It is my pleasure to serve as the principal of Costello Elementary School. At Costello, we strive to ensure that everyone feels a sense of belonging within our school community. Our Costello team takes pride in building relationships and getting to know your child on an individual level. We listen and work together to build success for each student. I find immense joy in my role and look forward to our year together.

Costello is one of twelve elementary schools in the Troy School District. We are the second smallest elementary in Troy, we anticipate about 400 students will attend in the fall. Our Superintendent, Dr. Richard Machesky, has worked closely with the Teaching and Learning Department and the administrative teams to set a clear vision for all of our schools. Our OneTroy mission is to ensure learning for all students through focusing direction, deepening learning, and collaboration.

Step inside our our classrooms and you will instantly feel positive energy and a nurturing environment for students to learn and grow. You will see students working side by side with one another, engaged in collaborative learning and problem solving. Teachers seek to understand students on an individual level; knowing what excites each student will help make their learning more meaningful. As professionals, our teachers are constantly looking for ways to enhance and innovate our own learning and we want to do the same for our students. We love learning!

Our amazing PTO wants all of our families to feel connected and part of our community. Beyond fundraising to supplement our programs, our PTO organizes fun social events like restaurant nights, skating parties, the Costello Fair, International Night and so much more! Your involvement and support play a significant role in your child's school experience.

The Cardinal Traits of perseverance, integrity, respect, and responsibility are demonstrated in all of our kindergarten through fifth grade classes. Used as learning tools, the Cardinal Traits help students to be good citizens while at school, home and in the community. Check out our video on Integrity…https://youtu.be/7SaDbyXjRJU

Thanks to our commitment to character education Costello received the State School of Character https://character.org/2022-state-and-districts-of-character/designation in 2022.

Beyond academic learning we want our students give back to our community by serving others. We help students to understand empathy by sharing stories of and taking action to help those in need. Our students have participated in Pennies for Patients, Suitcases for Kids, building care packages for our military troops, and book and food drives, just to name a few.

MEET DR. DIPONIO

This marks my 30th year in education! I started my teaching career in Missouri where I served as an elementary teacher, literacy coach, principal, and assistant superintendent for curriculum and instruction. I am devoted to learning and want to work together with families and teachers to help each student experience success.

Our family relocated to Michigan in 2012. My husband is also in education. We have three adult children and cherish our time when we can all be together. Spending time Up North is our favorite way to relax and enjoy each other’s company.

Think big, start small, is one of my favorite quotes. The key word is START! Until we jump in, we won’t know where to go next. Looking forward to diving in and partnering with you and your family to make this an amazing year!

Tammy DiPonio, Ed.D. - Principal Costello Elementary

SCHOOL VISITS

Costello School encourages parents and other community members to visit our school. Those wishing to visit our school should call ahead so that an administrator can participate in the visit. The visit should have a legitimate purpose and not interfere with the continuity of instruction. Due to safety concerns unannounced visits will not be accommodated. Due to increased security: ALL VISITORS, VOLUNTEERS AND PARENTS must sign in at the office and wear a VISITOR’S BADGE during school hours while in the building or anywhere on school grounds. Please note, all doors will remain locked throughout the day. Visitors will be buzzed in, from the main entrance vestibule where the door will be released to enter the office. No visitors may remain in the school without the permission of the administrator.

CURRICULUM NIGHT for Kindergarten - Fifth Grade: Wednesday, September 4, 2024

In the fall of each year our teachers host a Curriculum Night. Teachers will give an overview of the school year including academics, schedules and school events. You will have an opportunity to learn about your child’s teacher and hear more about what a typical day will look like for your student.

PARENT-TEACHER CONFERENCES

This year Parent/Teacher Conferences will be held on the following dates:

October 10 & 11

March 12 & 13

Electronic sign-ups will be shared by the teacher and posted on the Costello website. If you have two or more children at Costello you may want to schedule conferences around the same time frame. In order to provide an effective educational program, it is the policy of the Troy School District to maintain close communication between the home and the school. In addition to the scheduled conferences in the fall and spring, parents are encouraged to contact the teacher should there be a need for an additional conference.

REPORT CARDS

HOW DO I VIEW MY CHILD’S REPORT CARD?

1. Log onto the parent portal at https://ps.troy.k12.mi.us

2. Click on the Report Card icon CHOOSE THE IMAGE A+ .

3. Report cards are only accessible through a Web browser (computer or mobile). Reportcards are not available through the mobile app.

“Grades and Attendance” at the top of the left column with “Report Card” farther down the column; see image below. CHOOSE THE IMAGE A+.

