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Springdale Park Elementary School logo
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Parent/Student Handbook 2009-2010
1246 Ponce de Leon Avenue, Atlanta, Georgia 30306www.springdaleparkelementary.org
School Phone (404) 802-6050 School Fax (404) 377-3179
Publication Date: August 7, 2009(This document will be updated throughout the school year as more information becomes available.
Get the most up to date version on the school’s website: www.springdaleparkelementary.org).
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Table of Contents A Note from Our Principal! 4
Welcome to Springdale Park! 5
Vision 5
Mission 5
Core Beliefs 5
What Does It Mean To Be Green? 6
What is LEED®? 6
A Note From Our PTO President! 7
Springdale Park Parent/Teacher Organization! 8
PTO Structure 8
Membership: Join Your Parent/Teacher Organization Today! 10
Fundraising 10
Springdale Park PTO Calendar 10
Springdale Park Policies & Procedures ! 12
Communication 12
Directory of Springdale Park Elementary School Families 12
Communication: Between Atlanta Public Schools and Parents 12
Communication: Between Parents and Teachers 14
Communication: Resources and Tools 14
Attendance and Related Expectations 14
School Day 15
Arrival to Campus 15
Late Arrivals 16
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Springdale Park Parent/Student Handbook 1 of 36 Revision Date: 8/6/2009
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Student Absence Procedures 16
Make-up Work 17
Partial Day Attendance 17
Inclement Weather, Emergency School Closings and Delayed Openings 18
School Dismissal 18
Early Dismissal 18
After-School Program 19
Withdrawal/Transfer of Student 19
Instruction 19
Curriculum Resources 19
Textbooks 20
Media Center 20
Homework 20
Homework Hotline 20
Field Trips 21
Special Programs 22
Gifted and Talented: The Challenge Program 22
Program for Exceptional Children 22
Grades & Records 23
Grading 23
Report Cards 23
Standardized Testing 23
Student Expectations 24
Student Behavior Expectations 24
Academic Honor Code 25
Dress Code 25
Items Not Allowed In School 26
Fighting 26
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Harassment, Intimidation and Bullying 26
Affirmative Action 27
When Parents Have a Concern 27
Medical Policy 27
Medication 27
Immunizations 28
School Nurse 28
Meals 29
Federal Eligibility Application (FEA) Free and Reduced Meal Program 29
Cost of Meals 29
Paying for Meals 30
Snacks 30
Birthday Parties 30
Calendar 31
Atlanta Public Schools: 2009-2010 Traditional Calendar 31
Floor Maps 32
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A Note from Our PrincipalAugust 6, 2009!
Dear Parents and Students,
Welcome to the inaugural year at Springdale Park Elementary School! The opening of our new and
innovative school brings excitement for our students, staff, parents and community. Since the
inception of plans for our new school, we have been working as a collaborative community to
ensure the success of every student at Springdale Park. We look forward to having you be an
integral part of the school by bringing all of your energy and talents toward helping us achieve our
goals.
At Springdale Park, we believe a strong home and school partnership, ongoing communication, a
rigorous and creative curriculum and an outstanding faculty and staff, will help our students
achieve at the highest levels in a safe, challenging and nurturing environment. As we begin our
journey toward excellence, please know we value you as partners in your child’s educational
experience and look forward to a great school year.
This Parent/Student handbook has been prepared so you will be familiar with the school’s
organization, policies, and procedures. Please keep this handbook for easy reference throughout
the school year. As the school year progresses, updates to the handbook may be published and
distributed to all parents. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact the Springdale Park
Administrative Office at (404) 802-6050.
Sincerely,
Yolonda C. Brown
Principal
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Welcome to Springdale ParkOur teachers, school leaders, parents and community partners are already making a difference in
the lives of our students. Springdale Park Elementary School (SPARK) is set to be an exceptional
place. From day one, we have energy from our high quality staff (principal, teachers &
administration), the commitment of involved parents, and the benefits of a ‘green’ facility.
Vision
To be a high-performing community of learners where teaching and learning is connected to the
global world and every child is nurtured and challenged to reach their highest potential.
Mission
We are cultivating a community of innovative thinkers with a commitment to personal and social
responsibility where a love for learning is inspired by passionate student-focused teaching, based
on the highest standards for academic excellence and creativity.
Core Beliefs
• All children can learn and must be provided with high-quality instruction that is differentiated to meet their individual needs. Students’ educational experiences are enhanced when the community and school collaborate.
• Students will become global citizens when provided with experiences that foster an awareness and understanding of diversity and social responsibility.
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SPARK flames light the way to:
• Be Responsible
• Be Respectful
• Be a Good Citizen•Be Green
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• Students will become more successful learners when teachers work collaboratively to inspire them by implementing innovative teaching methods to make learning fun.
• Students will become “environmental leaders” when they engage in eco-friendly practices that protect and sustain the environment for themselves and future generations.
