Meadowbrook School Handbook for Parents and Staff 1641 Hampton Road, Meadowbrook, PA 19046 Main number: 215-884-3238 Fax: 215-884-9143 www.themeadowbrookschool.org
The Meadowbrook School is an independent, non-profit, coeducational, non-sectartian day school encompassing Pre-Kindergarten through 6th grade. The Meadowbrook School accepts students regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, or ethnic background. (Summer 2002)
Contents
BIENVENUE! Alma Mater...................................................................................... Emergency Closing (morning)...................................................... Hours of Operation............................................................................ Mission ........................................................................................... Weather Related Early Dismissal (during the day)........................... ORGANIZATIONS & COMMITTEES. Admissions Committee.and Admission Process............................. Board Committees....................................................................... .... Board of Directors..................................................................... ...... Corporation Night......................................................................... . Important Message from the Development Committee................... POM ............................................................................................. List of Officers................................................................... Meeting Schedule.............................................................. POM By-laws..................................................................... POLICIES & PROCEDURES Tuition and Fees.............................................................................. Attendance/Absence/Lateness........................................................ Cell Phones and Electronic Devices................................................ Class Assignments.......................................................................... Emergency Closings...................................................................... Holidays in School.......................................................................... Illness or Injury............................................................................... Medical/Dental Forms.................................................................... Medications..................................................................................... No Smoking..................................................................................... Not Allowed in School.................................................................... Pets in School.................................................................................. Internet Access/Use........................................................................ Student Illness.................................................................................. Parties In and Out of School............................................................ Telephone (student use)................................................................... Media Permission............................................................................ NECESSARY DETAILS Arrival/Dismissal............................................................................ By Bus............................................................................................. By Car.............................................................................................. Dress Code...................................................................................... Field Trips....................................................................................... Grub Day Attire.............................................................................. Homework....................................................................................... Lost and Found................................................................................ Lunch/Snack................................................................................... Waiters............................................................................. What’s Cooking.............................................................
7 4 5 6 5 12 9 8 11 12 13 13 13 14 17 18 22 17 4 21 19 20 20 22 22 23 24 18 27 28 26 29 29 30 37 32 39 34 33 35 35 35
School Photographs.......................................................... School Store.....................................................................
39 36
COMMUNICATIONS ALERTNOW Notificaton Service................................... Assembly.......................................................................... Bulletin Board.................................................................. EmergencyResponse...................................................... Online Communication.................................................. Publications...................................................................... Report Cards/Conferences................................... ........... Speech and Language Services........................................ Website and E-mail.................................... .......... .......... Weekly Newsletter........................................................... Whom to See for What....................................................
40 44 43 41 43 45 42 42 43 44 46
EXTRACURRICULAR After School Programs and Camps................................. Extended Day....................................................... .......... Interscholastic Sports....................................................... Music Groups and Instruction......................................... Winter Intramurals...........................................................
47 50 50 49 50
TRADITIONS Community Service Learning.......................................... Clubs and Responsibilities............................................... David Dollars................................................................... End-of-Year Activities...................................................... Field Day.......................................................................... Graduation........................................................................ Grub Days......................................................................... Ice Skating........................................................................ Lunch with your child...................................................... Red/Grey Teams............................................................... Science Expo..................................................................... Sixth Grade Scrapbook..................................................... Sledding........................................................................... Winter Arts Festival.........................................................
51 54 51 54 53 54 52 55 52 52 52 54 51 52
PARENTAL INVOLVEMENT Library............................................................................... POM Events....................................................................... Room Parents..................................................................... Room Parent Guidelines.................................................... Reserved Parking............................................................... School Store Price List.......................................................
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Bienvenue! Welcome! Bienvenido!
FROM THE ADMISSIONS COMMITTEE AND POM We hope you find this parent handbook informative and helpful. This book was created by the Admissions Committee and Parents of Meadowbrook (POM) as a guide to answer frequently and not-so-frequently asked questions. It covers a broad range of items from the role of Board Committees to how classes are assigned to sleds at school. Please keep it in a convenient place, and consult it often. Thanks to all of you, our parents, for taking “a look at Meadowbrook,” and for entrusting your children to our unique, wonderful school.
From PAPAS (PA Association of Private Academic Schools) evaluation, fall, 1994
“As part of the oral report to the Meadowbrook faculty and staff...., the committee emphasized what a strong school Meadowbrook was and that, if there was a fault, it was a tendency to sell the school short. This may not be uncommon in elementary schools where there is no secondary school attached. However, it is undeserved at Meadowbrook. The students at Meadowbrook are receiving all of the nurturing, intellectual stimulation, and individual attention that they would receive at any of the highest caliber independent school known to committee members.”
School Calendar 2012—2013 Pre-school Preview Day
Tues., September 4
First Day of School
Wed., September 5
New Parent Orientation
Wed., September 5
Picture Day
Tues., September 11
Back-to-School Night/Corp Night
Thurs., September 20
Cocktail Party
Sun., September 23
Columbus Day (no school)
Mon., October 8
Open House & Fall Fest
Sat., October 20
Meadowbrook Golf Outing
Mon., October 22
Conferences (no school)
Fri., October 26
Halloween Parade/Pumpkin Contest
Wed., October 31
Faculty Professional Day (no school)
Tues., November 6
Admission Open House
Wed., November 21
Thanksgiving (no school)
Nov. 21-25
Musical (4th, 5th, 6th Grades)
Tues., December 18
Gingerbread Breakfast (K4-K5)
Fri., December 21
Winter Vacation
Mon., December 24- January 6
2013 School Reopens
Mon., January 7
MLK Day (no school)
Mon., January 21
Open House
Sat., January 26
Winter Arts Festival
Suns., January 27
Presidents’ Day (no school)
Mon., February 18
Faculty Professional Day (no school)
Fri., March 1
Science Expo
Sat., March 9
Conferences (no school)
Mon., March 18
Conferences (no school)
Tues., March 19
2013
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Spring Vacation
Wed., March 20 Fri., March 39
School Reopens
Mon., April 1
Musical (1st, 2nd, 3rd Grades)
Thurs., April 18
Faculty Professional Day (no school)
Tues., April 24
Grandparents Day
Fri., April 26
Spring Concert
Thurs., May 9
Mother’s Day Breakfast (2nd Grade)
Fri., May 10
Field Day (no afternoon busing)
Fri., May 24
Memorial Day (no school)
Mon., May 27
Field Day Rain Date (full school day)
Tues., May 28
Pre-School Closing Program
Thurs., June 6
Commencement
Fri., June 7
Emergency Closings Meadowbrook Number #383
In the event that Meadowbrook School will not be opening due to snow or other emergencies, you will be informed through a telephone call from the ALERTNOW Notification Service. SEE PAGE 40 OF THIS HANDBOOK FOR A FULL DESCRIPTION OF THIS SERVICE. In addition, you may check the following options at 6:00 am or after: 1. The Meadowbrook website www.themeadowbrookschool.org 2. Television Fox News www.fox29.com KYW News Channel 3 www.kyw.com NBC Channel 10 www.nbc10.com 3. Radio KYW Radio 1060 AM www.kyw1060.com 4. The main school number: 215-884-3238 A tape at school will usually announce the closing in addition to all of the systems above. It is imperative that you MAKE SURE ALL OF YOUR PHONE NUMBERS-HOME, WORK, CELL, FOR EACH PARENT ARE UPDATED REGULARLY.
Page 5 of this Directory has instructions for emergency dismissal during school hours.
4.
Weather Related Early Dismissal School Districts make their closing decisions regardless of what Meadowbrook is doing. This means we may remain open, but districts send their buses to pick up their district’s students. With little notification we must get students prepared to leave. We will post the district and their estimated pick-up time on the home page of the web site www. themeadowbrookschool.org as the information becomes available. If Meadowbrook will be closing early, the ALERTNOW Notification Service will go into alert mode. All phone numbers and e-mail addresses which have been provided to Craig Rifkin will be called or notified. SEE
PAGE 40 FOR FULL DESCRIPTION OF THIS SERVICE.
We ask that you and your child discuss the instructions you indicated on the Inclement Weather and Emergency Dismissal form from the beginning of the year. Your child’s teacher will also be informed of your arrangement. Students frequently want to make arrangements with their friends when these opportunities present themselves. Last minute plans are strongly discouraged as phones are being used for parent notification. Please be sure that your child understands where he or she should go (a relative or a neighbor), if an unexpected situation arises and you cannot be reached. REMIND YOUR CHILD OF YOUR PLAN FREQUENTLY.
Hours of Operation
School Hours 8:30 AM - 3:00 PM Office Hours 8:00 AM - 3:45 PM Extended Day Hours 3:00 PM - 6:00 PM Important Numbers Main Office/Head of School 215-884-3238 Assistant Head of School 215-884-3238 ext 126 Admissions Office 215-884-3238 ext 102/121 Business Office 215-884-3238 ext 108 Development Office 215-884-3238 ext 104 Alumni Relations 215-884-3238 ext 104 Extended Day (during extended day hours) 267-408-8425 Website www.themeadowbrookschool.org 5.
MISSION The mission of the Meadowbrook School is to offer an unwavering commitment to academic excellence for a diverse population of elementary school children. The School believes education includes learning to appreciate the value of hard work, expanding a sense of integrity, and practicing humanity toward others while inspiring students to make positive differences. We strive to have our students well-prepared and eager to take on future challenges.
