Student Parent Handbook 2008-2009 5769 y"xa, School Year As of Monday, August 18, 2008
NOTICE This Handbook provides information relevant to the academic and extracurricular lives of our students. The material contained within this Handbook is descriptive as of the publication date. This Handbook, however, is not intended to and cannot anticipate every situation. Moreover, all policies, procedures, and other information in this Handbook are subject to change at any time by action of the faculty, administration, board of trustees or CAJE, without prior notification. The latest version of this Handbook, including any changes made during the school year, is available on our web site lehrmanschool.org
Lehrman Community Day School 727 Lehrman Drive / 77th Street Miami Beach FL 33141 305.866.2771 Fax 305.865.6575 lehrmanschool.org Copyright Š2008 LCDS. All rights reserved. LCDS Student Parent Handbook 08-09
Student Parent Handbook 2008-2009 5769 y"xa, School Year
LCDS Teacher Code of Practice 08-09
Mission Lehrman Community Day School is a Jewish academic
community formed around a pluralistic, covenantal, coeducational, college-preparatory day school. We prepare motivated young men and women to live heroically, as reflective Jews and responsible American citizens in a global economy. Our ideal graduate lives a life of purpose and heartfelt dreams, animated by moral character and intellectual discovery. Within a family ambience, we celebrate each student’s whole uniqueness and embrace critical thinking, faith and discipline as essential elements of an educated conscience. Each student becomes steeped in the intelligences, skills and values relevant to the following signature commitments that inform the daily learning environment: mastering the arts and sciences through inquiry, experience and collaboration ◆ vacfu .rtv ,t utknu engaging in a relationship with God ◆ vsucg participating in prayer ◆ vkhp, studying Torah and applying a pluralistic spirit to the great issues of Jewish life and thought ◆ vru, sunk, identifying with and respecting Jews of all movements and being involved in the life of the Jewish community ◆
ktrah kkf
demonstrating love for all humans ◆ ,uhrcv ,cvt doing mitzvot and social action ◆ okug iue, advancing Israel’s central role for the Jewish people ◆
ktrah ,cvt
and creating a sustainable spiritual and physical environment for our children’s children ◆ vrnaku vscgk.
LCDS Teacher Code of Practice 08-09
Accreditations and Affiliations Lehrman Community Day School is:Â accredited by the Association of Independent Schools of Florida (AISF) and the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS); affiliated with the Solomon Schechter Day School Association (SSDSA), The Center for the Advancement of Jewish Education (CAJE), and the Dade Academic Association of Non-Public Schools (DDANS); a beneficiary of Greater Miami Jewish Federation. Admissions Policy LCDS admits mission appropriate students of any race, color, national and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs and activities made available to students at the school. LCDS does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national and ethnic origin in the administration of its educational and admissions policies, scholarship and loan programs. Parents or the guardian of a student entering LCDS as a lateral transfer in Grades 1 or above may be expected to engage a tutor in either General or Jewish studies, as a condition of admission, at their expense.
LCDS Teacher Code of Practice 08-09
LCDS Board of Directors 2008-2009 Chairman Roger Miller Immediate Past Chair Richard Lehrman Chair Elect Robert Finvarb Secretary Rosalind Lanes Treasurer Elizabeth Allocco Board Members Melisse Burstein Joi Fiske Joel Hoppenstein Dennis Kainen Niki Markofsky Joni Meiselman Jana Miller Richard Rozencwaig Nikki Weisburd Jaya Zebede
LCDS Teacher Code of Practice 08-09
Student Parent Handbook 2008-2009 / 5769
Lehrman Community Day School
Table of Contents School Hours . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 Attendance Policy. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 Tardiness. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 Late Policy. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Late Sign Ins. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Chronic Tardiness . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Absences Due to Illness. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Planned Absences and Family Vacations. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Early Departures. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Attendance and Florida State Law. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Security . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Carpool, Drop-off and Dismissal. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Arrival Carpool. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Dismissal Carpool. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Carpool Procedures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Early Dismissal Days. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Parking. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Religious and Ethical Guidelines. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Food and Mealtimes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Kosher Food and Kashrut. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 What does “Kosher� mean? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Which foods are kosher?. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Lunch Program and Snacks. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 LCDS Teacher Code of Practice 08-09
Nutrition at LCDS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Birthday Parties and Other Celebrations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Party Favors. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Siblings and Parties . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 LCDS Birthday Cake Bakery. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Invitations to Parties Outside of School. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Siblings and Performances. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Alumni and Other Guests at LCDS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Religious Practices. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Kippot. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Shabbat . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Blessings and Mealtimes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Parent Association (PA). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Annual Fund. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Homework. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Students and Homework. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Teachers and Homework. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Parents and Homework. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Student Evaluation and Communications. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Parent-Teacher Conferences. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Friday Folders. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Progress Reports (Report Cards). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Additional Means of Communication. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 K–5 Grading System. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Conduct and Effort Grades. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Derekh Eretz. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 LCDS Teacher Code of Practice 08-09
Standardized testing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Class Placement. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Birth Date Consideration. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Ability Groupings and Placement. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 LCDS Teachers and Tutoring. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Uniform Dress Code. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Physical Education Attire. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Field Trip Attire. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Cold Weather Attire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Spirit Days. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Attire in Early Childhood. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Lost and Found. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Personal Property and Lockers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Cellular Telephones and Other Electronic Devices. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Field Trips and Transportation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Bus Travel. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Transportation and LCDS Employees. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 After School Program (ASP). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Study Hall. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Fees for Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 School Closings. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Health and Medication Policies. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Illness at School. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 Medications. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 Health Forms. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 Emergency Medical and Release Information. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 LCDS Teacher Code of Practice 08-09
Cooperative Working Relationship. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Financial Obligations. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Student Affairs and Philosophy of Discipline. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Who Can Help? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Infractions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Biting. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Sexual Harassment. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Consequences. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Internet/Computer Acceptable Use Policy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 Index. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
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School Hours The Early Childhood Department (ECD) is open for arrivals between 8:10 – 9:00 am. All ECD students are expected to be in their classrooms by 9:00 am. Children who participate in half-day programs in the Toddler and Nursery levels conclude their day at 1:00 pm. The K-5 school day begins at 8:15 am and ends at 3:30 pm, Monday –Thursday. All K - 5 students are expected to be in the building and seated in their designated area by 8:10 am. The 6–8 school day begins at 8:00 am and ends at 4:00 pm Monday–Thusday. All Middle School students are expected to be in the building and seated in their first period classroom by 7:55 am. On Fridays dismissal for all divisions is at 3:00 pm. The school can assume no responsibility for the supervision of students who arrive before 7:45 am, accordingly, please do not drop off students prior to 7:45 am. Students arriving after 7:45 am should report directly to the front lobby and sit in their designated areas. At 8:15 am a staff member will dismiss all students, at which time they are to go directly to their classrooms or the cafeteria. Children remaining beyond 3:45 pm will, for their own welfare and safety, be entered into the After School Program. Families will be billed for any time spent in the After School Program. (See: After School Program)
Attendance Policy Regular attendance and punctuality are desirable traits to be developed by every person; consistent attendance contributes to academic success. A child develops socially, emotionally and academically by following a regular schedule. If a student is not in school, the student cannot learn effectively and therefore grades may suffer; the opportunity for a student to reach her/his potential may be compromised. Consequently, chronic absences may jeopardize a student’s promotion to the next grade.