• Learning is a lifelong process.
What Does It Mean To Be Green?
Green school: a school building or facility that creates a healthy environment that is conducive to
learning while saving energy, resources and money.
The proven benefits of green schools include:
• A healthy, productive learning environment• Improved teacher retention• Financial savings• Hands-on learning• Environmentally friendly
Besides being “green,” Atlanta Public Schools (APS) is proud to boast Springdale Park as its first
LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) school in all of APS. The Springdale
Park community will be applying for LEED Silver Certification.
What is LEED®?
The Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Green Building Rating System™
encourages and accelerates global adoption of sustainable green building and development
practices through the creation and implementation of universally understood and accepted tools
and performance criteria. Learn more: http://www.usgbc.org/DisplayPage.aspx?
CMSPageID=1988.
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A Note From Our PTO PresidentAugust 6, 2009!
Dear Parents,
Our children are at Springdale Park Elementary School! Getting to this point has been a team
effort between Principal Brown, the Parent/Teacher Organization, Atlanta Public Schools and our
many community partners. Together we:
•Convened community stakeholders to develop transportation and safety policies and
procedures
•Met our initial fundraising goal
•Provided input and guidance on Springdale Park’s technology footprint
•Launched our website
•Secured an onsite aftercare provider and more!
THANK YOU ALL!
As the 2009-2010 school year starts, we now begin another chapter in our history. Our future
includes getting to know our wonderful teachers and staff, starting clubs and activities, finding new
opportunities to make our school and grounds a welcoming environment for our children,
developing SPARK traditions, and more. The team effort continues and needs you. I encourage all
of you to join the PTO and discover a fulfilling volunteer opportunity that will benefit our children
and strengthen our community.
Go SPARK!
Clare Richie
SPARK PTO President
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Springdale ParkParent/Teacher OrganizationPTO Structure
The Springdale Park Elementary School Parent/Teacher Organization exists to support the
principal, administration and school while helping to create an enriching experience for students
through a variety of programs and activities. The PTO consists of an elected volunteer board of
directors, volunteer committee heads and committee members. The positions and roles for the
2009-2010 school-year are as follows:
Board of Directors
•Officers•Officers
•President
•Vice President
•Treasurer
•Secretary
•At-Large Directors •At-Large Directors
•Four at-large directors also serve as liaisons to the PTO Committees
•School Representatives•School Representatives
•Principal
•Teacher Representative
The PTO Executive Committee includes the Officers and School Representatives.
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Committees
Campus (Programs & Operations)
Communications Enrichment Fundraising
Transportation & Safety Communications Clubs – Parent Run Book Fair
Bus Route Newsletter/Memo Chess Club Grants
Carpool Website Girls on the Run Community/Business
Partnerships
Pedestrian Yearbook Math Club Dine Outs
Cycling Bulletin Boards Earth Friends Club Incentive Programs –
Publix, Kroger, etc.
School Zone Calendar Yoga Box Tops
Technology Directory Triathlon Club Spirit Gear
Grounds/Playground First Day Packet Girl Scouts Special Events
Media Center Public Relations Boy Scouts Mother Earth
Health & Wellness Room Parent Coordinator Jump Rope Club Original Artworks
Nutrition and Physical Activity Debate Club May Day Festival
Green Team Cooking Club Other Events (TBD)
Garden Robotics Club Membership
Farm to School Roots and Shoots
Teacher/Staff Appreciation Ultimate Club
Hospitality/Food/Catering Golf Club
Volunteer Coordinator Ball Sports
Welcome Desk Enrichment
Special Needs Book Swap
Church/Neighborhood
Liaison
Cultural Arts
Family Science Night
Book Club/Visiting
Authors/Summer Reading
Productions/Talent Show
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Membership: Join Your Parent/Teacher Organization Today!
Springdale Park Elementary School has tremendous potential because of our involved and
supportive parents, teachers, and administration. As Springdale Park opens its doors for the
inaugural year the PTO is working hard to provide support for academics and enrichment through
extracurricular activities. Your involvement and support is critical to this success for our children
and our school.
By joining the Springdale Park PTO for $5 you are joining a community of parents, teachers and
administrators dedicated to providing the best education possible for our children. Please
complete a membership form today: http://www.springdaleparkelementary.org/.
Fundraising
Fundraising at Springdale Park has been in full swing since the spring of 2009. Our parents,
teachers and community came together to raise money before school began and we are proud to
have reached the initial goals we set for ourselves. As we move through the school year, we will be
working diligently to establish community partnerships and money-back initiatives to benefit our
school. We will also have several fundraising events including those for the whole family, and those
for adults only, as well as traditional sales drives that generate money for the school.
