Back to school 2017

to

Guide • 2017-18 School Calendar • Tax Free Weekend • How much sleep do Kids need?

• Dress for Success • Frequently Asked Questions 1 g Back to School 2017

GULF COAST MEDIA THE COURIER • THE ONLOOKER • THE ISLANDER • THE BALDWIN TIMES

ALABAMA’S LOWEST TUITION

FORMERLY FAULKNER STATE COMMUNITY COLLEGE, ALABAMA SOUTHERN COMMUNITY COLLEGE AND JEFFERSON DAVIS COMMUNITY COLLEGE. 1-800-381-3722 WWW.COASTALALABAMA.EDU CAMPUS LOCATIONS BAY MINETTE | ATMORE | BREWTON | FAIRHOPE | GILBERTOWN GULF SHORES | JACKSON | MONROEVILLE | THOMASVILLE IT IS THE OFFICIAL POLICY OF THE ALABAMA COMMUNITY COLLEGE SYSTEM AND COASTAL ALABAMA COMMUNITY COLLEGE THAT NO PERSON SHALL, ON THE GROUNDS OF RACE, COLOR, DISABILITY, GENDER, RELIGION, CREED, NATIONAL ORIGIN, OR AGE, BE EXCLUDED FROM PARTICIPATION IN, BE DENIED THE BENEFITS OF, OR BE SUBJECTED TO DISCRIMINATION OR HARASSMENT UNDER ANY PROGRAM, ACTIVITY, OR EMPLOYMENT.

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Marietta Johnson School of Organic Education 8 Marietta Dr. Fairhope, AL 36532

251-928-9347

www.fairhopeorganicschool.com The Marietta Johnson School of Organic Education is a not-for-profit corporation that does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national or ethnic origin, gender or religion.

Back to School 2017 h 3

It’s

e u s s i s i In t h 6

2017-18 School Calendar

8

2017 Football Schedules

9

Tax Free Weekend

10 Dress for Success 12 School Immunizations

16 Make time for sleep too 18 What teachers wish parents knew about Kindergarten

20 What teachers wish parents knew about Senior Year

22 F.A.Q. 26 Public School Directory 28 Private School Directory 29 Homeschooling

Publisher

Parks Rogers

Editor

Allison Marlow 4 g Back to School 2017

BACK TO SCHOOL SPECIALS Now Thru September 1st

13 School Websites and Apps 14 Welcome New Principals

Gulf Coast Media Publication

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Back to School 2017 h 5

2017-18 Baldwin County

SCHOOL CALENDAR AUGUST 7 8 9-10 11 14 15-17 18 7

2017

Local School PD/Principal Discretion Teacher Workday System Wide PD Teacher Workday Local School PD/Principal Discretion Teacher Workdays System Wide PD - Day Teacher Institute First Day of School

SEPTEMBER 4

Labor Day

OCTOBER 9-13 13

Exam Window End 1st Quarter (39 Days)

NOVEMBER 10 20-24 20-21

Veteran’s Day Thanksgiving Holiday Week (Hurricane Make-up Days If Needed)

DECEMBER 11-15 15 18-29 18

Exam Window End 2nd Quarter (39 Days) Christmas Holidays (Hurricane Make-up Days If Needed)

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2018

JANUARY

1 New Year’s Day Observed 2 Workday for Employees

(Student Holiday) 3 Students Return 15 King/Lee Holiday

FEBRUARY 12-13 Mardi

Gras Holiday

MARCH 5-9 Exam Window 9 End 3rd Quarter 26-29 Spring Break 30 Good Friday

(45 Days)

MAY 14 G raduation

- Foley, Baldwin Co., Daphne & Fairhope 15 Graduation - Spanish Fort, Gulf Shores & Robertsdale 21-25 Exam Window 25 Last Day for Students (50 Days) 28 Memorial Day Holiday 29 Last Day for Teachers

“Providing a Quality Christian Education”

• Alabama State Course of Study from a Christian Perspective K3-12th • Loving and Caring Christian Teachers in a Safe Environment • Christ Centered, Child Focused, Family Atmosphere Accredited by • Middle & High School Athletics: Football,Volleyball, Cheer, SACS & NCSA Basketball, Softball, Baseball, and more.

SCHOOL STARTS AUGUST 9, 2017 18930 County Rd. 28, Foley, AL 36535

(251) 989-2333

www.snookchristian.org Back to School 2017 h 7

Friday Night Lights Glow Bright in Baldwin County

2017 High School Football Schedule Baldwin County High School 8-25 @ Northview (Dothan) 9-1 @ Gulf Shores 9-8 Blount 9-22 Spanish Fort 9-29 Bryant 10-6 @ Robertsdale 10-13 Saraland 10-20 @ Rain (Mobile) 10-27 LeFlore 11-3 @ Daphne

Foley High School 8-25 @ Robertsdale 9-1 @ Fairhope 9-8 Davidson 9-15 @ Bryant (Irvington) 9-22 @ McGill-Toolen (Mobile) 10-6 Murphy 10-13 Spanish Fort 10-20 @ Montgomery (Semmes) 10-27 Baker 11-13 Theodore

Spanish Fort High School 8-25 McGill-Toolen 9-1 @ Daphne 9-8 Gulf Shores 9-15 @ Robertsdale 9-22 @ Baldwin County 10-6 Blount 10-13 @ Foley 10-20 @ Saraland 10-27 Rain 11-2 LeFlore

Daphne High School 8-24 @ Davidson (Mobile) 9-1 Spanish Fort 9-8 @ Saraland 9-15 @ LeFlore (Mobile) 9-22 Fairhope 10-6 @ Rain (Mobile) 10-13 Gulf Shores 10-20 @ Blount (Eight Mile) 10-27 Robertsdale 11-3 Baldwin County

Gulf Shores High School 8-25 @ Mountain Brook (Birmingham) 9-1 Baldwin County 9-8 @ Spanish Fort 9-15 @ Rain (Mobile) 9-22 LeFlore 9-29 Faith Academy 10-6 Saraland 10-13 @ Daphne 10-27 Blount 11-3 @ Robertsdale

Bayside Academy Aug. 25 @ St. James (Montgomery) Sept. 1 Faith Sept. 8 @ Clarke County (Grove Hill) Sept. 15 Mobile Christian Sept. 22 @ Excel Sept. 29 Open Oct. 6 @ Hillcrest-Evergreen Oct. 13 Cottage Hill Christian Oct. 20 @ T.R. Miller (Brewton) Oct. 27 Flomaton Nov. 3 Carroll-Ozark

Fairhope High School 8-25 St.Paul’s Episcopal 9-1 Foley 9-8 @ Montgomery (Semmes) 9-15 @ Theodore 9-22 @ Daphne 10-6 Baker 10-13 Davidson 10-19 @ Murphy (Mobile) 10-27 Bryant 11-3 McGill-Toolen

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Robertsdale High School 8-25 Foley 9-1 @ Blount (Eight Mile) 9-8 @ Bryant (Irvington) 9-15 Spanish Fort 9-22 @ Saraland 10-6 Baldwin County 10-13 Rain 10-20 @LeFlore (Mobile) 10-27 @Daphne 11-3 Gulf Shores

Alabama holds free tax weekend July 21-23 Alabama’s 12th annual sales tax holiday for school-related items begins at 12:01 a.m. Friday, July 21, and ends at midnight Sunday July 23. This weekend gives shoppers the opportunity to purchase certain school supplies, computers, books and clothing free of the state’s four percent sales or use tax.