Tardiness Any Middle School student arriving after 7:55 am, and any K-5 student arriving after 8:10 am is considered tardy (9:00 am in the case of children in the ECD.) Tardiness is detrimental to your child’s education and is disruptive to the rest of the class and their routine.
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Late Policy All K-8 students who arrive after 8:45 am, or ECD students who arrive after 9:00 am, should be dropped off with the security professional in the reception area and a school staff member will escort your child to his or her class. Parents will not be allowed beyond the main office after those times until 4:15 pm, unless (i) invited by the school, e.g., ECD Shabbat celebrations in the classrooms; or (ii) pre-approved in writing by the Dean of Education or the Executive Administrator, for special purposes, e.g., an in-class birthday party. Late Sign Ins Students in the K-5 program who arrive after 8:10 am will be signed in at the security desk and a tardy will be entered into the attendance roll. In the event of a very late arrival (after 9:00 am), an accompanying adult must come directly to the office to sign the child in. Please do not bring your child directly to her/his classroom or teacher. Between 7:55 and 8:45 am, Middle School students should report directly to class, where their tardiness will be recorded. Chronic Tardiness If a student is chronically tardy, a notice will be sent home and/or a meeting will be scheduled to discuss the problem, assess alternatives and determine a plan to resolve the issue. Attendance records are maintained by the school attendance officer.
Absences Due to Illness
Parents should call the school office by 9:00 am if their child will be absent from school that day. At that time you may request to have your child’s homework and class work assembled for pickup in the school office after 3:00 pm. It is the responsibility of every student to make up all work missed. The school administration reserves the right to determine when absences and/or tardiness are excessive. Excessive absences can result in additional assignments, required make up time spent at school or at home with a private tutor, parent conferences, and reduction in an academic grade or where appropriate, grade retention.
Planned Absences and Family Vacations
Nothing can substitute for being present at school. Families are encouraged to schedule family vacations and trips during times when school is not in session (please consult the school annual calendar at lehrmanschool.org). Page
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If a student is going to be absent for an extended period of time, arrangements need to be made in advance with that student’s teacher and the administration. Parents are to notify their child’s teacher in writing two weeks in advance of the intended absence. Make up assignments for such absences must be completed by the due date or on the day of the student’s return, at the discretion of the teacher. Teachers will attempt to assist students in making up their missed work, but it is not feasible for a teacher to re-teach all lessons missed. Any academic work missed due to extended travel must be made up under the direction of a private tutor at the family’s expense.
Early Departures Students in K–5 may only be signed out for early departure prior to 3:00 pm, Monday-Thursday (3:30 pm for Middle School students) and prior to 2:30 on Fridays. Upon their arrival, parents are to go to the security desk, sign in, and then go directly to the school office to sign their child out for the day. Please do not go to your child’s classroom. Students will be sent to the school office and checked out for the day at that time. After 3:00 pm, no students in the K-5 Program may be signed out from the school office. Reasons for early departure include illness, a documented doctor’s appointment, or family emergency only. Students with a plan to leave school prior to the conclusion of the school day must bring a note to the school office before the school day begins. If a student returns to school after a scheduled appointment but before the end of the school day, s/he must be signed in at the school office before returning to class. Unexcused or excessive early dismissals will be recorded in the student’s permanent record.
Attendance and Florida State Law In accordance with state law, students are not allowed to miss ten days in a quarter (13 per trimester) without having a visiting teacher (through Miami-Dade County Public Schools). Serious, protracted illness qualifies students for a homebound teacher through the Miami- Dade County Public Schools. Students may obtain these services with proper medical documentation.
Security LCDS maintains a secure environment and safe learning experience. Suspicious persons or activity in or outside of the building LCDS Teacher Code of Practice 08-09
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should be reported to the Chief of Security immediately. For reasons of security, all doors are locked at all times from outside entry. Please use the front lobby entrance to gain access to the building, except during drop-off hours, 8:00-9:00 am. All visitors, including parents, are required to check in at the security desk in the main lobby. Please refer to the section entitled “Early Departures” if you plan to take your child out of school early. Parents and visitors are not permitted to walk around the school without a Visitor Pass. The school regularly conducts fire and other security drills. Visitors to LCDS are asked to cooperate with us as we practice safety procedures.
Carpool, Drop-off and Dismissal The safety of your children and the LCDS staff is of utmost concern at all times, and especially during carpool arrival and dismissal times when accidents are most likely to happen. Please cooperate with the school administration and security team at all times. Arrival Carpool K-5 drop-off takes place between 7:50 - 8:10 am daily in the west parking lot (enter frm 77th Street, just past the school building). ECD drop-off takes place from 7:50 – 8:45 am daily, also in the west parking lot closest to the playground. Only Middle School students who arrive before 7:45 am are admitted through the front lobby. Dismissal Carpool ECD pick-up for half-day students takes place at 1:00 pm, in the lobby. Monday through Thursday, K-5 dismissal pick-up, together with pick-up for full-day ECD students, takes place beginning at 3:30 to 3:45 pm, in front of the school building and beginning at 3:00 to 3:15 pm on Friday. Middle School students are dismissed at 4:00 pm (M–Th) from the front lobby. Carpool Procedures Please adhere to these procedures so we can make carpool as safe and efficient as possible: • Cell phone use is prohibited during carpool. • Pull your car in as near to the curb as possible, and as close to the car in front of you as possible. • Stay in your car at all times. A security guard or a staff member will bring your child to the car for you. Page
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• Do not engage any staff member in conversation during carpool. • When traveling north on Dickens Avenue, do not turn left onto Lehrman Drive (77th Street) and then enter the carpool lane. You must enter the carpool lane when traveling south on Dickens Avenue only. • Please be certain to provide a car seat for your child(ren), as dictated by local and state ordinances. • For safety reasons, doors should be opened from curbside only.
