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Parent/Student
Handbook
We are most happy to be able to provide to you this Handbook for
Parents and Students. All too often the home and the school are looked
upon as two functioning entities separated by a student. Sadly, this is
quite often true. It is with the hope of bridging this gap that this
handbook was prepared.
Within these pages you will find the rules of our school, an
explanation of the services we offer and our expectations for the
education of your child. You will also find specific directions for
implementing any of the procedures necessary for your involvement in
our school. We hope you will find this information useful.
We look forward to serving you and your children throughout the
coming year. If we may be of service, please contact us at the numbers
you will find within this, your Handbook for Parents and Students.
ORA C. FLIPPEN-CASPER
Principal
Table
of Contents
ADDENDUM TO PARENT/ TEACHER HANDBOOK
It is the responsibility of the parent/guardian to
call the school every time a student is absent. In
addition, all after school programs for elementary
and middle school age students are the responsibility
of Youth Services not DODDS-E. DODDS-E does not have
authority nor does it receive funding to initiate
such services.
TELEPHONE NUMBERS
School Office
DSN: 334-5876
Civilian: 06133-50331
Civilian to Military 06133-69-5876
Fax 06133-59932
School Nurse
06133-5672
School’s Officer 0611-705-7004 Fax 0611-705-5980
 SCHOOL HOURS
School Office 0700 -1530
Kindergarten 0755 -1415
Grades 1- 6 0755 -1415
Lunch Times
Kindergarten & 1st 1050-1120
Grades 2nd & 3rd 1130-1200
Grades 4th, 5th & 6th 1200-1230
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 MISSION
STATEMENTS
DEXHEIM ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
It is the mission of Dexheim Elementary School to provide a safe and
productive learning environment in which all students reach their
fullest potential by developing knowledge and skills.
Students will:
· Be problem solvers and decision makers in social and academic
settings
· Demonstrate competence in reading, writing, computation and
technology
· Demonstrate personal management skills, group effectiveness skills
and good citizenship in the community, nation and global society
· Understand, appreciate and respect individual differences and other
cultures
· Experience the arts while demonstrating creative thinking
and aesthetic appreciation
· Employ critical and higher level thinking skills
HEIDELBERG DISTRICT
It is the mission of the Heidelberg District Schools to educate all
students to seek personal fulfillment as literate, thinking, and
responsible members of a global society. Through excellence in teaching
and learning, all students will:
§ Access, process, and use information and resources;
§ Think, reason, and problem solve;
§ Demonstrate communication and group effectiveness skills;
§ Exercise the rights and responsibilities of citizenship;
§ Develop lifelong habits of physical and mental well-being.
DoDDS’ EUROPE
It is the mission of the DoDDS-Europe schools to provide a curriculum
in which each student has opportunities and the guidance necessary to
develop skills for:
· Accessing and processing information;
· Dealing with change;
· Thinking, reasoning and problem solving;
· Developing creativity;
· Demonstrating positive human relationships; and
· Practicing learning as a lifelong process.
In order to serve his/her community and society and achieve personal
fulfillment
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 ACCREDITED
EDUCATIONAL PROGRAM
Dexheim Elementary provides education and related services for
students in Kindergarten - Grade 6. The school is fully accredited by
the North Central Commission on Accreditation and School Improvement.
Standardized tests are administered in Grades 3-6 annually. The tests
given are Terra Nova Grades 3-6, BAM, NAEP and the Writing Assessment.
DoDDS CURRICULUM AND
INSTRUCTION
Each subject area in the curriculum of the Department of Defense
Dependents Schools (DoDDS) is reviewed according to the Five-Year Curriculum
Development Plan. This plan provides for reviewing objectives and
curriculum materials, selecting instructional materials, and providing
in-service training for teachers, and evaluating the programs.
Textbooks, library books, and supplementary instructional materials,
which support these curricula, are selected by curriculum committees
and by individual teachers and are the same as those used in the
schools in the United States. Some instructional materials, especially
those for the Foreign Language/Intercultural Program, are purchased
from local suppliers.
With the exception of the Foreign Language/Intercultural teachers, who
are German nationals, teachers must be American citizens and fully
qualified educators. They are recruited from the States, transferred
from DoDDS schools, or hired locally.
EDUCATIONAL PROGRAM
Dexheim Elementary School provides education and
related services for over 100 students in Kindergarten
to Sixth Grade. The faculty and staff include classroom
teachers, resource educators, educational aides/lunch
monitor, secretary, supply, and one administrator.
CHILD FIND
The Child Find Program is designed to locate children and youth with
disabilities between the ages of 3 and 21 who are not enrolled in the
DoDDS system but appear to need special educational services. Once
located, these students are screened and assessed to determine the
nature and extent of special services needed and appropriate placements
may be made using available resources. Parents or faculty members who
have a concern about such a child or youth should contact the teacher
of the Learning Impaired at 06133-503331.
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 CASE STUDY
COMMITTEE
The Case Study Committee meets regularly to consider referrals, plan
assessments, determine eligibility, and plan educational programs for
children with disabilities. When a special program is needed for a
child, the parents are asked to attend the meeting to help in the
planning of an Individualized Education Program. The committee follows
the procedures of (1) parent notification, (2) parent consent, and (3)
assessment and programming.
The Case Study Committee is composed of: a Counselor, Teacher of the
Learning Impaired, Teacher of the Communication Impaired, classroom
teacher, parent(s), and an administrator. Other school personnel such
as the English as a Second Language teacher or School psychologist may
also participate as appropriate.
EDUCATION OF CHILDREN
WITH DISABILITIES
Department of Defense Instruction 1342.12 establishes policies and
procedures for providing a free appropriate public education to
children with disabilities receiving or entitled to receive educational
instruction from the DoD Dependents Schools (DoDDS).
POLICY
1. All children with disabilities receiving or entitled to receive
educational instruction from DoDDS shall be provided a free appropriate
public education under the provisions of this instruction.
