and Social Science. The questions include multiple-choice (choosing one of four options); short answer questions used in mathematics test only requiring students to generate a brief response; open response questions which are used in all content area tests; and writing prompts which are used in English Language Arts test only.

 Back to Top

HOMEWORK

From the onset of kindergarten, our students are required to perform homework assignments every school day. At the Lyndon, we are committed to the conviction that when students dedicate time to their homework assignments, they increase the likelihood of maturing academically.

Teachers are responsible for assigning students homework. Our teachers assign homework that reinforces key topics that students have been educated in during school hours. These areas would include the major subjects in line with students grade levels and expectations of the teacher.

Homework assignments are an extension of the classroom and allow students to better comprehend and retain their classroom learning, exercise their minds, and oftentimes creatively expand upon the subjects they are learning. At a minimum average, students and parents/guardians can expect homework assignments daily as follows:

Kindergarten: 30-60 minutes per day

Elementary Grades 1-3: 30-60 minutes per day

Elementary Grades 4-5: 30-60 minutes per day

Middle School Grades 6-8: 2 hours per day

 Back to Top

Introduction: In order to realize the Lyndon Pilot School's vision, mission, and goals, we work hard to create a safe, caring, and productive environment for all students. To this end, we have adopted a discipline policy that is influenced by the Northeast Foundation for Children's Responsive Classroom approach and aligned with the BPS's Code of Discipline. Each teacher has their own personal style of classroom management, but all teachers work towards encouraging self-control and self-discipline in their students. We teach our children the social skills they need to be strong and caring members of the community.

School rules and their enforcement are based on two fundamental ideas. First, it is an important part of the Lyndon educational mission and core values to instill ethical standards of behavior. Second, some individual preferences must be curtailed for the general welfare of the school community. A violation of any major school rule is viewed with the utmost seriousness. Violation of a major school rule may result in disciplinary probation, suspension, or dismissal from school. Other behavior, not specifically mentioned below, which is clearly contrary to the school's values, may be considered cause for disciplinary action as well.

Behavioral Expectations: In order to preserve a safe and respectful environment that is conducive to learning, we expect that all students will meet the following expectations:

Code of Discipline: According to the BPS's Code of Discipline, the Lyndon Pilot School may respond to any offenses committed in the following places:

For a first offense, a student will receive an in-school suspension, which requires that a student be placed in a setting that is substantially separate from his/her class for the entire day. S/he will be given academic work to be completed during the day. Parent/guardian will receive written notice from a member of the Lyndon Management Team. This notice will need to be signed and returned to the child's homeroom teacher.

For a second offense, a student will receive home suspension. The length of a suspension will be determined by the discipline code depending upon the severity of the offense.

No Toys in School Policy: There will be no electronic or non-electronic toys allowed in school or on school buses. No personal stereos, handheld electronic games, action figures, stuffed animals, make-up kits, trading cards (e.g. Pokemon), etc. will be permitted at any time, not even at recess. These items will be confiscated by teachers and only returned directly to parents/guardians. Those children who bring toys to be used at their after school programs should leave them in their bags at all times. If they are taken out of their bags, they will be taken away as well. There will be no trading or selling of toys or other items in school. The purpose of this policy is to reduce conflicts, lost and missing toys, etc.

Discipline Policy (Grades K2, 1, 2, and 3)

The following are steps to self-control used at the Lower School:

A student is given a single brief reminder if s/he is behaving inappropriately in the classroom.

If a student continues the inappropriate behavior, s/he spends a few minutes in thinking time or time-out to regain control. (Some teachers call these 2 steps a yellow warning.) The student returns to the group when s/he has regained control.

If the student continues the inappropriate behavior in time-out, the student will spend time in another classroom. Each teacher has a buddy teacher who has agreed to allow children to sit in their room for a period to regain control. (Some teachers refer to this step as a red warning.)

Should the student disrupt the buddy teacher's classroom or continue to behave inappropriately upon return to their own classroom, s/he will spend the rest of the period (or longer if the student is unable to regain control) in the office with Mrs. Brooks-Roberts or in Mrs. Roach's classroom. Parents/guardians will be notified if a student requires this step.

In extreme situations, where a student may be physically out of control, and health or safety is jeopardized, the student will be removed from the situation and staff may request the assistance of local police or safety services. Every attempt will be made to contact a parent or guardian to retrieve the student prior to seeking outside assistance. Physical restraint is used only in instances where the physical well being of a child or adult is threatened.

The above procedure is utilized for out-of-control behavior in order that children regain their self-control in the shortest time possible. Other logical consequences such as loss of privilege or making amends may be suitable for other misbehavior. Teachers work with students to improve social skills and behavior through the means that are most appropriate and respectful of students needs.

For some children, it may be necessary to develop a behavior management plan with the knowledge and help of parents/guardians, teachers, specialists, and administrators.

Discipline Policy (Grades 4, 5, 6, 7 and 8)

There are occasions when classroom learning is disrupted or a student acts inappropriately or disrespectfully at school. In these situations, teachers in the Upper School implement logical consequences that are relevant to the inappropriate behavior. Below are some examples of behavior that would require a teacher to take action. Possible consequences are listed as well.