Multicultural Education....What We Believe 1. Education that is multicultural develops self-acceptance and pride in one’s own culture. We view the family as the primary source of traditions, celebrations, and values for children. The role of the school is to affirm that each individual has a distinct identity and to help children appreciate their own identities and those of others.
2. Education that is multicultural develops acceptance, understanding, and appreciation of other cultures and respect for these cultures. Our commitment to learning about one another and the larger world unites us as a community. 3. Education that is multicultural provides knowledge about the life, history, heritage, life styles, and value systems of other cultures. 4. Education that is multicultural creates an open, warm environment for the discussion of culturally diverse information as it occurs in the classroom. This environment is respectful of difference - different points of view, genders, sexual orientations, ages, and abilities. Differences and similarities of all kinds are acknowledged and explored with enthusiasm and respect. 5. Education that is multicultural provides children with a strong sense of their identify, a willingness to see the common threads which run through all our lives, and a high regard for the value and breadth of differences. 6.
ALMA MATER Dear old Meadowbrook May we always look Back upon thy glory; Tho’ we’re far from thee, Still we long for thee High on top the hill. We shall always fight For thy name and right Truth and honesty, we will pledge. So here’s loyalty In our hearts for thee Let us sing thy praise. Words and music by John Clark and Madeleine Walther
7.
Organizations & Committees
BOARD OF TRUSTEES Meadowbrook is governed by a Board of Trustees consistins of parents, alumni parents, alumni, and friends of the school. Much of the work of the Board takes place in the Executive, Education, Development, and Nominating Committee and in POM. 2012-2013 Executive Committee President Vice President Secretary Treasurer Headmaster
Alexis Isztwan Jeff Franz Neeta McCulloch Sheila Hudson David B. Stephens
Board Members Stan Angelo Frank Blumenthal Larry Carter Leman Davis ‘50 Jeff Franz Clifford Haugen Sheila Hudson Alexis Isztwan David Junkin Matthew Kaplan
Bobbie Leiby Neeta McCullough Maureen Moyer Bruce Panczner James Pierce Christopher Schubert David Scott ‘56 David B. Stephens Kate Wunner
8.
BOARD COMMITTEES Board Committees include both Board and non-Board members. Among members are current parents, alumni parents, alumni, grandparents, past faculty members, and friends of the school. Meadowbrook is proud of the allegiance and commitment shown by people connected to the school in a wide variety of ways.
Executive Committee
The Executive Committee consists of the Headmaster, Board officers (President, Vice-President, Secretary, and Treasurer). The committee meets prior to Board meetings to discuss the agenda. When requested, it provides guidance to the Headmaster, makes policy recommendations to the Board, and, if it has received prior Board approval, may exercise the function of the Board between meetings. Finance Committee This Committee us comprised of board members and parents. This committee’s primary responsibility is to develop preliminary budgets, approve a final budget, and review the budget throughout the year. In addition, this committee annually reviews the school’s insurance needs, reviews the annual audit, and oversees the management of the school’s endowment.
Education Committee
This committee, comprised of board members, parents and faculty will work with the entire faculty on the process of developing a curriculum map. This committee will be a sounding board for the faculty Curriculum Committee. It should be understood that the this committee will not be empowered to make changes in the curriculum, but instead assist the faculty with solid feedback and help with the final curriculum map which will be used as a marketing piece for the school.
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Committee on Trustees
The Committee on Trustees, made up of current Board members, coordinates the identification, cultivation, recruitment, and orientation of new trustees; renominates sitting trustees; nominates officers; facilitates board education, training and self-assessment; and evaluates and reviews trustee related by-laws and policies.
Development Committee
Members oversee efforts to gather support for annual giving, scholarships, endowment, capital campaigns, matching gift programs, and the PA Tax Credit Program. The Development Committee also researches foundations for grant proposals and major donors. The Chairperson reports to the Board.
Buildings and Grounds Committee
The Building and Grounds committee members evaluate physical plant needs, prioritize them, and make recommendations to the Board of Directors with a plan of action.
Marketing Committee
These members plan and implement advertising, community awareness, and focus on internal and external efforts to market Meadowbrook effectively.
10.
CORPORATION NIGHT The Corporation meeting is held once a year in the Fall. At this meeting Board Committee reports are given and special presentations may also be made. Since Meadowbrook is a non-profit corporation with each family acting as a member, attendance is important. The business meeting is followed by a “Back-to-School Night,” when parents visit their child’s classroom to hear about goals and programs for the year. “Step- up Night” is held in the Spring. This is when parents meet the teachers of their child’s next grade level and learn about the following year’s programs and curriculum.
ADMISSIONS Process Our parents are a wonderful source of referrals. If you would like to refer a family to Meadowbrook, please inform the Director of Admissions, Kelly Mosteller, or her Admission Associate, Karen DiFelice. The process is as follows: Parents tour the school with Kelly or Karen and then meet with David Stephens to focus on their child. The family submits an application, and then the child visits for a morning (applicants to PreKindergarten (PK), Kindergarten (K), and 1st) or a full day (grades 2-6). Financial aid forms can be requested at any point in the process.
Admissions Committee Members of the Admissions Committee act as ambassadors both within and outside the Meadowbrook community. They share information about Meadowbrook and the admission process, and offer suggestions regarding admissions and marketing. They assist with open houses as well as nursery schools and new family contacts.
11.
Open Houses Prospective families can visit Meadowbrook by appointment or by attending an open house. The Fall Open Houses are held in October and November and include visits to classes in all grades. There is a question-and-answer session with a student panel of 6th graders. The Winter Open Houses are held in January and February. The question-and-answer session is conducted with the Pre-Kindergarten, Kindergarten and 1st grade teachers as well as students.
Current parents are encouraged to invite friends, relatives, and neighbors who may be interested in Meadowbrook to attend open houses. In addition, we encourage interested parents to distribute invitations and/or post open house signs on their properties or neighborhoods.
IMPORTANT MESSAGE FROM THE DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE Gift income is critical to the health of the school. Each year you will be asked to contribute to Annual Giving. Meadowbrook relies on Annual Giving for the most important dollars . . .unrestricted funds that can be spent for non-budgeted large projects, retirement benefits, and professional development of staff, operation and maintenance of Meadowbrook’s campus and facilities, and other pressing needs. We urge you to consider seriously these needs and contribute to this vital fund. Please know, however, that gifts are welcome at any time during the year, and that while large leadership gifts are crucial, gifts of any amount are greatly appreciated. Our goal is 100% participation in our annual campaign. Also, please be aware of the many other gift opportunities that exist: Endowment Fund, Scholarship Fund, gifts-in-kind, and matching gift programs, to note a few. Please see Megan Brogan, Karen DiFelice or any member of the Development Committee for details.
Your gifts make up the large gap between expenses and revenues and help Meadowbrook continue its fine tradition of excellence in elementary education. 12.
POM Parents of Meadowbrook, or POM for short, is the parent organization that acts as a liaison between Meadowbrook and the parent population. POM raises funds for the school, organizes activities for our children, keeps parents informed of upcoming events and activities in a weekly newsletter, and coordinates room parents. Everyone is invited to attend monthly meetings. At these meetings events are planned, and on occasion, speakers are invited to discuss current issues. For additional information about POM, please turn to “POM Events” under “PARENTAL INVOLVEMENT,” and “DIRECTORIES,” for listing of current room parents and parent volunteers.
2012-2013 Officers
President - Sheila Hudson Vice President- Katerina Machaira-Christensen Treasurer- Carolyn Stern Secretary- Tamecia Williams School Store - Leslie Racz Teacher Liaison - Jillian Katona Tentative POM Meeting Dates All meetings will be held in the Dining Commons at 8:30 am. Tuesday, Sept. 11 Tuesday, Oct. 9 Tuesday, Nov. 13 Tuesday, Dec. 11 Tuesday, Jan. 8 Tuesday, Feb. 12 Tuesday, Mar. 12 Tuesday, April 9 Tuesday, May 14 13.
By-laws of the Parents of Meadowbrook NAME: The name of the organization shall be PARENTS OF MEADOWBROOK SCHOOL (hereinafter referred to as “POM�). PURPOSE: The purpose of the organization shall be to assist at all times the furtherance of the philosophy of the school to provide excellence in elementary education; to enhance and reflect the strong family spirit which enriches the Meadowbrook educational environment; to sponsor, organize and support events that will focus on the social and recreational needs of the Meadowbrook students and families; and further to raise monies through fund-raising events organized, sponsored, and supported by the parents of Meadowbrook School through POM, and to make said monies available for use by Meadowbrook School at the discretion of the administration, upon approval of a majority of the Executive Committee of POM. MEMBERSHIP: The membership shall consist of the parents or guardians of all students enrolled in the school for the current year. Each family unit constitutes one member. EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE: The business of the organization shall be administered by an Executive Committee comprised of the four officers of the organization and the Parent-at-Large. Each member of the Executive Committee shall have one vote. The Executive Committee shall meet prior to each POM meeting. The President of POM may call additional meetings at such times as may be necessary to transact the business of the organization. The Executive Committee shall also meet at the request of any five members of POM to discuss such business as may arise. The Executive Committee shall also have the power to address and resolve by a majority vote any issues, elective or otherwise, affecting POM, which might arise and are not addressed under these By-laws. OFFICERS: The officers shall consist of the President, Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer, and Parent-at-large. The Vice President, Secretary, and Treasurer shall be elected at the annual meeting of the 14.