2. DoDDS shall have the responsibility of providing a free appropriate
public education to all children with disabilities enrolled in its
schools.
3. Children with disabilities receiving or entitled to receive
educational instruction from DoDDS shall have a free appropriate public
education, the same educational opportunities and services offered by
DoDDS to children without disabilities, and an equal opportunity to
participate in school activities.
4. Physical education services, modified or specially designed if necessary,
shall be available to every child with disabilities receiving a free
appropriate public education from DoDDS.
5. When appropriate, a qualified military medical authority shall
conduct or verify a medical evaluation and participate with DoDDS personnel
in determining whether a child has a disability condition requiring
special education and related services.
Description
Dexheim Elementary School, in compliance with DoD Instruction 1342.12,
provides special education services for students with disabilities who
have been evaluated properly and found to be disabled under criteria
established for any of the following:
physically impaired to include hearing impaired; emotionally impaired;
communication impaired; learning impaired; developmentally delayed; and
who as a result, need special services.
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RESOURCE PROGRAMS
In addition to regular classroom instruction, Dexheim Elementary
School offers the following resource services:
Art, Music, and Physical Education. Students
receive regularly scheduled instruction from resource educators
specifically trained in these subjects.
Foreign Language/Intercultural Education. This is
often referred to as Host Nation or German. A German teacher provides
regularly scheduled instruction in German language and culture.
Counseling. The primary responsibility of the
counselor is to help children adjust to the school setting. The
Counselor also meets with individual parents who are concerned about
their child’s academic, social and/or emotional development.
Information about professional help and services available either
through the school or through local agencies can be provided. Parents
are encouraged to inform the Counselor when there is a family crisis,
such as divorce, death, serious illness, or adjustment to a stepfamily.
This helps both the Counselor and the classroom teacher provide support
for the child during a difficult time.
Compensatory Education. Students identified by the
classroom teacher as needing services in the area of reading will
receive services. Ongoing assessments to include pre and post tests
define the areas of strength and weaknesses.
English as a Second Language. Instruction
in English as a Second Language is provided for students
who speak little or no English or whose limited knowledge
of the language may slow their progress in other subject
areas. Initially this instruction is mainly listening
and speaking. Students are then given help in reading
and writing in English in order to improve their academic
achievement in their other classes.
Instructional Media. The Information Specialist is
responsible for teaching skills to students in the selection of media
materials, cataloging books, doing research using the computer and
various software programs; executing and maintaining records of various
computer reading programs; work with students on projects in support of
themes, etc., ordering, cataloging, and maintaining library books and
audio-visual materials and equipment.
Physical Education. Daily exercise is an important
factor in the development of a healthy body. At school, the recess
periods and the physical education classes provide opportunities for
daily exercise. School policy is if a child is too ill to participate
in all normal school activities, s/he is too ill to be in school. If a
child is unable to participate in the normal physical education
program, a note stating why must be obtained from a physician. This
written doctor’s excuse should be sent to the student’s classroom teacher.
The teacher will forward the note to the physical education teacher and
to the school nurse where it will become a part of the student’s school
health record.
School Psychologist. The School Psychologist
is available once per week to provide testing, individual
or group counseling, and to meet with the Case Study
Committee.
Nurse. The Nurse screens hearing and vision, provides
first aid, cares for ill or injured students until they can be taken
home, and provides instruction in special units in health and
nutrition..
Gifted Education Program. This program
is for students who perform or show the potential
for performing two to three grade levels above their
age, experience, or environment. Identified students
with extremely strong learning profiles in the areas
of intellectual ability and academic achievement are
located through a screening process by the Gifted
Review Committee. The committee uses multiple criteria
when determining eligibility and and plan a program
specific to the needs of individual students.
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SPECIAL
EDUCATION PROGRAMS AND SERVICES FOR EXCEPTIONAL STUDENTS
Sponsors are encouraged to make inquiries through military personnel
channels to find out about the educational programs available for
children with disabilities at specific overseas locations. Dexheim
Elementary School has the resources to educate children, who are
learning impaired, and/or communication impaired.
Learning Impaired. Identified students receive individual and/or small
group instruction in basic skills and assistance with other subject
areas according to the programs described in their Individualized
Education Program (IEP).
Communication Impaired. Children with identified speech and language
problems (other than English as a second language) receive individual
and small group instruction according to the program described in their
Individualized Education Program (IEP).
NEW STUDENT
ENROLLMENT
Students enrolled prior to 1200 hours will begin school the
following day. When enrolled after 1200 hours the student will report
the second day. When enrolled during a recess period the student will
begin the first day after the break.
 DRESS
STANDARDS
Student dress and grooming will be the responsibility of the
individual and his/her parents within the following guidelines:
a. Dress and grooming will be clean and in keeping with health,
sanitary and requirements, as well as being appropriate for a positive
learning environment
b. When a student is participating in school activities, his/her dress
and grooming will not disrupt the performance or constitute a health
threat to himself/herself or other students
c. Dress and grooming will not be such as to distract other students or
interrupts the learning process. When, in the judgment of an
administrator, a student’s appearance or mode of dress disrupts the
educational process or constitutes a threat to health or safety, the
student will be required to make modifications in his/her attire.
Student dress and personal grooming is expected to be appropriate.
Clothing with offensive words or obscene pictures is not permitted.
Hats, sunglasses, gloves, heavy jewelry that distracts or has the
potential for causing injury are not to be worn in the building. Shorts
that reveal a portion of the buttocks, halter tops, barefoot sandals,
see-through shirts, T-shirts designed as underclothing are examples of
inappropriate classroom attire.
During cold weather students should wear sufficient warm clothing so
they can remain outside during recess and lunch periods. This includes
mittens or gloves, a warm coat or jacket, hat or scarf, and sturdy
shoes and/or boots.
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RELEASE OF STUDENTS
DURING THE SCHOOL DAY
Students who leave school during the day must be signed out by their
parent or guardian in the office. A note from a parent is NOT
sufficient.