Infraction: Inappropriate language.

Possible Consequence: Write ten things that you could have said instead of the inappropriate words. (Note: profanity falls under the BPS's Code of Discipline and may result in suspension.)

Infraction: Disruption of a class.

Possible Consequence: Do work that was missed during disruption and meet individually with a teacher to discuss how others may have been affected by the disruption.

Infraction: Blatant disrespect toward a member of the Lyndon Community.

Possible Consequence: Write an apology letter and point out some positive qualities of the person who was disrespected.

 Infraction: Damage to another persons property.

Possible Consequence: Replace or repair the item damaged.

Infraction: Missing homework.

Possible Consequence: Write a letter to parent/guardian outlining a plan for getting work done in the future.

In order to complete the above consequences, a student needs some quiet reflection time. This sometimes comes in the form of a time-out in another classroom. In the fourth and fifth grades, recess time is also used for student reflection. In the sixth and seventh grades, students are often required to stay for a working lunch in the classroom.

In most cases, parents/guardians are notified of their child's reflections through a letter written by the child. There are times, however, when a teacher will opt to call a parent/guardian to discuss an issue further or to request that a parent/guardian come into school for a three-way meeting between the teacher, child and parent/guardian.

Repeat or severe situations may require involvement of a member of the Management Team and implementation of the BPS Code of Discipline which is outlined in detail in the BPS Policy Handbook.

 Back to Top

DRESS CODE/VOLUNTARY UNIFORM

As a community of learners, we recognize that our common goal is to encourage the development of both academic and social competencies. While we encourage flights of artistic fancy and individual expression of thought and deed, those expressions occur within the confines of an academic community where a balance must be struck between freedom of expression and freedom from distraction and the need to be safe.

Our dress code is intended to strike that balance. We want our children to be noticed for their efforts, for their ideas, for their expression, for their merit, not for what they wear.

The Lyndon Pilot School has a voluntary school uniform as well as a strictly enforced dress code as outlined below.

Voluntary Uniform: The Lyndon voluntary uniform represents the school colors: maroon, tan (khaki) and white. The uniform will enhance school pride and allow students to focus on their studies, not what they are wearing. A child would be considered wearing the school uniform if they were wearing:

On the Top: White or maroon collared shirt or blouse, long or short sleeve, including dress, button down, knit polo shirts but excluding T-shirts, sweatshirts or other sports apparel. Attractive combinations of white and maroon, for example, white collared shirt with maroon v-neck sweater, would also be considered uniform.

On the Bottom: Tan (khaki) trousers, pants, skirts, jumpers or walking shorts (see details of length for shorts and skirts below).

Clothing: Please encourage your child to take pride in their appearance. Children should come to school clean and neat and display an appearance that reflects positively on the school. No torn, ripped or frayed clothing is allowed. Students are prohibited from wearing T-shirts with any type of offensive words and/or pictures. Generally, a T-shirt that you can predict will become the topic of conversation is not a good idea. Low cut and cropped T-shirts, short skirts, short-shorts, micro-minis and cut-offs are not permitted. At their shortest, shorts and skirts should not fall more than 2 inches above the knee. No undergarment clothing should be visible. Hats are not to be worn indoors.

Footwear: Footwear represents the most significant of our dress code safety issues. Sensible dress or casual shoes or sneakers are the most appropriate. Our floors and steps are either stone or wood, but in either case, highly polished. Hard plastic or leather soled shoes which slide on the surfaces should be avoided. Similarly, shoes with elevated heels present a constant tripping opportunity and should not be worn. Flip-flops or sandals without a heel strap are very dangerous as well and should not be worn to school.

Physical Education Class: On days when children have Physical Education, they should come dressed in sneakers with non-marking flat soles and comfortable loose-fitting clothing.

 Back to Top

School Nurse: The school nurse is at the Lyndon Pilot School on a full-time basis and travels between the Upper and Lower Schools. When not present at a particular Lyndon School location, the nurse can be reached directly by the Management Team via page. Rest assured, basic first aid is always available and can be provided by the Management Team in the absence of the school nurse.

Health Records: The BPS requires every school to maintain an up-to-date immunization record on each student. All students entering the Lyndon Pilot School for the first time, either as a kindergartner or in a later grade, must submit these records to the school. The school nurse will maintain these records.

The BPS also requires two copies of a short form, which will be sent home with every student of the Lyndon Pilot School at the beginning of the academic year. Both forms must be filled out and returned to the school. The forms will ask for emergency contacts in case a parent/guardian must be reached during the school day, as well as some questions about the general health of the student, for example allergies, glasses, or hearing problems. These records will be maintained by the school nurse but are accessible to the Management Team when the nurse is not at the school. Both the emergency contact forms and the immunization records are a mandatory requirement of the BPS. If these forms are not returned to the school by the specified date, the student will not be allowed to attend school until the forms have been submitted.

