LOWER SCHOOL STUDENT HANDBOOK 2020-2021
Tower Hill School
The Tower Hill Mis sion Statement Tower Hill School prepares students from diverse backgrounds for full and creative engagement with a dynamic world. Each student is provided with an educational experience that
emphasizes the development of an inquisitive, discerning
and critical mind; the value of being creative and aesthetically sensitive; the appreciation of physical well being; the ability to
collaborate and to function as part of a team; and the growth of character.
C ON T EN T S Welcome 3 Code of Conduct 4 Community Behavioral Expectations 4 Confidentiality 5 Daily Schedule 5 Arrival Times & Locations 5 Dismissal Times 6 Dismissal Procedures 6 Tower Hill Kaleidoscope-After School Program 10 Wellness Support 11 Covid-19 Guidance 13 Parent/Teacher Conferences 14 Release of Student Records 15 Conference Dates 15 General Information 16 Absences 16 Birthday Parties 17 Books and Supplies 17 Dress and Appearance 18 Evening Events 19 Field Day 19 2
Grandparents’ Day Homework Lockers/Cubbies Lost and Found Lunch Recess School Directory Snow Days - Late Openings Summer Reading and Math Student Wellness Telephone Calls Testing Trips Disciplinary System Emergency Drills & Safety Procedures Reference Sheet The Calendar at a Glance Technology & Internet Use in Lower School On-Site Technology Guidelines Social Media Use
The Tower Hill Mission Statement
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Welcome to the Tower Hill Lower School Handbook Dear Lower School Parents, Thank you for choosing the Lower School at Tower Hill for your child’s education. Whether you are a new family in our school or a longstanding member of our community, it is my sincere pleasure to welcome you and your child to the 2020-2021 school year. We have a great year ahead of us! We realize that you have chosen Tower Hill because you desire the best possible education and a strong community in which your child can grow and develop. The faculty and staff of the Lower School share your commitment to excellence and high quality education, and will ensure that your child is known, loved and challenged every day. The basis of all learning is strong relationships; I encourage you to get to know your child’s teachers as they seek to get to know your child and his or her unique strengths. Tower Hill is dedicated to building in students a foundation for lifelong learning. Our teachers will provide a challenging and exhilarating program, engaging students in a variety of educational experiences, while allowing them to develop their individual strengths and pursue their passions. Combined with academic pursuits is the commitment to character. Through an emphasis on active citizenship, personal integrity, collective responsibility, team building and collaboration, and mutual respect, we encourage each student to develop a sense of personal worth and to recognize, understand and accept the individuality of others. This handbook contains valuable information for both parents and students. Please note that there are numerous changes due to COVID-19, and we are committed to the health and well-being of our students and faculty. The Return to Campus Plan sent out in July contains additional, important information that you and your family should be familar with. Whether you are looking for factual information or school procedures, please refer to it often throughout the school year to answer your questions. If you find that you have additional questions that are not addressed here, please do not hesitate to be in touch with me or with Amy Bickhart, Assistant Head of Lower School. I am confident that the year will be filled with meaning and growth for all of us – parents and teachers included. I look forward to working with each and every one of you as we build this vibrant community of learners that prepares our children for successful and meaningful lives. Have a great year!
Sincerely,
Susan Miller Head of Lower School
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INTRODUCTION The purpose of this handbook is to familiarize Lower School families with the policies, procedures, resources and events that characterize the Tower Hill experience. However, rules and regulations, programs and special resources can only provide a framework for knowing one’s school. A good school, such as our own, relies on a shared commitment to a set of values and beliefs. It is that intangible “culture” that creates the atmosphere that is the essence and significance of Tower Hill. At Tower Hill we believe in the unique potential of each of our students. We join parents in fostering a love of learning, a sense of personal responsibility, a respect for the contributions and worth of others and a developing sense of self-confidence. Parents are encouraged to assist in our ongoing programs, to share their special skills and expertise, and to contribute ideas and suggestions so we can jointly improve our efforts on behalf of our children. We share the responsibility and the challenges that characterize a fine school.
STUDENT CODE OF CONDUCT As a citizen of the Lower School, I pay attention to the world around me. I notice how I treat others and I am kind. I understand that it is my job to take care of my environment. I recognize that we are different and that we learn from each other. I am honest about what I do and say. I work together with my friends and teachers to make my school a safe and enjoyable place for all of us.
COMMUNITY BEHAVIORAL EXPECTATIONS We believe that every member of our school community should feel safe, physically and emotionally. All children are expected to be respectful of one another and to express their feelings and needs through appropriate words and actions. As children mature, they assume increasing responsibility for their behavior at school. Older children in our community experience increasing independence and are expected to handle this growing freedom appropriately. Responsibility, kindness, self-discipline, honesty and courtesy are among the virtues that we espouse and teach in the Lower School to fulfill the school’s philosophy. Faculty and parents work together to assist children in their development in these areas.
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The violation of a school rule is usually handled by the teacher of the student involved. They determine the consequence for a particular behavior based on the age of the student, the frequency, the duration and the severity of the infraction. Sometimes the violation results in the teacher conferring with the Head of the Lower School. In these cases, disciplinary action for the student or students involved will result in a conversation with parents, and then the implementation of a variety of consequences, which may include a child being sent home from school, in school or out of school suspension, or probation with a list of behavioral requirements for a period of time. The purpose of such an action is to emphasize to the student that his or her conduct is inconsistent with the behavioral expectations at Tower Hill School.
CONFIDENTIALITY In a school, just as in a family, children often say or do things that reflect their social or intellectual development, their state of mind at a particular moment. It is inappropriate for THS parents acting in any capacity to communicate information about any child or his/her behavior in a way that undermines the highest level of confidentiality. If parents involved with students (for example, as volunteers, chaperones, participants, hosts or audiences) observe something that gives them cause for concern, they should follow the dictates of proper school protocol and address those concerns with the teacher first, then with an administrator, as the situation warrants.
ARRIVAL TIMES Students should arrive at school between 7:45 a.m. and 8:10 a.m. and will go directly to their classrooms. The school buildings are locked and supervision is not available prior to 7:45 a.m. Children arriving in classrooms after 8:13 a.m. are considered late. In the event of lateness, please accompany Tower Tots through 1st graders to the front reception area; 2nd - 4th graders may be sent in through the front entrance. LOCATIONS FOR ARRIVAL To assist in ensuring proper physical distancing, classes have been assigned specific arrival and departure locations. Tower Tots - Tower Road; gate closest to the Wang Wing Pre-Kindergarten - Tower Road; gate closest to the Stabler Building Kindergarten - Front entrance on 17th Street 1st Grade Ms. Donlon’s class - Tower Road; gate closest to the Wang Wing Mrs. Sullivan’s class - Tower Road; gate closest to the Wang Wing Mrs. Martin’s class - Front entrance on 17th Street 2nd Grade - Circle by the Kaleidoscope Building 3rd Grade (all classes) - Tower Road, gate closest to the Stabler Building 4th Grade -
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Ms. Becker’s class - Tower Road, gate closest to the Stabler Building Ms. Elliott’s class - Front entrance on 17th Street Mrs. Somer’s class - Front entrance on 17th Street
Families with children in multiple grades will have to drop children off at their respective locations. Again, this is to ensure appropriate physical distancing and traffic flow within the building. If you do not have to drop off on 17th Street, please continue straight on Tower Road or turn left onto 17th Street, driving away from the school. This will help reduce traffic in front of the building and ensure the safety of our children. Students will be dropped off at their respective locations. We ask that parents not exit their cars so traffic flow can be maintained. In addition, we ask that you not park your car to walk your child to their entrance. We will have faculty and staff on duty to ensure all students get to their classrooms.