 STUDY TRIPS
It is DoDDS policy to enrich school curriculum for all students by taking
advantage of the cultural, historical, and geographical attractions of
the host nation. Study trips are conducted to enhance the educational
program, and are therefore considered to be an extension of the
classroom. School trips augment the school’s curricular goals and
objectives, relate directly to skills and concepts taught, and broaden
and enrich the scope of a student’s education and interests.
Participation is required in curricular trips. Study trips are not an
option for students. It is an extension of the educational program. The
discipline standards stated elsewhere in this handbook are in force on
study trips.
In order to add so many enriching study trips to our school
curriculum it is often necessary to select parent volunteers to accompany
the group. The purpose of parent volunteers accompanying classes is to
insure that the same standards of student supervision and safety can be
maintained while away from the school. Because of that, school trips
are only for students in the designated group that is going on the
trip. It is inappropriate for parents or teachers to bring along other
children.
All study trips will correlate to the Community Strategic Plan Goals.
GRADING POLICY
(DoDDS)
The student’s achievement and ability will determine grades on
Progress Reports. Distribution of students’ grades for a specific class
may be requested and reviewed by the principal before the reports to
parents are distributed. Principals are responsible for grading and
have the authority to alter grades.
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ATTENDANCE
Any absence or tardiness must be supported by a note stating the
reason, the date, and signed by a parent. This is for the child’s
protection! Even elementary school children may occasionally be absent
or tardy without their parents’ knowledge. A note from home ensures the
school that the parents were aware of the absence or tardiness and
helps both the home and the school know where the child is at all
times. Students with unexcused absences will not be granted make- up
privileges for classroom.
Tardiness. Children who arrive late miss the teacher’s
instructions at the beginning of the lesson; they also disrupt the
learning of other students who were there on time. However, a child
should not be kept home if s/he will be tardy. If a child will be
tardy, a note stating the time (s) he left home is helpful in
determining whether or not (s) he came directly to school. Reporting
late to school without a notice is an unaccepted reason and will be
recorded as unexcused. Upon arrival the student must report to the main
office to be signed in and receive a late slip admitting him/her to
class.
Early Departure of Students During the School Day.
Students may not leave the school grounds unaccompanied for any reason.
The sponsor or authorized adult must sign out all students leaving
during the school day in the office. A note requesting that the student
be released is not sufficient.
Students will be released during the school day only to a parent or to
the person named on the emergency contact on the Sponsor/Pupil
Registration form unless (1) a note is received designating another
adult to pick up the child, or a (2) military unit has designated
someone to pick up the child when parents and emergency contacts could
not be reached.
Parents should make every effort to schedule medical and dental
appointments or religious activities after school hours. Should this
not be possible, a note should be sent in advance to the teacher.
Excused absences are permitted for illness, medical appointments,
family emergencies (e.g. severe illness, death in the family, or local
hardship situation), school sponsored trips, religious observances, and
family trips for which prior approval have been obtained from the principal.
During System-Wide Standardized Testing Week, students are expected to
be in attendance at school.
Travel. Whenever possible, family trips should be
planned for winter, spring, or summer recesses. If students must be
taken out of school for travel, arrangements with the teacher must be
made in advance.
Advance Leave Notification
Parents are requested to write a letter stating that their child will
be absent. This letter is to be submitted to the teacher at least one
week in advance of the planned absence.
Make-up Work. Students are responsible for work missed
during their absence. If the absence was excused, the student is
entitled to assistance with missed work and an opportunity to take
make-up tests. Although teachers make every effort to provide extra
help for children who have been absent, students learn best when they
attend school regularly.
*Normally students who do not attend a full day of school will not be
allowed to participate in or attend any school-sponsored events
scheduled on that same day.
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ACTIVITY SUPERVISION
AND POLICIES
All activities sponsored by the school whether in the afternoon or
on weekends are governed by the school and DoDDS policies (i.e.,
al1items under “Standards of Behavior” noted earlier in this handbook).
Outside guests are not permitted to attend these activities unless
special arrangements have been made and permission granted by the
administration.
ARRIVALS/DEPARTURES
Students who arrive to school before 0755 hours will be requested to
return home. Sponsors who drop off their child at 0730 hours will be
called to pick up their child. The school will not be held responsible
for supervising children prior to the reporting time. Parents are to
ensure their child is picked up at the end of the day by 1420 hours.
 BOOKS
AND OTHER SCHOOL PROPERTY
Textbooks, workbooks and other instructional supplies are provided
by DoDDS-E. The proper care and use of these items should be stressed
to help the child develop a feeling of personal responsibility for
books or supplies furnished for his/her use. Parents of children who
lose or damage schoolbooks or other school property will be held accountable
for that loss or damage. Money orders for payment should be made out to
the United States Treasury and be paid at the school.
Other supplies such as pens, pencils, rulers, crayons, writing
paper, etc., will have to be purchased by the parents. The types, sizes
and numbers of these materials that will be required vary among the
different grades and the subjects taught by teachers. A list of
supplies will be given to the sponsor at registration.
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 BUS
ISSUES AND CONCERNS
1. Transportation to and from School. Students
granted bus-riding privileges are responsible for complying with
established school bus behavior standards and for conducting themselves
in a safe and proper manner.
2. Both the authority and the responsibility for school bus
Transportation belong to the Wiesbaden School Bus Office. The office is
located in Building #07881 next to the entrance of the Wiesbaden Middle
School (Small Red Building to the right of the entrance).
3. The school staff makes every effort to ensure that students board
the correct buses each day. A parent is required to send a note if
there is a change in a child’s Transportation from school to home.
Children will be sent home on their regular bus unless a note is
received.
4. Complaints or concerns about bus misconduct should be made to the
Wiesbaden School Bus Office at 0611-380-7143 or DSN 338-7143. Any bus
misconduct observed by school staff members is also reported.