Early Dismissal Days School ends at 2:00 pm on early dismissal days. Dismissal procedures are the same for early dismissal days. Please note that there is no After School Program on early dismissal days. (See After School Program)
Parking You may park in front of the school only at those times designated on the city’s curbside signs. Please do not park in restricted areas or at times designated as prohibited by street signs. Cars illegally parked may be ticketed by the Miami Beach Police Department. You are permitted to park anywhere on neighborhood streets where there are no restrictions. The parking lot near the ECD Department is for faculty and staff members only, unless otherwise specified.
Religious and Ethical Guidelines As a Jewish community school, the educational experience at LCDS is informed by Jewish tradition and learning. Just as we strive for academic excellence in both General and Jewish studies, we endeavor to transmit the Jewish value of derekh eretz—appropriate behavior, which includes mannered conduct, preparedness, respect and kindness, throughout the school day. LCDS students learn to respect one another, their teachers, and other adults. Considerable effort is invested in ensuring that every child is exposed to the virtues of Jewish wisdom and its emphasis on tolerance, kindness and thoughtfulness. Kind and considerate behavior is so valued by our community that all students in the K-5 program are given a grade in derekh eretz (See: Student Evaluation). Parents and teachers are likewise expected to be exemplars of appropriate conduct in the spirit of this important Jewish value. LCDS Teacher Code of Practice 08-09
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Food and Mealtimes The Jewish tradition teaches us to sanctify each meal. We raise the level of each mealtime from mundane to sacred by invoking blessings before and after meals, and by adhering to the Jewish dietary laws. We teach all students respect and appreciation for food, both as a gift from God, and a sign of their own good fortune and privilege. Please adhere to all LCDS policies with regard to food and mealtimes, especially when, in the rare instance, you need to bring food into our school. Kosher Food and Kashrut LCDS is a Jewish community day school committed to pluralism. As a pluralistic school, we seek to admit children from all walks of Jewish life. LCDS is also associated with the Center for the Advancement of Jewish Education (CAJE) and the Solomon Schechter Day School Association (SSDSA). In light of our associations and our standing as a Jewish community day school, we abide by Jewish dietary laws, known collectively as kashrut. Kashrut requires that we eat only kosher foods and abstain from prohibited food mixtures. What Does “Kosher� Mean? Kosher foods are classified as dairy, meat, or parve (neither meat nor dairy, e.g. fruit or pasta); prepared foods bear markings indicating that they are indeed kosher. The laws of kashrut also require that we do not mix meat and dairy foods, and that a meaningful amount of time lapses before we consume one after the other. The laws of kashrut apply to all school activities and trips, including birthday parties. (See: Lunches and Snacks, and Birthday Parties and Other Celebrations) Which Foods are Kosher? As lunch and most snacks are coordinated by LCDS, it is a rare occasion that food from outside of the school comes into the building. Foods from the outside must be either dairy or parve (i.e., no meat products) and must bear kosher markings. Typical markings of kashrut include: u ; Kosher Dairy O u D, KD; Kosher: K, O u P, KP Kosher Parve (neither meat nor dairy) O Kosher bakeries and restuarants should have a certified letter of kashrut displayed in their store window. If your bakery item is in a plain box, please request a store sticker be placed on the box. The following local establishments are all kosher: Pastry Lane, Kosher Page
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Korner, Rolling Pin, Abraham’s Bakery, Kastner’s, New York Bakeries, Sara’s, and Entenmann’s Outlet stores.
Lunch Program and Snacks
On Monday, Wednesday, and Friday meat lunches are served at LCDS. Dairy meals are served on Tuesdays and Thursdays. On “meat” days kosher treats must bear an indication that they are “parve or pareve.” “Parve” denotes that an item is free from both meat and dairy ingredients. On “dairy” days, kosher treats or snacks may be marked with an indication that they are either “dairy” or “parve.”
Nutrition at LCDS We strive to provide our children and staff with healthy meals and snacks. We ask that you share in our commitment to do the same. Should you be providing a cake or cupcakes for your child’s birthday, please limit the sweets and treats to just that dessert. Too much sugar-laden food is tempting to our students and will interfere with their concentration later in the day; we are teaching the children to “Eat Healthy and Stay Fit” and cake and candy won’t help a bit! Please consult with any of the Administrative Team for additional information and recommendations with regard to treats and other snacks. Below is a list of snacks recommended by our nutrition advisor that we feel are appropriate and healthy to serve to young children. We realize that there are additional healthy snacks; please use your judgment. Thank you for your understanding. Also, please keep in mind that all prepared foods need to be certified Kosher. Celery Fresh Vegetables Apple Sauce Cups Cookies: Animal Crackers Graham Crackers Vanilla Wafers
Cheese and Crackers Cereal: Cheerios Corn Flakes Crisps Raisin Bran
Crackers: Flatbread Crackers Melba Toast Fresh Fruit/Fruit Salad Granola Bars Pretzels Yogurt
Birthday Parties and Other Celebrations Many of you may choose to celebrate your child’s birthday during the school day in lieu of, or in addition to, a party outside of school. Please coordinate with your child’s teacher a time that is mutually convenient for your in-school party, and abide by the following LCDS policies: LCDS Teacher Code of Practice 08-09
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• Grades K – 2: Parties are held during the last half hour before dismissal time. • Grades 3 – 5: Parties are held during lunch time. • Food should be limited to a kosher birthday cake or cupcakes, and a beverage only. • On Monday, Wednesday and Friday (“meat days”), cakes and other treats must be parve (dairy free) in addition to being kosher. • Parties held in the ECD with characters or other live performances need to include all of the classes at the specific grade level. • Lollipops and chewing gum are not permitted in school. Party Favors Birthday party favors, goodie bags, and excessive amounts of candy are not be distributed at school parties. Your teachers have been instructed that distribution of party favors is prohibited, as per the policy. Please do not put your child’s teacher in the awkward position of having to police you. Siblings and Parties Do not remove siblings or friends from their classes to attend the party. This causes a disturbance to their classes and imposes on their teachers to create opportunities to make up work and tutor your child. LCDS Birthday Cake Bakery The LCDS “Birthday Cake Bakery” can provide you with any number of delicious, freshly baked items for your classroom or home celebrations, at a very reasonable fee. Your order will be delivered right to the classrooms. Birthday cake order forms are available in the front office. Invitations to Parties Outside of School We will be happy to give out party invitations for you, provided that you comply with the following policies that adhere to the value of derekh eretz: 1. When inviting children, you must either invite all the children in the class, or if the party is gender specific, all of the girls or boys. This practice has been established for obvious reasons:it is blatantly insensitive to invite most of the children, leaving out only one or two. Page
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2. We request that birthday parties not be scheduled on Shabbat or any major Jewish Holiday. (See: Religious Practices – Shabbat)
Siblings and Performances Siblings may attend “Showtime School Performances.” Showtime Performances will be determined by the administration.