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members for a term of one year, or until their successors shall be duly elected. The Parent-at-large shall have been the POM president during the preceding school year. If the position of Parent-at-large cannot be filled by the President of the preceding year, said office will be open for nominations by the Executive Committee and election by a majority of the Executive Committee. The candidate’s qualifications must include considerable experience within POM so that the advisory capacity of the Parent-at-large can be maintained. Upon approval of the Executive Committee, the current Vice President shall succeed to the position of the President for the following school year unless he or she chooses not to accept the position of the Presidency, under which circumstance the office of President will be open for election under the same conditions and procedures as stated above for all other officers. ELECTION: Members wishing to be considered for the positions of Vice-President, Secretary, or Treasurer, or members who wish to nominate another member for said positions, shall submit their names to the current President at least one month prior to the annual meeting; said name to be placed on a ballot for voting at the annual meeting. A written ballot will be issued at the annual meeting and tallied by the Executive Committee as soon thereafter as practicable. Election results will be announced and posted immediately upon completion of the tally. Absentee ballots will be available upon request to the secretary for those members who are unable to attend the annual meeting. Said absentee ballots must be presented to the secretary no later than two days prior to the annual meeting to be considered. The position of President will be assumed at the end of the current school year. In addition, all members of the Executive Committee may identify possible candidates and present them for consideration to the Executive Committee at least two months prior to the annual meeting. Qualified individuals who are approved by a majority of the Executive Committee and who agree to accept said nomination of the Executive Committee shall be placed on the ballot. 15.
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MEETINGS OF THE MEMBERSHIP: A quorum shall consist of ten percent of the members. There shall be at least one meeting of the membership during the school year (hereinafter referred to as the “Annual Meeting�). This meeting shall be held in the Spring. Written notice of the Annual Meeting shall be sent to all members at least ten days prior to the day such meeting is to be held. Election of members of the Executive Committee for the ensuing year shall take place at the Annual Meeting as set forth above. At the Annual Meeting the President shall make a report to the membership of the activities of the preceding year and shall present such other reports of officers and committee chairpersons as may be considered appropriate. VACANCIES: Vacancies occurring in the offices of the Executive Committee through resignation, death or other circumstance, shall be filled by majority vote of the remaining Executive Committee members present at any subsequent regular or special meeting. Vacancies shall be filled for the remainder of the term. AMENDMENTS: These By-laws may be amended by majority vote of those present at a meeting of the membership. No amendment shall be presented to the membership for approval unless and until it shall have first received the approval of a majority of the Executive Committee members present at a regular or special Executive Committee meeting.
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Policies & Procedures
TUITION AND FEES The tuition/fee structure is set by the Board of Trustees at the February meeting. Bills are sent to parents in June (for the following year.) Your bill will include tuition and annual fees. Annual fees cover lunch, snacks, most books and materials, most trips, enrichment programs, computer use, class photographs, the handbook/directory, and ice skating. Tuition and annual fees are payable in two installments: twothirds by July 1st (for the following year) and one-third by December 1st. Tuition and annual fees may be paid in ten (10) equal monthly installments from July 1st (for the following year) to April 1st only through the Higher Education Services (HES) Installment Payment Plan (IPP). Terms and conditions of the IPP service are outlined in the HES brochure and can be accessed online at : www.highereducationservice.com.
Accounts not paid within 10 days become past due and are subject to a finance charge of $10 per day. Finance charges are assessed regardless of amount owed. A service fee of $25 will be charged to your account for any check returned by the bank for nonpayment. Note that late payment of bills or failure to pay finance charges may result in exclusion of a child from school until accounts are made current. Financial obligations must be met before a diploma, promotion, or transfer of records can be given. PS, PK, and K Afternoons: Students in less than a full program should attend according to the schedule under which they are enrolled. Afternoons may not be substituted on an ad hoc basis to make up for absences, trips, etc. Changes to the afternoon schedule, either on a drop-in or on a daily basis, must be requested in writing using the appropriate forms available from the teacher. Changes will result in a bill being issued by the Business Office. There are no refunds for sick days or snow days.
17.
ATTENDANCE/ABSENCE/LATENESS
Please call the office between 8:00 and 8:30 a.m. to alert us that your child will be absent, or complete the “Attendance Report” in the ‘My Meadowbrook’ section of the website. Families who have not reported a student absence or late arrival will receive a phone call from the school alerting them about the absence. Families who receive a phone call are asked to call Meadowbrook and verify the student’s absence. Any special messages, such as homework requests, can be e-mailed directly to the teacher. Homework can be made available in the office after 2:00 p.m. or will be online. We do not encourage children to miss school due to family vacations. If inevitable, a note, as early as possible, to the teacher is requested. *Please note: Absences for major religious holidays will not appear on a student’s record. ALL STUDENTS ARE EXPECTED TO BE IN THEIR CLASSROOMS BY 8:30 A.M. IT IS IMPERATIVE THAT CHILDREN REPORT TO THE OFFICE BEFORE GOING TO CLASS IF THEY ARRIVE AFTER 8:30 SO THAT THEY CAN BE PUT ON THE PROPER LIST FOR DISMISSAL. Also note: latenesses will be recorded on report cards
STUDENT ILLNESS A student should remain at home when ill. When the illness is communicable, the student is required to stay away for the safety of the other students. Parents are asked to call the School when the child has a communicable disease. For the wellbeing of your child and the other children, we recommend that you wait for a period of at least 24 hours before sending your child back to school if they have had fever, swollen glands, sore throat, vomiting, skin irritations or any other type of physical discomfort. The school does not employ a full-time nurse or maintain a full-service infirmary. Therefore, parents should be prepared to pick up a child who becomes ill during the school day. In cases of communicable disease, the advice of your 18.
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family physician coupled with your prudent judgment and patient recovery rate will determine when your child may safely return to school. The School reserves the right to ask for a note from the treating physician certifying that it is safe for the child to return before permitting the student to attend classes. For instances of conjunctivitis (pink-eye) and strep throat, the School asks for a note from the treating physician stating that the disease is no longer communicable.
Illness and Injury
If a child is injured or has an injury during the course of the day, he/she will be sent to the office. If necessary, he/she may receive first aid. If the student is feeling ill, he or she may rest briefly. Every attempt is made to have the student return to the classroom. In the event of an emergency, the parent will be contacted, and if unavailable, the rest of the emergency contacts will be attempted.
19.
MEDICAL AND DENTAL FORMS
The Pennsylvania Health State Department requires that medical dental forms for your child must be in the office prior to the first day of school. Children may not be allowed to attend class unless these forms are on file. All forms are available to download from our web pages.
Medications When medication, prescription or over-the-counter (OTC), is to be administered to a student during the school day, the parent must bring to the office the Medication Permission form. This form is available online at the Meadowbrook Meeting Place or in the office and indicates: 1. Written orders from a physician giving the name of the drug, dosage, when medication is to be taken, diagnosis and/or the reason that the medication is being given. 2. Written permission from the parent or guardian for the school to comply with the physician’s order. 3. Medication must be provided in a container appropriately labeled with the child’s name by the pharmacy or physician. OTC medication must be in the original container as purchased and marked with the child’s name. 4. All medication, prescription and OTC, must be kept in the office. Any medication which is to be given to a child must be accompanied by Medication Permission Form. If medication is to be given over an extended period of time, it is requested that a sufficient amount be provided so medicine does not have to be taken back and forth each day.
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HOLIDAYS IN SCHOOL 1. We recommend that there be continuing exposure to all secular and religious holidays as they arise, both formally and incidentally in an impartial way. We recommend the continuation of acknowledging religious, cultural, and ethnic holidays. In short, it seems that the current practice in the classrooms is most suitable and is valued by students and parents. 2. We recommend that the practice regarding holidays outside the classroom be considerate of all members of the Meadowbrook community. There should be no apparent reference to particular religions in school programs. Assemblies can reflect an individual theme, but one-time, whole-school performances should reflect the diversity in the Meadowbrook community. Performances in winter and spring should remain non-religious and non-symbolic. After whole group discussion, the consensus was that all school performances in which students are expected to participate through in-school rehearsals should be non- religious and non-symbolic. 3. We recommend that the practice regarding bulletin boards, menus, and displays be to represent all holidays, calendar events, and celebrations in age-appropriate ways. The events that are acknowledged should be those that occur in the lives of children throughout the year. Special care should be taken to see that there is consideration, fairness and respect in the holidays, calendar events, and celebrations that are represented at school.
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POLICIES ON ELECTRONIC DEVICES/CELL PHONES ELECTRONIC DEVICES: Single use electronic devices for playing music or games are the only ones allowed on field trips. Teachers will monitor that such devices are the only ones taken along on a trip. Earphones are to be used with these devices. CELL PHONES: Student cell phone usage is not permitted on Meadowbrook’s campus. We recognize that emergency situations could arise in transit to/from school; therefore, a student may have a cell phone at school but it must remain in the bookbag and be turned off while the student is on campus. If a student has a cell phone out of his/her bookbag that student will be warned that the cell phone needs to put into the bookbag until he/she is off campus. Repeated infractions will result in confiscation of the cell phone for extended periods.