DISMISSAL TIMES Half-Day Students:
Tower Tots and Pre-Kindergarten
Supervised Dismissal Period: 12:30-12:40 p.m.
If a half-day student is not picked up by 12:40 p.m. from Tower Road, they will rejoin the full-day class. Parents will be billed through the Business Office. Full Day Students:
Supervised Dismissal Period:
Tower Tots, Pre-Kindergarten and Kindergarten students w/no siblings in other grades - 2:45 - 2:55 p.m. Tower Tots, Pre-Kindergarten and Kindergarten students w/siblings; 1st - 4th grades - 3:00 - 3:10 p.m. LS Students with MS siblings in 5th & 6th grade - 3:10 - 3:15 p.m. If a student is not picked up by the end of their supervised dismissal period, they will go directly to Kaleidoscope, our After School Program, and will be billed through the Business Office. *Supervision for LS students with siblings in 7th or 8th grade will not be provided this year. All LS students will need to be picked up no later than 3:15 PM. DISMISSAL PROCEDURES All parents of Tower Tots-Fourth graders will be assigned dismissal numbers to expedite our dismissal process. Numbers should be prominently displayed on window visors facing the curb.
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If your child’s dismissal arrangements change for the day, please send a note to your child’s classroom teacher in the morning. We appreciate learning about dismissal changes upon your child’s arrival, however, if a midday change is necessary, please call the Lower School Office, not the teacher. Calls received in the office after 2 p.m. should be for EMERGENCIES ONLY so we have adequate time to inform teachers and ensure that your child is in the correct place. Please conform to the State of Delaware’s regulations regarding car seats, seat belts and rear seating for children. Students must be seated in the rear of passenger vehicles, and be secured in booster seats if they weigh less than 60 pounds. Children over 60 pounds must use seat belts. In order to dismiss all Lower School children safely at each day’s end, it is imperative that all drivers refrain from cell phone use for talking or texting while waiting in the car line as this has proven to be a distraction and a delay. Lower School students are expected to remain in their parents’ cars once they have been escorted to their vehicles. The streets immediately surrounding the school are subject to heavy traffic and, as a result, are extremely dangerous. Parents are asked to pick up their children at dismissal time following the procedures listed below. Please read carefully as students will be dismissed by family to facilitate our procedures. Dismissal locations are ultimately determined by the color of your dismissal card:
PINK dismisses on Tower Road
GREEN dismisses on 17th Street in front of the main entrance
WHITE dismisses from the Kaleidoscope parking lot
WALKERS AND BUS RIDERS 2nd Grade Students and their Lower School siblings: All 2nd graders and their siblings will dismiss from the Kaleidoscope Circle. Siblings will be walked over to the Kaleidoscope area just prior to 3 PM where they will be picked up. Cars displaying Tower Hill numbers on WHITE dismissal cards should form a line in the circle parking lot or along Tower Road in front of the Business Office. Students will be escorted to their cars by a teacher and will be entering the car on the passenger side. Kindergarten Students 1st Grade Mrs. Martin’s Class 4th Grade Mrs. Elliott’s and Mrs. Somer’s Classes
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Most students in grades and/or classes listed above and their siblings will dismiss from the front entrance to the school on 17th Street. Cars displaying Tower Hill numbers on GREEN dismissal cards, should form a line in front of the school starting at the front entrance of the school, facing Rising Sun. Students will be escorted to their cars by a teacher and will be entering the car on the passenger side. Tower Tot and Pre-Kindergarten and their Lower School Siblings 1st Graders in Mrs. Donlon’s and Mrs. Sullivan’s Classes 3rd Graders 4th Grade - Ms. Becker’s class Most students in grades and classes listed above will be dismissed from the preschool entrances on Tower Road. Cars displaying Tower Hill numbers on PINK dismissal cards should form a line starting at 17th Street, facing Kennett Pike (Rt. 52). Students will be escorted to their cars by a teacher and will be entering the car on the passenger side. During peak traffic periods, overflow cars will be directed to Rockford Park and will proceed around the park returning to the entrance at 19th Street. Police officers will help direct traffic during the first weeks of school to establish safe access patterns. Bus Riders Bus riders will be dismissed to the Reception area for busses departing Tower Hill by 3:15 p.m. Students riding later busses will join Kaleidoscope students at dismissal and will be escorted by a staff member to meet their bus at the appropriate time. Lower School students with Middle School Siblings Lower School students with Middle School siblings should be picked up at their designated location before proceeding to the Middle School pick up locations. Please do not arrive before 3:10 p.m. or you may be asked to circle the block and come back to pick up your Middle School child(ren) to not block traffic. If you arrive after 3:15 p.m., you will need to pick up your Lower School child in the After School Program. KALEIDOSCOPE DISMISSAL PROCEDURES This year Kaleidoscope students will be dismissed using a carline to keep our students and staff physically distant while expediting our dismissal process. Please send a note to your child’s teacher with any dismissal changes in the morning. We appreciate learning about dismissal changes upon your child’s arrival; however, if a change is necessary, please email Cindy Sardo at csardo@towerhill.org prior to 2:30 PM. Car Line Locations Tower Road - All grades TT-Grade 6
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Kaleidoscope Building - Grade 2
Should you have children to be picked up in both locations, please pick up on Tower Road before going to the Kaleidoscope parking circle to get your 2nd grader. Parents are asked to abide by following the procedures listed below: ● Kaleidoscope carline will begin promptly at the designated pick up times - 4:00, 5:00, 5:30 & 6:00 ONLY ● Arrive on time at your registered time for pick up and have your dismissal number displayed on the passenger side sun visor. ● Stay in your vehicle while waiting for your child. ● If you arrive late, your child will be brought out at the next dismissal time. ● It is imperative that all drivers refrain from cell phone use for talking or texting during dismissal as it compromises student safety. Please be on time to pick up your child from Kaleidoscope. Children not picked up within 5 minutes of their dismissal time will return to Kaleidoscope and will be brought outside at the next dismissal time. There will be a $20 late fee should a student not be picked up at their scheduled time. For the safety of your children, children will only be dismissed from Kaleidoscope to a parent or designated adult.