5. Administrator support and give input to the bus office when
determining consequences for inappropriate actions that take place on
the bus, boarding the bus, unloading and at the bus stop. De-pending on
the severity of the infraction, consequences can and may be twofold;
meaning if the infraction warrants a suspension, it could be suspension
from riding the bus and suspension from school.
SCHOOL BUS RULES
ON AND AROUND SCHOOL BUSES STUDENTS MUST CONDUCT THEMSELVES IN
ACCORDANCE WITH THESE RULES:
1) Obey the driver or adult
2) Board and exit the bus in a safe manner.
3) Stay properly seated.
4) Keep your hands and feet to yourself.
5) Do not throw things
6) Nothing goes out of the windows
7) Remain reasonably quiet as to not disturb others or the driver.
8) No profanity, smoking. Prohibited items, or vandalism.
9) Do not eat, drink or chew gum.
10) Always show bus pass.
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COMMUNICATION BETWEEN
HOME & SCHOOL
(Goal 4: Network of Partnerships Promoting Achievement)
Communications among school personnel, parents, and members of the
community is a key factor in how the school is perceived. Parent
newsletters are sent home every month. The teacher submits classroom
news or email messages more frequently.
When it is impossible to communicate by phone or email to parents notes
will be sent with students. Parents are often requested to sign notes.
It is advisable to do this immediately, and then put the note with
items in the backpack or book bag that the child will be bringing to
school the next day.
Should no timely response be received by the school, it may be
necessary to request assistance from the sponsor’s unit. Parents who
have sent notes to school and received no reply are asked to call the
school office or to send another note with a different child in the
family.
When positive attitudes toward the school and teachers are demonstrated
in the presence of children, they also develop positive attitudes. If
your child is not making satisfactory progress or appears to be
disturbed about school or homework, make an appointment for a
conference with the teacher. This may be all that is necessary to
resolve the problem. Requests for conferences will receive replies. The
most convenient times for conferences with the teacher are after school
dismissal.
Parents are always welcome to visit classrooms and teachers. We must
ask, however, that parents notify the teacher a day or so in advance of
their planned visit. An unscheduled arrival at a classroom by any
visitor may needlessly interrupt a lesson or a test. We also ask
visitors to report to the office prior to visiting classes in order to
receive a Visitor’s Pass.
When parents come to withdraw their child from school prior to
dismissal, they are requested to report to the office to sign-out the
child.
Students are not authorized to bring outside friends to school
without first receiving permission from the Principal.
Parents may become aware of problems or concerns, which have not
come to the attention of the Principal. We encourage parents to call
the school directly or bring these to the attention of the (SAC) School
Advisory Committee.
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COMMUNITY STRATEGIC
PLAN
GOAL 1: Highest Student Achievement
· OUTCOME A: STUDENT PERFORMANCE AND ASSESSMENT
· OUTCOME B: OPPORTUNITIES TO LEARN AND CITIZENSHIP
GOAL 2: Performance-Driven, Efficient Management Systems
· OUTCOME A: RESOURCE ALLOCATION/ACADEMIC AND STUDENT SUPPORT SERVICES
· OUTCOME B: FACILITIES AND EQUIPMENT
· OUTCOME C: SAFE ENVIRONMENT
GOAL 3: Motivated, High Performing, Diverse Workforce
· OUTCOME A: PERSONNEL MANAGEMENT PRACTICES
· OUTCOME B: CONTINUOUS PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT AND TRAINING
·
GOAL 4: Network of Partnerships Promoting Achievement
· OUTCOME A: PARTNERSHIPS
· OUTCOME B: COMMUNICATION SYSTEM
USE OF SCHOOL
TELEPHONES BY STUDENT
School phones are for official school business only. Students are
not permitted to use the school phones to call parents for forgotten
homework, lunches, money, study trip permission, or after school
activities.
Emergency messages for the students may be called in to the office
and every effort will be made to get the message to your child.
Messages should not be called in later than one hour before dismissal.
When school is in session, messages may be delivered to teachers and/or
children if it is a genuine emergency.
 DEXHEIM
ELEMENTARY SCHOOL RULES
· Come to school on time with all materials. Be ready and prepared
to learn
· Respect, listen to and follow directions given by all school
personnel
· Keep your hands to yourself (No fighting or pushing)
· Stealing, using foul language or gestures is prohibited
· Obtain permission to leave the classroom or school
· Show respect for yourself, the school, personal and government
property.
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DISCIPLINE
Student behavior is a responsibility shared by students, parents,
our school, and the community. It consists principally of teaching and
reinforcing positive attitudes and behaviors. The responsible adults
will guide students from direct discipline to self-discipline by
consistent positive example and acknowledgement of appropriate student
actions. In keeping with this philosophy, classroom teachers establish
various strategies to reinforce correct standards of behavior.
Generally, teachers will handle student misbehavior. Each teacher
has developed a classroom discipline plan, which utilizes a variety of
behavior modification techniques. This plan is discussed with students,
posted in the classroom and is distributed to parents at the beginning
of the school year. When this program fails to bring about the desired
behavior SUSPENSION LETTERS ARE SENT TO THE SCHOOLS’ OFFICER. THE
COMMANDING OFFICERS WILL RECEIVE SUSPENSION LETTERS OF STUDENTS WHO
HAVE RECEIVED A PRIOR SUSPENSION.
When possible and appropriate, Dexheim School Community Service may be
implemented either in lieu of or in addition to other forms of
discipline. For example, if a student creates a mess in the cafeteria,
he or she might be asked to clean the mess up and also be required to
perform community service of cleaning the cafeteria tables or the
school grounds for the remainder of the week.
SERIOUS INFRACTIONS
Serious infractions are immediately referred to the principal.
Student(s) will be interviewed in an effort to understand the facts
surrounding the situation. The incident will be discussed with the
student to help him/her better understand how the incident could have
been avoided or resolved.