Locally, the following municipalities passed an ordinance or resolution to participate in the sale: Baldwin County, Daphne, Elberta, Fairhope, Foley, Gulf Shores, Loxley, Magnolia Springs, Orange Beach, Silverhill and Summerdale.

Spanish Fort passed a limited ordinance. The holiday only applies to Spanish Fort’s 1.5 percent sales and use tax. Spanish Fort does not grant a holiday for the remaining 1 percent sales tax in the Spanish Fort Eastern Shore District and 2.45 percent in the Spanish Fort Town Center District. Meaning if you shop in those two areas you will still be required to pay that amount of tax on your purchase.

In all municipalities that have granted a tax free weekend, the rule applies to most clothing items and accessories, however some items not included in the exemption include cosmetics, hair accessories, handkerchiefs, sewing supplies, protective sports gear and more.

CLOTHING

$100 or less per article of clothing, includes all human wearing apparel suitable for general use including belts, boots, caps, coats, diapers, dresses, gloves, gym suits, hats, hosiery, jackets, jeans, neckties, pajamas, pants, raincoats, robes, sandals, scarves, school uniforms, shirts, shoes, shorts, socks, sneakers, underwear NOT INCLUDED: Sports equipment, protective equipment and clothing accessories

COMPUTERS

Includes a single purchase with a sales price of $750 or less of computers, printers, software, computer storage media, handheld electronic schedulers (no cell phones), printer paper and printer ink.

NOT INCLUDED: Furniture, system, devices, software or peripherals designed or intended for recreational use and video games of non-educational nature.

SCHOOL SUPPLIES

School art supplies and school instructional material with price of $50 or less. Includes binders, lunch boxes, paper, erasers, glue, crayons, watercolors, maps, globes and required textbooks NOT INCLUDED: magazines, newspapers, periodicals

For more items, visit www.revenue.alabama.gov/salestax/STHolidayQuickRefSheet17.pdf Back to School 2017 h 9

DRESS FOR SUCCESS

BALDWIN COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS UNIFORM POLICY & COMPLIANCE CODE 2017-18

General Rules • Clothing and general appearance may not cause a disturbance or interfere with the instructional program & must not constitute a health hazard.

• Clothing must be of appropriate length & fit. To be acceptable, short pants and skirts must extend beyond either the finger tips when the student extends arms downward along the sides or reach the mid-thigh whichever is longer. Pants must completely cover underwear. Low cut pants, sagging pants, etc. are prohibited.

• Excessively baggy or excessively tight fitting clothing is prohibited.

• Shirts must completely cover the midriff area when sitting & standing & expose no cleavage.

• Adornments that could reasonably be perceived as weapons or used to inflict harm (i.e. chains, spikes, etc.) are prohibited.

• Gang related apparel is prohibited at all times at any school function or school sponsored activity. Items deemed inappropriate under this category are at the discretion of the principal.

• Heads must remain un-covered in the building.

• Students who transfer from other school districts will be given five (5) days to come into compliance with the dress code.

• Schools may use t-shirts on fields trips or spirit day as approved by the principal.

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Pupils are expected to be clean and appropriately dressed for school.

Dress and appearance must not present health or safety problems or cause disruption and should encourage a serious approach to school.

The local school principal will be the final authority for determining appropriate dress within the framework of the policy.

elementary grades k-6 1st Infraction 2

nd

Infraction

3rd Infraction

Warning & parent notified Referral to the office & parent notified.

Detention

4th Infraction One day suspension & & subsequent parent notified

secondary grades 7-12 1st Infraction

Warning & parent notified

2nd Infraction

Half day of Saturday School or full day of OCS

3rd Infraction

Full day of Saturday School or full day of OCS

4th Infraction

One day suspension

5th Infraction

Two days of suspension

6th Infraction & subsequent

Three days of suspension & subject to expulsion

items not allowed

Wind pants/sweatpants, velour pants, tights, yoga pants, jeggings, over-sized clothing, overalls, bellbottoms, unhemmed clothing, clothing with cuts, slits, holes or slashes in inappropriate places, denim or jean fabric (blue denim is acceptable at the high school level), sleeveless shirts, overcoats, or trenchcoats.

TOP

White or Navy collared shirt with sleeves or turtleneck. School color polo as approved by the principal. Small unobtrusive logo is permitted.

GIRLS

bottom

Khaki or Navy Blue Pants, Skirts, Capri’s, Shorts, Skorts, Jumpers or Dresses (corduroy fabric permitted)

BOYS

Khaki or Navy Blue Pants or Shorts (corduroy fabric permitted)

High School students may wear pants made of denim material that is blue in color.

footwear

Footwear must be worn at all times and be closed toe in nature. As necessary, footwear conform to special class requirements (Physical education, tech center, agricultural classes, ROTC, science, etc.

High School students may wear open toe footwear.

undergarments

Undergarments, excluding the neckline of an undershirt, must not be visible at any time.

Pajamas are prohibited.

Sweatshirts & sweaters Must be solid: Black, Brown, Navy, Tan, Gray, White or school colors as published as the principal.

Coats & jackets

Outerwear items must not have lettering, or logo of alcohol, tobacco, and/or controlled substance, nor pictures, symbols, art work that might be offensive in nature and cause a disruption to the educational process.

Khaki is defined by Baldwin County Public Schools to be light tan in color.

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Baldwin County Health Department

Announces School Vaccination clinic Need school vaccinations?

Come to the Baldwin County Health Department JULY 24 - 28 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., walk-ins only 23280 Gilbert Drive, Robertsdale.

What to bring: Any documentation of the child’s vaccination history as well as insurance information, Medicaid or BCBS. Cost: Minimum of $15, total cost depends on vaccinations needed

Immunizations required for school entry in Alabama • Children entering school in the fall are required by Alabama Law to present a Certificate of Immunization formerly known as a “Blue Card.” If a child was born in Alabama, has received all of their immunizations in Alabama, and the records have been put into the state database by the doctor, the school will be able to pull this information up online and print a Certificate of Immunization. This is only valid if the child is current on their vaccinations. Please contact your local school if you are up to date on immunizations and need a Certificate of Immunization.

• Children entering Kindergarten need boosters of DTaP, Polio, MMR and Varicella. These shots complete the childhood series for Diptheria, Tetanus, Pertussis, Polio, Measles, Mumps and Rubella.

• Children age 11 and entering the sixth grade need a Tdap vaccination.

If you are unsure whether your child needs shots, check with your pediatric provider or the local County Health Department.

Certificates of Immunization must be turned in to the school prior to the first day in order for a student to attend.

Coming from out of state?

All shot records must be recorded by either the county health department or a doctor in Alabama. If you have shot records issued outside of Alabama, bring these to the Baldwin County Health Department and they can transfer those records onto an Alabama form for you to then take to the school.

This process takes about three days so plan ahead and bring your records to the department ASAP to be transferred.

Many local physicians will also transfer out-of-state shot records to the proper Alabama forms. Ask your local physician during your back to school physical.

If you do not physically have your previous shot records from other states, start calling your previous doctors now and have those mailed or faxed to you or your Alabama physician.

Students will not be able to enter school, even if you can show the out-of-state vaccination records. Schools will only accept Alabama issued Certificates of Immunization as proof of immunizations received.