With your generous support, the Springdale Park Elementary School PTO will invest in:
• Programmatic needs (e.g., teacher classroom materials, Renzulli labs)
• Transportation and safety needs
• High quality parent-directed enrichment activities and clubs
• Other special opportunities that arise during the 2009-2010 school year
Please be on the lookout for fundraising information we will send home from school with your
student(s) soon. Of course, you, our parents are our greatest resource – if you would like to help
with fundraising at Springdale Park please contact any PTO Board member.
Springdale Park PTO Calendar
The Springdale Park Parent/Teacher Organization will have regular general and board meetings
that members are encouraged to attend. The best place to retrieve a calendar of planned activities is
by visiting the website at: www.springdaleparkelementary.org.
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(This page was left blank intentionally.)
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Springdale Park Policies & ProceduresCOMMUNICATION
Directory of Springdale Park Elementary School Families
A directory of family phone numbers, addresses and e-mail addresses is compiled after the start of
the school year. It is created from the list of registered families. You may also chose to ‘Opt-Out’ of
the directory by completing the related form. The directory will be distributed in your child’s
backpack when published in the fall.
Communication: Between Atlanta Public Schools and Parents
Atlanta Public Schools wants parents to have easy access to information about the district. Our
websites, publications and social networking tools provide student success stories, teacher profiles
and updates on how APS is making a difference in the lives of each student. Stay connected by
bookmarking the district website and school sites, then look for the latest issue of The Atlanta
Educator and Family Matters. Information is just a click away.
Here are a few ways to stay connected:
APS Website: http://www.atlantapublicschools.us/
The district's redesigned website makes it even easier for you to find out what is going on
in the schools. The site includes:
• School events and photo galleries
• The latest news
• A video channel
• Athletic schedules
• Meal pay options
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• Digital copies of APS publications
• Bus route locations
• Employment information
• Board of Education news
The Atlanta Educator
This publication highlights students, teachers, administrators and parents who are part of
the APS journey to excellence. Elementary students receive copies at school. PDF versions
of the paper also are available in English and Spanish on the district website.
Talk Up APS
TALK UP APS - The district's bimonthly digital newsletter highlights news about Atlanta
Public Schools. You can also find this under the "Keeping You Informed" section on the
district website's homepage.
Family Matters
This quarterly, four-page publication offers study tips, reading lists and other useful
information to keeps students engaged and focused on succeeding in the classroom.
Community Fireside Chats
Get district updates and submit questions about your child’s school during Fireside Chats
hosted by APS Superintendent Dr. Beverly L. Hall. The community forums occur
throughout the year.
Social Networking
Facebook - Become a friend of Atlanta Public Schools. Visit www.facebook.com to create
your own account, and stay connected with the APS community.
Twitter - Get the latest APS news and tips by following us on Twitter. Visit
www.twitter.com, create your own account, then search for “APSupdate” and click
“Follow.”
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Television & Radio
APS Cable Channel 22 broadcasts educational and informational programs daily, around
the clock. During school hours, the programs specifically target pre-K to 12th grade
students and educators. After school, the programs target parents and other members of
the general public.
90.1 FM WABE, Georgia’s first Public Radio Station, is funded by The Atlanta Board of
Education and the Fulton County Board of Education. The Atlanta Board of Education
(ABE) holds the license for the station, hence the station’s call letters - WABE. As
Atlanta's National Public Radio (NPR) affiliate, it offers 24-hours of news, music and
community-affairs. Weekday programming includes NPR's “Morning Edition”, “All
Things Considered”, “Youth Radio,” “Boombox Classroom” and “Focus on Education.”
Communication: Between Parents and Teachers
We encourage parents to ask for a conference whenever needed. Conference requests by parents
or teachers may be made by note or by telephone. To minimize disruption of the instructional day,
we ask that you arrange conferences for after school or set a specific time before school.
Communication: Resources and Tools
- Transportation & Safety Policies and Procedures Manual - This manual provides a
comprehensive view of the transportation program for Springdale Park Elementary School. It
includes information about the bus schedules, carpool, walking paths, bicycle riding, parking,
safety, and expected conduct. Operating a successful transportation management program may
only be achieved through combined efforts of the school, bus company, students, and parents.
- School Website - The Springdale Park School website is: www.springdaleparkelementary.org.
The website seeks to promote the mission of Atlanta Public Schools while serving as an
interactive resource and communications tool, a source of current information about the school
for parents, students, and staff, and an outreach medium to the Community and beyond.
ATTENDANCE AND RELATED EXPECTATIONSAttendance is an APS policy. Students are expected to be present at school and arrive and depart
on time according to the provisions of the Georgia Compulsory Attendance Law. Students who are
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absent or tardy miss valuable instruction time and other important school activities. Chronic
tardiness and absence from school result in a student being less likely to master skills, concepts,
and principles needed to achieve on his or her respective grade level. Also, absenteeism and
tardiness are disruptive to the “teaching-learning” process. After five (5) absences or tardies,
parents will be contacted by school officials to provide assistance with resolving student
absenteeism or tardiness.