Disciplinary action is used first and foremost as a teaching tool to
mold appropriate behavior and to allow students to learn from their
mistakes. Disciplinary action is based on the severity of the
infraction and prior student misconduct. If suspension is considered
for a non-zero-tolerance infraction the principal will first receive
input from the classroom teacher in order to fully evaluate the
student. Suspension is a disciplinary consequence used to modify
undesirable conduct when a child poses an im-mediate danger to himself
or others. The principal may contact the parent/guardian and ask that
s/he immediately pick the student up from school. Consideration for
students on an IEP or who are undergoing CSC evaluations will be
implemented as appropriate. Dexheim Elementary School’s Zero Tolerance
for weapons and drugs mandate immediate suspension.
§ FIGHTING OR OTHER THREATENING BEHAVIOR: Conduct that involves
physical confrontation, verbal threatening or provocation.
§ USE OF EXTREME VULGARITY/PROFANITY: Students may not use profanity,
cursing or offensive language.
§ WILLFUL DISRESPECT, VERBAL DEFIANCE OR PHYSICAL CONTACT WITH STAFF:
Defiance is defined as the refusal to comply with any reasonable
request made by school personnel.
§ THEFT: Students may not take other people’s belongings without prior
permission.
§ EXTORTION: Intimidating another person for the purpose of receiving a
pay-off is forbidden.
§ ARSON: Students may not possess or use incendiary devices such as
lighters or matches on school property.
§ SETTING OFF FIRE ALARMS OR PLAYING WITH FIRE EXTINGUISHERS.
§ DAMAGE OR DESTRUCTION OF PERSONAL OR SCHOOL PROPERTY.
· POSSESSION OF DISRUPTIVE ITEMS: This includes, but is not limited to,
exploding devices, firecrackers, poppers, stink bombs, lasers, water
pistols, or noxious devices which can cause harm or discomfort to
others or their property. Items, which disrupt the learning
environment, such as cellular phones or beepers, are not allowed in
school.
· SEXUAL HARASSMENT: Sexually explicit language (written or verbal),
obscene gestures, exhibitionism or unwanted physical contact is
strictly prohibited.
· ZERO TOLERANCE FOR TOBACCO, ALCOHOL OR ANY OTHER INTOXICATING
SUBSTANCE: Possession or, being under the influence of or
selling/giving away illegal drugs, controlled substances or alcohol on
school grounds will not be tolerated. Prescription drugs must be kept
with the school nurse. Violation of this policy could mandate an
immediate 10-day school suspension. A subsequent violation mandates
expulsion.
§ ZERO TOLERANCE FOR WEAPONS: Weapons that could frighten or jeopardize
the safety of individuals are not allowed at school. Additionally,
objects that resemble weapons or objects that are not, in and of
themselves, a weapon but are used as such are prohibited. Violation of
this policy could mandate an immediate 10-day school suspension. A
subsequent violation mandates expulsion.
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CORPORAL PUNISHMENT
Corporal punishment is defined as the intentional use of physical
force upon a student for any alleged offense or behavior, or the use of
physical force in an attempt to modify behavior, thoughts or attitudes
of a student. Corporal punishment is neither practiced nor condoned in
DoDDS. Permission to administer corporal punishment will not be sought
or accepted from any parent, guardian, or school official.
 ZERO
TOLERANCE FOR WEAPONS
What is meant by Zero Tolerance?
Zero Tolerance means that weapons or replicas are not allowed in
school. Severe actions will quickly be taken against those who defy
this policy, and no leniency will be shown towards violators.
Are school buses considered as school property?
YES! Weapons are not allowed on school buses as well as at any school
functions or activities.
Can students get into trouble if they know about or assist
someone who has a weapon?
YES! Knowing about a weapon without reporting it to a school official
is considered a policy infraction.
Can students get into trouble if they bring a knife to
school for a scout meeting after school, even if they keep it in their
backpack and don’t show it to anyone?
YES! Bringing a weapon or replica to school or possessing such an item
is a violation of policy. Even toy replicas are not allowed.
Is threatening someone with a lock considered an infraction
using a weapon?
YES! Items not designed as weapons but used as weapons or to threaten
someone are considered to be weapons.
Can students be expelled or suspended from school for bringing
in items that look like weapons?
YES! Items that resemble weapons will also be considered as a weapon
replica, and are not allowed at school. Even toys that look like
weapons could be considered as a replica.
What is the purpose of the School Disciplinary Committee
with regard to weapons violations?
The School Disciplinary Committee is formed by the school principal to
make recommendations to the principal for appropriate disciplinary
action on referrals for suspension (over 10 days) and expulsions. They
can also make recommendations for counseling and follow-up actions.
REFERENCES:
DoDEA-M 2005.1, Department of Defense Dependent Schools Administrators’
Guide dated January 5,1996.
DS Regulation 4800.1, “School Safety Programs”,
September1993.
DoDEA Regulation 2051.1, “Disciplinary Rules and Procedures”, August
16, 1996.
DoDEA Manual 2051.2, “Department of Defense Education Activity.
Department of Defense Dependents Schools Students Responsibilities and
Privileges”, February 26, 1997.
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HOMEWORK POLICY
We know that homework is an area of considerable interest to
parents, since it is one way in which they can be closely involved in
their child’s academic work. Children who continue their schoolwork at
home increase the amount of time they are learning. Homework provides
training and practice in responsibility. Responsibility is learned over
a long period of time and in many different ways. Remembering assignments,
bringing materials home, doing the work, and returning work and
materials to school is a series of tasks, which needs lots of practice
and encouragement.
Homework gives parents an opportunity to observe their children’s work
and to participate in their learning. Watching the child, providing a
few words of encouragement or helping the child with concepts, skills,
or directions are different levels of parent participation. Parents can
judge which level is needed for a particular child and a particular
task.
Homework policies are developed by each grade level and approved by
the principal. These policies are shared with parents during Open
House. If you have any questions or concerns about your child’s
homework, please contact the teacher.
Homework Assignments
Teachers do not always assign homework every night, and younger
children may have limited homework. However, children can still be
learning at home, reading or practicing skills they have worked on in
school. Meaningful homework for children would always be reading aloud
or being read to and discussion of stories with parents.