Alumni and Other Guests at LCDS LCDS student alumni and other student guests are welcome to visit LCDS, provided their parents arrange to do so in advance. The Executive Administrator will provide a release to be signed in advance of the alumnus’ arrival. Alumni and guests who arrive without arrangements will not be permitted to remain in school.
Religious Practices Familiarity with the Jewish life and holiday cycles, and fluency in Jewish prayer, are all objectives of our program. Our students’ learning is therefore informed by instruction in Modern Hebrew and Jewish Studies, but also by Jewish living. If we are to take pride in our school, then each of us is responsible for adhering to these guidelines both on LCDS grounds and also at other school-sponsored activities and field trips. Expressions of Judaism are present throughout the school day and include, but are not limited, to the following: Kippot A kippah (plural: kippot), also known as a yarmulke or skullcap, is to be worn by every male student at all times (optional for girls) and is considered part of the LCDS dress code. A kippah is not merely a head covering; a kippah is worn to remind oneself that there is something greater than a physical existence in this world. Students should be aware of this concept particularly when they study and when they eat. In the event that a child does not bring a kippah to school, the school will provide the student with one, for a nominal fee of $1.00 (proceeds are contributed to a library fund). Kippot can be purchased at Judaica stores and many synagogue gift shops. Shabbat Shabbat is observed in accordance with the fourth of the Ten Commandments: “Observe the Sabbath and keep it holy.” LCDS encourages students to view Shabbat as a day of rest from weekday activiLCDS Teacher Code of Practice 08-09
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ties. We similarly teach that the Sabbath is an opportunity to share with family and reflect upon the blessings of life. While each family may interpret holiness and rest in a different manner, we request that all parties and special events be held prior to Shabbat (which begins at sundown on Friday) or following its end. Scheduling an event during Shabbat will preclude many members of the LCDS community from participating in your celebration. Blessings and Mealtimes Blessings are recited prior to meals and snacks. Birkat Hamazon (grace after meals) is recited subsequent to all full meals. (Copies of these and other blessings are available in Hebrew, English and transliteration at lehrmanschool.org).
Parent Association (PA) The Parent Association at LCDS is the school’s collaborative partner. The members of our Parent Association serve as ambassadors to new members of our school community, as well as to the greater Miami community. The PA also supports the school in a variety of important ways, including the underwriting of specific projects for the school each year. The PA sets annual fundraising goals in an attempt to help the school enrich the educational experience of our children. Room Parents serve as liaisons to the PA, helping to organize events and coordinate activities. The PA meets regularly and all LCDS parents and guardians are invited and encouraged to participate in its activities.
Annual Fund The Aleph Bet Campaign is LCDS’ annual campaign, the cornerstone of our fundraising efforts. We expect 100% parent participation. Your support will make it possible for LCDS to continue to provide our children with the finest faculty and modern learning technologies. In addition, we are able to offer Tuition Assistance to deserving children; this creates a more diverse student body, enhancing the education and life experiences for all of our students.
Homework At LCDS we believe that homework is a necessary means of reinforcement of the day’s learning. In our Elementary Division, homework is assigned Monday through Thursday evenings and, in addition, occasional long-term projects may be assigned. Homework is Page 10
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the responsibility of each elementary student, but will involve three separate constituencies: Students and Homework The completion of homework assignments is essential to the full development of a child. Homework gives students the opportunity to review material learned that day and prepare for the following day’s lesson. Research has shown that, unless a child reviews and practices information taught each day, s/he will retain only 10% of that information. Additionally, homework gives every child the opportunity to learn independent study habits and develop as a responsible person. The following is an approximate amount of time that a student should spend each night on homework: Kindergarten . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 minutes – 1 hour 1st – 3rd Grade . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 – 1 ½ hours 4th Grade . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 ½-2 hours 5th Grade and above . . . . 1 ½ -2 ½ hours Failure to complete three (3) homework assignments during a single nine week period may, at the discretion of the teacher, result in indoor suspension and/or mandatory homework lab after school. Teachers and Homework Homework assignments provide the opportunity to practice skills and apply concepts. As such, teachers will assign homework when it is necessary, and those assignments will be fair and reasonable. Students and parents are encouraged to contact teachers during school hours if a child does not understand an assignment. Homework, when prepared by the student independently, provides an additional opportunity for teachers to assess what the student has and has not yet mastered. Parents and Homework We encourage parents to take an interest in their children’s school work. Children may need encouragement from time to time to do their work. Here are several helpful hints to manage homework and related issues: • Refrain from correcting your child’s work. Your child’s teachers need to know what s/he has and has not mastered. Your correcLCDS Teacher Code of Practice 08-09
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tions at home may misinform your child’s teachers concerning her/his progress. • Share any concerns you may have regarding the amount or type of homework assigned with your child's teacher. • Encourage your child to take notes concerning the directions for homework assignments in case questions arise later at home. • Provide for a well-lit and quiet study area, with all the materials necessary to complete homework assignments. • Monitor television viewing and establish a specific homework time. • Plan a homework schedule with your child. Allow for free time when assignments are completed. • Praise your child's efforts. If questions arise about the assignments, or if your child asks for help, guide him/her with questions and work through an example rather than simply providing the answer. • LCDS offers a “Study Hall” option as part of our After School Program. Many students complete their homework at school before their parents arrive to pick them up.