NO SMOKING ALLOWED
The Meadowbrook School is a smoke free facility. There is NO SMOKING allowed on campus or campus grounds, during any events or functions.
NOT ALLOWED IN SCHOOL!!
In an effort to teach healthy habits we will not serve gum or candy to our students, with the exception of special events such as Halloween, candy houses, and the USA Cake. Radios, headsets, collector cards, and electronic games are unwelcome.
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PETS IN SCHOOL
Although we love having our pets visit Meadowbrook, it can be distressing for both the pet and our students, especially those children who are allergic or feel uneasy around animals. If a pet is to visit the classroom, it is best to make advance arrangements with arrival and departure at times when student traffic in the lobbies and halls is at a minimum. Whenever you bring your pet into the school-in the morning or in the afternoonfor everyone’s comfort and ease, we ask that you keep your pet on a leash at all times. Please remember that dogs are not allowed in school buildings. We thank you for your continued cooperation and good judgment.
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ACCEPTABLE INTERNET USE POLICY This Code of Conduct applies to all users of the Meadowbrook School network, computers, and related technologies. Each student has access to a computer that has Internet capabilities as well as other forms of technology including but not exclusive to mobile laptops, digital cameras, scanners, and printers. When parents sign a contract for attendance at St. Martin’s Episcopal School, the parent(s) are agreeing to abide by the school acceptable use policy which is included in the school handbook. With a signed contract with the school, the students are also agreeing to abide by the acceptable use policy. The purpose of the Meadowbrook School provided access to technologies is to facilitate student research and education. To remain eligible as users, students’ use must be in support of and consistent with the educational objectives of the Meadowbrook School. Access does entail responsibility. Users should not expect that files stored on school-based computers and networks to be private. Electronic messages and files stored on school computers will be treated as school property. Administrators and faculty may review files and messages to maintain system integrity and insure that users are acting responsibly. The following are the requirements for student use of the network, Internet, and all other forms of technology. The technology available at The Meadowbrook School is a privilege, not a right. • Behave in a responsible manner when using the network or the Internet. Use of the computer is an extension of the classroom. Appropriate behavior is expected at all times. • Students are not to send or display any offensive messages or pictures via the computer. • Students will not use Instant Messenger on school computers. • Students will not download music, videos, or software on any school computer.
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• Students will not harass, insult, or attack others via the computer. • Students will not damage the computers, computer systems, network, or other technologies. • Students will inform the computer lab teacher if a computer or other related technology is malfunctioning. The student will not try to fix the problem. • Students will not bring in personal devices without prior approval of a school faculty member. The student must turn in the device to the appropriate faculty member once entering the school building and the device should remain in the possession of that faculty member until the student leaves for the day. Students must be supervised by a faculty member at all times when using any equipment, either personal or school owned. • Students will abide by all copyright laws. • Students will not use another person’s password. • Students will not trespass into another person’s folders or files. • Students will not waste the limited resources available at The Meadowbrook School • Students will not use the network or Internet for commercial purposes. • Students will be responsible for maintaining storage devices that are used in school computers. The Meadowbrook School makes no warranties of any kind, either expressed or implied, for the provided access. The Meadowbrook School is not responsible for any damages incurred, including, but not limited to, loss of data resulting from delays or interruption of service, for the loss of data stored on The Meadowbrook School resources, or for personal property used to access these resources; or for the accuracy, nature, or quality of information stored on The Meadowbrook School resources. Further, even though The Meadowbrook School may use technical or manual means to limit student access, these limits do not provide a foolproof means for enforcing the provisions of this policy. All provisions of this agreement are subordinate to local, state and federal statute. 25.
(continued from p 25)
As a student at The Meadowbrook School and a user of its network, I hereby agree to comply with the above stated requirements. I understand that if I do not comply with any of these rules, I am subject to withdrawal of computer, network, and Internet privileges and may be subject to further action by the school as well as legal action. As the parent or legal guardian of the minor student(s), I grant permission for my child(ren) to access The Meadowbrook School’s network, including, but not limited to electronic mail, Internet service, and all other technologies. I understand that individuals and families may be held liable for violations of these applications and the equipment. I understand that some information available on the Internet and electronic mail may not be appropriate and I understand that I am responsible for setting clear guidelines for my child as to what is acceptable in conjunction with the requirements that are set forth by the school. As the parent or legal guardian of the minor student(s), I grant permission for my child(ren) to access The Meadowbrook School’s network, including, but not limited to electronic mail, Internet service, and all other technologies. I understand that individuals and families may be held liable for violations of these applications and the equipment. I understand that some information available on the Internet and electronic mail may not be appropriate and I understand that I am responsible for setting clear guidelines for my child as to what is acceptable in conjunction with the requirements that are set forth by the school.
MEDIA PERMISSION FORM Upon initial enrollment of your child you will be asked to check off and sign a Media Permission Form that indicates your willingness to have your child be in photographs for various publications. Please make sure that you complete this form and send it to Kelly Mosteller.
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PARTIES IN AND OUT OF SCHOOL Birthdays: Parents who wish to celebrate their child’s birthday at school should make arrangements through the classroom teacher. Children enjoy sharing their birthday treat with the Headmaster and other adults with whom they have a special relationship. Please remember that we strive to be a peanut free school, so we request that any treat that you provide does not include peanuts or peanut butter. In keeping with the Meadowbrook family tradition, a few guidelines have evolved regarding birthday parties: 1. IF YOUR CHILD DISTRIBUTES INVITATIONS IN SCHOOL, THERE MUST BE ONE FOR EACH MEMBER OF HIS OR HER CLASS (NOT NECESSARILY GRADE). Anyone who is left out feels hurt and excluded - a feeling no one wants to have or impose. 2. If your child wishes to invite a few class members, please issue the invitations via the phone or mail. 3. Please be sure to respond to any invitations received.
Keep in mind that a party atmosphere is quite different from a classroom environment. As the host, be prepared to redirect behavior, supervise activity, and encourage manners. As a guest, a reminder to your child about your expectations for his/her behavior goes a long way toward him/her being welcome again. Children come in a variety of expressive packages and all need reminders to control themselves at times. Don’t be embarrassed. It is your home. You set the standards. When we work together toward an expectation, parties can be a building block for friendships. Class Parties: There are generally four class parties during the year: Halloween, which includes a daytime costume parade and pumpkin decorating contest, Winter Holiday for which Pre-Kindergarten and Kindergarten students invite a guest to their Gingerbread Breakfast, Valentine’s Day when candy grams are delivered, and an End-of-Year 27.
(continued from p 27)
party. Room mothers coordinate class parties with the guidance of classroom teachers. End-of-Year Parties: In the past, some of our families have graciously invited their child’s class to their homes for an end-of-year party. We request that these parties be held on weekends or after school hours. If the children will be swimming, we request that they be supervised by a qualified lifeguard.
USE OF THE TELEPHONE
Your child may only use the telephone in the event of an emergency. Forgetting homework assignments, projects, ice skates, and the like, are not considered emergencies. Advance planning and responsibility are required so that your child is prepared for the school day. After-school visits with friends should be arranged prior to the school day. Your child may not use the phone to arrange such visits. If an emergency arises and a parent must make last minute transportation change, the parent should call the office and inform Debbie Harding. If athletic practices or games are canceled due to inclement weather, the ALERTNOW service will be activated and you will receive a phone call regarding the cancellation. There may be other incidences where your child may be asked to call you. It is imperative that you have your most recent contact information and emergency contacts on file in the office.
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Necessary Details
ARRIVAL All students are expected to be in their classrooms by 8:30 a.m. Children are to report to the office before going to class if they arrive after 8:30. Also note: Latenesses will be recorded on report cards. Children may arrive as early as 7:45 A.M. A teaching assistant will provide supervision in the lobby until 8:00 at which time children are called to their classrooms. Fifth and sixth grade volunteers serve as Morning Greeters who assist younger children from their cars to their classrooms. Greeters are stationed outside the front entrance from 8:00 until 8:25. This program begins in late September and lasts the entire school year.
DISMISSAL
Dismissal for preschoolers is at 12:30 P.M. (half-day program) and 3:00 P.M. (full-day program). Students are dismissed from the gym at 3:00. At 3:15, those remaining move to the main lobby under the watchful eye of a teaching assistant. Students who are not picked up by 3:30 will be sent to Extended Day. Parents arriving by car to pick up their child at 3 P.M. and who want to enter the building are requested to park in appropriate spaces and enter the school through the MAIN LOBBY ONLY. *PLEASE NOTE: ALL STUDENTS ARE CHECKED OFF OF A MASTER TRANSPORTATION LIST EACH DAY AS THEY LEAVE. IT IS IMPERATIVE THAT YOU SEND IN A NOTE IF YOU ARE PICKING UP YOUR CHILD AT ANY OTHER TIME THAN DISMISSAL.
BY BUS If a student is to be transported by bus, information provided by the parent is sent to the proper school district for routing. Parents are notified by the school district or by Meadowbrook prior to the beginning of school as to time and place of morning pick-up and place of afternoon drop-off. If you have any questions about bus transportation, the person to see is Debbie Harding.
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By Car
Help! When dropping off or picking up your child, please park in designated parking areas. Please do not park in the “dropoff” or “pick-up” zone. The front of the school must by free of cars so buses may pull up. It is important that children do not have to go through traffic to get on or off their buses. When parking behind the gym, please do not park in the kitchen area. This space needs to be kept available for deliveries.