Immunization Exemptions Students can request exemption due to medical complications.

That student must have a doctor sign the state-issued form proving that the child has a condition that prevents them from being vaccinated. This may include children with certain allergies and childhood cancers.

Parents can also request immunizations for religious reasons.

A certificate of religious exemption can only be issued by the county health department.

The parent or legal guardian must submit a written explanation of why they object to the vaccination. Parents are then required to attend a class on the consequences of not immunizing their child.

For more information contact the Baldwin County Health Department at 947-1910.

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SCHOOL WEBSITES

Apps and

Baldwin Alabama Public Schools

By Custom School Apps With the Baldwin Alabama Public Schools mobile app, your school district comes alive with the touch of a button. Easily navigate through current news and events or check out the latest updates with social media like Facebook and Twitter. Quickly retrieve contact information, sporting scores, lunch menus, and more! It’s your school district available at your fingertips.

Baldwin County Public Schools Facebook Page Keep up to date with all the latest news, events and information on our Facebook page. https://www.facebook.com/bcbealabama

MySchoolBucks

By Heartland Payment Systems, Inc. MySchoolBucks makes school meal payments easy for busy parents on-the-go! Quickly and securely add money to your student’s school meal account using your credit card, debit card or electronic check. You can also view recent cafeteria purchases and check current meal account balances for each student. MySchoolBucks is backed by Heartland Payment Systems, one of the largest and most trusted payment processors in the United States.

Forgot to pay a fee at school?

No problem. You can make payments online to any school in Baldwin County on the eSchool Payments system.

Just go to the website below. https://baldwincoal.csiepay.com/

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Welcome

NEW PRINCIPALS

Every year the administrators at several Baldwin County schools change. The 2017 – 2018 school year is no exception. Six schools will receive new principals for the upcoming school year. We’ve asked them to answer a few questions so parents and students alike can get to know them before the school year begins.

Branton V. Bailey, 48 Elberta High School

Hometown: Andalusia, Ala. Degrees Earned: Bachelor’s of Science, University of Mobile in health, recreation, and physical education; Master’s in educational leadership, Branton V. Bailey University of South Alabama Placement for 2016-2017 school year: Foley Intermediate Pets? A Boxer named Lilly Why did you enter the education field? “From the time I was a high school student I knew that the field of education would give me the opportunity to influence the next generation of citizens and leaders in our community.”

What is the most important part of a school principal’s day? “The most important part of a principal’s day is meeting and greeting each member of the school community whether that be students and parents in the car line or faculty members in the hallways. There is no substitute for building those relationships.”

What is your favorite book and why? “Tim Russert’s “Wisdom of our Fathers” is one of my favorites. The insight it provides is awesome.”

If you could help every student in your school master just one skill what would it be? “What I think most students need the most support with is learning to believe in themselves. I want every student to learn that they have worth and that they matter. I want them to leave my school environment knowing they can accomplish whatever they put their mind to because they have the skills necessary for success.”

Jenny Breazeale, 40 Elberta Elementary School

Jenny Breazeale

Hometown: Thomasville, Ala. Degrees Earned: Bachelor’s of Science in education, Auburn University; Master’s of Science in education, University of Montevallo; Administration Certificate from the Universi-

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ty of South Alabama Placement for 2016 – 17 school year: Assistant principal at Fairhope Intermediate and J. Larry Newton Schools Pets? One dog named Cooper Why would you enter the education field? “I wanted to impact the future.”

What is the most important part of a school principal’s day? “Building relationships with students and staff while making sure they are safe and engaged in meaningful instruction.”

What is your favorite book and why? “Redeeming Love” by Francine Rivers because it is a beautiful, historical story of grace.”

If you could help every student in your school master just one skill what would it be? “A drive to work hard and take initiative to accomplish their personal goals in life.”

Laura (Johnson) Moorer, 50 Bay Minette Elementary School Hometown: Grew up in Cross Roads, lives in White House Fork Degrees Earned: Attended Faulkner State Jr. College- 1985-1987; Bachelor’s of Science in elementaLaura (Johnson) Moorer ry education, University of South Alabama; Master’s of Science in elementary educationUniversity of South Alabama; postgraduate work for AA Certification Elementary Education, Alabama State University; University of South Alabama Educational Leadership Certification Placement for 2016 – 17 school year: Elberta Elementary School Pets? Tillie, a 7-year-old Springer Spaniel Why did you enter the education field? “I entered the field of education because I’ve always had a servant’s heart. I’ve never regretted the choice to teach.”

What is the most important part of a school principal’s day? “I believe the most important part of a school principal’s day is making time to interact with the students and visit classrooms to see instruction.”

If you could help every student in your school master just one skill what would it be?

“If I could help every student in the school to master one skill, it would be reading. Being a fluent reader impacts every facet of a person’s life whether it be learning or communicating.”

Shannon McCurdy, 48 Foley Intermediate School Hometown: Tampa, Fla. Degrees Earned: Bachelor’s of Art in liberal arts with a major in English, The University of South Florida; Master’s of Art in secondary Shannon McCurdy education language arts, University of South Alabama; Ed.S. in educational administration and leadership (preK-12), Auburn University; currently working on my Ph.D. in educational administration and leadership (preK-12), Auburn University Placement for 2016 – 17 school year: Assistant principal at Foley Intermediate and Foley Middle schools Pets? Patches, a cat; Pepper, a black Lab mix and Zoe, a Golden Retriever Why did you enter the education field? “I entered the field of education to teach and inspire children to see their potential and the opportunities education can open for them.”

What is the most important part of a school principal’s day? “The most important part of a school principal’s day is greeting the children when they arrive every morning for school. I want them to be greeted with a smile and an encouraging message to know they are welcomed and they are important.”

What is your favorite book and why? “I have many, but I used to teach a book titled “Their Eyes Were Watching God” by Zora Neale Hurston. It was my favorite book to teach because the main character, Janie, is a strong woman who is independent of thought and understands herself and the world around her. Despite the world around her, she overcomes adversity and finds happiness and peace in her life.”

If you could help every student in your school master just one skill what would it be? “Reading because reading can unlock the door into understanding anything they are curious about knowing.”

Zack Wigstrom, 39 Bay Minette Middle School Hometown: Rosinton, Ala. Degrees Earned: Associate’s degree, Faulkner State; Bachelor’s in special education, University of South Alabama; Master’s in speZack Wigstrom cial education, Appalachian State University; Educational Specialist in Educational Leadership, University of West Florida; Educational Doctorate in Educational Leadership, University of West Florida Placement for 2016 – 17 school year: Bay Minette Elementary Pets? Two dogs Why did you enter the education field? “I got into education because of a guy I went to high school with. Will Bertram is his name and I knew that I wanted to work with guys like Will. He was a huge part of my high school career and he is the one that put the idea in my head of working

with individuals with disabilities. I also had some great role models as coaches and teachers. Paul Hollingsworth, Steven Grant, Eddie Tyler, David Stapleton, Peggy Duck and Amanda Givens to name a few guided me to the filed I love so much now.”

What is the most important part of a school principal’s day? “The most important part of my day is any time I get to have one-on-one time with students. I really try to pour into all of my students that I love them and that I want the best for them.”

What is your favorite book and why? “The Bible is my guide each and every day. I do love anything to do with the military, so other than the Bible I’d have to say is “Unbroken” When I read about Louis Zamperini I realize what the human spirit can actually do. If you haven’t read it, read it soon.”