Student Evaluation and Communications It is in everyone’s best interest for the school and the home to maintain close communication with regard to the student’s progress. Communication is essential for achieving a cooperative relationship between the parent and the school, which in turn benefits the child. For this reason, one parent-teacher conference will be scheduled (two in the Early Childhood Department), which is a universal practice for all students at all levels in our school. Parent-teacher conferences in grades K-8 will be scheduled on rolling bases. Parents and/or guardians are expected to attend conferences. LCDS has also established three additional means of communication via Friday Folders, Interim Reports and the Lehrman Link which is available on-line.
Parent-Teacher Conferences In addition to scheduled conferences, parents and their children may request additional conferences. Please refrain from conferencing with your child’s teacher in an impromptu manner. If you would like to schedule an appointment, please call the school office and your child’s teacher will arrange a private time to meet with you. Page 12
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Friday Folders Friday Folders will be sent home weekly in Grades K-5. The Friday Folder must be signed by the student’s parent or guardian and returned to the classroom teacher on the following Monday.
Progress Reports (Report Cards) As a means of evaluation and assessment, a Progress Report will be sent home at the end of each nine week period for students in Grades K – 5. Progress Reports document student progress and development, with respect to all academic subjects, specialties, and conduct.
Additional Means of Communication Each teacher will send home a weekly newsletter (and in the K - 5 Program, an assignment sheet) informing parents about the happenings in class, as well as reminders about any assignments that might be due. Teachers in the Early Childhood Department will send home a “curricular map” for the coming week. Students in Grades K–8 will occasionally bring home papers for parents to sign. Please return these signed papers to the teacher so the records may be retained in the student’s classroom file and/or portfolio.
K-5 Grading System ES: Exceeds Standards – Consistently grasps, applies and extends key concepts, processes and skills. Works beyond stated goals. MS: Meets Standards – Grasps and applies key concepts, processes and skills. Meets stated goals. AS: Approaching Standards – Beginning to grasp and apply key concepts, processes and skills. Making less than expected progress. NS: Needs Support – Not grasping key concepts, processes and essential skills. Area of concern that requires support. NA - Not assessed at this time.
Conduct and Effort Grades Children in Grades 1 – 5 are also evaluated on conduct and effort for each subject, according to the following measures: 1 Excellent 2 Satisfactory 3 Unsatisfactory N/A Not Applicable LCDS Teacher Code of Practice 08-09
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Derekh Eretz Derekh Eretz (“appropriate behavior”) incorporates attitude, behavior, cooperation, preparedness, and effort and includes classroom conduct, lunchroom manners, service decorum and general school behavior. Respect, cooperation, and attitude are expressions of how we view ourselves and those around us. Derekh Eretz extends to all aspects of school life. To qualify for a Derekh Eretz certificate, the student must earn all 1’s in citizenship.
MS Grading System Progress Reports (Report Cards) As a means of evaluation and assessment, a Progress Report will be sent home at the end of each nine week period for MS students. Students will be evaluated on each group of skills that make up mastery of the academic subjects they are studying. In each subject, the teacher will list data for skill areas evaluated during the nine-week marking period. Next to these are also listed a corresponding earned letter or numerical grade for the relevant area. The report also offers a paragraph describing in some detail the student’s performance in the teacher’s subject. There is no cumulative grade for the class. Though there is a natural tendency to average these objective data, we feel that at this developmental stage, it is best to examine relative strengths and weaknesses. Does a “B” in science really give as an accurate picture of a student’s performance in science? Does it mean she did excellent work in labs, but failed to hand in homework and failed one quiz, or does it mean her observations in lab work showed that she really did not understand the scientific process, but she was so well-organized in doing homework and is very good at studying for quizzes and tests that she could overcome that handicap? We want to offer to you a more precise take on where your student is, when learning how to learn is so vital. We feel that should form the basis of the dialogue between the teacher and the learner, as well as between the school and the parent.
Standardized Testing Lehrman Community Day School administers the Children’s Progress to students in grades Pre-K – 2, three times a year. The Page 14
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Children’s Progress is a computer-based interactive assessment of achievement in literacy, language arts and mathematics. For more information about the assessment, please visit www.childrensprogress.com. All students in grades 3-8 take the Comprehensive Testing Program (CTP-4) assessments in the spring. Both assessments are published by the Educational Research Bureau. You can learn more on the ERB website at www.erbtest.org The results of these tests are included in a student’s permanent record and shared with the child’s parents. This information is kept confidential and secured. A parent may be requested to have a child further evaluated. For purposes of confidentially, all information and forms are submitted directly to the individual who is conducting the evaluation.
Class Placement Requests for class placement will not be considered. Class placement of students will be based on grade level, chronological age, developmental age, social growth, emotional maturity, and equitable distribution of gender population and individual needs. These guidelines consider the welfare of the child and the academic, social and developmental needs of each student. Class placement is in the school’s discretion and is not appealable..
Birth Date Consideration LCDS deems the cutoff date for student grade level placement to be September 1st of the school year. For example: Transitional Toddlers . 18 Months old on or before September 1 Toddlers . . . . . . . . . . . . . Two (2) years old on or before September 1 Nursery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Three (3) years old on or before September 1 Pre-Kindergarten . . . . Four (4) years old on or before September 1 Kindergarten . . . . . . . . Five (5) years old on or before September 1 1st Grade . . . . . . . . . . . . . Six (6) years old on or before September 1 A valid birth certificate must be presented upon enrollment.
Ability Groupings and Placement On occasion, the school will sort students according to their abilities, for specific and limited learning experiences. Placement in ability groupings is in the school’s discretion. LCDS Teacher Code of Practice 08-09
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LCDS Teachers and Tutoring LCDS teachers are, by contract, prohibited from tutoring any student for whose academic studies they are in any way responsible. If you require the assistance of a tutor, kindly consult with any school administrator. We will be happy to recommend another teacher on staff or a qualified instructor outside of the school. Please do not put our teachers in the awkward position of having to decline your request.