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KALEIDOSCOPE Kaleidoscope is available to all Lower School families. It is a comprehensive, high-quality child care program providing supervised play, organized activities and homework study periods. Coverage is available on snow days at the discretion of the Head of School. For the safety of your children, children will only be dismissed from Kaleidoscope to a parent or designated adult. For additional information and registration materials parents should contact Cindy Sardo, Director of Kaleidoscope, at Extension 209; Amy Bickhart, Assistant Head of Lower School, at Extension 304; or the Lower School Office at Extension 232. Kaleidscope offers holiday, vacation and conference care for all students. A minimum of 12 students per date is needed in order to offer programming. Registration information will be made available one month prior to the holiday. For further questions, please contact Cindy Sardo, Director of Kaleidoscope, at 657-8355 or kaleidscope@towerhill.org. Please check the holiday coverage page under Kaleidscope on the website at towerhill.org for up to date coverage and registration forms. BEHAVIORAL EXPECTATIONS We believe that every member of our school community should feel safe, physically and emotionally. All children are expected to be respectful of one another and to express their feelings and needs through appropriate words and actions. It is a privilege, not a right, to be a member of the Tower Hill community and, as such, everyone is expected to behave in a manner consistent with the standards of conduct, both on and off campus, at all times during enrollment. All behavioral expectations of students during the regular school day are applicable to students who
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attend Kaleidoscope. The violation of any rules or unacceptable behavior is usually handled by the teacher of the student involved. They determine the consequence for a particular behavior based on the age of the student, the frequency, the duration and the severity of the infraction. Sometimes the violation results in the teacher conferring with the Director or Auxiliary Services and/or the Head of Lower School. In these cases, disciplinary action for the student or students involved will result in a conversation with parents, and then the implementation of a variety of consequences, which may include a child being sent home from Kaleidoscope, in school or out of school suspension, or probation with a list of behavioral requirements for a period of time. The purpose of such an action is to emphasize to the student that his or her conduct is inconsistent with the behavioral expectations at Tower Hill School. Registration for Kaleidoscope, Enrichment and Camps We use an online platform called Popsicle that will allow for online registration and payment for Kaleidoscope, enrichment classes and camps. Additionally as always, we will be open when school is closed (Spring Break, Conferences) with the exception of national holidays, but now there is an additional fee for all of $80 per full day and $45 half day. A minimum of 12 students per date is needed in order to offer programming. Please check the holiday coverage page under Kaleidoscope on the website at www.towerhill.org for up to date coverage and registration forms. Kaleidoscope Registration with Tuition Families may request via email to Cindy Sardo that Kaleidoscope fees be included with their tuition within FACTS. In these cases, you will be given a coupon code to use at the time of registration on Popsicle to be able to register without immediate payment. The Business Office will move the total Kaleidoscope fees to FACTS to be billed with Tuition and Fees through the FACTS payment plan and transferred to regular student billing. All Business Office financial hold policies would be in place for unpaid amounts. For additional information and registration materials, parents should contact Cindy Sardo, Director of Auxiliary Programs, at Extension 209; Amy Bickhart, Assistant Head of Lower School, at Extension 304; or the Lower School Office at Extension 232. WELLNESS SUPPORT. The Health Office is located on the Lower Level of the school building right under the Main Entrance on 17th Street. Parents picking up children who are ill must park by the underpass entrance and call the school nurse (ext. 229) upon arrival. Please wait in your car and your child(ren) will be brought to you. A physical examination, immunization record, and evidence of tuberculosis (TB) screening are required for ALL NEW students. Physical examinations are required for all students in Prekindergarten, Kindergarten, Grades 1 and 3 and must have been completed within the 12 months prior to the first day of school. Lower School students with food allergies and/or asthma must submit an action plan from their physician via the Magnus Health Portal. The deadline for all medical forms is
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August 15. Parents are expected to update contact information in TowerNet whenever there is a change in address, phone number, etc. Please update any changes in medical information in Magnus as soon as possible. The Health Office is staffed from 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. daily. In addition, the school’s athletic trainers are available during after-school athletic practices and games, and will oversee the health needs of students in the Kaleidoscope program.. In extreme emergencies when trainers and the school nurse are not on campus, the school will dial 911, concurrent with a call to the child’s parents. STUDENTS WILL NOT BE PERMITTED TO PARTICIPATE IN THE PHYSICAL EDUCATION, RECESS PROGRAMS OR AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAM UNTIL THEIR PHYSICAL AND IMMUNIZATIONS HAVE BEEN SUBMITTED VIA THE MAGNUS HEALTH PORTAL. PHYSICAL EDUCATION LIMITATIONS If a physician recommends limitation of a student’s physical activity, the physician should send a written statement of the nature of the limitation and its duration to the school nurse. Following serious illness or injury, a note from the physician will be required before the student is permitted to participate in physical education. Temporary excuses for up to three consecutive days from physical education classes for minor illness and injury may be issued by the school nurse. A note from the doctor may be required after three days at the discretion of the nurse. MEDICATIONS Whenever possible, medication should be taken at home. Often a doctor will be able to prescribe medication which can be given two or three times a day, so it can be given at home. If medication must be taken at school, the medication must be in the original container or prescription bottle with a note from the parent specifying: (a) dosage, (b) time to be given, (c) number of days to be given and (d) reason medication is being taken. The nurse will not administer medication that is sent to school in plastic bags, wrapped in tissues, etc. Only properly identified medications as explained above, will be given. When having a prescription filled, it is helpful to ask the pharmacist for two identically labeled containers; one can be sent to school and the other can be kept at home. Students are not to carry medications on their persons or keep them in lockers. This is for the protection of all students. Students with asthma or severe allergies should have extra emergency medication sent to school and kept in the health office at all times. These include quick relief inhalers, nebulized albuterol, and auto-injectable epinephrine. ILLNESS OVERVIEW In consideration of others, children should not be sent to school when ill. A child should remain at home with a fever (100.0 degrees or higher), suspected strep throat, rash of unknown origin, vomiting 12
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or diarrhea, or any possible COVID-19 symptoms (see below). Students are not to return to school until they are without fever, vomiting, or diarrhea, for at least 24 hours without medication. If a student’s temperature is even slightly elevated in the morning (99.5 degrees or higher) it may be a fever by afternoon and he or she should not come to school. Students with suspected strep throat should remain at home until the throat culture result is obtained or until the student has been on an antibiotic for at least 24 hours. NOTIFICATION Please inform the school nurse of any serious illness or injury, or anything of a highly contagious nature, e.g. chicken pox, strep throat, head lice or an antibiotic-resistant infection, such as methicillinresistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). It is essential that the nurse have information regarding allergies to medications, food or bee stings, and chronic health conditions such as asthma, diabetes or seizures. The nurse should also be informed when phone numbers for emergency notification change.
COVID-19 GUIDANCE Daily symptom screening will be completed each morning by a parent/guardian for all students participating in in-person learning. A link will be sent via text message or email and once submitted you will receive an all clear message to come to campus. Students will not be permitted on campus if this daily screening is not completed. If you receive a denied access to campus message, please keep all household members at home and contact the school nurse for further guidance. Any possible exposures to COVID-19 should be reported to the school nurse immediately. A decision will be made on a case-by-case basis to determine exposure risk and if a quarantine period is required. Students will not be permitted on campus until they have received clearance from the school nurse. Students experiencing possible symptoms of COVID-19 (fever, cough, shortness of breath, sudden loss of taste and/or smell, headache, fatigue, muscle or body aches, GIi upset, or sore throat) will not be permitted on campus. Please keep your child at home and notify the school nurse immediately. All members of the household (even those that are healthy) must also stay home until the symptomatic person receives a negative COVID-19 test or has a note from a medical provider for clearance to return to school. Parents/Guardians should call the Delaware Department of Public Health (2-1-1) for guidance regarding presenting symptoms and information on COVID-19 testing, in addition to notifying their primary care provider. Length of isolation for the sick child will be determined by a medical provider on a case-by case basis, as well as, length of time for household members to quarantine. Parent/ Guardian must call the school nurse prior to the student returning to campus for a review of current symptoms and course of illness. APPOINTMENTS (Dismissal for doctor, dentist, orthodontist appointments) Whenever possible, doctor’s appointments should be scheduled for after school. If that cannot be arranged, Lower School students are expected to present a note to their teachers, who will notify the Lower School Administrative Assistant, from their parent/guardian indicating the time of dismissal and the reason.
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PARENT/TEACHER CONFERENCES AND STUDENT PROGRESS REPORTS As a small school, one of Tower Hill’s most important obligations is to know its students and to help them grow. Every effort is made to partner with families as we work together to help our students reach their potential.
INFORMAL CONFERENCES Parents are encouraged to contact teachers for discussion of any aspect of the child’s school life. There is no substitute for the information the parent can give the teacher regarding the child’s previous school experience, work-study habits, and feelings about school and school work or any family concerns that might have bearing on the child’s school experience. Parents are requested to observe the following guidelines in setting up and having such conferences: ● Call the office or email the teacher with whom you would like to speak with your request to schedule a meeting time. ● Allow time to determine a mutually convenient time for a conference. ● Conferences will occur via Zoom or phone call Impromptu conferences cannot occur while a teacher has a responsibility for supervision and instruction of children.