If you could help every student in your school master just one skill what would it be?

“Verbally communicating effectively with each other - we live in such a technologically driven society that kids are forgetting how to talk to each other face to face.”

Cindy Veazey, 57 Gulf Shores High School Hometown: Silas, Ala. Degrees Earned: Bachelor’s of Science in business education, University of Alabama; Master’s of Arts, business education, University of AlVeazey abama; Master’s of Arts, counseling, Alabama State University, Educational Administrative Certification, Alabama State University; Education Specialist Degree, Instructional Leadership, University of West Alabama.

Placement for 2016 – 17 school year: Career Tech Director for Montgomery Public Schools Pets? One cat named Callie Why did you enter the education field? “I have a love for teenagers and a passion to provide guidance as they develop and find their identity as an adult.”

What is the most important part of a school principal’s day? “Connecting with the students and teachers, however that takes form within a day. Knowing teachers and students, building their trust and determining strengths and needs is crucial to leading a school.”

What is your favorite book and why? “I have several favorite books in different genres, but one of my recent favorites as an educational leader is “Mindset” by Carol Dweck. It explores the growth mindset and the power our mindset has on the ability to change and improve.”

If you could help every student in your school master just one skill what would it be? “How to approach decisions and challenges with critical thinking.”

Back to School 2017 h 15

Make time for sleep too

by Allison Marlow

Is your back to school calendar already looking crowded?

Doctors urge parents to make sure they are scheduling enough hours for their students to sleep each night too.

“Getting the right amount of quality sleep can help protect your mental health, Alfred M. Neumann Jr., MD physical health, quality of life, and safety,” said Alfred M. Neumann Jr., MD, an otolaryngologist with Premier Medical in Mobile. “While sleeping, your body is working to support healthy brain function and maintain your physical health. In children and teens, sleep also helps support growth and development.”

While the amount of sleep a person needs each night changes over the course of their lifetime, and varies from person to person, The American Academy of Sleep Medicine has issued the following recommendations regarding sleep requirements which are also endorsed by the American Academy of Pediatrics.

• Infants, 4-12 months: 12-16 hours a day (including naps) • Ages 1-2 years, 11-14 hours a day

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(including naps) • Ages 3-5 years, 10-13 hours a day (including naps) • Ages 6-12 years, 9-12 hours a day • Ages 13-18 years, 8-10 hours a day • Ages 18 or older, 7-8 hours a day Neumann said changes in sleeping patterns are part of the normal aging process.

“As people age they tend to have a more difficult time falling asleep and increased difficulty staying asleep. It is a common misconception that sleep needs decline with age. In fact, research demonstrates that our sleep needs remain constant throughout adulthood.”

If your child is not sleeping enough, you may notice it in their behavior.

“Children who are sleep deficient may be overly active and have problems paying attention,” Neumann said. “They also tend to be more prone to misbehave, and their school performance can suffer.”

Sleep-deficient children may also feel angry, impulsive, have frequent mood swings, feel sad or depressed, or lack motivation, he said.

If you feel your child is not sleeping enough, or staying asleep, consult your pediatrician who can refer you to an Ear, Nose and Throat doctor if obstructed tonsils and adenoids are thought to contribute to the lack of sleep.

Dr. Renee Allen Dyken, DMD, MS Dr. Jason Michael Bailey, DMD, MS Dr. Leslie McNeil Talbert, DMD, MS HELPING PATIENTS IN WHICHEVER DIRECTION LIFE TAKES THEM Our top priority is to provide the highest quality and affordable orthodontic care in a friendly, comfortable environment.

We treat each patient with the same loving attention as we would a member of our own family.

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Visit our Website www.islandortho.org Or “LIKE” us on Facebook Back to School 2017 h 17

What teachers wish parents knew about

Kindegarten

The first day of kindergarten can be hard, especially on mom and dad.

After six years of kissing every boo boo, preparing every meal and seeing every milestone, it is time to hand your baby off to someone else, who may be the one to experience many of your child’s firsts from now on.

It’s an adjustment but kindergarten is also a wonderful new world where children will learn as much about life as they will about academics.

So sit back, relax, and read advice from two seasoned Baldwin County kindergarten teachers – Lacey Brannon and Lenore Kirby, both of Gulf Shores Elementary.

Here is what they want you to know about those first days and months of your child’s academic career.

First Day of School Drop Off “The first day of school may be a stressful transition, but I want parents to enjoy this very special milestone,” Kirby said. “I also want parents to know that it is really ok if their child or they themselves are having separation anxiety on those first days of kindergarten. Separation is an important developmental task and some children need a little more time than others. It is helpful if parents can talk to their children about what to expect and to validate any fears they may have. There are many books about starting school and reading them together is a great way to find out what your child is thinking and open up a discussion.

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“I like to invite parents to stay for a few minutes to help their child get unpacked and find where they will sit. Attending “Meet the Teacher” can make a big difference because there is time for the teacher to spend with each parent and child and for the family to become familiar with me and their new surroundings. On the first day of school, one of our biggest concerns is making sure that kindergarten students get home safely so we require every parent to get their car or bus number from the office and give us that information, whether it’s at Orientation, “Meet the Teacher” or on the first day of school.”

School Lunch “While many parents do take the time to pack a nutritious lunch for their child I see far too many Lunchables, and snack foods taking the place of real food. At our school we have lunch with our classes, (which I enjoy), and my kiddos know that they need to start with the sandwich before the chips and that the apple will taste sweet and delicious if they try that before the Oreo cookies.

I encourage those children who get a tray from the cafeteria to try the various items, a “no thank you helping,” to see if they like it. I have found that once they try something that might not look so appealing they sometimes end up liking it. So much uneaten food gets thrown away,” Kirby said.

Brannon added that it may be helpful for fam-

ilies to check the Baldwin County Schools app and look at the menu item for the next day and to pack a large, healthy snack item for snack time.

“One of the first major lunch goals is for students to be successful in opening milk and other containers,” she said.

Afterschool activities Every child is different, Brannon said. Some students may do well to add in an extracurricular event, but she stresses, it is important to maintain a schedule and go to bed at the same time every night. She also encourages parents to discuss the school day with their children rather than run from activity to activity.

Kirby added that too many extra activities will limit children’s time to simply play, which is just as important as any sport or club “Kindergarten has become first grade, which reduces the classroom time for children to use play as a vehicle to develop their emotional, cognitive, and physical strength. While I love teaching kindergarten students to read (and they love that they can do it!) I also truly believe that play is not only a right but the real work of a very young child. With our hurried lifestyle, it’s important for parents to find the time to play with their children and in the end that may be more beneficial that any after-school activity,” she said.

him or her a stronger and more fluent reader.

Reading to your child and stopping to talk and ask questions also builds critical thinking skills, increases vocabulary and gives your child prior knowledge that s/he can draw upon in school.”

It may be tempting to over help with homework, or even do it for your child, but homework is practice.

“This helps with their independence,” Brannon said.

Communicate “Overall, I want parents to know that we want the very best for their child. Communication is key. When a parent hears feedback from a teacher that is new to them or upsetting it’s important to ask questions and then work together to improve the situation,” Kirby said. “The parent-teacher relationship is very important and when we work as a team we are better ensuring that child’s potential. I am never too busy to talk with parents because I think kindergarten is very important in determining how we feel about ourselves as learners and I want both children and parents to really have the most positive experience as they begin this exciting academic journey.”