Uniform Dress Code In an effort to teach responsibility and help each student learn the importance of a neat and clean appearance, LCDS has a uniform dress code for children in Grades K - 8. Students are expected to accept the responsibility of coming to school in proper attire. Only students wearing the appropriate uniform in the elementary program will be allowed to attend classes. Otherwise, students will be detained from class and their parents will be called to bring an appropriate change of clothing to school. The following uniform dress code applies to students in Grades K - 8: • All tops, bottoms and outerwear must have LCDS logo • All students Gr. 2–8 must have the appropriate PE uniform • All students must have the appropriate Shabbat uniform: Shabbat top & Shabbat bottom (navy only) • Students may only wear closed shoes or sneakers, with socks • No hats are to be worn in the building • No tank tops or bare midriffs on dress down days • No monogram clothing, other than the school uniform logo, may be worn • No “heelies” or other inappropriate types of shoes may be worn Our current uniform company is Unison School Apparel. You may contact them at www.inunisonkids.com or at 1-866-299-9501 Uniform styles include, short sleeve polos, long sleeve polos, boys Shabbat LS oxford, girls snap shirts, girls Shabbat ribbed polo, jacket, zip up sweat, L.E. classic pant, L.E. classic short, gym crewneck, longsleeve gym surf crewneck, mesh gym short, sweatshirt, regular sweatpant, flare sweatpant, rhinestone sweatshirt, girls Capri pant, girls flare pant, front buckle skort, princess skort, Shabbat pleated skirt, and leather belts.Shirts should be tucked in at all times. Page 16
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Physical Education Attire Students in Grades 2 – 5 should bring a change of clothes for PE, including LCDS gym shorts and an LCDS athletic department tee. Students should wear athletic shoes on PE days. On warm sunny days, students may wear a baseball cap for PE only. Field Trip Attire Students are to wear a Lehrman insignia shirt for all field trips, unless they are specifically instructed otherwise. For reasons of security, children may wear a baseball cap over or in lieu of their kippah. Cold Weather Attire On cold or inclement days, students may wear the following (with or without school logo) over or in lieu of their regular uniforms: • Sweatshirt (Navy/Light Blue) • Sweatpants (Navy/Light Blue) • Jacket with Hood (Navy) • Fleece Pullover (Navy) Spirit Days On occasion, the LCDS Administration will sponsor spirit days. “Spirit Day” does not mean “free dress.” Typically observed on Thursdays, students come to school on spirit days wearing the identified thematic clothing rather than coming to school in uniform. All clothing, however, must still adhere to the rules stated above, and must be in good taste. Attire in Early Childhood Early Childhood students should dress in clothing appropriate for indoor and outdoor play, unless otherwise specified. On Fridays, girls and boys are expected to wear blue and white and/or dress clothes. Boys should be sent to school wearing a kippah.
Lost and Found Please label of your child’s clothing for easy identification in the event that s/he misplaces it. LCDS maintains a “lost and found” box for misplaced articles of clothing. LCDS cannot, however, be responsible for misplaced clothing.
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Personal Property and Lockers All personal property and articles of clothing should be marked with the student’s name. Students are not to tamper with the personal property, desks, or lockers of other students, the faculty or school. Failure to respect school or personal property will result in serious disciplinary action. Students should remember to remove their books and other personal belongings from their classroom when they leave. No student shall enter a classroom without the teacher being present. Students in middle school are provided with lockers for the safe keeping of their property, and as a means of learning responsibility, organization, and punctuality. Students must secure their lockers with combination locks. Students are responsible for any damage to their locker. If necessary, LCDS has authority to inspect any locker or backpack on campus.
Cellular Telephones and Other Electronic Devices Students may bring cellular telephones to school provided they are turned off during the school day. Cellular telephones that are turned on will be confiscated. Students may not bring to school or to school-sponsored events and trips ball bats, hard balls, skate boards, electronic games, i-Pods, CD players, tape recorders, radios (or other electrical equipment requiring headphones), beepers, excessive jewelry or toys.
Field Trips and Transportation Field trips are a part of the educational experience in Grades PK - 8. Permission slips are sent home one week in advance. Permission slips must be signed and returned to the classroom teacher in advance of the trip. Children can participate only if the permission slip is returned. In advance of each trip, your child’s teacher may assign up to three adult chaperones. Bus Travel Travel for field trips is frequently provided by an outside service. LCDS shall determine, in its sole and absolute discretion, whether parents may accompany their children on day, overnight or other field trips, including out-of-town trips. To the extent LCDS permits such accompaniments: Page 18
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1. All of the accompanying parents and students shall be obligated to comply with all the rules and regulations established by the school for that trip and otherwise in effect; 2. As LCDS has selected an event or attraction for the children to attend, parents shall not make alternate arrangements for their own or any other children during the trip; 3. LCDS shall have the absolute right to determine whether the accompanying parents may attend any particular event(s) or attraction(s) with their children; 4. The Jewish dietary laws of kashrut apply to all school-sponsored trips. Transportation and LCDS Employees LCDS employees may not provide transportation, gratuitously or for a fee, for the purpose of attending school and/or participating in, observing or attending any school activity, field trip, sporting event or any other event, to and/or from school or any other location, for any students attending LCDS, other than their own child.
After School Program (ASP) The After School Program provides students, from Early Childhood to Grade Eight, the opportunity to participate in enrichment activities that might not be offered during the normal school day. Students may participate in sports, computers, musical theater, art, karate, etc. (Offerings vary annually.) Hours for ASP enrichment activities will be announced in separate bulletins. There is no ASP on early release days or on Fridays from November – March. Study Hall Following ASP enrichment activities, students may also participate in ASP Study Hall, which is supervised by a regular classroom teacher or assistant. Students have the opportunity to work on their homework and get extra help as needed. Study Hall is held from 4:45 pm – 5:30 pm, Monday through Thursdays. Fees for Service Fees associated with ASP vary depending on the type of activity (e.g. drop in versus pre-paid). Unless otherwise noted, general pricing for all activities is $10 for the first hour and $8 for the second hour. Pricing on pre-paid classes will vary. LCDS Teacher Code of Practice 08-09
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Late Pick Up Penalty: We discourage late pick ups after 5:30 pm. Starting at 5:30 pm, a fee of $10 will be charged for every 15 minute period (or part of such period) your child is not picked up. All ASP accounts are expected to be cleared upon billing in order for your child to be allowed to remain in ASP. Children of parents arriving for pick-up late three times or more may be precluded from participating in ASP.
School Closings LCDS will generally, but not always follow Miami-Dade Public Schools with regard to unexpected school closings for reasons of serious inclement weather. Check with local media and at lehrmanschool.org when the public schools close unexpectedly, but also on those days when LCDS is scheduled to be in session and the public schools are scheduled to be closed. It is important that we have your e-mails and phone numbers in the school office so that you can be included in our Alert Now System, allowing you to receive the most up to date information by phone.