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FORMAL CONFERENCE AND REPORT DATES 2020-21 There are two formal conference days designated in both October and February to discuss student progress in all areas of school life. Conferences will be scheduled through the Lower School Office via Sign-Up Genius. We ask that parents be available on one of the two days; please give the Lower School Office and the classroom teacher sufficient notice if the two dates are inconvenient. On occasion a conference may need to be scheduled at a different time to accommodate the school psychologist, specialist faculty and/or the Head of Lower School in addition to the classroom teacher. Progress reports will be available online to parents prior to their scheduled conference time, assuming all financial obligations are up-to-date. Conference and report dates are as outlined below: 1st Required Parent Conference and Written Report: October 29 (evening) and October 30 (daytime) 2nd Required Parent Conference and Written Report: February 10 (evening) and February 11 (daytime) 3rd Written Report in June Parent-Teacher conference at the request of the school or the parent.
Conferences will be held via Zoom during the 2020-2021 school year.
RELEASE OF STUDENT RECORDS Upon written request of the parent to release a student transcript, the School will send copies of teachers’ final reports and standardized test results to outside agencies, child care specialists, or other schools assuming all financial obligations have been met. Health records, psychological testing results or reports from our Psychologist will only be released when specifically requested by the parent. The School will not release copies of Admissions testing materials or correspondence.
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G ENERAL IN F OR M AT ION
ABSENCES ABSENCES, PARENTS Parent absences or illness can be upsetting to a student and may affect his/her performance in school. The school would appreciate knowing of any unusual family circumstances (extended trips, illness, etc. of a parent) so that we may better support your child during that time. ABSENCES, STUDENTS In the event that a student will be absent, parents are asked to call the Lower School Administrative Assistant between 8 a.m. and 9 a.m. When possible, calls will be made to parents of students who are absent when the School has not been notified in order to determine the student’s whereabouts. Students will be able to access classes via Zoom should they desire to do so and homework via TowerNet. ILLNESS A note specifying the nature of the illness should accompany the student upon return to school and should be delivered to the classroom teacher. If a student has special health needs or limitations, as the result of an illness or injury, these should be communicated directly to the School Nurse. VACATION No matter how carefully the calendar is planned, vacations fall at times which are inconvenient for some members of the community. Nevertheless, it is important to remember that missing class time can be detrimental to a student’s academic progress as the experiential aspect of the learning process cannot be duplicated at home. In the case of unusual circumstances, parents should contact the Head of Lower School and classroom teacher, at least one week in advance, to inform the school of the upcoming absence and request that make-up work be assigned at the convenience of the teacher, if feasible.
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BIRTHDAY PARTIES Birthday celebrations are important as we want students to know they are special. Recognizing that there are times when guest lists need to be limited, the following suggestions should minimize hurt feelings on the part of those students who may not be included in a particular birthday gathering or are unable to attend: Do not send gifts or sleeping bags to school; Mail invitations to the homes of invited guests unless the entire class or all of one sex are invited; Arrange pick-ups away from school. These guidelines have enabled us to demonstrate sensitivity to children’s feelings.
Due to COVID, only individually pre-packaged food is permitted for any celebrations. Parents should contact their child’s teacher in advance of sending in any birthday treats with their student.
BOOKS AND SUPPLIES Lower School students’ supplies and books are ordered by their teachers and provided for the students. Parents provide the supplies listed below.
EXTRA CLOTHING The following articles should be left at school for use throughout the year: Tower Tots and Prekindergarten
1 Box of tissues Hand Sanitizer Sweater/sweatshirt to leave @ school Change of clothing, including socks and underwear Rain boots (for the experiential outdoor classroom) Beach towel, not to exceed 30” x 70” Reusable water bottle Full day students will need a crib size blanket for rest time (we recommend this for rest)
Kindergarten
2 boxes of tissues Hand Sanitizer Sweater or sweatshirt to leave @ school Extra pair of sneakers or boots (for the experiential outdoor classroom) Change of clothes, including socks and underwear Inexpensive headphones to keep at school Beach towel, not to exceed 30” x 70” Reusable water bottle
First and Second Grades
2 boxes of tissues Hand Sanitizer Sweater or sweatshirt to leave @ school Change of clothes, including socks Rain boots or old sneakers/shoes (for the experiential outdoor classroom) Inexpensive headphones to keep at school Beach towel, not to exceed 30” x 70” Reusable water bottle
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Third and Fourth Grades
2 boxes of tissues Hand Sanitizer Sweater/sweatshirt to leave @ school Inexpensive headphones to keep at school Water bottle to be kept @ school Clorox wipes (1 container) Beach towel, not to exceed 30” x 70” Reusable water bottle
LOWER SCHOOL DRESS CODE Tower Hill’s dress code is connected to the School’s mission that prepares students from diverse backgrounds for full and creative engagement with a dynamic world. The school’s dress requirements, therefore, stem from an effort to provide an environment that is comfortable, and conducive to education. Student attire should reflect a positive portrayal of self and respect for the instructional environment. All clothing should be neat and clean with appropriate hems and cuffs. Clothing should be free from holes, paint spots, frayed edges, etc. and should fit appropriately. SCHOOL DRESS The specific school policies with regard to dress are outlined below. Parents are urged to contact the school if there are questions regarding this information. The final decision about the appropriateness of a student’s dress rests with the classroom teacher, Head of Lower School, Assistant Head of School and the Head of School. Shirts: • Logos are to be smaller than a silver dollar • Students should refrain from wearing clothes with language or images that are inappropriate or derogatory • Shoulders are to be covered at all times • Athletic clothing other than Tower Hill gear is not permitted Pants/Shorts/Skirts: • Khaki style pants or shorts may be worn; no denim/jeans • Shorts or skirts of an appropriate length (to mid-thigh) may be worn • Presentable leggings worn with a tunic, long shirt or sweater which falls to mid-thigh are acceptable. Athletic leggings are not permitted. • Yoga pants, jeggings, sweatpants or excessively tight pants are not to be worn • Athletic clothing other than Tower Hill gear is not permitted • Footwear: • Shoes in good repair that cover the entire foot and have an enclosed toe • Sneakers in good repair are required for PE classes; laces must be tied • Clogs, other backless shoes and shoes with heels greater than 1” are not permitted for safety reasons
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Students are expected to be well groomed. Any haircuts or hair coloring that are deemed by the administration to be in appropriate or distracting are not permitted.
DRESS CODE NOTES Throughout the year there will be school spirit days and dress up/dress down days. The particular style of dress recommended for field trips or special events will be communicated in advance of the event. All Tower Hill gear is permitted to be worn to school on any day. Dress Down Days On these special days students may wear jeans, sweatpants or shorts along with t-shirts, sweatshirts or tops of their choosing. However, short length and top coverage guidelines are still enforced. If a student does not want to participate in a fundraising dress down day, they do not have to make the donation and should, therefore, be in dress code. If there is a question about the appropriateness of a garment, the student should check with the teacher or school administration before wearing them.
EVENING EVENTS As per our Return to Campus Plan, all campus buildings will be closed to outside visitors and parents during the school day. Parents will not be permitted on campus at this time. Should the State of Delaware guidance change and evening events are permitted, we ask that parents pay close attention to the supervision of their children during those activities; the school buildings and grounds are large and supervision is not provided during off hours.