Uniforms First, they don’t need to be expensive, Brannon said.

“Accidents will happen. We spill juice boxes, slide down a slide, make a mess in the restroom,” she said.

Next, none of the extra ruffles, monograms, bows or shoes are necessary. And belts, please, no.

“I was so glad when kindergarten boys didn’t have to wear belts any longer as part of the uniform requirements,” Kirby said. “Five- and sixyear-olds struggle with unbuckling a belt in time when they need to use the bathroom.”

Label your child’s clothes, sweaters, sweatshirts and jackets with initials or names - always. “Believe it or not, kindergarten children don’t always recognize their own belongings and we end up having too many unclaimed items,” Kirby said.

Homework Read, read and read some more.

“Reading and being read to is a wonderful thing for a parent and child to do together each night,” Kirby said. “Listening to your child read will make

Back to School 2017 h 19

What teachers wish parents knew about Preparing for the end

Senior Year

If you think the first day of kindergarten is tough, senior year of high school can be downright brutal on the emotions. The last of everything happens this year before that baby you dreaded leaving in the kindergarten class will be out the door and on their own. Add a year full of added stress as grads apply to college and jobs, as well as lots of extra expenses, think prom, AP exams and homecoming, and it is a year ripe with emotions.

Sharon D. Lawless, Ed.D., is a counselor at Spanish Fort High School and recently oversaw the class of 2017’s four years of high school. Baldwin County high schools assign a counselor to each class who stays with the class as they move through the grades and graduation. The counselors are there as much for the parents as they are the students as they navigate the exciting, nail biting and yes difficult trials of high school.

Here is her advice for parents of high school seniors.

Academics The senior year is very important and not a time to slack off. Parents need to be mindful of the

20 g Back to School 2017

extra-curricular activities that students are involved in and make sure that their child is keeping up with his or her studies. It is also important that students are taking classes that they are prepared to take and not overloading themselves or taking classes that are too advanced for them. It will create a lot of anxiety on the student and have a negative impact on their GPA’s. It will also create a lot of anxiety on the student.

What will parents be most disappointed by during their child’s senior year?

During the senior year, parents begin to realize that their child is growing up and does not need their help as much. More responsibility is placed on the child. For some parents who try and handle everything for their student, ”helicopter parents,” they become disappointed that their child can and should be responsible for themselves. Parents also get disappointed when graduating and participating in all of the senior activities are more important to them than to their student.

What will students be most excited by senior year?

Students are most excited about being at the top.

They look forward to the football season, prom, and homecoming as a senior. They also don’t mind getting the best parking spots.

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What will students be most disappointed by during senior year?

This varies by student. Some are disappointed that they still have to study and do work. Others will be disappointed because their grades dropped. Some are disappointed because the school rules still apply to them.

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What do parents need to understand about how their senior is feeling during this year?

A lot of things have changed since parents have been in school and many do not remember how stressful it can be. Students can easily feel overwhelmed with the demands and deadlines of their senior year. Talking to your student often about what is going on with them is a good way to make sure everything is OK.

What do you wish parents understood about the college application process?

Recruiters begin visiting the school as early as the first of September. Some schools have admission deadlines as early as December. Start the process early. Have your student apply to several schools, not just one to see who can offer the most. College applications are done pretty much all online, so students need to visit the website of their prospective schools to set up accounts and fill out applications. Also, parents can begin submitting FASFA in October based on the prior year’s tax information. This is required for all students who are looking to receive scholarships, Pell Grants and student loans. The earlier it is filled out the greater the monetary award may be.

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Lutheran Schools: A Great Place to Grow!

Grow in the Grace and Knowledge of Jesus

* Meets and exceeds Alabama Curriculum Standards * Christ Centered * Low student/teacher ratio * Pre K3 & K4 * School opens for the 2017-2018 school year on Monday, August 21.

Good Shepherd school hours; 7 am – 5:30 pm • Classes 8 am - 3 pm The school will follow the Baldwin County Pulbic School System Holiday schedule.

For more information contact the school at (251) 987-1966 or e-mail businessmanager@goodshepherdlutheran-sch.com

Good Shepherd Lutheran School 13220 Main St. (by St. Mark’s Lutheran Church) Elberta

Good Shepherd Lutheran School admits students of any race, color, national and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school. It does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national and ethnic origin in administration of its educational policies, admissions policies, scholarship and loan programs, and athletic and other school-administered programs.

Back to School 2017 h 21

WELCOME TO THE BALDWIN COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS SUBMITTED BY BALDWIN COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION

F.A.Q.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Q. How and where do I enroll my child? When is summer registration?

A. New and returning students can enroll using this page: bcbe.org/registration. The registrar at each school is responsible for answering specific questions regarding student enrollment; please call the school to make an appointment with the appropriate person before arriving.

All students, whether new to the school system or previously enrolled, are required to take part in any pre-registration activities the school may offer. During pre-registration, students may purchase P.E. uniforms, pay course fees, buy school yearbooks, rent lockers, pick up schedules, and visit classrooms. This list also includes elementary school events such as “Meet Your Teacher” Days, which is an opportunity for parents and students to meet the teacher prior to the opening of school.

Q. What do you offer for Kindergarten and Pre-Kindergarten students?

Note: On May 10, 2016, Governor Robert Bentley signed into law Alabama Act #2016-297. Beginning with the 2016-2017 school year, the Act requires local education agencies to allow a child who is six years of age on or before December 31 to enroll in first grade.

This extends the timeframe from the current date of on or before September 1 for first grade only. It does NOT extend the timeframe for enrollment in kindergarten.

22 g Back to School 2017

Act #2016-297 amends the Alabama Code (1975), §16-28-4, minimum age for admission to first grade - a child who is 6 years of age on or before September 1 or the date on which school begins in the enrolling school system shall be entitled to admission to the public elementary schools at the opening of such schools for that school year or as soon as practical thereafter.

A. Please refer to our Pre-K and Kindergarten page for more information: www.bcbe.org/kindergarten Q. How important is it to attend Open House events?

A. Education is a collaborative effort between schools, parents, and the community at large. Open House events provide an opportunity for your child’s teachers to share with you information specific to their grade level or course. Your presence is extremely important; you will learn exactly what is expected of your child in each setting and be shown ways you can help them achieve success.

Q. What information will I need to bring in order to register my child?

A. Please bring the following documents with you for each child you wish to enroll: Birth certificate Social Security card [Social Security Card is not required, as per Federal guidance] Two proofs of residence One of these must be a recent utility bill with your Baldwin County address

Withdrawal papers from last school attended, including transcript Immunization form All students are required by Alabama State Law to have an original certificate of immunization (IMM-50); copies are unacceptable. These certificates may be obtained from your local physician or Baldwin County Health Department in Robertsdale. The Health Department may be reached at 251.947.1910.

You will be required to complete an enrollment form for each student. These will be made available by the registrar or counselor when you visit the school.

Q. What if I am not the legal guardian/custodian for a child? What do I need to do?

A. To enroll a student in the Baldwin County School System you must have legal custody of the student. Delegations of parental authority or powers of attorney will not be accepted. The enrolling guardian/custodian shall reside in the attendance zone in which enrollment is sought. The student being enrolled must actually reside with his/her guardian/custodian.