School Day
The instructional school day begins at 8:00 AM and ends at 3:00 PM.
We work to make each school day full of learning. We need your help in promoting a learning
environment free of distractions. Please observe the following procedures to minimize classroom
interruptions:
• Students should be in their classrooms by 7:50 AM so that instruction can begin promptly
at 8:00 AM
• If a child forgets his or her lunch, the teacher will provide them with lunch money to buy a
cafeteria lunch. The teacher should be reimbursed for this money the next day.
• Parents or other persons who wish to visit classrooms or volunteer should arrange with the
classroom teacher or principal before the visit.
• Parents and other persons who visit the building during school hours must sign in at the
Rutland House/Administrative Building and secure a visitor’s pass. When visiting the
building please refrain from disrupting classroom instructional time.
One way to allow your child to develop responsibility and independence is to NOT accompany
your child to the classroom door.
Arrival to Campus
School begins at 8:00 AM. Students may arrive as early as 7:35 AM depending on their mode of
transportation (See Transportation & Safety Policies and Procedures Manual). Students who enter
the building before 7:45 AM should report to the school cafeteria located on the first floor of
Olmsted Hall/Main Building. Students arriving between 7:45 AM - 8:00 AM will report directly to
their classroom. At 8:00 AM, the announcements will request that parents, guardians and friends
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exit the school building so the school day can begin. Students should not wait in hallways,
stairwells or entrances.
Late Arrivals
APS requires students who arrive after 8:00 AM to be escorted into the building to receive a tardy
slip. From 8:00AM - 8: 15AM, a Springdale Park staff member will be located at the front entrance
of the Olmsted Hall/Main Building to issue tardy slips. After receiving the tardy slip, students can
then walk to class on their own. If students arrive after 8:15 AM, their parent or guardian must
escort them into the Rutland House/Administrative Building to check in and receive a tardy slip
from the school secretary. After receiving a tardy slip, parents will need to escort students into the
Olmsted Hall/Main Building. Once safely inside the building, students may walk to class on their
own.
Student Absence Procedures
If students are absent from school, they must bring a written note signed by the legal parent or
guardian explaining the absence. Please e-mail the student’s teacher or call the school office
morning of the absence. Upon return to school, the student should deliver the note to his or her
teacher. Failure to submit such notes within three (3) days after returning to school will result in an
unexcused absence being recorded.
Parents/Guardians are asked to call the school office immediately when extended unanticipated
absences are to occur.
Excused Absences• Illness when attendance would endanger the health of the student or the health of
others.
• Quarantine
• Death in immediate family
• Medical/Dental Appointments
• Court Proceedings
• Religious Proceedings and or holidays observed by the faith of the student
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Unexcused Absences
Unexcused absences are defined as the students’ willful absences from school without the
knowledge of parents or guardians, or the students’ absences from the school without
justifiable causes with the knowledge of parents or guardians.
Unexcused Tardy
An unlawful tardy is defined as arrival at school at any time after the official start-time of the
school day for that school site.
Excused Tardy
An excused tardy is defined as a tardy that occurs as a result of extenuating circumstances
such as inclement weather, documented transportation delays, health related emergencies,
etc.
Homebound Placements
Homebound placements are based on medical recommendations. Students are credited as
being in attendance when pre-approved by the Student Support Team and other
appropriate officials of the Atlanta Public Schools.
Make-up Work
Students are responsible for completing all work missed when absent from school. Immediately
upon returning to school, the student or parent must arrange with the classroom teacher to secure
the student make up work. Students must complete all work missed in a timeframe that is equal to
the number of days absent from school. Make up work may include, but is not limited to
assignments, tasks, tests, and projects. Some in class work is impossible to make up. To ensure
that daily instruction is not interrupted, we respectfully ask that make up work be obtained at the
end of the school day.
Partial Day Attendance
To be counted present, students must attend the required number of hours each day. Therefore,
students who are tardy or leave before the end of the day must be present for at least one half of the
instructional day, excluding lunch to be counted for the instructional day.
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Inclement Weather, Emergency School Closings and Delayed Openings
While very infrequent, there may be times when our schools may have to close to protect our
students and be reopened as emergency shelters for the community. The Superintendent, in
consultation with her staff, makes decisions regarding the closing of public schools. Atlanta Public
Schools works closely with our local television and radio media outlets to inform the public when
school closings occur.
The following media outlets will provide up-to-date information to the public if there is a school
closing or if the student day must be shortened due to emergency conditions: WSB radio and local
television WSB (ABC), WGCL (CBS), WAGA (FOX), WXIA (NBC) are the official stations for
APS announcements of school closure. Should schools close during the day when students are
already in attendance, information will be provided through our local media outlets to parents, and
bus transportation will be provided in the same manner as during the regular close of the school
day.
Sign up to follow APS on Twitter for emergency announcements and other breaking information.