FIELD DAY Field Day is held on the Friday before Memorial Day. Appropriate attire is green and white t-shirts and gym shorts. Only Tower Hill logos are acceptable. Gym shoes, but not cleats, are to be worn. The color of socks signifies which team a student is on, green or white. Kindergarten students wear black socks. Face paint and colored hair spray are not allowed in the Lower School. NOTE: Prekindergarten and Tower Tots do not participate in Field Day.
GRANDPARENTS’ AND SPECIAL FRIENDS’ DAY Invitations are mailed to all grandparents whose addresses are on file in the Tower Hill Development Office. Notify the Development Office of grandparent address changes or if an invitation should be mailed to a “special guest” if a grandparent is unable to attend.
HOMEWORK Homework is given in the first through fourth grades. The purpose of homework is to extend and reinforce classroom instruction through daily practice, to establish independent work habits in the children and to help them assume personal responsibility for their assignments, and to familiarize parents with aspects of the daily school program. Lower School Handbook
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General guidelines for homework:
1st Grade:
30 Minutes
2nd Grade:
40 Minutes
3rd & 4th Grade:
45 Minutes
In addition to the homework assignments provided by their teachers, students are expected to read for pleasure daily. Parents are encouraged to contact their child’s teacher if they feel that a homework task is taking too long or if their child seems unsure of the assignment. A morning note alerting the teacher to the situation would be most helpful.
LOCKERS/CUBBIES Each child has an assigned locker or cubbie in which coats, extra clothing, and backpacks can be stored. Lockers and cubbies cannot be locked and it is a Lower School policy that children not bring money, cell phones, or other valuables to school unless the teacher is informed and is able to hold the items for the child. Preschoolers’ back packs should be similar in size to those carried by first- through fourth-graders. First- through fourth-grade lockers are 9” wide and 13” deep. Bookbags must fit in the locker. Decorations are prohibited for the 2020-2021 school year so lockers can be easily cleaned without notice.
LOST AND FOUND The School houses its Lost and Found on the lower level of the main building adjacent to the Dining Hall; however, you may also check in with the receptionist for lost items as well. If an item has a student’s name written in it, it will be returned to them.
LUNCH Tower Hill provides lunch for all of its students daily. The Lower School lunch period is 11 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. Menus will be made available in advance. Should your child have dietary restrictions, please contact the manager of Sage Dining Services, Noah Mathay, at nmathay@sagedining.com.
RECESS All LS classes will have a daily 25-30 minute supervised recess. Weather permitting, the children will go out to a playground or a playing field for recess. Please dress children appropriately or provide outerwear and/or wet weather shoes.
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SCHOOL DIRECTORY Each year Tower Hill publishes an online parent-student directory to aid parents who wish to contact other families. In order to keep the directory up-to-date, parents are asked to update their profile in Tower Net with any changes in personal information.
SNOW DAYS In the event of a cancellation of school due to inclement weather, an Alert Now message will be sent via email and via telephone, posted on the website and there will be a recording on the main School number. It is the School’s policy not to close early on days when the weather worsens progressively. On such days, parents may wish to pick up their children early. However, we will not send a child home without contacting his or her parent, even in the case of early bus arrivals or early carpool arrivals. Parents should contact the Lower School Administrative Assistant if their child will be part of an early pick-up on a snow day.
PROCEDURES FOR LATE OPENINGS In an effort to clarify our procedures and provide adequate coverage and supervision for our students on those days when school opens late, we have established the following plan: One-Hour Delay Plan - Doors will open at 8:45 a.m. and school will begin at 9:10 a.m. . Two-Hour Delay Plan - Doors will open at 9:45 a.m. and school will begin at 10:10 a.m. In the event of a delayed start, students will proceed directly to their classrooms upon arrival.
SUMMER ASSIGNMENTS The School requires summer assignments for students entering PK - 4th grade. Assignments can be found on Tower Net “Resources” page. Click “Summer Coursework” and then on your child’s grade to find all of the needed information.
STUDENT WELLNESS Parents and/or teachers sometimes request psychological consultations for suggestions on how to meet a child’s social, emotional or educational needs more effectively. If a problem or concern should arise, Tower Hill faculty will work together with parents to determine the best next steps. A support system will be designed collaboratively to help the child or remediate a specific area of challenge. Dr. Amy Cuddy, Lower School Psychologist, is available for consultation and has an office in The Wellness Center. Appointments can be scheduled directly with her.
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TELEPHONE CALLS It is difficult to deliver messages to students during the school day therefore a call should only be made to school in order to contact a student when it is absolutely essential. Under normal circumstances, all transportation arrangements should be made before children leave home in the morning, eliminating the need to adjust plans during the school day and alleviating the demands placed on the school’s communication lines. Should a change in dismissal plans occur, please call the Lower School office prior to 2 p.m. so that the information can get to the appropriate people in a timely fashion.
TESTING CTP V The Lower School tests students in grades 3 and 4 using the CTP V Program of the Educational Records Bureau (ERB). The purpose is to evaluate the School’s program in comparison to similar schools throughout the nation, and to obtain baseline academic achievement scores for each child that allow us to gauge growth over the years. Test results are sent home after the school receives the test reports. Wechsler Scales Kindergarten students who entered Tower Hill in Tower Tots or Pre-Kindergarten participate in cognitive testing via either the Wechsler Preschool and Primary Scale of Intelligence (WPPSIIV) or the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children (WISC-IV). If, as a result of the testing, there should be any concerns, the parent(s) would be contacted and a conference scheduled to discuss the test results. Speech Screenings The school provides a free speech screening for those students who are referred by their teacher as a service to parents. Screenings are scheduled by the Lower School Psychologist in conjunction with our contracted Speech and Language Therapist. Parents receive feedback regarding results. Other Testing As the Lower School continues to evaluate our programs, we may opt to pilot or use additional assessment tools to look at collective and individual student achievement.
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FIELD TRIPS As per the state guidance, off-site field trips will be discontinued for this school year until further notice. This may change as conditions allow. Field trips are scheduled throughout the year to enhance THS’ curricular program. All field trip transportation occurs by bus. While parents will not be asked to drive students, parents may be asked to help chaperone class trips. Parent chaperones should only volunteer their services if they can provide coverage for younger siblings. No additional children may accompany classes on trips or picnics during school hours. Parents may be asked to accompany students who have severe asthma, life-threatening allergies or other serious health conditions which might put the student at risk on a field trip. Please supply emergency medications for all field trips. Students may be allowed to carry their emergency medication on their person if deemed age-appropriate at the discretion of the school nurse, physician and parent. Permission slips for each trip may only be signed by the parent or legal guardian.
DISCIPLINARY SYSTEM Students attending Tower Hill are expected to conduct themselves with honor, responsibility and respect and to have the integrity and self-discipline needed to accept the rules, policies, and expectations of the School. It is a privilege, not a right, to be a member of the Tower Hill community and, as such, everyone is expected to behave in a manner consistent with the standards of conduct, both on and off campus, at all times during enrollment. If a student exhibits negative behavior while clearly representing Tower Hill at an event that is not sponsored by or does not take place at Tower Hill; during any trip or travel sponsored, organized, or sanctioned by the School; or in a way that affects the School community, regardless of the time or location of such behavior, that behavior will be subject to discipline and responded to accordingly. This also holds true for a student’s online presence—students who are found to have openly disparaged Tower Hill or members of its community in a libelous, inappropriate, or harassing manner in a public internet forum—Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, Kik, Twitter, Yik Yak, etc.—may face disciplinary action, comparable to if the offense occurred in school. For more information, please visit the Academic Technology section of this handbook.