Health and Medication Policies LCDS strives to teach and reinforce good health habits. It is important that your child work at his/her full capacity. When your child is not feeling well, please keep your child home until s/he has recovered. Please cooperate in preventing the spread of contagious diseases by notifying the school immediately if your child has been exposed to, or has contracted, a contagious illness. Your child should stay home if s/he exhibits any of the following: Fever Chills Nasal discharge Persistent cough
Red or swollen joints Diarrhea Nausea or vomiting Earache
Skin rash or sores Eyes, inflamed or swollen Sore throat Head lice
Students will not be allowed to return to school until the presentation of a doctor’s note indicating that they are fully recovered and able to return to school. The school administration may, in its discretion, require a doctor’s note in order for a child to return to school following other illnesses. Children who have had a fever higher than 100 degrees should not attend school for a minimum of twenty-four hours following the return to normal body temperature. Page 20
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Information about companies specializing in ridding children of head lice can be obtained in the school office. Illness at School If your child becomes ill at school, we will contact you to take him/ her home. While we recognize that it can sometimes be an inconvenience, please cooperate with LCDS personnel by immediately coming to school to take your sick child home. Medications If your child needs to take medication during school hours, please send a written doctor’s note and your authorization along with the medication. Please make sure the bottle is clearly marked with your child’s name on it. All instructions should be stated in the note. If for any reason your child requests an analgesic (e.g. Tylenol or Motrin), verbal parent permission will be required before any medicine is administered. No medication will be administered to Early Childhood students for any reasons. Health Forms According to Florida Statute 232.032, students enrolling in Florida schools for the first time must present tangible documentation that immunization and health requirements have been satisfied, including: 1. Health examination 2. Tuberculin skin test, reading of the test and appropriate follow-up 3. Certificate of Immunization (HRS Form 680), permanent medical exemption, or religious objection (HRS Form 681) on file LCDS requires that both forms 3040 (yellow) and 680 (blue) be submitted annually, if available, for all students, without exception. No student will be allowed in school without these health documents. All copies of birth certificates and original, up-to-date HRS forms 3040 and 680 must be on file in order for a child to attend school. Emergency Medical and Release Information Emergency Medical and Release forms must be completed and returned to the school prior to the first day of classes. Failure to complete these forms may delay medical treatment. Please make sure the information you provide is accurate and up-to-date, and advise the school of any changes in your child’s medical history or to your telephone and address. The contacts listed on the EmerLCDS Teacher Code of Practice 08-09
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gency Release Form should be persons who are usually available and can leave their place of employment should your child need to be picked up from school due to illness or injury. Please advise the school office in writing if you plan to be out of town and someone else will be responsible for your children.
Cooperative Working Relationship A positive and constructive working relationship between the student’s parent(s) or guardian and the school is essential to the fulfillment of the school’s mission and to the progress of the student. Thus, the school reserves the right not to continue enrollment or not to re-enroll the student if the school concludes, in its sole and absolute discretion, that the actions of the parent(s) or guardian(s) make such a positive and constructive relationship impossible or seriously interfere with the school’s accomplishment of its educational purposes. The school reserves the right to remove the student at any time if, in the sole discretion of the school, the student’s industry, progress, conduct, or influence on- or off-campus is not in keeping with the school’s accepted standards, in accordance with this handbook and all other now existing or later enacted rules, regulations, requirements and other provisions. There will be no refund of the fees where such enforced withdrawal occurs, and any unpaid balance is payable in full in accordance with the payment schedule.
Financial Obligations LCDS expects prompt payment for services. On-time payment is critical to maintaining the variety and quality of special programs that are offered at LCDS. Please be sure you are up to date with any financial obligations. A family with an outstanding balance should be aware of the following: 1. The student(s) will not be allowed to participate in the After School Program; 2. The school will not be able to release a child’s report card or any school records; 3. In accordance with Center for Advancement of Jewish Education policies, a family owing outstanding bills to any Jewish Day School may not enroll in another Jewish day school; 4. If there is a question or a concern about a statement you have received, please contact our accounting department. Page 22
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Student Affairs and Philosophy of Discipline LCDS views discipline as a means to an end rather than an end in itself. We use discipline to help students learn to accept responsibility for their own actions and behavior. The ability to accept such responsibility is one mark of a mature person. Every day we are given the opportunity to teach children how to express the ideals and standards set forth in the teachings of the Torah. Each of us has a responsibility to do so in an effective and caring manner. All members of our community are expected to join us as we strive toward the highest standards of educational and personal excellence at LCDS.
Who Can Help? There are many people at LCDS who can and want to help you if you are experiencing a problem. First turn to your homeroom teacher, whom you should contact immediately if you are having a problem or find yourself in trouble. Faculty members will make most decisions concerning problems and issues of discipline. If, after having consulted your homeroom teacher, the problem is still not resolved, you should contact the School Counselor or the appropriate Dean. Only discipline resulting in a suspension of three days or greater, or expulsion, may be appealed to the Head of School.