Parking is permitted around the circle, between the trees on the right side of the entrance driveway, to the side of and behind the gym, and in the marked parking spaces directly in front of school and along the right side of the exit driveway. When you are accompanying your child on a class trip, Meadowbrook asks that you park to the side of and behind the gym. Parking is NOT PERMITTED in the area in front of the doors and in areas marked, “NO PARKING.” The area directly in front of the doors to the school is for school buses and parents who are dropping off their children so that the children do not have to walk in front of traffic. If you must go into the school, please do not park your car in that area, even if it is “only for a minute!” We urge you to cross the driveway at the designated crosswalk. This helps to teach children the safe way to cross any street. Also, be mindful when you pick up or drop off your child that Meadowbrook is an elementary school with children as young as four, who may not be aware that they should be looking before walking behind or in front of a stopped vehicle. They are so small that you may not see them behind you! Please - be very, careful when backing out of a parking spot or when dropping off your child as little ones move very quickly. It only takes a second for an enthusiastic child to spot a friend and run without looking. The safety of our children is paramount! REMEMBER, THE SPEED LIMIT AROUND THE CIRCLE IS 5 MPH!!!
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When special events are held, school staff may be on hand to direct you to appropriate parking. We need to be aware of our neighbors who do not appreciate cars blocking their driveways nor cars parked on their lawns. IMPORTANT NOTES: 1. If your child is going home other than the usual way, WE MUST HAVE A NOTE FROM YOU! Details should be worked out the night before, so everyone - especially your child - knows what is to happen. If your child normally takes the bus home and does not have a note indicating that he or she is going home by another means, YOUR CHILD WILL BE SENT HOME ON THE BUS. 2. It is extremely important that the office be kept up to date regarding changes in addresses and telephone numbers (home
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FIELD TRIPS
We are particularly excited about our strong trip and enrichment program. Information about field trips is sent home with students. Please be sure to return permission slips promptly. There will be no charge for class trips unless the trip is unusually expensive. On a few occasions you will be asked to consider providing a small amount of spending money for souvenir shopping. We ask that you follow the teacher’s guidelines and send the small amount suggested and NO MORE! Following is a sample list of trips that have been taken. Not all of these trips will take place each year. They are listed by grade: PS &PK Kohler Farm, Keswick Theater, Ice Skating*
K
Insectarium, Freddy Hill Farm, Rydal Park, KeswickTheater
1st Philadelphia Zoo, Barnes Foundation, Philadelphia Museum of Art, Theater, Ringing Rocks 2nd Styer’s Orchard, Philadelphia Museum of Art, Post Office, Theater, Academy of Natural Sciences, Kimmel Center - Orchestra 3rd Pennsbury Manor, Churchville Nature Center, Adventure Aquarium, Amish Country in Lancaster, Redeemer Village 4th Ellis Island, Philadelphia Museum of Art, Lackawanna Coal Mine, Theater, Franklin Institute 5th Wissahickon Valley Watershed, Theater, Hagley Museum, Valley Forge, Gettysburg, Historic Philadelphia, Cliveden 6th Barnes Foundation, Hawk Mountain, Academy of Natural Sciences, U of P Museum, Philadelphia Museum of Art, Glen Cairn Museum, Bryn Athyn Cathedral, NY City, Optional Trip to France *All students except Preschoolers participate in ice skating, which is part of the Physical Education curriculum. Please Note: Parents accompanying their child on a field trip are asked to park behind the gym unless that area is filled.
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FIELD TRIP SAFETY
A law (2002) regarding a booster seat provision requires that children under 8 years of age be restrained in a child safety or booster seat while riding in a motor vehicle. Therefore, anytime that cars are used for trips, we must require all children up to 8 years of age be in a safety or booster seat. POM has purchased three booster seats for this purpose, to be loaned to parents who are transporting students on a trip. Please be aware of the new law, not only for yourselves personally, but also in case you volunteer to drive on school trips.
LOST AND FOUND
Clothing or other items found in school or on the playground will be placed in the Lost and Found, located across from the Science Center. It is recommended that all articles of clothing, particularly uniforms, be labeled with your child’s name.
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HOMEWORK
Homework assignments provide students with the opportunity to practice skills learned in class. The amount of homework given is age appropriate. By sixth grade, children can expect one to two hours per night. Generally, except for long-term projects, homework is not given over weekends. No homework will be given over long vacations, and nothing will be due the day after a major religious holiday. Projects, again appropriate for the child’s age, help children learn to organize their work and budget their time. These are skills the faculty helps your child develop through the years. Quizzes and tests help children learn and sharpen study skills. They also help monitor progress and identify weaknesses. If you find your child spending more time than expected by the teacher on homework, please speak to the teacher so that your child can be helped to work more efficiently. There is a fine line between guiding and doing the homework. Our goal is to create independent learners, children not afraid to make mistakes and ask for help when needed.
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SNACK
Snack is served mid-morning to students, faculty, and staff on a daily basis, most usually in the Dining Commons.
LUNCH
Whether you purchase the Meadowbrook lunch or bring your own, the family style setting in the Dining Commons is special. Children have the opportunity to eat lunch in a social setting with children of varying ages as well as adults. Tables are assigned monthly; ages are purposely mixed. The children are expected to know each other by the end of each month. Teachers sit with the students, and parents are invited to dine with their children. No reservation necessary! Please remember that Meadowbrook strives to be peanut free to protect any child that may have a peanut allergy. We must insist that you refrain from sending any peanut product to school at any time, whether in a packed lunch or as a treat for your child’s classroom party.
LUNCH TIMES
11:30 - 12:00 - Grades 1, 2, 3, and 5 12:30 - 1:00 - Grades PS, PK, K, 4, and 6 Lunch is usually followed by one-half hour recess.
WAITERS Third and fourth grade students are sandwich servers; fifth and sixth grade students are waiters. This program encourages interaction of children of all ages and fosters responsibility.
WHAT’S COOKING?
Menus are available online and are prepared by chef Andrew Maloney, and are reviewed/approved by Nutrition Committee, Cindy Carpenter, Janice Mockaitis and David Stephens. Sandwiches or another option are available each day as alternatives to the scheduled lunch. Milk served is low-fat; snacks and juices are also served daily.
Please see someone on the committee if you have special concerns regarding dietary needs of your child due to medical condition or religious practices.
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School Store
Where can I find the store? The store is located in the hallway between the Dining Commons and the Gym. What can I purchase at the store? The school store stocks: short and long sleeved polos and sweatshirts. Occasionally, the store will also sell various Meadowbrook logo items. Where can I order shorts, vests and other Meadowbrook sweaters? Shorts (girls and boys) can be purchased from any retailer as long as they meet the school’s dress code. Sweaters and vests must have the school crest and can be purchased at www.frenchtoast.com or landsend.com . Meadowbrook’s French Toast school source code is QS5JAHE and Land’s End is 900040221. When you place an order and identify yourself as a Meadowbrook parent, POM receives 5% of the purchase. Where can I find gray slacks and leggings ? Khaki slacks may be purchased at any store, provided that they are regular uniform style slacks. Gray may be worn for this year and will be phased out. Gray slacks may also be purchased from any store and must be a regular uniform-style slack. Students may not wear gray SWEATPANTS to school as part of the uniform. Where can I find skirts and jumpers? Kilts and jumpers can be purchased from Flynn and O'Haras : www.flynnohara.com or 1-800-441-4122 There are three stores in the area, two in NE Philadelphia and one in Springhouse. Go to their website to order online or find the hours and driving directions to their stores. Who runs the school store? The school store is operated by parent volunteers. If you are interested in volunteering or have any questions regarding the store, please email Leslie Racz at .lezel_p@yahoo.com When is the school store open? The store is open additional and/or extended hours during the first week of each school year - check the school Web site for hours. If you cannot get to the store during regular store hours, you may send in or e-mail an order form and send in your check made 36.
payable to POM. Blank forms can be found in a link on the school website under School Store. The check and order form should be in a sealed envelope addressed to the school store and be given to the classroom teacher, or can be placed in the folder marked “School Store� at the POM center. The merchandise will be sent home with your child on the first day that the store is open following receipt of your order. How do I pay? & Can items be returned? All items must be paid for at the time of purchase! We accept cash or check (payable to POM). No credit cards. Any unused item can be returned for a full refund or exchange. We also accept clean, gently used items to be offered for re-sale. Simply collect items and place outside school store.
Dress Code
The Meadowbrook School expects its students to dress in a manner which affirmatively reflects the high caliber and uniqueness of the school. Students are expected to be well-groomed and wear clothing that is appropriate for school, clothing that is clean, in good repair (no holes, rips or damaged hems) and fits well. Well groomed and well dressed students demonstrate respect for themselves and the academic environment. It is for these reasons that Meadowbrook has a uniform dress code for all of the students.
Boys: shirts pants socks
white or maroon Meadowbrook polo shirt solid khaki pant (no outside pockets i.e. cargo pants) or khaki short white
Girls: shirts white or maroon Meadowbrook polo shirt dress plaid Meadowbrook jumper or kilt pants solid khaki pants (no outside pockets i.e. cargo pants), khaki shorts, skort, or skirt socks/tights maroon or white tights or white socks ankle length gray leggings may be worn under the kilt or jumper in conjunction with white socks Footwear: Sneakers or dress shoes (Sneakers must be worn
for gym) Optional for both: Meadowbrook cardigan, v-neck or crew neck 37.
sweater, or sweatshirt. See School Store in the Handbook for information. Students are permitted to change for gym or intramurals.