HAR ASSMENT, BULLYING, AND HAZING As a community, we embrace diverse perspectives including, but not limited to race, religion, gender, sexual orientation and/or political beliefs. We strongly believe that you and all members of the community should feel safe within Tower Hill. It is expected that all students will treat every member of the community with respect and dignity. Any harassment, bullying, or hazing of others, including sexual harassment, is prohibited; this includes on campus, off campus and online, as set forth in the disciplinary policies above. If at any point a student feels as though they have been treated in a manner that makes them feel unsafe or insecure by anyone, they should seek out a teacher or administrator immediately and talk to them about the situation. There will be consequences for anyone in the community who is found to be in violation of our Harassment, Bullying and Hazing policy. Tower Hill strives to maintain a community free of all forms of unwanted or unacceptable behavior toward others that is intended to or has the effect of harassing, intimidating,
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humiliating, degrading, or hazing an individual. Any such behavior is unacceptable, a violation of School policy, and subject to School disciplinary procedures. The intent of this policy is not to suppress respectful thought, study, or discussion concerning controversial issues, all of which are critical to a vibrant educational environment. The purpose of this policy is to prohibit harassment, bullying and hazing so that each member of the School community has an equal opportunity to work, learn, and develop to his or her potential in a safe environment. Harassment Tower Hill School prohibits harassment by any member of the Tower Hill community. Harassment includes but is not limited to any physical, verbal, written, or electronic behavior that creates a threatening, intimidating, hostile, or offensive environment. This prohibition includes sexual harassment, as well as any harassment or discrimination on the basis of gender, religion, race, color, ancestry, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, mental or physical disability, or other distinguishing characteristics. Harassment can be made by (i) any student and directed towards any other student; (ii) any student and directed towards an employee; or (iii) any employee and directed towards a student. Furthermore, because Tower Hill community members are expected to act appropriately and because students’ behavior, whether inside or outside of School, reflects on the School and can have a significant impact on life at School, there are times when it is appropriate and important for the School to respond to incidents that occur outside of School and beyond School hours. Therefore, Tower Hill reserves the right to discipline those in the community who engage in harassment of others at any location and at any time if such harassment causes a disruption or has a potential negative impact on the Tower Hill community. The School reserves the right to address harassment, regardless of where such harassment takes place. This includes, but is not limited to, whether the harassment takes place on School property, off School property, during School sponsored activities or activities in which the School participates, on School trips or otherwise affects the School and/or its students. Bullying and Hazing Hazing or bullying in any form is unacceptable within the Tower Hill community. Bullying is defined as any intentional verbal, physical, written, or electronic behavior – or pattern of behavior – that: 1. Physically harms or damages a person or person’s property; 2. Has the effect of substantially interfering with someone’s education; 3. Creates an intimidating or threatening educational environment; or 4. Has the effect of substantially disrupting the orderly operation of the School. Bullying may be physical or emotional. Physical bullying includes hitting, punching, poking, shoving, tripping, vandalizing or stealing. Emotional bullying includes name-calling, threatening, taunting, malicious and incessant teasing, spreading rumors or persistently excluding others from a group or activity. Bullying includes cyber bullying. Bullying also includes coercing or encouraging others to engage in such behavior. Bullying includes but is not limited to behavior shown to be motivated by race, color, religion, ancestry, national origin, gender, sexual orientation including gender expression or identity, mental or physical disability or other distinguishing characteristics. 24
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Hazing is defined as any action or situation that recklessly or intentionally humiliates, intimidates, or endangers the health or safety of a student, or which willfully destroys or removes the property of another, for the purpose of initiation or admission into, or affiliation or continued involvement with, any organization or group. The School reserves the right to address bullying or hazing, regardless of where such bullying or hazing takes place. The School reserves the right to discipline those in the community who engage in bullying or hazing of others at any location and at any time if such bullying causes a disruption or has a potential negative impact on an individual in the Tower Hill community. Investigation and Complaints If a student believes that s/he – or someone s/he knows – has been a victim of any occurrence or potential occurrence of harassment, bullying or hazing, that student should immediately report that incident should immediately report that incident to the Assistant Head of School for Student Life or a Division Head, or any other teacher or administrator with whom the student feels comfortable. All complaints will be investigated. The investigation may be conducted by Tower Hill or by a third party designated by Tower Hill. The steps to be taken during the investigation will vary depending upon the nature of the allegations. Generally, the investigation may consist of personal interviews with the complainant, the individual against whom the complaint is made, and others who have knowledge of the alleged incident or circumstances giving rise to the complaint. The investigation may also consist of the evaluation of any other information or documents which may be relevant to the particular allegations. Due to their sensitive nature, allegations of sexual harassment, stalking and sexual assault will be handled directly by a member of the Tower Hill staff trained and certified in handling such matters. Complainants will be given the option of anonymity, and will under no circumstances be compelled to meet with the individual against whom the complaint is made. Reports of harassment, bullying or hazing, and information gathered in investigating and responding to such reports, will be treated as confidential subject to the School’s need to disclose such information in order to conduct its investigation and to take appropriate, responsive action. In the event the investigation concludes that a violation of this policy has occurred, Tower Hill will take prompt, appropriate action to address and, where appropriate, remediate the violation. Appropriate remedial action may include but is not limited to counseling, awareness training, parent-teacher conferences, warning, suspension, exclusion, expulsion, transfer, remediation, termination, or discharge. In the event that the investigation suggests that the harassment or bullying at issue may also violate Delaware criminal statutes, Tower Hill may also report the results of the investigation to the appropriate law enforcement agency.
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Prohibition on Retaliation Submission of a good faith complaint of harassment or bullying will not affect a student’s future grades, assignments, learning environment or opportunities. Retaliation is a serious violation of this policy and should be reported immediately. Tower Hill will discipline or take appropriate action against any student, teacher, administrator or other school personnel who retaliates against any person who reports an incident of alleged harassment or bullying or who retaliates against any person who assists or participates in an investigation. Retaliation includes, but is not limited to, any form of intimidation, reprisal, or harassment. Weapons on School Property The School forbids the possession or use of harmful or illegal weapons, or any object that could be reasonably perceived as a weapon. Tower Hill students and parents should be aware that the School may report certain disciplinary or honor violations, or alleged violations, to child protection agencies, law enforcement, and other entities as it deems necessary or as required by state and federal law.
EMERGENCY DRILLS AND SAFETY PROCEDURES At various times during the year, all divisions of the school plan for a variety of safety procedures such as fire drills and evacuations. Precautionary measures such as these are intended to provide practice for the children and faculty in case of emergency. Please support these necessary practices by reassuring your children that such drills are both necessary and routine.
ALICE TRAINING All faculty members participated in efforts to improve our school’s response to Active Shooter and aggressive intruder events through training in the ALICE (Alert, Lockdown, Inform, Counter, Evacuate) response system. The ALICE plan offers staff and students the opportunity to make informed decisions in a crisis, allowing them to take action in order to remove themselves, as possible, from the danger zone and/or respond in research-backed ways. All faculty members are trained in the ALICE protocol and are able to guide students in their responses should an emergency arise. All Lower School classroom teachers have been given a copy of the book, “I’m Not Scared, I’m Prepared” which presents ALICE curriculum in an age-appropriate manner. The book links critical safety information with the world view of elementary aged children in an empowering and proactive way. The focus is on a drill called, “The Sheep, The Shepherd and the Wolf” (which identifies the teacher as the shepherd, the students as the sheep and anyone we wouldn’t want in our school building as the wolf) and the importance of “Stop, Look, Listen” in any emergency situation. In addition to reading the book with our students, there is a corresponding activity book which guides teachers in a number of activities that help children feel prepared in any situation. These
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activities include things such as: •
Finding all exits that are nearby a classroom
•
Taking a walk to alternate rally points where students should go upon evacuating the building
Components of ALICE are taught and practiced by our students multiple times throughout the school year. The purpose is to prepare students and teach a lifelong safety skill for life both inside and outside the classroom. Reunification Number Each Tower Hill family has been assigned a “reunification number.” This number is available in your child’s TowerNet profile, is unique to your family, and is denoted “Dismissal/Reunification Number” under General Information on their Contact Card in TowerNet. Reunification numbers allow us to coordinate an orderly dismissal in the event of an emergency by uniting all children in a family and dismissing them together. If you have questions about where to find your reunification number, please contact the Lower School administrative assistant. In the event of an emergency, instructions will be distributed as to where to pick up your family member(s) according to your/their reunification number. Depending on the circumstances, students who drive, or who are bussed, may need to be picked up as well. For this reason, it is important that all families make note of their child’s reunification number.