In addition to the matters noted in the preceding paragraph, it shall be the sole duty and responsibility of the enrolling guardian/custodian to provide all documentation otherwise required by the Baldwin County Board of Education as a prerequisite to enrollment.

Please see the School Guardianship Guidelines for complete details.

Q. Do you allow a student to attend a school out of zone?

A. In order to adequately project school facility needs in our rapidly growing county, currently the Board of Education only allows a zone variance – the ability to attend a school outside of one’s own zone – in the case of extreme hardship, which is usually mostly medical in nature. Zone variances are not granted for the sake of convenience. If you believe you are eligible for a zone variance due to extreme hardship, please contact the principal of the school you wish your child to attend first.

If the principal agrees that the student meets the requirements for eligibility for a zone variance, the parent must complete a Zone Variance Request Form provided by the school they are requesting to attend and attach a statement as to the necessity of the zone variance. *Please note: If a student has a zone variance, it is the responsibility of the parent to provide transportation for the child.

Q. What is the procedure and criteria for placement in the district’s Gifted Education Program?

A. Baldwin County Public Schools offers services for gifted and talented students in first grade through twelfth grade. All parents have the right to refer their child for the district’s Gifted Education Program.

Q. Do you offer After School care?

A. After School Childcare is offered at many schools.

As a convenience, you may register for After School Childcare now though the bcbe.org website. Select Directory/Afterschool Childcare/Registration. Read the

information then go to – Sign In. For your convenience, there is a Parent Portal – Quick Start Help Guide under Forms and Documents, to assist you. The deadline to register for After School Childcare is August 14 at noon, one week before the first day of school. After School Childcare registration will re-open on August 24, 2017 at noon in order to attend after school the next school week. After School Childcare offers academic enrichments, homework time, physical activities along with outside time – supervised by certified teachers and staff from the community.”

More details: We offer After School Childcare at elementary, intermediate, some middle schools and three high schools in the county. After School Childcare Programs serve students ages 5-12 at elementary schools; Middle and High school students may attend on their school campus, if the program is available. All students must attend the After School Childcare Program on the campus of their day school. Busing of students is not an option.

A complete list of ASCC locations and a link for registration and payments is available at https://www. bcbe.org/afterschool. Cash is not accepted; Registration and payments are online. Site Manager or designee can assist you at the site, if needed. Payments are due one week in advance of attendance. Students may participate in the After School Childcare Program on a full-time or daily basis. Full-time students are those who attend the program 3 to 5 days per week; the fee for full-time is $35 weekly; the daily rate of $10.00 per day applies to 1 or 2 days per week. Parents must notify the Site Manager of the days their children will attend at the time of Registration in order to assist the After School Department in ensuring appropriate levels of staffing.

Part-time students may attend only on those days the parents have pre-selected at Registration as attendance days. Fees are charged based on Registration and are not influenced by attendance. Pre-payment for services is required. The discount for BCBE teachers is $25.00 per week per child. We now offer a Family Rate for those with more than one child.

The After School Child Care Program operates from 3 -5:30 p.m. at most sites; seven sites offer the choice of pick up by 6 p.m. All sites follow the school calendar.

Parents must complete online registration, pay the $20 non-refundable registration fee, and the first week fee - no fewer than two days prior to the first day of attendance in the program. Registration and fee payments are all Online. Payments not made by Sunday close of day are subject to late fee.

Questions may be directed to the After School Childcare Department: 251.972.8518.

Q. How can I find out what school supplies are necessary?

A. Required materials vary from school to school and from grade level to grade level. Many schools have supply lists posted on their websites. You may also find lists conveniently placed in the school supply aisles at stores such as Wal-mart and Target. Supply lists are also

Back to School 2017 h 23

available in each school’s office.

Q. Do you allow students to bring and use cell phones on campus?

A. Check your school’s handbook for guidance.

Q. What about the dress code? How strictly is it enforced?

A. Baldwin County students are required to wear approved uniforms to school daily. Please check your school’s student handbook for guidance. For complete guidelines, see the Uniform Policy in the Student Handbook.

Q. What about lunches? Can I pay for lunches online? What can my child take from home for lunch?

A. Baldwin County Schools’ cafeterias participate in the USDA Child Nutrition Program. Nutritious meals are provided to students daily at nominal cost. Each student is assigned an account number to use in the cafeteria and encouraged to memorize this number. Parents may pay send their child to school with cash or check to pay for meals. We suggest that parents consider paying for meals in advance by either writing a check for the week or month or by submitting a payment online. This provides an additional measure of safety for your child by alleviating the need to bring money to school for daily lunch. Checks can be made payable to the school.

Additional information can be obtained by contacting the Child Nutrition Program office at 251-970-4402.

Children may also bring a lunch from home to eat during their designated lunch time. Food is not allowed in the classrooms. There are no board policies that limit what parents can pack for their child’s lunch, however, some schools may have special policies in place because of severe food allergies. Wholesome, healthy lunch items will keep your child fueled and ready to learn for the afternoon until they arrive home.

If your child has a special dietary need, please contact your school nurse to complete a Diet Prescription Form.

Meal Prices for School Year 2016-2017 Breakfast: All enrolled paid students: $1.75; Adult/ Children Visitors: $2.25; Board of Education Employees: $2.00; Lunch: All enrolled paid students K-8: $2.50; All enrolled paid students 9-12: $2.75; Adult/Children Visitors: $4.00; Board of Education Employees: $3.50 Q. Is bus service available in my neighborhood?

What do I need to do to allow my child to ride the bus?

A. The Transportation Department for Baldwin County Schools oversees the daily operation of more than 280 bus routes. About half of our students ride the bus.

Baldwin buses travel more than 16,000 miles each day.

The Public Affairs Research Council of Alabama has rated our bus transportation program as the most efficiently run in Alabama. Our Transportation program also regularly garners awards for safety. All Baldwin County students are provided transportation to and from school daily, regardless of their proximity to their local school.

There is one person at each school responsible for managing student transportation. Maps of each bus route are available to assist in determining which bus

24 g Back to School 2017

will be designated to transport your child. Please contact your school prior to the beginning of the school year if you have additional questions.

Q. What if I choose to take my child to school myself?

A. Please contact your local school prior to the beginning of school to determine where you may safely drop off and pick up your child. Each school has very specific traffic flow patterns for the safety of all of our students.

You will also learn what time students may enter the building and when they will be deemed tardy to school.

Q. What are the requirements for excused absences?

(BOE policy 985) A. The following are permissible reasons for excused absences: – Student illness – I nclement weather, which makes it dangerous for students to attend school (as announced by the Superintendent) – Legal quarantine – Death in the immediate family –E mergency condition as determined by the principal or superintendent –A bsence to observe traditional religious holidays of local, national, or international origin when verified by the student’s minister or religious leader.

A written note from the parents or guardians will excuse absences for up to but not exceeding nine absences in grades K-8 and four absences in grades 9-12.

Future absences for illness will require a doctor’s note in order to be excused.

Q. What are the procedures for checking a student in late to school, or checking a student out early?

A. Parents or guardians must check their child out through the front office of the school. No child will be allowed to leave campus without the express consent of their parent or guardian. Early checkouts are discouraged; however, in the case of a medical necessity, it is requested that a doctor’s note is submitted to the office the next day.