For school photos and all school ceremonies: Girls must wear a kilt, jumper or khaki pants and a WHITE polo shirt Boys must wear long KHAKI Pants (no gray!) and a WHITE polo shirt
DRESS CODE For all students, the following applies:
- All clothing must be clean and in good repair - Meadowbrook jackets and fleeces are fine for outdoor wear, but they are not in-school uniform and should not be worn in class - Students must change into sneakers prior to gym class -Walking shorts must be mid thigh to knee cap in length and may be worn during the warm weather months: Sept. to Oct. 15, April 15 - June
The following items do not conform to the dress code:
-Sweatpants, stretch pants, knit pants, running pants, yoga pants or capris -athletic wear such as gym-type jogging or basketball shorts, tank or net sport shirts, football or baseball shirts, or jogging suits of any fabric -maroon gym shorts -visible long underwear -shoes with open toes, heels or flip-flops -pants with stripes, exterior pockets, or logos
GRUB DAYS
At various times throughout the year we will have a “grub day� when students are permitted to wear clothing other than the 38.
regular (cont’d from p 38) school uniform. On days when the school uniform is not required, the following guidelines will be in place. 1. Clothing shall be neat, clean, in good repair, and fit properly. 2. Clothing shall reflect basic good taste, modesty, and sensibility. 3. No student shall dress in any manner which would be disruptive to the learning environment. The following items are not permitted on campus at any time: - overalls or painter’s pants - tank tops, spaghetti strap tops, and midriff tops - short shorts, cutoffs, athletic jogging shorts or bicycle shorts - shirts with offensive or inappropriate pictures, printing, or ragged edges - bandannas - inappropriate skirts (too short, too tight) - military fatigues The final decision in matters of appropriate dress and grooming rests with the Headmaster.
SCHOOL PHOTOGRAPHS
School photographs are taken on a Tuesday after school begins in September. Dates are announced when they are finalized. There is no charge for class photographs unless you wish to purchase extra copies, however there is a form that will be sent home for you to fill out. At the end of the year, all students receive a yearbook, free of charge. Please see page 38 for the required attire for pictures.
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Communications
ALERTNOW Notification Service Keeping you informed is a top priority at The Meadowbrook School. That’s why we have adopted the ALERTNOW Notification Service which will allow us to send a telephone or e-mail message to you providing important information about school events or emergencies. We anticipate using ALERTNOW to notify you of school delays or cancellations due to inclement weather as well as remind you about various events, including report card distribution, open house, field trips, and more. IN THE EVENT OF AN EMERGENCY AT SCHOOL, YOU CAN HAVE PEACE OF MIND KNOWING THAT YOU WILL BE INFORMED IMMEDIATELY BY PHONE and E-MAIL. The successful delivery of information is dependent upon accurate contact information for each student, so please make certain that we have your most current phone numbers. If this information changes during the year, please let us know immediately. To update your information, e-mail Jim Pierce at jpierce@themeadowbrookschool.org or phone him at 215-884-3238 ext 126.
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What you need to know about receiving calls sent through ALERTNOW • Caller ID will display the school’s main number when a general announcement is delivered. • Caller ID will display 411 if the message is a dire emergency. • Be sure to say “Hello” when you answer the phone. The technology must hear a voice to deliver the message. • ALERTNOW will leave a message on any answering machine or voice mail.
EMERGENCY RESPONSE EMERGENCY #383 The Emergency Response Committee has addressed the possibility of emergency situations by developing an Emergency Response/Crisis Intervention procedure. Response as well as prevention is included in the procedure handbook. Joe Gaines chairs the committee.
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REPORT CARDS/CONFERENCES
Report cards are issued three times per year for first through sixth grade students in December, March and June. Preschool, Prekindergarten and Kindergarten students are issued report cards twice per year, in December and June. All students’ report cards are accessible online through Netclassroom. Parents are able to access their child’s grades using their individual login credentials. Ask Jim Pierce, Assistant Head of School if you are unable to access Netclassroom. (jpierce@ themeadowbrookschool.org). Parent/Teacher conferences are held three times per year, in October, March and June. Teachers are always readily available to discuss your child’s progress with you. An open line of communication between parents and teachers form the best environment for learning. Please feel free to call or e-mail your child’s teacher should you have any concerns, or just want to touch base about classroom activities, homework, etc.
COUNSELING, SPEECH AND LANGUAGE SERVICES Speech/Language services are provided by the Montgomery County Intermediate Unit (MCIU). Your child may be referred for a screening to determine if their speech/language skills are age appropriate. If the results of the screening indicate the need for an evaluation, you will be contacted. In addition, a school counselor is on campus every Monday and available to the students, parents, and faculty.
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THE BULLETIN BOARD
Parents should frequently check the bulletin board and TV monitor in the second lobby for notices of events in the school community. On the board in the second lobby they will also find alumni news, press coverage, and photographs. Parents may share events by having them posted on the bulletin board. Don’t be bashful about sharing award announcements or other good news. See Karen DiFelice, Admission and Development Associate for details.
ONLINE COMMUNICATIONS
The Meadowobrook website provides an updated online communication for parents. On the home page at www. themeadowbrookschool.org, under “About Us,” parents can find a multitude of current information under the ‘Today at Meadowbrook’ and the ‘This Week at Meadowbrook’ tabs. Visit these sites daily and weekly to find the most current information about what is happening. The lunch menu, POM events, forms, sporting events, and academic deadlines are all available on the website. Check it often!
WEBSITE AND E-mail Each teacher and staff member at Meadowbrook School has their own e-mail address and voice mail. Faculty and staff members’ addresses are their first initial followed by last name @themeadowbrookschool. org. You can find a complete directory listing for faculty and staff at www.themeadowbrookschool.org
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FYI: WEEKLY NEWSLETTER Meadowbrook produces a weekly newsletter which is e-mailed to parents on Thursdays, around noon. Its purpose is to remind you of important events, news, and “happenings” (such as pretzel sales, interscholastic sports, P.O.M. functions, etc.). For more information, or if you would like to put school news or personal news such as a birthday wish in the newsletter, please call Mr. Pierce @ 215-884-3238 ext. 126. He can also be reached at jpierce@themeadowbrookschool.org. THE DEADLINE FOR ENTRIES IN THE FYI IS 3 PM ON TUESDAYS.
ASSEMBLY
Assemblies provide opportunities for announcements, public speaking, sharing, and special programs. Students in grade 1-6 attend assembly in the gym on Monday and Friday mornings. Students in Pre-School, PreKindergarten, and Kindergarten join the older students for assembly on Friday mornings. It is important for students to arrive at school on time, by 8:30 a.m., so they do not disrupt the assembly. LATECOMERS SHOULD CHECK IN AT THE OFFICE AND THEN PROCEED DIRECTLY TO THE GYM. They should enter the gym quietly with their coats and bookbags and sit near a teacher.
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PUBLICATIONS
A Look at Meadowbrook, our handbook, is written as a tool for parents and staff to answer “everything you wanted to know about Meadowbrook but were not sure how to find out.” Our parent and staff Directory, which lists addresses, e-mail addresses and phone numbers of Meadowbrook families, faculty and staff is published separately. THIS INFORMATION IS FOR SCHOOL USE ONLY!! Please respect the privacy of the individuals listed and do not allow their information to be used for business solicitation. Also, when finished, please destroy this information in the same manner that you would your own personal information. The Spirit is Meadowbrook’s official newsletter. It is generally published twice a year, to inform families, alumni, and friends about news in the Meadowbrook community. The Literary Lantern is a literary magazine devoted entirely to the poems, stories, essays, and drawings of Meadowbrook students. An editorial board, composed of fifth and sixth grade students, meets weekly for three months to review all work submitted from grades Preschool through sixth. Alumni entries are welcome. The magazine is published in the Spring and distributed the first week of June.
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WHOM TO SEE FOR WHAT DAVID STEPHENS, HEADMASTER, is responsible for the longterm sustenance and overall health of the school. He monitors each child’s overall progress, oversees the entire curriculum, and professional development. Mr. Stephens is accessible and available for any topic. Debbie Harding will schedule your appointment with David. JIM PIERCE, ASSISTANT HEADMASTER is responsible for coordinating all efforts of teachers, teaching assistants, support staff, and parents so that communication flows. Jim coordinates all classroom schedules and those of teaching assistants. He resolves disciplinary issues, manages standardized testing and helps arrange tutorial support when it has been recommended. Other school responsibilities include enrichment assemblies, admissions candidate evaluation, Junior Great Books Program, and the After School Program. DEBBIE HARDING, SCHOOL SECRETARY, can answer just about any question or point you in the right direction. Speak to her about transportation, schedules, absences, latenesses, and medications. Debbie also administers first aid. TERRI CIOTTI & DOTTIE DUFFY, THE BUSINESS OFFICE, can answer all your questions about your tuition and bill. KELLY MOSTELLER, DIRECTOR OF ADMISSIONS, handles admissions inquiries, tours, open houses, and advertising for Meadowbrook. Kelly welcomes your referrals for admissions. MEGAN BROGAN, DIRECTOR of INSTITUTIONAL ADVANCEMENT, handles development and alumni affairs and various other activities within the school, such as class photographs, graduation, and photos for the yearbook. In addition, she produces the “Spirit,” and handles Annual Giving, Major Gifts, and Foundation Gifts to Meadowbrook. KAREN DIFELICE, DEVELOPMENT and ADMISSIONS ASSOCIATE, assists Kelly Mosteller and Megan Brogan in all aspects of the admissions process and the management of our development database.