All-Faculty Stewards of Children Training All-faculty members have participated in training on the prevention and idetification of sexual abuse as well as mandatory reporting laws, led by the Beau Biden Foundation. This training is renewed every three years. In addition, The Beau Biden Foundation regularly reviews our policies and procedures to ensure Tower Hill’s practices continue to protect our students.
PCAD Education for Students Lower School welcomes Prevent Child Abuse Delaware (PCAD) to Tower Hill each year. Students in grades K-4 attend a series of educational programs designed to teach them about body safety. The sessions are meant to educate students in developmentally appropriate terms about the basic ways that they can protect themselves and will cover topics related to safe people, appropriate physical contact and, for the older students, the various forms of child abuse.
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IN-SERVICE DAYS In-service days for faculty are scheduled several times during the school year; dates can be found on the school calendar. While there is no school for students on full day in-service days, students may be expected to work on class assignments or homework on these days.
REFERENCE SHEET When you have a problem or need assistance in the LOWER SCHOOL, please refer to the listing below: Absences:
Tracey Bradley
Academics:
The Teacher; Susan Miller
Admissions:
Amy Bickhart, Bill Ushler
Athletics:
Chris Aitken
Business Office: Dining Room: School
studentbilling@towerhill.org; 302-510-1006
Noah Mathay, General Manager for Sage Dining Services at Tower Hill
Class Reps:
See Directory
Counseling:
Susan Miller; Dr. Amy Cuddy
Emergencies:
Receptionist
Excuses (Medical):
Lexy Herbein
Excuses (Non-Medical): General Information:
Susan Miller Tracey Bradley
Tower Hill Kaleidoscope Program:
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Cindy Sardo; Amy Bickhart
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THE CALENDAR AT A GLANCE The following information provides an overview of the 2020-2021 school year. Parents will receive more detailed information and invitations to productions and activities as the year progresses. (The Weathervane is a weekly calendar of all school activities and announcements posted on Tower Net.) SPECIAL EVENTS Grade Level
New Students Arrive
Returning Students Arrive
Ending Time For All
3rd Grade
8:45 AM
9:00 AM
9:30 AM
1st Grade
9:45 AM
10:00 AM
10:30 AM
4th Grade
10:45 AM
11:00 AM
11:30 AM
2nd Grade
11:45 AM
12:00 PM
12:30 PM
•
Tuesday, September 8
•
Thursday, September 10 Lower School Parents Night - An opportunity for the classroom teacher to outline the year’s program. (6:30 - 8:00 p.m.); will be held virtually
•
Saturday, October 23 Homecoming - a family day at Tower Hill.
•
Thursday, October 29
•
Friday, October 30
School begins at 8:10 a.m. for Tower Tots-4th graders.
Lower School Parent Conferences (evening) Lower School Closed for Parent Conferences
Lower School Parent Conferences (evening) •
Tuesday - Thursday Lower School Book Fair (November 3-5)
•
Wednesday, February 10
Lower School Parent Conferences (evening)
•
Thursday, February 11
Lower School Closed for Parent Conferences
•
Thursday, April 1 Grandparents’ Day School ends at 11 a.m. for Lower School Students
•
Thursday, April 1
•
Friday, May 28
School Closed Field Day at 10 a.m - School ends at Conclusion of Field Day.
Half-day for Tower Tots and PK •
Wednesday, June9 Last day of class - Mid-day dismissal for all students
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TECHNOLOGY AND INTERNET USE IN THE LOWER SCHOOL The use of technology at Tower Hill is designed to support the educational program of our students and enhance the learning experience. Students are expected to use the technology resources: ● to support their educational program or appropriate recreational use as determined by faculty and staff, and students should always be able to justify their use of technology by explaining how their actions are appropriate; and ● responsibly, respecting the rights of other users, protecting the integrity of the resources, following all licensing agreements and applying the principles of the honor code and proper behavior to all activities. Access to Tower Hill’s technology resources is a privilege, not a right, and may be revoked or limited for violations of this policy. It is the sole and exclusive right of the school to provide or deny such access. Students who act in a manner that is inconsistent with Tower Hill’s standards and expectations may be denied access and/or subject to discipline. Any technology use that becomes problematic because it is inappropriate in its content, disruptive to others or negatively impacts a student’s academic performance will not be permitted and may be subject to disciplinary action.
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Application This policy applies to students (1) in their use of the Tower Hill “Network” or Network-related devices or activity; (2) in their use of their own personal technology devices at school or on the Network, and (3) in their personal technology, social media and communication systems use. The Network is comprised of technology and communications systems, including but not limited to TowerApps, TowerNet, and TowerMail accounts, computers, tablets, cell phones, cameras, internet or wifi access, social media tools and applications, and other related systems and applications. Therefore, this policy applies to all devices, technology, or communications systems provided by Tower Hill (even if used for non-school purposes) as well as all devices, technology, or communications systems which use or affect the school or the school’s Network (whether or not they are school-owned or provided). For the avoidance of doubt, this policy therefore applies to the use of email, internet, texting, SnapChat, Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Kik, social networks, blogs, games, personal web pages, GoogleDrive, and other web-based sites, social media, and related applications. Tower Hill Accounts and Personal Devices New students will be issued logins and passwords that will allow them access to most Tower Hill computers on campus. Additionally, new students will be given accounts on TowerNet (website) and on TowerApps, which will provide them with a TowerMail account, shared documents accessible both at school and at home, a shared calendar and all course pages and homework assignments.
Personal devices are the sole responsibility of the owner. Please note that personal devices are not permitted in the Lower School and should not be brought to school. Tower Hill does not provide support for personal hardware or software on devices not owned by the school, nor is it responsible for the loss, theft, or damage to any such device. If a student brings in their own device, they will also be given access to the school’s wifi. At the beginning of the school year students must digitally register their devices with the School’s technology office to be granted access to the wireless network. Students are expected to engage in responsible use of personal technology and technological devices, whether such use is for school-related purposes, or using the school’s Network. On-Site Technology and Network Guidelines The Network is maintained for the use of the entire school community. Users enjoy certain rights and privileges and are expected to comply with the school’s guidelines and standards which include: Privacy
The school monitors the use of its Network, and students should have no expectation of privacy in their use of technology on campus, in their school activities, when using school technology resources, or when interacting with other members of the school community. Be aware that server storage, TowerApps and TowerNet accounts, and internet use may be monitored at any time. Students should have no expectation of privacy in files, disks, documents, etc., which have been created in, entered in, stored in, downloaded from, or used on the Network. The school may confiscate and or examine the contents of any electronic device owned by the school, used on school property, or connected to the Network, if the school, in its discretion, believes that the device is being used in violation of school policy or in a manner that may create injury or harm to a member of the school community.