Create an account at www.twitter.com, search for “APSupdate” and click on "Follow." Also visit
the district Website at www.atlantapublicschools.us for updated information.
School Dismissal
All students are dismissed at 3:00 PM. The only students allowed to remain on the school campus
after dismissal are those who are participating in after-school programs, school sponsored clubs
and activities, tutorial sessions or other activities under the prearranged direct supervision of a
teacher. See the Springdale Park Transportation & Safety Policies and Procedures Manual for
additional school dismissal information.
Early Dismissal
To ensure the safety of all students, APS requires that all students who receive an early dismissal be
signed out in the Rutland House/Administrative Building main office by their parent or guardian.
At the beginning of every school year, all parents are required to submit a clinic/emergency card
for each student. The clinic card contains valuable information including name, address, phone
number, parent or guardian information, medical information, etc. The clinic card is kept on file by
the school nurse for the entire school year. All changes must be submitted to the office.
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No one other than the parent or guardian may sign out a student unless they are listed on the clinic
card or the parent or guardian submits a signed note to the office stating the person’s name, as well
as, the date and time the student is authorized to leave with the person.
All persons signing a student out of school may be asked to furnish photo identification.
After-School Program
Springdale Park has adopted a district approved after school program. The After School Classe’
Program is provided for parents of students registered at the school. The program is available
everyday that school is in session. Homework, Study Time, Enrichment Activities and snacks are
provided. Students in the program are supervised by approved personnel. Anytime school is not in
session, the after-school program will not operate. For more information regarding the After
School Classe’ Program, please contact Jan Maycock-Cooks, Executive Director at Classe’,
[email protected] .
Withdrawal/Transfer of Student
If it becomes necessary to withdraw or transfer your child, please contact the school office for
information on the process.
INSTRUCTION
Curriculum Resources
As required by the State of Georgia and Atlanta Public Schools, curriculum lessons are focused on
the Georgia Performance Standards. To provide high quality instruction focused on implementing
the standards, Springdale Park will use the following curriculum resources:
• Reading/English Language Arts: Mc Millan/Mc Graw-Hill Georgia Treasures
• Mathematics: Houghton Mifflin Georgia Math/Math Expressions
• Science: Harcourt Brace Georgia Science
• Social Studies: Houghton Mifflin Social Studies
• Spanish: A variety of resources are used to provide high quality Spanish instruction
• Art: Harcourt Brace Art Everywhere
• Health/PE: Georgia Book Company Totally Awesome Health
• Music: Mc Millan/Mc Graw-Hill K-5 Music Kits and Spot Light on Music
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In addition, teachers may use additional resources to support the implementation of the
curriculum (e.g. CRCT Coach, Measuring Up, etc).
Textbooks
Textbooks for the students are provided through county and state funds. Students are responsible
for proper care of books and must pay for lost or damaged books. Each student shall return all
textbooks and library books issued to them when leaving the school or at the end of the school year.
Media Center
The Springdale Park Media Center is located on the second floor of the Rutland House/
Administrative Building. The Media Center is available for all students, staff and parents. Students
are responsible for all books or materials that are checked out. Media Center hours will be posted
and distributed at the beginning of the school year.
Homework
Homework is assigned to benefit the student through skills practice, review, reference work, and
special projects or reports. It also trains a child in good work habits, promotes responsibility, and
allows for an increase in self-direction. Homework is differentiated based on the needs of students.
Please ensure that your child completes their homework each day. If you have any questions
regarding homework, please speak directly with your child’s teacher.
Homework Hotline
HOMEWORK HOTLINE - (678) 553-3029
The Homework Hotline is a joint effort between APS and Public Broadcasting Atlanta's (PBA) E-
Learning/Cyber Center.
Call and ask questions!
Students are encouraged to call and ask questions about your homework problems.
Homework Hotline teachers give one-on-one assistance and easy-to-understand
explanations. These teachers have access to current textbooks and school curricula when
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helping students understand and solve homework problems. They won't do your work, but
they will guide you through a learning process.
Available on most school nights
Homework Hotline is available Monday through Thursday, 4:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., except
during holiday and semester breaks. The Hotline telephone number is 678 553-3029
There is no charge!
The Homework Hotline is FREE. Support for the Homework Hotline has been made
possible by local school districts and corporate and foundation contributions.
Before you call...
Before calling, you should have the following items:
Information you'll need...
You will be asked to give your first name, grade level and name of school. Also give the
textbook title, and description of homework problem or assignment.
Field Trips
Throughout the school year, all Springdale Park students will have the opportunity to participate in
field trips and other educational experiences. Many field trips may require specific admission and
or other fees. While no child is denied these experiences, failure to receive sufficient funding can
result in cancellation of the trip. Official field trip permission forms must be completed, signed and
returned to the child’s teacher before the date of the trip. Written notes and or phone calls cannot
be accepted as a form of permission to attend an off campus activity. In many instances, parents
may be asked to chaperone field trips, however due to space limitations, this must be arranged
before the field trip.