Grading Homework Assignments
Although the teacher reviews homework, it is used primarily as an
indicator for evaluating student responsibility and work habits.
Teachers will evaluate and return homework assignments to students and
will periodically inform students and their parents of the student’s
academic progress and mastery of learning objectives.
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EMERGENCY CONTACT
INFORMATION
A child may become ill or injured during the school day. Although
there is almost always a nurse on duty, a sick child belongs at home.
The nurse is qualified and has the equipment to treat only a limited
range of injuries. Parents provide duty, home, and emergency contact
phone numbers at registration, but these change. It is essential that
parent and emergency information be kept up-to-date, especially when
sponsors receive new duty assignments, spouses change jobs, families
move to permanent quarters, baby-sitters are changed, or the emergency
contact moves away. The school should also be informed if parents will
be in the field or traveling and have left their children with someone
else. A note providing the name, unit, duty phone, quarter’s address,
and home phone of the person(s) responsible for the child (ren) in the
parents’ absence should be sent to the school office or the teacher.
LOST/ DAMAGED
MATERIALS
Materials lost or damaged by the students must be paid for. We
cannot accept cash. A money order must be made out to United States
Treasury. The money order must be presented to the school supply clerk
located downstairs.
LOST & FOUND
Parents are asked to label all items of clothing and all school
supplies. Because parents purchase school supplies, lunch boxes, and
clothing at the PX and from the same catalogs, many articles children
bring to school are identical to those brought by other children. This
can lead to disagreements about the ownership of these items. Properly
labeled articles reduce conflict and make settling disagreements an
easy matter.
Lost items such as glasses, watches, jewelry and other small
expensive items are brought to the main office.
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 LUNCH
PROGRAM
The lunchroom monitor supervises all children who eat lunch in the
school cafeteria with the exception of kindergarten. The hot lunch program
is provided by AAFES, which has been appointed the “School Food
Authority”. School Lunch Menu - external sites are prepared using
available commodities and available kitchen equipment. All lunches
served meet the USDA pattern meal requirements to provide approximately
1/3 of a child’s daily nutritional needs. The menu cycle will be
published as soon as it is available at the beginning of the school
year. However, unannounced changes may occur according to availability
of supplies. Students may purchase only full lunches or a carton of
milk. No individual menu items or seconds may be bought.
All hot lunches cost $2.10. Application, AE Form
3707-R, may be obtained from the school office for
free and reduced-priced lunches. After completion
the form must be returned to the office along with
the LES. This will be forwarded to the School’s
Officer. Upon approval coupons, which are identical
to those for full price lunches, may then be obtained
at the PX.
Parents are strongly urged to purchase school meal coupons at the PX
instead of sending lunch money. The advantages are: (1) the child’s
name can be written on the coupons so they can be returned if they are
lost and found, and (2) parents are assured that the coupons are used
for lunch; lunch money is sometimes used for other purposes. Each book
contains ten coupons, enough for two weeks. Coupons are valid for the
entire school year.
Students may also bring prepared lunches from home. Milk may be
purchased from AAFES for $.50. Since one of our goals is to develop
lifelong healthy eating habits in our students, gum, candy, and soft
drinks are not encouraged in the school for snacks or lunch. Parents
are encouraged to select items for their children’s snacks/meals that
have high nutritional value, such as carrots or celery sticks, fresh
fruit, raisins, nuts, granola, milk, and natural juices.
The school does NOT provide food, lunch coupons, or lunch money to
students who forget their lunch or lunch money. Students will also not
be allowed to call home to ask to have a lunch or lunch money brought
to them. Milk is available in the lunchroom for children who have no
lunch.
Children are permitted to charge 3 lunches. Repayment may be in the
form of lunch tickets or money. Students are requested to record their
name on a list that is monitored by AAFES personnel. Parents will be
notified in the form of a letter from AAFES when this occurs. Repeated
cases may be reported to ACS or to the Family Advocacy Child Management
Team. for child neglect.
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 LATE OPENING,
CANCELLATION, AND EARLY CLOSING OF SCHOOL
Late Opening. If there is ice or snow on the roads,
the Commander may delay or cancel bus Transportation.
Early Closing. School can be closed early for a
number of reasons, for example, an accumulation of ice or snow during
the day or failure of the heating, electrical, or plumbing systems.
Early closing will most likely occurs at 1115 hours and will be
announced on AFN AM or FM radio.
It is absolutely essential that each family designate an alternative
destination for the child in the family in case school is closed early.
Children need to know where to go if their parents are not home.
The Community Commander makes the decision to delay, cancel, or
close school early. Cancellation is usually announced on AFN before
0600 hours at regular intervals between 0600 and 0700 hours, and after
the 0700 hour news. There should be no need to call the school for this
information. If there is no announcement on AFN, school begins at 0755
hours and is dismissed at 1415 hours as usual.
MEDICATION
The school nurse is available to assist students who become ill or
injured at school; to identify health problems that interfere with
learning; to do routine screenings (vision, hearing, scoliosis, height,
weight, etc.); to be a resource person for their health concerns. To
allow the nurse to perform these duties effectively, it is important
that students DO NOT COME TO SCHOOL SICK. Minor injuries will be
handled in the nurse’s office. The nurse will notify parents
immediately if injuries/illness are considered to be serious.
Upon notification, parents must report to the school to pick-up
injured/ill children. No child will be released without parental
supervision.
PLEASE ADVISE THE NURSE IF YOUR CHILD HAS A UNIQUE MEDICAL PROBLEM.
Medication will be dispensed with written parental/doctor’s consent.
Parents of students, who take prescribed medication during the school
day, must make arrangements with the nurse for the supervision of
taking the medication. The medication will be locked in the medicine
chest in the nurse’s office.