Medication: Students are not allowed to take any medication without the knowledge and supervision of the school nurse or Management Team. This includes both prescription drugs and over-the-counter remedies. Any medication a student may need should be brought to the nurse or Management Team with approval and written instructions on its administration from the child's physician. Medicine must be in its original container and clearly labeled. It will be kept in a locked cabinet in the nurse's office.

Illness and Injuries at School: When the school nurse is present, she is responsible for handling all injuries and illnesses, administering first aid, and if necessary, notifying a parent/guardian to pick up a child. When the nurse is not present, the Management Team is responsible for minor first aid. The nurse is available by phone if her consultation is required.

In an emergency that requires immediate treatment beyond first aid, 911 will be called. The parent/guardian will also be called immediately. Again, it is very important that your child's health form be up-to-date so that you may be contacted as quickly as possible should an emergency arise, and so that staff are aware of any medical issues, such as allergies or medications, that may impact emergency treatment.

Absence Due to Illness: When a child is absent due to illness, please call the appropriate school office between 9:00 and 9:30 a.m. so that your child's teacher can be notified. When the child returns to school, please send a note to your child's teacher documenting the dates and reason for the absence.

If the illness is contagious, such as strep throat, chicken pox, conjunctivitis or head lice, please let the school know so that staff can be aware of a potential problem or outbreak.

For some common ailments, the following are guidelines which may be helpful:

Strep Throat: If feeling comfortable, the child may return to school 24 hours after the first antibiotic dose.

Conjunctivitis: The child may return to school 24 hours after the first antibiotic dose.

Head Lice: The child may return to school after inspection by the school nurse verifies that the lice has been treated and resolved.

Chicken Pox: The child may return to school when all the pox have crusted over.

Chronic Medical Conditions: It is important to advise the school of any medical problems your child has so that the school can be prepared for an emergency. In particular, any severe allergies or respiratory problems that may require emergency medication or treatment should be brought to the attention of the school nurse.

 Back to Top

LUNCH

The students lunch period is twenty minutes long. Children may bring their own lunch from home or participate in the School Lunch Program. Children may bring their own non-carbonated drink, in a non-glass container, or may purchase milk at the cost dictated by the school at the beginning of the academic year.

Children who participate in the School Lunch Program may purchase their lunch at the cost dictated by the school at the beginning of the academic year. Some students may be eligible for free or reduced-price meals. Applications for the lunch program will be sent home with the children in September. Even if you do not think you are eligible, please complete and return the application for school records. If you have any questions, please call the appropriate Lower or Upper School office.

Back to Top

RECESS

After lunch, students will have a 20 minute recess session, which will be outdoors, weather permitting. Recess will be supervised by the lunch monitors. Parents and guardians are asked to please dress their children appropriately for the weather.

 Back to Top

PHYSICAL EDUCATION CLASS

All Lyndon Pilot School students will have at least 45 minutes of Physical Education class each week. Through the instruction of the Physical Education and Health teacher, students will receive an education that will contribute to their physical and emotional well being while at the same time furthering their development of positive social skills. To attain these goals, students will take part in a Physical Education program consisting of traditional sports such as basketball and volleyball and non-traditional activities such as orienteering and team building.

Please send your child to school properly dressed on the day they are scheduled to take part in Physical Education class (i.e., sneakers and clothes suitable for physical activity are required). Children not appropriately dressed will not be allowed to participate and will receive a grade of no credit for the day.

If there is any reason that your child cannot participate in Physical Education on a particular week, please send a note to your child's teacher. If there is a medical reason that your child cannot participate in Physical Education class on an ongoing basis, please provide a note from your child's physician.

 Back to Top

VISITORS TO THE SCHOOL

We welcome parents and guardians to our school.

When visiting the School for a scheduled activity, meeting, or event, please use the doorbell at the front door for entry into the building. All visitors are required to sign in and report to the school's office upon arrival.

During the academic day, we respectfully request that parents and guardians refrain from impromptu visits to the school. If you have a specific problem or issue regarding your child that you would like to discuss with his or her teacher, parents/guardians are encouraged to call, e-mail, or send a note directly to your child's teacher to schedule a convenient time to meet.

 Back to Top

BEFORE & AFTER SCHOOL CHILD CARE

Several options are available to parents/guardians who require before or after school child care programs. Please contact your appropriate school office to enquire about the programs available to Lyndon Pilot School students.

 Back to Top

COMPLAINTS, CONCERNS AND COMPLIMENTS

Parents/guardians are requested to discuss complaints first with the teacher involved. If further discussion is warranted, parent/guardian, teacher, and the Site Facilitator can meet to resolve the problem.

Other avenues available to parents/guardians with complaints or concerns include: an officer of the PTA, a School Site Council member, or a Coordinating Teacher. Please communicate so that we can improve individual and school-wide situations/issues as quickly as possible.

At the end of each school day, compliments are announced, making note of perfect attendance, special accomplishments, and other highlights. If you have a compliment to share, let the Site Facilitator know about it!