Infractions All students represent LCDS at all times, both on and off campus, including vacations and weekends. Any behavior during vacations or on a weekend which, in the opinion of the administration, is viewed as detrimental to the school or its reputation may jeopardize the student’s position at LCDS. The following are considered serious offenses and, although each situation will be considered individually, a breach of the rules below can lead to any number of consequences. We expect our students to adhere to the following rules: 1. Be honest with others in what you do and say. 2. Always show respect for your teachers, school staff, peers, parents, and visiting guests. Disrespectful behavior will not be tolerated. 3. Take credit for your work, and only your work. Any student found cheating on daily homework or other work may receive a zero LCDS Teacher Code of Practice 08-09
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for that assignment or test. Plagiarism is another form of cheating in which an individual copies ideas or quotes from any source, e.g., book, encyclopedia or magazine for a paper or a report without citing the source. Students are required to state clearly where ideas other than their own came from. Cheating and plagiarism will be treated as a serious offense and may lead to suspension and/or expulsion. 4. Have self-respect and consideration for the personal and material rights of others. Destruction of property and stealing are unacceptable behaviors. All such acts of anti-social behavior will be dealt with severely, requiring in every case the cost of replacing or repairing damaged property. 5. Be fair to others: bullying is unacceptable and will be dealt with in a swift and severe manner. 6. Use appropriate language. Swearing and obscene language and gestures are forbidden at all times in school and at schoolsponsored activities. 7. Meet your school obligations: a demonstrated unwillingness to complete assignments and live by the spirit of LCDS’s policies, or inability to do so, may lead ultimately to dismissal. 8. Be healthy and safe. Possession of tobacco, matches, lighters or any illegal substance will be considered a violation of no smoking and safety rules and is not allowed on campus, at school events or on school trips. 9. Settle disputes peacefully; fighting is not an acceptable alternative. The penalty for all parties involved in physical violence will be severe. Keep in mind that it takes more selfcontrol to walk away from than to engage in a fight. 10. Secure permission to use a school telephone, including those in the main office. In Addition, the following are prohibited: 11. Possession of weapons or firecrackers of any kind.. 12. Chewing gum on campus, on any school bus or van, or at any school-sponsored events. 13. Removal of food or drink from the cafeteria, unless permission is given by a teacher. 14. Private monetary or commercial transactions on campus. No student should have more than $5.00 at school at any time. Page 24
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15. No animals are allowed on school property at any time, other than those in the science lab. The school will not be held responsible for animals, stray or leashed, on campus. 16. Gambling in any form at any time on campus and at schoolsponsored events and functions is strictly prohibited. Biting Young children will bite one another on occasion. While biting is not a preferred activity, it is reasonable to assume that biting, as it is a developmental behavior, will occur occasionally between young children. LCDS will try to limit biting among children. While each situation will be reviewed on a case by case basis, incidences of biting may result in consequences including but not limited to: the requirement of a shadow (to be provided at the related family’s expense); time away from school; and/or, permanent removal. LCDS reserves the right to evaluate each scenario and determine consequences as needed. Sexual Harassment It is the policy of LCDS to maintain an educational and working environment that is free from harassment of any kind. In enforcing this policy, we insist on behavior between people of all ages to be characterized as respectful, courteous, mindful of another’s feelings, compassionate, and heeding the Jewish principle of derekh eretz. LCDS maintains a separate Sexual Harassment Policy (available in the school office, upon request), the intent of which is to deal with this specific issue, but also to conform to the broader standards of conduct at LCDS. Consequences 1. All infractions will be documented by the appropriate teacher or administrator using a Discipline Report; parents are expected to sign the form indicating that they received the notice. 2. Some infractions will result in a detention, which is served after school as arranged by the Dean of Students. A student who does not attend the assigned detention will receive an in school suspension the following day. On the day of the detention, the student reports to the assigned teacher. A detention may be assigned to a student for: chronic failure to complete homework assignments; excessive tardiness; destruction of school property; being out of class without an appropriate pass; disruptive LCDS Teacher Code of Practice 08-09
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behavior; inappropriate language; inappropriate dress; disrespectful behavior to peers or others; or fighting. 3. Some infractions will result in Probation or Suspension, or both. Once on probation the student will bear the burden of demonstrating to the school that s/he wants to remain at LCDS. Probation is always given a specified duration and it may include a loss of some or all privileges. Probation will remain on a student’s school record and will be a part of her/his permanent school transcript. 4. Some infractions will result in an In School Suspension. In School Suspension requires the student to attend school; however, for the period set by the administration, the student will not be permitted to join his regularly scheduled classes and may be precluded from other school or after school activities. The student will have an assignment sheet listing all work required at the close of the school day. The isolated student will have the opportunity to complete the work during that school day. 5. Severe infractions may result in Suspension, which requires a student to leave school and go home for a specific period of time. During this period of time the student, family, and the school evaluate whether he or she should remain at LCDS. If the student returns to school, s/he is usually placed on probation and must show a marked improvement or face possible dismissal. Suspension is recorded as part of a student’s permanent school transcript. 6. Dismissal or expulsion is the ultimate punishment and it is recorded as part of the permanent school transcript. Once dismissed, a student must leave campus immediately. All school property must be returned to the appropriate parties, and a dismissed student may not return to the campus. A violation of any school rule(s) may lead to any and/or all of the foregoing consequences, and the school shall be under no obligation to elect a particular consequence prior to exercising another consequence (e.g., dismissal for certain violations may result without prior imposition of detention, in-door suspension, suspension, or probation.)
Internet/Computer Acceptable Use Policy
LCDS requires that all students and their parents comply with our Acceptable Use Policy, which contemplates email and Internet usage and web etiquette, both at school and off campus. This handbook is subject to change. Please check the LCDS website, under the parent portal, for possible updates.
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Index
Ability Groupings and Placement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Absences Due to Illness . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Additional Means of Communication . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 After School Program (ASP) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Alumni and Other Guests at LCDS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Annual Fund . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Arrival Carpool . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Attendance and Florida State Law . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Attendance Policy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 Attire in Early Childhood . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Birth Date Consideration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Birthday Parties and Other Celebrations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Biting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Blessings and Mealtimes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Bus Travel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Carpool Procedures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Carpool, Drop-off and Dismissal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Cellular Telephones and Other Electronic Devices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Chronic Tardiness . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Class Placement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Cold Weather Attire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Conduct and Effort Grades . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Consequences . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Cooperative Working Relationship . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Derekh Eretz . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Dismissal Carpool . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Early Departures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Early Dismissal Days . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Emergency Medical and Release Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 Fees for Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Field Trip Attire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Field Trips and Transportation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Financial Obligations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Food and Mealtimes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Friday Folders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Health and Medication Policies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Health Forms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 Homework . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Illness at School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 Infractions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Internet/Computer Acceptable Use Policy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 Invitations to Parties Outside of School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 K–5 Grading System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Kippot . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Page 28
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Kosher Food and Kashrut . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Late Policy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Late Sign Ins . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 LCDS Birthday Cake Bakery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 LCDS Teachers and Tutoring . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Lost and Found . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Lunch Program and Snacks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Medications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 Nutrition at LCDS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Parent Association (PA) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Parent-Teacher Conferences . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Parents and Homework . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Parking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Party Favors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Personal Property and Lockers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Physical Education Attire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Planned Absences and Family Vacations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Progress Reports (Report Cards) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Religious and Ethical Guidelines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Religious Practices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 School Closings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 School Hours . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 Security . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Sexual Harassment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Shabbat . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Siblings and Parties . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Siblings and Performances . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Spirit Days . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Standardized testing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Student Affairs and Philosophy of Discipline . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Student Evaluation and Communications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Students and Homework . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Study Hall . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Tardiness . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 Teachers and Homework . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Transportation and LCDS Employees . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Uniform Dress Code . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 What does “Kosher� mean? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Which foods are kosher? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Who Can Help? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
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