• Textbook (if available)
• Homework assignment
• Paper
• Pen or pencil
• Calculator (if needed)
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SPECIAL PROGRAMS
Gifted and Talented: The Challenge Program
The Georgia Department of Education defines a gifted student as a student who demonstrates a
high degree of intellectual or creative ability, exhibits an exceptionally high degree of motivation,
or excels in specific academic fields, and who needs special instruction or special ancillary services
to achieve at levels commensurate with his or her abilities.
Atlanta Public Schools provides services for identified gifted students. The APS Program for the
Gifted and Talented (The Challenge Program) is designed to satisfy and extend competencies in
the areas of cognitive skills, learning skills, research, communicative skills, etc., beyond the
experience of the regular classroom.
Students will participate in high-level units of study and projects to extend and challenge their
learning. Eligibility requirements and the recommendation process for the Challenge Program will
be shared at the beginning of the school year.
Program for Exceptional Children
Springdale Park Elementary offers a broad continuum of services for students in Kindergarten
through fifth Grade. Following a comprehensive assessment that may include a psychological
evaluation, educational testing, speech-language assessment, audiological testing and other
assessments, a student may be eligible to receive services in one or more of the following
categories:
• Autism
• Emotional/Behavioral Disorders
• Hearing Impaired
• Orthopedically Impaired
• Other Health Impaired
• Preschool Special Education
• Related Services
• Specific Learning Disabilities
• Speech-Language Impaired
• Traumatic Brain Injury
• Visually Impaired
• Intellectual Disabilities (Mild,
Moderate, Severe/Profound)
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GRADES & RECORDS
Grading
According to the Atlanta Public School policies, all classroom teachers will issue student grades as
follows:
Kindergarten
S Satisfactory Student is applying concept or skill independently
G Growth Student is in process of developing skill and concept
P Problem Student is experiencing difficulties
Grades 1 - 5
A - 90-100 ! B - 80-89
C - 70-79! F - 0-69! NE - Not Examined
Report Cards
All students will receive the Atlanta Public Schools student report cards at the completion of each
four nine week period. Report Cards inform parents of students’ progress and mastery of the
Georgia Performance Standards for each grade level. Along with report cards, progress reports will
be sent home indicating student progress and specifically how parents can assist at home.
Standardized Testing
The following is a summary of the Districtwide Assessment Program for the 2009-2010 school
year.
Grade Assessment(s) Dates
Kindergarten GKIDS On-going
First CRCT April 2010
Second CRCT April 2010
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Grade Assessment(s) Dates
Third Iowa Test of Basic
Skills (ITBS)/3rd
Grade Writing
Assessment
Evaluation
March 2010
Third CRCT April 2010
Fourth CRCT April 2010
STUDENT EXPECTATIONS
Maintaining a positive learning environment is essential to student success. Appropriate student
behavior is required by Policy JCDA-E of the Board of Education Policy for student conduct. This
policy is included in the Atlanta Public Schools Discipline Handbook and is given out at the
beginning of the school year. A school-wide discipline plan will be shared with parents and
students.
Student Behavior Expectations
A student must not behave in a way that may adversely affect the educational environment, cause
disruption of the educational process, or threaten the safety and security of other students or
school personnel. Such conduct may result in discipline, up to and including, long-term
suspension or expulsion.
Springdale Park students are expected to adhere to all school rules and regulations, follow
directions, and interact respectfully with fellow students and school personnel. All teachers,
administrators, and other support personnel are responsible for ensuring compliance with the
Student Code of Conduct.
The Code of Conduct is effective during the following times and in the following places:
• At school or on school property at any time;
• Off school grounds at any activity, function or event and while traveling to and from such
events;
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• On vehicles provided for student transportation by the school system.
Academic Honor Code
Springdale Park recognizes that academic integrity is the foundation of academic excellence and
student success. It is the responsibility of every student and employee to always exhibit honesty,
trust, fairness, respect, and responsibility in academic work to support a positive learning
environment in the school.
Academic dishonesty is the failure to maintain academic integrity. Academic dishonesty includes
but is not limited to: cheating (using or attempting to use unauthorized materials, information, or
study aids in any academic exercise); fabrication (falsification or invention of any information or
citation in an academic exercise); bribery offered for grades, transcripts, or diplomas; obtaining or
giving aid on an examination; having unauthorized prior knowledge of an examination; doing work
for another student, presenting another student’s work as one’s own; and plagiarism. More details
are available at: http://www.atlantapublicschools.us.
Dress Code
The guidelines for dress for students are based on safety and respect. Students should wear
clothing that is safe and appropriate for school and weather. Provocative clothing (excessively short
shorts, revealing tank tops, tops that reveal mid-drifts) or clothing that depicts violence or profane
language is not appropriate for school. In addition, hats, caps and bandanas, sunglasses, should not
be worn in the building. However, the administration reserves the right to designate days to wear
these items as apart of a spirit day. Revisions of the dress code will be distributed as they are made.