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Extracurricular
AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAMS AND CAMPS FALL Lil’ Kickers - Lil’ Kickers® is a nationally renowned, non-competitive
child development program for boys and girls ages 18 months to nine years. This program introduces children to the concept of soccer, while also developing movement and interaction skills. Their motto: “In fact, we don’t just teach soccer to kids - we use soccer as a tool to teach kids about life.”
i9 Sports - i9 Sports runs a variety of programs on weekends including flag footbal, soccer, and cheerleading. All of the programs are run on the weekends on our campus.
WINTER Chess Club I - Grades 1 and 2, and Grades 3-6
David Lakata, of the Huntingdon Valley Chess Association, will be leading this years chess participants. Chess experience is not required but all participants should have a genuine interest in learning how to play the game.
Small Ball Basketball - Grades K-3 is a non-competitive youth basketball program. The program incorporates instructional strategies with technical expertise from Roger Galo, founder of The Aim Center for Shot Development.
SPRING BREAK CAMP Welcome in the change of seasons with a week of fun-filled spring activities. This camp is available for the first week of Spring Break. Grades Pre-Kindergarten and K
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SUMMER CAMP Meadowbrook School’s Summer Sports Series – Grades K–6 This
four-week collection of sports themed camps offers boys and girls of all ages and abilities the opportunity to participate in a wide range of sports. Our multi-sport camps provide campers with a fun-packed and enjoyable time in an environment where they can not only develop a wider range of sporting skills but also develop teamwork and interpersonal skills.
Pre-Camp Meadowbrook – Ages 3 and 4 Pre-Camp is an exciting preschool camp offering an enriching, active and academic first camp experience for children looking for an introduction to the structure of a school day. Campers enjoy theme-based activities and age appropriate academic instruction in the comforts of our air-conditioned preschool building and tree house inspired playground.
Camp Meadowbrook – Ages 5–11 Campers Meadowbrook is an eclectic compilation of activities. Campers participate in themed events, sports clinics, and enrichment courses. This is a traditional summer camp, which is open to the public.
Summer Science Camp - Grades 2-6 - This summer camp is offered the
week after school ends and is run by our science teacher, Janice Mockaitis. The camp is held Tuesday through Friday and consists of field trips and inhouse science workshops. Open to rising second through rising sixth graders.
Art Camp - Grades PK-6 Offered by art teacher, Jillian Katona, this is a 5day camp held during the week following Summer Science Camp.
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MEADOWBROOK SINGERS
Meadowbrook Singers is a musical group of students from 4th to 6th grade who focus on singing for special events. This activity is held after school from 3:00-3:30 every Monday, Tuesday and Thursday. Students are expected to attend 2 of the 3 days. Students wishing to join the group should sign up at the beginning of the school year and will perform at various community events and the Winter and Spring concert. Please Note: Ms. Ward requests that children be picked up promptly at 3:30 or students will be sent to Extended Day.
SETTLEMENT SCHOOL INSTRUMENTAL PROGRAM
Rhythm Riot is open to students with beginner and intermediate level experience on the guitar and drums. Students will work on common rock and popular music rhythms, harmonies, and beats from around the world. Songs by The Beatles and other “Guitar Hero� classics will also be introduced. Students will learn to perform in a large band ensemble and will appear in two public performances - one at Meadowbrook and one at Settlement Music School on Davisville Road. Drum students will explore a variety of percussion instruments to add to the rhythms found in rock and other popular musical forms.
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WINTER INTRAMURALS
The after school winter intramural sports program is open to all fifth and sixth grade students. Activities such as basketball, floor hockey, and volleyball will be featured two afternoons a week from 3:00 - 5:00 P.M. A letter regarding this program is sent to fifth and sixth grade parents.
EXTENDED DAY
The Extended Day Program is a most valuable service to parents and children. There is a warmth, vitality, and neighborhood feel to the program. The goal of Extended Day is to offer a constructive, safe, enjoyable afternoon for children whose parents need quality child care after the school day has ended. The staff consists of a director/teacher and one or two assistants who are certified with degrees in Elementary Education. The teachers are involved in regular classes earlier in the school day, which provides familiarity with the children and a continuity of the day. A full description of the Extended Day Program, including a fee structure, is available in the office. Director: Joyce Strother
INTERSCHOLASTIC AFTER SCHOOL SPORTS
All fifth and sixth grade students have the opportunity to participate in soccer and field hockey in the fall and baseball and softball in the spring. Competition is provided by other independent schools in the area. A letter regarding this program is sent to fifth and sixth grade parents. Sports events are noted on the website under ‘This Week at Meadowbrook’ under the “About Us” tab; all are invited to come and cheer on our teams!
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Traditions
WHAT IS A “DAVID DOLLAR?”
Several years ago, play dollars were given out to reinforce school values. Today, this practice has become ingrained in the life of the school. Whether a “David Dollar,” “Bob Dollar,” “Bob Euro,” or “Bob Franc,” all have equal value. They are given by Mr. Stephens, teachers, and students as a way of thanking the recipient for doing something special. When a student amasses ten, that student goes to Mr. Stephens’ office and selects a prize from the treasure chest. This sometimes takes a few years since all of the types of currency carryover from year to year. When your child brings one home, feel free to ask how it was earned, and praise your child for making a positive difference.
COMMUNITY SERVICE LEARNING
At Meadowbrook, every grade level participates in Community Service Learning. We believe it is essential to reach out beyond the school to those in need. Through Community Service Learning, the students gain an awareness and sensitivity toward others, as well as develop the concept of voluntary service as a life skill. By participating in several whole school and individual class projects, Community Service Learning helps the children expand their horizons and gain a broader perspective of the world. Look for details about these special activities throughout the year!
SLEDDING
Winter provides us with many opportunities for fun at Meadowbrook. Sledding becomes an added bonus to recess when the snow arrives. Children may bring their own sleds (flat bottomed, plastic only) after the first snowfall. Sleds should be clearly marked with the child’s name in permanent marker. Sleds may be left at school during the winter months. Meadowbrook will not assume any responsibility for lost or damaged sleds. Parents should expect their child to play in the snow. Please be sure to send boots, clothes, hats, gloves, and snow pants for sledding. It is recommended that students keep a change of clothes at school. Children will not be permitted to call home to request dry clothes.
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GRUB DAYS
“Grub Days,” on which children are permitted to wear “grub” clothes (street clothes), occur on designated Fridays throughout the school year. The weekly information is included in the FYI and is also announced in school to the children. Your child should know if it is a Grub Day. See Dress Code in directory for guidelines. On Grub Day a child should bring $.50 or more to school which, upon your child’s arrival, will be collected at the door by sixth grade students. All money collected is contributed to the Yearbook. Occasionally, either on a Friday or another day, money will be collected for a special charitable cause. Students will be notified in school of “special” Grub Days. *Please Note: Ice skating days are automatically considered Grub Days!
THE SCIENCE EXPO
The Science Expo is an annual extravaganza of students’ science projects. Ranging from simple to formal, projects are voluntary for all students except 6th grade. The Expo usually takes place on a Saturday in March. The entire Meadowbrook community is invited to attend, as well as friends and family.
WINTER ART FESTIVAL
Each January, the entire community (students, faculty, alumni, etc.) participate in an Art Festival. The gym is transformed into an art gallery with hundreds pieces of art arranged by Mrs. Jillian Katona, with the help of Mr. Mosteller. This spectacular event includes artwork from every student and showcases the fabulous result of a thoughtful art curriculum and all of our artistic students. A variety of medium are displayed.
RED/GRAY TEAMS
Each child is assigned to the Red or Gray Team upon enrollment. A list of teams can be found in the back of the Handbook. Siblings/families are kept together. If your greatgrandfather was on the Red Team, you will be, too! 52.
FIELD DAY
Field Day has long been a tradition at Meadowbrook School. Parents, family, and friends are invited to attend. Field Day is held on the Friday before Memorial Day. It is suggested that parents clear their calendars early so that they can attend this special event. Field Day Schedule
8:30 A.M. 9:30 A.M. 12:00 P.M.
Field Day Assembly Red/Gray teams march onto the field Red/Gray events end; picnic lunch begins
We ask parents to pack a picnic lunch for their family and friends. Dessert will be provided by the school in the Dining Commons. We also recommend that you bring folding chairs or blankets. *Please Note: There is no afternoon bus service! All children go home with their parents after the picnic lunch. Uniform for Field Day Maroon MEADOWBROOK shorts, maroon or gray MEADOWBROOK T-shirts, white socks, and sneakers are worn by each child on Field Day.
There is no rain date for Field Day. If rain cancels the event, the Red/Gray competition will be held on the next clear school day. In the event of rain on Field Day, the ALERTNOW system will be used to notify each family of the cancellation. We ask that each family notify their special guests that Field Day is cancelled. If Field Day is cancelled due to inclement weather there will be no school that day.