Q. My child requires a special medical procedure to attend school. Is there a nurse at my child’s school? If not, where can I find assistance?

A. The school system has a Registered School Nurse and/or a Licensed Practical Nurse assigned to each school. If your child requires a special medical procedure, the child’s physician will need to provide medical orders for your child’s care. Please contact the Supervisor of Health Services or your assigned school nurse before the planned date of enrollment. This will allow the nurse adequate time to plan for your child’s arrival and ensure a smooth transition to your new school. The Health Services Supervisor can be reached at 251-2394327. The school’s office personnel will provide you the contact information for your child’s assigned school nurse.

Q. My child receives medication daily. Will there be someone at school to safely assist with his or her medication?

A. Your child will receive medication from a licensed nurse or a trained medication assistant. The school nurses are required to follow the Alabama Board of Nursing and the State Department of Education standards and guidelines in order to administer medications in the schools. All medication assistants receive a maximum of 12 hours medication training before permission is granted to assist with medication administration. A Prescriber/Parent Authorization Form must be signed before a child may receive prescription medication. The Prescriber/ Parent Authorization form is on the Health Services Section of this website. For more info., please review the Health Services section of the website, especially the section titled: Medication at School.

Q. What if your child received special education services at their previous school?

A. The Baldwin County Board of Education will continue to provide special education services to students who transfer into the district with an active Individualized Education Plan (IEP). To help make this transition as smooth as possible, it is important to provide a copy of your child’s most recent IEP and evaluation at registration, if the information is available. If the IEP is available, it will be implemented as written (including services comparable to those in the IEP from the previous school). Additional records, if needed, will be requested from the previous school. A special education teacher will contact the parent/guardian to schedule a meeting to review these services and determine if further evaluations are needed to meet the Alabama Administrative Code (AAC) criteria.

Q. What about fees? How do I pay them?

A. Fees are set by your local school. Please contact your local school or check the school’s registration information for details. Check your school’s web site.

School fees can be paid at the school office or online: bcbe.org/schoolfees. You can find the school fee payment link also under “resources” at bcbe.org.

Q. How can I check my child’s grades online?

A. All Baldwin County schools use the Chalkable school information system for recording grades and attendance. At the beginning of the school year, you will be provided with a user id and password for each of your children who are enrolled in school. You may then access online grades by going to the website for your child’s school, clicking on the online grades icon in the upper left panel, and entering the user id and password.

You will be able to view your child’s grades for each course, along with attendance and discipline records.

Please protect this confidential information. Should you misplace it, you must request it in person from the school registrar. No passwords will be provided over the phone.

Q. Who should I contact if I have a problem?

A. If you feel that your child is having difficulty in any particular class, please contact the teacher to schedule an appointment. If the problem is occurring outside the bounds of a particular classroom, e.g., on the bus or in the cafeteria, please contact the principal.

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Back to School 2017 h 25

Baldwin County Public school directory

Baldwin County High School 1 Tiger Drive Bay Minette, AL 36507 www.baldwincountyhighschool.com 251-937-2341

Central Baldwin Middle School PO Box 930 Robertsdale, AL 36567 http://www.centralbaldwinmiddle.com 251-947-2327

Elberta Elementary School 25820 US Highway 98 Elberta , AL 36530 http://www.elbertaelementary.com 251-986-5888

Fairhope Intermediate School 20698 Bishop Road Fairhope , AL 36532 http://www.fairhopeintermediate.com 251-928-7841

Baldwin County Virtual School 450 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, AL 36532 www.bcbe.org/virtualschool 251-937-2341

Daphne East Elementary School 26651 County Road 13 Daphne, AL 36526 http://www.daphneeast. org/ 251-626-1663

Elberta High School 13355 Main Street Elberta, AL 36530 http://www.elbertahighschool.com 251-986-8127

Fairhope Middle School Two Pirate Drive Fairhope, AL 36532 http://www.fairhopems. com 251-928-2573

Bay Minette Elementary School 800 Blackburn Avenue Bay Minette, AL 36507 www.bayminetteelementaryschool.com/ 251-937-7651

Daphne Elementary School 2307 Main Street Daphne , AL 36526 http://www.daphneelementary.com 251-626-2424

Elberta Middle School 13355 Main Street Elberta , AL 36530 http://www.elbertamiddle.com 251-986-8127

Foley Elementary School 450 North Cedar Street Foley , AL 36535 http://www.foleyelementary.com 251-943-8861

Bay Minette Intermediate School 600 Blackburn Ave. Bay Minette, AL 36507 http://www.bayminetteintermediate. com/ 251-580-0678

Daphne High School 9300 Champions Way Daphne, AL 36526 http://www.daphnehs. com 251-626-8787

Elsanor Elementary School 23440 US Highway 90 Robertsdale, AL 36567 http://www.elsanorschool.com 251-947-5401

Foley High School 1 Pride Place Foley , AL 36535 http://www.foleyhs.com 251-943-2221

Bay Minette Middle School 1311 West 13th Street Bay Minette, AL 36507 http://www.bayminettemiddle.com 251-580-2960 C.F. Taylor Alternative School 19150 Wilters Street Robertsdale , AL 36567 251-970-4415

26 g Back to School 2017

Foley Intermediate School 2000 South Cedar Street Fairhope Elementary Foley , AL 36535 School Daphne Middle School 408 North Section Street http://www.foleyinterme1 Jody Davis Circle diate.org Fairhope, AL 36532 Daphne , AL 36526 251-943-1244 http://www.fairhopeelehttp://www.daphnemiddleschool.com mentary.com Foley Middle School 251-626-2845 251-928-8400 200 North Oak Street Foley , AL 36535 Delta Elementary School Fairhope High School http://www.foleymiddle.

10251 White House Fork 1 Pirate Drive com Rd. Ext Fairhope , AL 36532 251-943-1255 Bay Minette , AL 36507 http://www.fairhopehs. http://www.deltaelemen- com 251-928-8309 tary.com 251-937-3657

Gulf Shores Elementary School 1600 East 3rd Street Gulf Shores , AL 36542 http://www.gsesdolphins. com 251-968-7375

North Baldwin Center for Technology 505 Dr. Martin Luther King Blvd Bay Minette, AL 36507 http://www.nbctschool. com

Rockwell Elementary School 10183 US Highway 31 Spanish Fort , AL 36527 http://www.rockwellelem. org 251-626-5528

Gulf Shores High School 600 East 15th Avenue Gulf Shores, AL 36542 http://www.gs-hs.com 251-968-4747

Orange Beach Elementary School 4900 Wilson Boulevard Orange Beach, AL 36561 http://www.orangebeachelementary.com 251-981-6751

Rosinton Elementary School 19757 County Road 64 Robertsdale , AL 36567 http://www.rosinton.com 251-964-5210

Gulf Shores Middle School 450 East 15th Avenue Gulf Shores , AL 36542 http://www.gsmsdolphins.com 251-968-8719 J. Larry Newton Elementary School 9761 County Road 32 Fairhope, AL 36532 http://www.jlnewtonschool.com 251-990-3858 Loxley Elementary School 4999 South Magnolia Street Loxley, AL 36551 http://www.loxleyelementary.com 251-964-5334 Magnolia School 1 Jaguar Loop Foley , AL 36535 http://www.magnoliaschoolk6.com 251-965-6200

Perdido School 23589 County Road 47 Perdido, AL 36562 http://www.perdidoschool.com 251-937-8456