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Items Not Allowed In School
To best promote the school’s safe and orderly school environment, any item that causes the
interruption to the instructional environment or is a safety hazard are not allowed on the
Springdale Park campus. If students bring these items to school, the item will be taken and
returned only after a parent conference is held with the administrator and/or teacher. If a student
continues to bring prohibited items to school, disciplinary action may be necessary.
Examples of these items include but are not limited to:
• Electronic games (i.e.
hand held games, etc.)
• Aerosol Sprays (i.e.,
hair sprays, perfume,
etc.)
• Tobacco products,
alcohol, drugs, etc.
• Cell Phones • Skateboards, roller
skates, roller blades
• Nail Polish
• Radios, CD players,
headphones, etc.
• Toy or imitation or real
knives or weapons
• Trading Cards
• Toys • Chewing Gum/Candy
Fighting
To maintain a safe and positive school environment, fighting will not be tolerated. Parents can
assist the school by advising students to report all incidents of bullying, and or harassment to a
teacher or school administrator.
Harassment, Intimidation and Bullying
Atlanta Public Schools Policy states, “Bullying and other forms of intimidations will not be
tolerated in any form and are strictly prohibited.” This prohibitation against bullying and other
forms of intimidation (i.e. name calling, threatening, etc.) are included in the APS Student Code of
Conduct for students. The school counselor, classroom teachers and administration will discuss
bullying and harassment with students throughout the school year.
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Affirmative Action
According to the provisions of applicable law, neither students nor staff shall be excluded from
participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination on the basis of race,
color, sex, religion, national origin, marital status, sexual orientation, age, or disability in any
educational programs, activities, or employment policies under the jurisdiction of Springdale Park
Elementary School.
Any student who believes that they have been subjected to any form of discrimination and or
harassment should immediately report the act to:
Director of the Office of Internal Resolution/Employee Relations (OIR)
Office of Internal Resolution/Employee Relations
130 Trinity Avenue, Atlanta, Georgia 30303
Phone number: (404) 802-2362
Fax number:(404) 802-1305
When Parents Have a Concern
At Springdale Park, we welcome the opportunity to assist you and your child if there is a problem at
school. Contacting the right person and discussing your concerns generally leads to a quick
solution. In most instances, the best person to speak to first is your child’s classroom teacher.
Additionally, the school counselor can serve as a resource. Please call the school to set up an
appointment with your child’s teacher and/or send an email to set up a meeting time. Teachers are
not able to conference with parents during instructional time. If you are unable to resolve the issue
after meeting with the teacher, please contact the Principal.
MEDICAL POLICY
Medication
Parents and/or Guardians are required to bring any medicine to school that the school is expected
to administer to students. No prescribed or non-prescribed medicine can been dispensed without
an official Administration of Medication Form. This form is available in the main office and must be
signed by the parent, physician, and principal. The form must be brought to school along with the
medicine in its original container. The medicine must be completely labeled with the student’s
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name, the name of the medication and directions for administering the medicine. To take the
medicine, the student will go to the school clinic where the medicine will be kept in its original
container. Under no circumstances are medicines kept in classrooms.
Clinic Cards/Emergency Cards
See Early Dismissal Policy.
Immunizations
Students must present the following documents at the time of school enrollment:
• Georgia Certificate of Immunization (Form 3231) or Affidavit affirming that immunization
requirements conflict with parents' religious beliefs
- Children entering grades K-12 for the first time must show proof of vaccination or
immunity to varicella
• Hepatitis B vaccine is now required for all new students enrolling in school at any ag
• Eye, Ear and Dental Certificate Requirements All new students must have a completed
certificate of ear, eye and dental examination (Form 3300) at the time of enrollment.
• A 30-day waiver may be granted for new students from out-of-state to obtain this
information.
School Nurse
The primary role of the Springdale Park Elementary School Nurse is to support student learning.
The nurse accomplishes this by implementing strategies that promote student and staff health and
safety. The nurse takes a leadership role in serving as the coordinator of all school health programs.
Also, as the health services expert, the school nurse serves as the health professional for the school
community. Some of the services provided include: illness and injury assessments and
interventions; health assessments and participation in development of Individualized Education
Plan for students with special needs; and serving as a health care provider liaison between the
school and community.
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MEALS
The primary goal of the School Nutrition Department is to provide all students, regardless of
income level, healthy school meals that meet their nutritional needs and support optimal academic
performance at school.
Federal Eligibility Application (FEA) Free and Reduced Meal Program
Families within the Atlanta Public Schools may be eligible for the Free and Reduced Lunch Meal
Program and other benefits. Eligible students are able to receive:
• Free or reduced meals with snacks
• Fee Waivers for summer school and summer camps, as well as, qualify for certain summer
jobs.