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Safety Even though the school attempts to limit access to only those sites that are reliable and safe, it is impossible to assure that inappropriate information will be blocked completely and this should not be construed as a guarantee of any such filtering. Ultimately, students must be responsible for their own use, in accordance with the following guidelines: ● Use personally-identifying information sent over the Network with extreme caution. ● Do not use the Tower Hill computer resources for any monetary or financial transaction
(shopping, auctions, purchases, banking, etc.). ● Do not give out your password or let anyone else use your account.
Students must maintain the integrity and security of the school’s technology and Network. It is a violation of school policy to access or try to access the school’s Network or an individual’s email or other accounts under another person’s password and user name. Additional security guidelines include but are not limited to: ● Do not use technology of others without first obtaining permission from the owner of the technology. ● Use the school’s technology only when given permission or authorization to do so during
the normal course of the school year. ● Do not change the settings or add or install software files to school devices, without prior
approval by the technical staff. ● Do not bypass or attempt to bypass firewalls, filters, or other protections. ● Do not access, copy, delete or alter information or files that are not your own. ● Do not attempt to acquire a password from another student or teacher. ● If you access or become aware of inappropriate or objectionable material, immediately
close the inappropriate site and immediately alert the attending teacher.
General Responsibilities Tower Hill is a community in which all members are expected to show mutual respect and consideration for others. Since the Network reaches beyond the school, all members of the community are expected, at all times, to act as ambassadors for the school. You are expected to conduct yourself while using technology as you would in any in-person interaction, and such conduct falls under the same rules and standards of conduct as face-toface interactions. All conduct online that reflects poorly on you or on the school, regardless of when or where it occurred, may be grounds for disciplinary action up to and including dismissal. You must not use the Network, other technology, or the internet in a way that compromises the security of the school’s Network, disrupts the community, or interferes with academic pursuits, as on the next page. 32
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Inappropriate Personal Use: At all times you are expected to behave and act in a manner that is consistent with the school’s values and standards. Below is a list of some but not all school rules governing appropriate personal use of technology: ● Use TowerMail for educational purposes and school coursework. ● Use the Network only for authorized and appropriate educational or recreational uses. ● Do not visit sites that are pornographic or otherwise inappropriate or sites that hinder overall Network performance (videos or streaming music, for example). ● Do not participate in chat rooms or similar activities, unless the chat is part of a class. ● Do not download audio or visual files (MP3s, music videos, sports clips, etc.), unless they
are a part of an academic project. ● Always use a headset when accessing technology that involves sound. ● Do not use the Network or any related resources for private financial gain, or commercial,
advertising, or solicitation purposes. ● Do not participate in or play games, unless as part of an academic project. ● Do not create, send or forward documents or messages that are inappropriate, malicious,
pornographic, harassing, wasteful, or annoying (chain letters, for example). ● Impersonation and anonymity in the use of the Network, including email, are unacceptable. ● Do not use technology in any way that is harassing, offensive, intimidating or discriminatory.
Cyberbullying, stalking, and trolling are strictly forbidden and will not be tolerated. Social Media Use Social media is any form of online publication or presence that allows interactive communication, including social networks, blogs, photo-sharing platforms, websites, forums, and Wikis. Examples include, but are not limited to Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Snapchat, YouTube, etc.. It is critical for students to remember that once something appears online, it never really goes away, even if someone takes steps to erase or delete it. Copies of email messages, texts, Instagrams, Snapchats, Facebook posts, pictures and other history of internet activity may be retained and available to others without the creator’s knowledge. Inappropriate language, statements or references to or about another student, or other school community member (teachers, staff, parents, students, and alumni) that may be interpreted as, harassing, provocative, or threatening, violate this policy and the school’s disciplinary policies. A posting that is mean, demeaning or insulting to the school or any members of the school community will not be tolerated and may result in discipline including but not limited to removal from school. Sometimes, it may be difficult to draw the line between a harmless joke and one which goes too far and becomes hurtful. If you feel that you are being cyberbullied or hear about/observe someone else being cyberbullied, report the behavior and get help. This can be reported to a teacher, Division Head, or other adult employee at the school.
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Responsibility to Others Students may not take pictures, videos, or sound recordings of teachers, staff, other students, or anyone on campus without permission. If photographing a school activity for a student publication, you must obtain prior authorization from your publication’s advisor. Regardless of permission, the camera or recording features of any device may not be used in bathrooms or locker rooms under any circumstances. Any use or posting online of personally identifying information about any members of the school community (including photos, videos, names, addresses, phone numbers, email addresses, or work) without their permission is prohibited. Violations of Policies and/or Laws Use of the Network or Network-related resources for any illegal activity or in violation of Tower Hill policies is prohibited. Such violations include, but are not limited to: ● ● ● ● ● ●
Accessing, downloading, forwarding, or being in possession of offensive or sexually explicit (pornographic) material. This includes “sexting” or any transmission of nude or explicit images or videos of oneself or others. Violation of copyright laws or intellectual property rights of others. Students are urged to consider the Honor Statement when accessing and citing material content and documents available on the internet. Unauthorized entry into computers (“hacking”). Deliberate vandalism, destruction of data or computer files, or use of malware. Gambling. Using Tower Hill’s name or logo in any way that could be interpreted to suggest the school’s endorsement of your online activity, without express permission to do so.
Students are expected to report broken or malfunctioning equipment or problems with the Network. This includes any problem that jeopardizes Network security and problems with its hardware, software, and potential viruses. Students are expected take precautions to prevent the inadvertent spread of computer viruses. The deliberate spreading of a virus will be considered vandalism. Students should work only in the account(s) assigned to them and can be held responsible for the activity in those accounts. Because the Network is a resource shared by the entire school, responsible use of bandwidth is essential. It is expected that every user will be cognizant of and careful about the bandwidth of the applications s/he uses and that s/he will take care not to use internet services in any way that compromises other users’ access. Tower Hill makes no warranties of any kind, whether expressed or implied, for the service it is providing. Tower Hill will not be responsible for any damages users suffer. This includes loss of data resulting from delays, non-deliveries, mix-deliveries, or service interruptions caused by its own negligence or user errors or omissions. Use of any information obtained via the Network is at the user’s own risk. Tower Hill specifically denies any responsibility for the accuracy or quality of information obtained through its services.
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Violations of this Policy: The school will respond to violations consistent with the policies and procedures set forth in the Honor at Tower Hill and Disciplinary System sections of this handbook. As such, any violation of this policy is grounds for the school to: ● ● ●
Take disciplinary action against the student; Revoke and/or restrict the student’s use of or access to the school’s Network or school- provided devices; Take such other action as the school determines appropriate.
Depending on the violation, Tower Hill students may also be subject to criminal charges by local, state or federal authorities. Students should be aware that the use of Tower Hill’s technology resources and their TowerApps and TowerNet accounts may be necessary for their school work; therefore, any revocation or limiting of their privileges may have academic implications as well. Students will be financially responsible for damages resulting from improper use of the school Network. When appropriate, law enforcement agencies may be involved. Students should report any policy violations to the Their teacher or division head. Communications with School Employees Students must use school-approved methods (primarily school email) when contacting school employees. Contacts with school employees via text message or their personal cell phones should be limited to when necessary because of special circumstances (for example, when communicating about a group meeting point while on a school trip). Students should know that the school employees may not “friend” or participate in the social networking sites of current students of the school (other than their own children) or former students unless the former student is 18 years of age or older, and at least 3 years have passed since the former student’s attendance at the school ended.
Lower School Handbook
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