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 SCHOOL HOME PARTNERSHIP
“Volunteers”
We are very grateful to our parent volunteers! They are an important
part of the school program. Volunteers help the school by providing
extra help and attention for students, tutor a student, work with a
small group, or read a story. Also by preparing instructional
materials, and assisting the teacher in specific curriculum areas,
helping in the computer lab, Information Center, field day activities,
and sharing cultural experiences. This makes it possible for the
teachers to spend more time with the students and with smaller groups
of children.
If you would like to volunteer your time, or wish more information,
contact the main office at 06133-50331 or collaborate with the teacher.
PARENT TEACHER
CONFERENCES
(Goal 4: Network of Partnerships Promoting Achievement)
Parent conferences for all students will be scheduled for
mid-November at the end of the first grading period. Parents are
encouraged, however, to request conferences whenever they wish to
review their child’s progress or any time a question or problem arises
by sending a note to the teacher or by calling the school office. The
teacher will return the call as soon as possible. Conferences cannot be
held while the teacher is teaching the class. They should also not be
held at public gatherings such as PTA meetings, assemblies, programs,
or Open House. Please schedule conferences as far ahead as possible.
PARENT TEACHER
STUDENT ASSOCIATION
(Goal4: Network of Partnerships Promoting Achievement)
The Dexheim Elementary School PTSA is associated with the European
PTA Congress. All members of the school community are encouraged to
join and participate in the PTA.
We encourage teachers, parents, and students to support the PTA
through membership, attendance at meetings, and participation in its
activities and events. PTSA meetings are held once a month and programs
of interest to the students and community are presented.
Dexheim Elementary School has benefited considerably from the PTA and
its support of the school. When you think about joining this
organization, remember that your support of PTSA is support for our
school and our students.
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RELEASE OF PUPIL
INFORMATION (Privacy
Act)
The question occasionally comes up as to what pupil information can
the school release to parents from school records and further, what
information can the school release to attorneys who may be defending or
prosecuting one of the parents for suspected child abuse. Either legal
parent or that parent’s legal counsel, through the parent, has the
right to all information contained in school records including special
education records. Attorneys involved in a case concerning the
prosecution of one of the parents for alleged child abuse have the
right to the information contained in school records on a “need to
know” basis. The need to know must be established in writing by the
requesting officials or agency and maintained in the student’s file.
In accordance with the Privacy Act of 1974, requests for student
records must include written permission from the student’s sponsor to
release or obtain such records. PL 94-142 further protects records of
handicapped students.
Students records will be made available to properly identified
agents of DoD investigative agencies upon presentation to the principal
of a written request, signed by the senior investigative official
supervising the investigation, outlining the scope and purposes of the
investigation. No school employee, other than the principal is
authorized to release personal student information or records,
including names, addresses, or phone numbers, to investigative
agencies.
RELEASE OF STUDENTS
DURING THE SCHOOL DAY
Students who leave school during the day must be signed out in the
office. A note from a parent is NOT sufficient. No student should be
released, even if the faculty member knows the individual taking the
child, without prior notification from the office that the student has
been signed out.
RELIGION IN SCHOOL (DSN Reg. 1799.9)
While serving in their capacity as employees of the U.S. Government,
DoDDS personnel must neither advocate nor support any particular
religious conviction. To maintain neutrality, schools will avoid
exposing students to any form of indoctrination in any particular
religious belief. Therefore, official prayer, posting materials,
displaying symbols, using films or tapes, verbal instruction and any
other form of communication, which promotes any religion, are not
sanctioned during the school day on the school premises and at school
sponsored functions.
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SCHOOL ADVISORY
COMMITTEE (SAC)
INSTALLATION ADVISORY COMMITTEE (IAC)
(Goal 4: Network of Partnerships Promoting Achievement)
The School Advisory Committee is made up of elected parents and
educators. The committee meets monthly to discuss suggestions, issues,
and problems and to make recommendations to the principal.
Parents are invited to attend SAC meetings, which will be held at
the school each month. Concerns may also be submitted in writing
through the child’s teacher.
The Installation Advisory Committee (IAC) is composed of the SAC
parent and teacher representative from each of the Wiesbaden Complex
Schools. The IAC meets four times a year to consider suggestions,
issues, and problems common to all schools in the Wiesbaden Complex.
The SAC may make recommendations to the principal on matters
affecting the school. Matters within the jurisdiction of the SAC
include:
1. School policies toward students and parents, student activities,
administration procedures affecting students.
2. Composition of instructional programs and use of educational
resources within the school.
3. Allocation of educational resources within the school to achieve
educational goals.
4. Function of pupil services (medical, special education, testing,
evaluation, counseling, and extra curricular activities).
5. Student standards of conduct and discipline.
The SAC may make recommendations to the installation commander on
matters regarding support provided by the military services to the
school. Matters within the jurisdiction of the SAC:
1. Quality, availability, maintenance, safety, security and comfort of
the physical school environment.
2. Transportation of students.
3. School meal programs.
4. Administrative and logistical support services provided by the
installation command.
5. 5.Policies and standards of the installation command related to the
above matters.
SAC does not address matters pertaining to:
1. Personnel policies or practices.
2. Composition of school staff.
3. Grievances of or by school employees.
4. Internal management of DoDDS or their program.
5. The raising of funds, the granting of scholarships, or financial
support of school events.
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 VISITING
THE SCHOOL
To be in compliance with our security procedures all visitors are
required to enter through the main entrance of the school to sign in.
Badges will be issued at this time. Visitors are required to wear
visitor badges at all times while in the school.
PARTICIPATION IN ALL SCHOOL
ACTIVITIES
A child who is well enough to come to school should be well enough
to participate in all school activities, including physical education
classes and all outdoor recess periods.
Exceptions to this policy are:
· When it’s raining or extremely cold, children will remain inside.
· When the child brings a note from a doctor stating that this would
result in a prolonged absence from school or that the child has a
particular physical problem preventing participation in a certain
school activity.
· When the parent wishes to come to school to supervise the child
during these times.