Silverhill Elementary School P.O. Drawer 190 Silverhill, AL 36576 http://www.silverhillelementary.com 251-945-5188

Pine Grove Elementary School 43980 Pine Grove Road Bay Minette, AL 36507 http://www.pgelementary.com 251-937-8456

South Baldwin Center for Technology 19200 Carolina Street Robertsdale , AL 36567 http://www.sbctschool. com 251-947-5041

Robertsdale Elementary School 1 Cub Drive Robertsdale , AL 36567 http://www.robertsdaleelementary.com 251-947-4003 Robertsdale High School PO Box 69 Robertsdale , AL 36567 http://www.robertsdalehigh.com 251-947-4154

Spanish Fort Middle School 33899 Jimmy Faulkner Drive Spanish Fort , AL 36527 http://www.spanishfortmiddle.com 251-625-3271 Stapleton Elementary School 35480 Harriot Avenue Stapleton, AL 36578 http://www.stapletonelementary.com 251-937-2038 Summerdale School Elementary/Middle School P.O. Box 9 Summerdale, AL 36580 http://www.summerdaleschool.com

Swift School Elementary School 6330 Bon Secour Highway Bon Secour, AL 36511 http://www.swiftschool. org Spanish Fort Elementary 251-949-6850 School The Academy at the 30900 State Highway Fairhope Airport - Ms. 225 Julia Bryant Spanish Fort, AL 36527 8600-C County Road 32 http://www.spanishforFairhope, AL 36532 telementary.com 251-929-7378 251-626-9751 Spanish Fort High School 1 Plaza de Toros Spanish Fort, AL 36527 http://www.spanishforttoros.org 251-625-3259

W.J. Carroll Intermediate School 1000 Main Street Daphne , AL 36526 http://www.wjcintermediate.com 251-626-0277

Back to School 2017 h 27

Baldwin County Private school directory

Snook Christian Academy 18930 County Road 28 Foley, AL 36535 (251)989-2333 Alpha & Omega Christian School 6389 Spanish Fort Blvd.

Spanish Fort, Al 36527 251-621-1126 Bayshore Christian School 18930 County Road 28 Foley, AL 36535 (251)989-2333 Bayside Academy 303 Dryer Ave Daphne, AL 36526 (251)338-6415 Calvary Living Christian Learning Center Po Box 10 Orange Beach, AL 36561 (251)967-2688

28 g Back to School 2017

Central Christian School 17395 State Highway 104 Robertsdale, AL 36567 (251)947-5043 Christ the King Catholic School PO Drawer 1890 Daphne, AL 36526 (251)626-1692 Eastern Shore Early Childhood 1090 Fairhope Ave Fairhope, AL 36532 (251)928-3449 Faith Christian Academy 1090 Fairhope Ave Fairhope, AL 36532 (251)928-3449 Good Shepherd Luthern School 24933 Oak St Elberta, AL 36530 (251)987-1966

Grace Christian Academy 6900 Hwy 59 Gulf Shores, AL 36542 (251)968-1230

St. Benedict Catholic School 12786 Illinois St. Elberta, AL 36530 Phone: (251) 986-8143

Marietta Johnson School of Organic Education 8 Marietta Drive Fairhope, AL 36532 (251)928-9347

St. Michael Catholic High School 11732 Higbee Road Fairhope, Al 36532 251-459-0210

Open Door Christian School 20774 County Road 12 S Foley, AL 36535 (251)943-1693

St. Patrick Catholic School 23070 Hwy 59 North Robertsdale, AL 36567 (251)947-7395

South Baldwin Christian Academy 6900 Hwy 59 Gulf Shores, AL 36542 (251)968-1230

Victory Christian Academy 20511 County Road 12 S Foley, AL 36535 (251)943-7684

Homeschooling Submitted by the Baldwin County Board of Education

I home school my children. Am I required to register with the state?

While Act 2014-245 requires that private schools (except church schools) register annually with the Department of Education, it is the interpretation of the State Superintendent of Education that this requirement does not apply to home school students.

Is a “cover school” required for home schooling in Alabama?

It is the opinion of the State Superintendent of Education that a “cover school” is not required of parents who choose to home school their children.

Are parents or guardians required to submit proof that their children ages 6-17 are in school?

Yes. The law requires parents who choose to home school their children to notify the local public school superintendent of their intention to home school. This notification is only required at the initial decision to home school and is not required each year.

Accreditation Parents who are considering homeschool and private school programs need to be aware of the accreditation status of the programs they select.

It is the responsibility of the parent to provide proof of program accreditation to Baldwin County Schools. Transcripts indicating successful completion of accredited programs are also required.

Parents of homeschool students may visit the

Alabama Course of Study website for information regarding grades 6-8 course content. Here is the link: http://alex.state.al.us/browseStand.php Non-Accredited Homeschools (Require Validation Tests): Central Christian Homeschool 17395 State Highway 104, Robertsdale, AL 36567 (251) 270-1399 Bridge Christian Academy P.O. Box 701, Fairhope, AL 36533 251-979-6227 Alabamabca@gmail.com Accredited Homeschools: There are many online programs that are accredited. Parents are responsible for providing proof of accreditation.

Several FMS students have been enrolled in these accredited homeschool programs: International Connections Academy www.internationalconnectionsacademy.com Calvert Educational Services Homeschool Program http://homeschool.calverteducation.com/ Keystone School Online Keystoneschoolonline.com

Back to School 2017 h 29

ST. PATRICK CATHOLIC SCHOOL

2017- 2018

Pre K3 - Grade 8 (Bus Service Available, Serving Bay Minette, Foley, Eastern Shore, Loxley, and Robertsdale) School Begins August 21st For Further Information, call or write:

school year

• High Academic Standards • Christ-Centered Environment • Fine Arts • Computer Lab • Physical Education (Soccer, Basketball, Volleyball)

• Strong Home/School Partnership

P.O. BOX 609 • 23070 HWY 59 N • ROBERTSDALE, AL 36567 • 947-7395 www.spcsrobertsdale.com

Now Enrolling K4-12th! Call to schedule a tour!

23050 US Highway 98 | Fairhope, AL 36532 | (251)929-0011 | www.bayshorechristian.org 30 g Back to School 2017

Know the Rules.

KEEP KIDS SAFE.

Make sure you know and follow these school bus safety rules for motorists. It’s not only smart; it’s the law!

Yellow Flashing Lights signal that the bus is getting ready to stop and load or unload children. This means you should slow down and prepare to stop.

Red Flashing Lights & Extended Stop Arms signal that the bus has stopped, and children will be entering or exiting the bus.

This means you should stop your car and wait until the red lights stop flashing, the extended stop sign is withdrawn and the bus resumes moving.

As always, be alert and watch out for children whenever you are behind the wheel.

Sponsored by:

Riviera Utilities

413 E. Laurel Ave. Foley, AL 36535

251-943-5001

700 Whispering Pines Rd. Daphne, AL 36526

251-626-5000 www.rivierautilities.com

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THERE’S A NEW BIRTH CENTER ON THE EASTERN SHORE. Just arrived: the all-new Birth Center at Thomas Hospital.

Spaciously re-envisioned with family-sized suites and a family-centered experience. From extensive childbirth education to post-natal fitness programs, the tradition is made new again, right here where it belongs.

infirmaryhealth.org

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