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LUNCH WITH YOUR CHILD
You are welcome to come in and meet your child for lunch from time to time. You don’t need to make an appointment! You can just show up at the 11:30 or 12:30 lunch, sit down with your child, and enjoy some mid-day special times. Although you are always welcome, it is strongly suggested that this event not happen so frequently that it is no longer “special.”
GRADUATION CEREMONIES
The Preschool, Pre-Kindergarten and Kindergarten closing program is presented to their parents and the school usually the day before 6th grade graduation. The children may go home with their parents after the program, as this is their final day of school, or they may remain for the rest of the school day. The following day Grades 1-5 attend our 6th Grade Graduation, and have a 10:15 am dismissal. Grade 6 students and their guests remain for a reception after the commencement ceremony.
SIXTH GRADE SCRAPBOOK/COLLAGE
At the graduation reception, each sixth grade student is presented with a photo scrapbook or collage capturing his or her years at Meadowbrook. Parents create this photo scrapbook during the year using the photos, ticket stubs, artwork, reports, papers and awards collected over the years. Although the individual parent is responsible for making their child’s scrapbook, other parents, teachers and staff members share their photos with them. In the spring of graduation year, you will be guided to take your photos and keepsakes that you saved and make a memorable scrapbook or collage for your child that he or she will always treasure.
CLUBS/RESPONSIBILITIES
Chair Club - Every fourth grade student participates in Chair Club. Their responsibilities include preparing the Dining Commons by taking down the chairs every morning by 9:30AM. Flag Club - All fifth grade students participate in the Flag Club. Two students are chosen everyday to raise and lower the flag. Proper flag protocol is taught by the fifth grade teacher. 54.
ICE SKATING
Ice skating, a part of the Physical Education program, takes place on designated Friday afternoons during the months of January and February. This includes Pre-Kindergarten through 6th grade. Buses leave school at 1:15 p.m., children skate from 1:45 to 2:25 p.m., and return to school by 2:45 p.m. (Times are approximate.) Families are welcome to join their children for a fun-filled Friday afternoon of skating at the Old York Road Skating Rink in Elkins Park. Children who have their own skates should bring them to school in the morning. Skates are available to borrow at the rink at no charge. Children will also need hats, gloves, and snow pants. *Students in Pre-Kindergarten, Kindergarten and first grade are required to wear helmets. Ice skating culminates with a Family Skate on a to-be-announced Sunday in February or March. More information regarding this program is sent home in January. Parents are required to inform the office if they will pick their children up at the rink and take them home. Be aware that if a parent does not arrive by the time the buses are ready to leave the rink, the child will return to school on the bus. If it ever becomes evident that the roads could be too slick to go safely to the ice rink, a decision will be made by 11:00 a.m. regarding cancellation. ALERTNOW Notification will go into effect, as well as KYW, and our own web site at: www. themeadowbrookschool.org. If your dismissal plan changes because of this, please call the office to let Mrs. Harding know. Hopefully we are over-prepared and we can all enjoy what has become a wonderful Meadowbrook family tradition.
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Parental Involvement
POM EVENTS
There are many avenues for being an involved parent at Meadowbrook that will not interfere with your child’s academic day. Our parents group sponsors many activities during the school year. All of these activities are volunteer. Some of our events are traditional fund-raisers, and some are annual “Fun”raisers. We sponsor a Book Fair, Fall Festival, Gala, Secret Shop, Bingo Night, Dining Around, and Auction. The list goes on and on and changes from year to year. We have had a sock hop (complete with a hula hoop contest) and a mystery night. These events are chaired by parent volunteers who are always looking for willing hands. This is a great way to get to know other parents in school. The POM president has a list of the events that are scheduled for the current year, the chairs, and their telephone numbers. If you are interested in meeting people and helping out, just call the POM president (listed in the Organizations & Committees section). If you are a working parent and wish that some of these things occurred in the evenings or on weekends - they do! In addition, telephone calls (to coordinate helpers, etc.) can be made in the evenings or on weekends, and decorating, setting up, and cleaning up for these special events almost always happens in the evening or on weekends.
LIBRARY
You can volunteer in the school library where Mrs. Keim needs parental help on a regular basis. You can volunteer as little time as a half-hour per week, or as much time as you can spare. This is a great way to get to know how the school works and how your child is coping with his or her new experiences. You can also volunteer for the morning and join your child for lunch.
RESERVED PARKING SPACES
During one of P.O.M.’s many social events during the school year (usually at the Meadowbrook Gala or the Auction), two reserved parking spaces are auctioned off to raise money for the school. These spots are awarded to those lucky people who bid the highest. 56.
Sometimes, several families will join together to bid on one spot and share the space during the school year. Recognizing that those families have paid top dollar for the privilege of preferred parking, we ask that everyone respect their right to park in those spots. Most importantly these spaces help raise money to support the school.
ROOM PARENTS
Each classroom has up to six parents (four regular, two alternate) who volunteer to be room parents. A head room parent is chosen from this group to coordinate the activities, which can include help with projects planned by the teacher: arranging for refreshments and crafts at classroom parties and providing transportation/ chaperoning for selected outings. The projects range from planting flower bulbs to helping prepare the USA cake. The focus of the room parent in the classroom, however, is based on the individual teacher’s requirements. Every effort is made to include as many parents as possible on school trips and at school parties, so even if you are not chosen as a room parent, you may have the opportunity to assist - ask your head room parent to let you know if he or she needs any additional help! For a listing of the current year’s room parents, look under the Room Parent List in the back of the Handbook.
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ROOM PARENT GUIDELINES
Room Parent Guidelines: POM assigns four room parents (and two alternates) for each classroom if possible. Sign-up slips are sent home near the end of the previous year and given to new parents at New Parent Night in the summer. Those new parents who do not attend can obtain a slip from the Admissions Director if they are interested in becoming room parents. The slips must be returned by July 1 from the parents whose children were students during the previous year. The deadline for new parents is the first day of school. Families with more than one child at Meadowbrook can volunteer to be a room parent for any or all children. Choices for each classroom are made individually; however, the same parent will not be chosen as coordinating room parent for more than one class. Some of the responsibilities of room parenting include attendance by at least one of the room parents from the classroom at the POM meetings; attendance on one or more class trips; snow chain link; assistance in the classroom for parties or projects (at the teacher’s request only). The coordinating (head) room parent coordinates the assistance of the other room parents and also arranges inter- and intra-class events and extracurricular events such as class picnics or “Moms’ Night Out.” Either parent is welcome to volunteer. In some instances we do not have enough parental volunteers for a classroom, and in that instance, we would welcome grandparents, caregivers or interested parents from another grade. Specific guidelines are given to those parents who are chosen to be room parents. If you should have any questions, please call the room parent coordinator.
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School Store Price List 2012-2013 Item
Price
Short-sleeve Polo Shirt
15.00
Long-sleeve Polo Shirt
20.00
Sweatshirts
20.00
Headbands (padded or flat)
6.00
Scrunchie
4.00
Bow
4.50
Meadowbrook Mug Meadowbrook Magnet Meadowbrook Pencil Meadowbrook t-shirts
5.00 5.00 4/$1.00 5.00
Used Items Kilts & Jumpers Sweatshirt Everthing Else
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5.00 2.00 1.00
Room Parents 2012-2013
Preschool - Mrs. Langlois, Mrs. Blumenthal
Mary Landis – co-Head (Will Vallerio) Brittany Stout – co-Head (Delaney Stout)
Pre-Kindergarten- Mrs. Stout, Ms. Arbuckle
Christie Gera – Head (Megan Gera) Aimee Kretschman (Lexie Kretschman) Karin Pitcairn (Morgan Pitcairn) Allison Sass (Lauren Sass)
Kindergarten - Mrs. Cohen, Mrs. Zadrovicz
David Miller – Head (David Miller) Cyndy Krupnick - (Sage Krupnik) Amy Rose - (Ethan Rose) Tamecia Williams - (McCoy Williams) First Grade - Mrs. Trost Sonjane Kelly – Head (Claude Mahan) Jen DeMasi (John DeMasi) Alice Dougherty (Christian Dougherty)
Second Grade - Mr. Lieberman
Aimee Kretschman – Head (Abby Kretschman) Maureen Moyer (Connor Moyer) Bobbieanne Rieker (Marcus Rieker) Amy Rose (Kate Rose) Kim Ruane (Ali Ruane)
Third Grade - Mrs. Carpenter Heidi Kurtz - Head (James Hewitt) Neeta McCulloch (Laxmi McCulloch) Third Grade - Mrs. Mosteller David Miller – Head (Claire Miller) Sharon Feiner (Jacob Feiner) Aimee Kretschman (Audrey Kretschman) Fourth Grade -Ms. Armstrong Alice Dougherty - Head (Alice Dougherty) Kim Ruane (Ryan Ruane)
Fifth Grade -Mrs. Fletcher Patricia Silverman – Head (David Silverman) Jen Angelo (Matthew & Jacob Bronstein) Alice Dougherty (Peter Dougherty) Paula Hairston (Dalyce Hairston) Aimee Kretschman (Annika Kretschman) Neeta McCulloch (Anu McCulloch) Carolyn Stern (Emma Stern)
Sixth Grade -Mr. Gaines Paula Snipes – Head (Tommy Snipes) Susie Gettes (Ethan Gettes) Maureen Moyer (Jeremy Moyer) Kim Ruane (Jack Ruane)