REGISTRATION
To be enrolled in a DoDDS school, a child must be properly
registered. DoDDS requires that children be registered each year that
they attend a DoDDS school. A child must be five years old by 31
October to enter kindergarten. S/he must be six years old by 31 October
to enter first grade.
Parents wishing an Exception to Policy must submit a letter of
request through the principal to the superintendent. The superintendent
makes the final placement decision. If an Exception to Policy is
granted, parents are responsible for Transportation.
Pre-registration is held on specific dates in the spring prior to the
following school year. Registration continues throughout the summer up
until one week before the first day of school.
The following documents are required to register a child:
§ Copy of the sponsor’s current orders listing the child as a
dependent.
§ Child’s Social Security Number
§ Birth certificate/or passport.
§ Immunization record (which has been verified by the Dispensary).
§ Records and report card from previous school.
When official documents from church or medical authorities are
provided to the secretary, sponsors may waive the required immunity by
signing the appropriate forms.
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SAFETY & SECURITY
The school is inspected regularly for compliance with fire and
safety regulations, asbestos, and lead levels. Evacuation drills are
held each week during the first month of school and at least once a
month thereafter. Children are instructed in school and traffic safety
and in the prevention of sexual abuse.
TOYS AND NON-EDUCATIONAL OBJECTS
Toys and other non-educational objects are distracting to their
owners and to other children and may constitute a safety hazard. Toy
knives and guns are not allowed in school for any reason; radios and CD
players are also not allowed. These items will be confiscated and
returned to the parent. Students may not ride bicycles or skateboards
to school.
PCS, TRANSFER,
WITHDRAWAL
The secretary should be notified by the parent/sponsor at least five
days prior to withdrawal so that the student’s records can be ready for
parents to pick up. Records will not be sent home with students.
TERRA NOVA TESTING
The Terra Nova Assessment, administered to 3rd through 5th grade
students, reflects new curricular standards and introduces open-ended
items to replace some of the multiple choice items typical in
standardized tests. This test will permit DoDEA to evaluate students on
their approaches to problem solving, not just their ability to choose
the correct answer. Results of these tests are shared with parents and
are maintained in the students’ official files. Parents’ requests for
individual assessment of a student should be presented to the school
administration that will then initiate the appropriate procedures for
the purpose and type of testing requested.
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PETS AND OTHER
ANIMALS
Pets or other animals are not permitted in the school unless they
are approved for study in connection with classroom projects. Teacher
approval, in writing, must be obtained before the children may bring
pets to school. If possible we request parents bring the animals to
school. Parents must also bring shot records showing date of rabies
immunization. Parents of children who ride school buses should check
with the bus driver to determine whether the animal can be brought to
school on the bus. Animals must be secured in boxes or cages to be
transported to school by bus.
PROGRESS REPORTS
The first progress report (Report Card) will be given to parents at
the Parent/Teacher Conference scheduled for mid-November.
Progress reports for the second, third and fourth quarters will be sent
home with students several days after the last day of each quarter
unless otherwise notified of a conference.
Reporting to parents on the progress of their children is one of the
most demanding duties educators have to accomplish. Teachers evaluate
each child’s progress according to the child’s ability, knowledge and
skills s/he can expect to learn. Each child is encouraged to work to
his full potential at all times. When a student is not progressing
satisfactorily, a deficiency notice will be sent to the parent giving
sufficient time to correct the deficiency prior to the distribution of
the report card.
 PROGRESS REPORT CARDS
A report of each student’s progress will be issued to parents at the
end of each nine-week period.
Developmental Grading Codes for Early Childhood K-3:
MARKING CODES
CD - CONSISTENTLY DISPLAYED
P - DEVELOPING/PROGRESSING
N - NOT YET EVIDENT
X - NOT ADDRESSED
The following grading scale has been adopted by DoDDS for
grades 4-6:
GRADING SCALE GRADING POINT AVERAGE
A = 90-100% 4.0
B = 80-89% 3.0
C = 70-79% 2.0
D = 60-69% 1.0
F = 59% and below
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EMERGENCIES/BOMB
THREATS/DRILLS
The principal and the appropriate military officials cooperatively
develop school procedures for emergencies. The installation commander
may declare an emergency and close schools at his/her discretion for
such reasons as an alert, inclement weather, bomb threats, or facility
deficiencies that would endanger the health and safety of students and
school personnel. Control of the students while on school property remains
the responsibility of school personnel during emergency.
In case of an emergency or of
a drill, the alarm will be sounded. All persons in the building will
move swiftly and in an orderly manner along the evacuation route posted
in each room. Students will gather with and remain with other members
of their class in the area designated for that class. In case of a bomb
threat, students and school personnel would move to a designated safety
area on post.
STUDENT PLACEMENT
COMMITTEE
The Student Placement Committee makes recommendations to the
principal on program adjustment and any other grade or class placement,
which is not routine. The committee consists of the teacher making the
referral, the counselor, parents, and others as needed. The committee collects
data, discusses each referral, makes recommendations for placement, and
reviews the progress of students who have been placed. Parents or
teachers may start the referral process to this committee. If any form
of testing or assessment is to be done, the parents must first give
permission in writing. The final decision on grade and program
placement is the principal’s responsibility (DSR 2000.3).
WITHDRAWAL OF
STUDENTS
Students who are withdrawing to return to the states or another
command must attend at least twenty days of the marking period in order
to receive the report card. During the last marking period, a student
may be withdrawn during the last twenty days of the school year and be
considered for promotion to the next grade.
The school office must be notified 5 days in advance when students
are withdrawing. Copies of student records will be prepared to
hand-carry to the next school. Records may be picked up on the
student’s last day at the school. When prior notification has not been
given only the Progress Report will be provided. Email messages from
the new school may be sent to dexheimes.principal@eu.dodea.edu.
The fax number is 011-49-6133-50331. Record requests from the new
school should be mailed to:
Dexheim Elementary School
ATTN: Registrar
CMR 406
APO AE 09110
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