During the first week of school, all students will be given an application for free or reduced price
meals. You will need to complete one application for your entire household, listing all children
attending Atlanta Public Schools on one application. All students should return the lunch form to
their classroom teacher.
Cost of Meals
The 2009-2010 meal prices are as follows:
BreakfastBreakfast LunchLunch
Full Price Reduced Price Full Price Reduced Price
Elementary
Adult
$0.75 $0.30 $1.75 $0.40
$1.50$1.50 $3.00$3.00
A La Carte Prices:A La Carte Prices:
2nd Entrée Serving (student) $1.25
2nd Entrée Serving (adult) $1.50
Side Item $1.00
Beverages (milk & juice) $0.60
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Paying for Meals
There are two convenient payment methods for meals:
1. Mealpay Online Prepayment System: Log on to www.mealpay.com and register your child. You
will need your child’s student ID number, which can be obtained from the main office at your
child’s school. Log on and use a credit card or check to fund your child’s meal account.
2. Cash or Money Order: Send cash or money order to the cafeteria manager at Springdale Park.
Your family may be eligible for free and reduced priced meals. Contact the school office for more
information on how to apply for free and reduced priced meals.
Snacks
Each grade level has a snack time. The parents may provide snacks as a group or individually. This
is decided between the room parents and the teacher. Please notify the teacher if your child has
food allergies or is vegetarian.
Birthday Parties
Individual student birthday parties may be recognized by providing the class with simple
refreshments (i.e. smoothies, muffins, etc.) No candles are allowed. Distribution of these
refreshments will be determined by the classroom teacher. Coordination of this event must be
made with the approval of the classroom teacher at least (3) days before the event. Please be
mindful that students in the class may have food allergies. Invitations to private parties or other
personal correspondence should not be distributed at school.
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CALENDAR
Atlanta Public Schools: 2009-2010 Traditional Calendar
Source: www.atlanta.k12.ga.us/
Atlanta Public Schools Traditional Calendar 2009-2010First Day of School – August 10, 2009 / Last Day of School – May 25, 2010
JULY 2009S M T W T F S
1 2 3 4
5 6 7 8 9 10 11
12 13 14 15 16 17 18
19 20 21 22 23 24 25
26 27 28 29 30 31
AUGUST 2009S M T W T F S
1
2 3 4 5 6 7 8
9 10 11 12 13 14 15
16 17 18 19 20 21 22
23 24 25 26 27 28 29
30 31
SEPTEMBER 2009S M T W T F S
1 2 3 4 5
6 7 8 9 10 11 12
13 14 15 16 17 18 19
20 21 22 23 24 25 26
27 28 29 30
OCTOBER 2009S M T W T F S
1 2 3
4 5 6 7 8 9 10
11 12 13 14 15 16 17
18 19 20 21 22 23 24
25 26 27 28 29 30 31
NOVEMBER 2009S M T W T F S
1 2 3 4 5 6 7
8 9 10 11 12 13 14
15 16 17 18 19 20 21
22 23 24 25 26 27 28
29 30
DECEMBER 2009S M T W T F S
1 2 3 4 5
6 7 8 9 10 11 12
13 14 15 16 17 18 19
20 21 22 23 24 25 26
27 28 29 30 31
JANUARY 2010S M T W T F S
1 2
3 4 5 6 7 8 9
10 11 12 13 14 15 16
17 18 19 20 21 22 23
24 25 26 27 28 29 30
31
FEBRUARY 2010S M T W T F S
1 2 3 4 5 6
7 8 9 10 11 12 13
14 15 16 17 18 19 20
21 22 23 24 25 26 27
28
MARCH 2010S M T W T F S
1 2 3 4 5 6
7 8 9 10 11 12 13
14 15 16 17 18 19 20
21 22 23 24 25 26 27
28 29 30 31
APRIL 2010S M T W T F S
1 2 3
4 5 6 7 8 9 10
11 12 13 14 15 16 17
18 19 20 21 22 23 24
25 26 27 28 29 30
MAY 2010S M T W T F S
1
2 3 4 5 6 7 8
9 10 11 12 13 14 15
16 17 18 19 20 21 22
23 24 25 26 27 28 29
30 31
JUNE 2010S M T W T F S
1 2 3 4 5
6 7 8 9 10 11 12
13 14 15 16 17 18 19
20 21 22 23 24 25 26
27 28 29 30
LEGENDEarly Release Day for Professional Learning
Holiday, Schools ClosedProfessional Learning Day, Schools Closed; All Teachers Report Begin/Midpoint/End Semester
(01
-09
-18
8)
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FLOOR MAPS
Olmsted Hall/Main Building - First Floor Plan
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Olmsted Hall/Main Building - Second Floor Plan
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Olmsted Hall/Main Building - Third Floor Plan
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