SCHOOL COMMUNICATION

Stay up to date by following us on Twitter@Costello_Tweets, Costello PTO on Facebook. Also be sure you are signed up for messages from Schoology and BLACKBOARD. The Cardinal Connection will also keep you up to date on important school events. The Costello website https://costello.troy.k12.mi.us is a great resource for updated information. Every effort is made to keep parents fully informed. You can count on your teachers to keep you informed of important class events and learning updates.

SCHOOL HOURS

Full Day 9:09 a.m. - 4:07 p.m.

Half Day 9:09 a.m. -12:59 p.m.

ATTENDANCE POLICY

By state law, school attendance is compulsory for the physically and mentally fit between the ages of six and sixteen years. The ultimate legal responsibility for school attendance rests with parent/guardians of students. Students with more than 20 absences in a school year may be referred to Troy Youth Assistance or the Oakland County Intermediate School District Truancy Department.

If your child is to be absent from school, a parent should call the school office absence call-in line at 248-823-3700. The absence line is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You should call the absence line before 9:00 a.m. The absence line is checked many times a day. Please leave the following information on the absence line: Your name, student’s name, illness or reason of absence, length of absence, and teacher’s name. It is not necessary to call each consecutive day, once you have indicated the child will be out for a period of time. If your child will be late to school, please notify the attendance line as well.

The office staff will call the home of those children who are absent from school but who have not been reported absent by a parent. If the secretary cannot reach a parent at home, emergency contacts will be notified.

We encourage you to minimize the time your child is taken out of school. We realize there will be illness, doctor appointments, family emergencies, etc. If you must take an extended vacation during the school year with your child, please try to schedule it when school is not in session. Regular attendance and active participation in class are integral parts of a student’s educational experience and it is difficult to duplicate the classroom experience with homework. The purpose of any homework is to reinforce skills previously taught. Without the accompanying classroom instruction, many assignments aren’t appropriate. Makeup work may be provided in meaningful doses, under the teacher’s guidance, after extended absences.

The Troy School District has joined in partnership with the other 27 school districts in Oakland County and Oakland Schools to develop the Early Truancy Intervention Protocol which promotes regular attendance. The protocol was developed to improve a student’s attendance through a school/student/parent partnership by following the guidelines below:

• After the tenth absence/tardy, a letter will be sent to the parent/guardian.
  
• After the fifteenth absence/tardy, a letter will be sent to the parent/guardian and a meeting with the principal will be required to develop an attendance action plan.
  
• After the twentieth absence/tardy, a letter will be sent to the parent/guardian and a referral will be made to the Troy Youth Assistance and a meeting with the principal will be required to modify the attendance action plan.
  
• After the twenty-fifth absence/tardy, a letter will be sent to the parent/guardian and the Oakland Schools truancy officer will be contacted which may initiate a court referral.
  
• School attendance laws of the state of Michigan require children to attend school
  

BE ON TIME! HEALTHY WORK ETHIC STARTS NOW!

Children should arrive at school no earlier than 9:00 AM. Students should report to their assigned door. We have, in the past, had a number of students who arrive at school after the beginning of the school day (9:10 a.m.). If you arrive late, you will need to park and come into the school to sign in your student.

When students start to understand the value of a healthy work ethic that will launch them into the world of work. Right now! Being on time, completing tasks, taking initiative, and operating with integrity determine future success in the workplace. Why is being on time so important?

When you arrive late, the action has already begun. In school, the morning routine goes ahead, including morning meetings, attendance, lunch counts, the morning announcements, greetings, etc. Missing these important first few moments feels like arriving in the middle of a movie. What is going on? What do I do now? What have I missed?

Being late interrupts instruction. When a child enters the classroom late, it is distracting to the teacher and to the other students. The teacher may have to stop to catch up or orient the child to the activity at hand.

Habits that develop early in life are difficult to break. Being on time (or being late) becomes a lifelong habit. If kids develop the lifelong habit of being on time, they will be more considerate of others and in control of their days.

Let’s start right now to help our kids develop a healthy work ethic. Even if they wake up tired (don’t we all?), they need to rise to the occasion and take the responsibility of getting to school on time.

OUTDOOR LINEUP, RECESS & DISMISSAL....(RAIN, SNOW OR SUNSHINE) DRESS FOR THE WEATHER!

Outdoor recess guidelines for during extreme cold days: If the FEELS LIKE temperature is 10 degrees or warmer, recess and outdoor lineup is held outside. If the FEELS LIKE temperature is 9 degrees or colder, recess and outdoor lineup is held inside.

SCHOOL LUNCH

This year all students are invited to have school breakfast and lunch free of charge. Monthly menus will be distributed electronically. For younger students it is helpful to build reading the lunch menu into your evening routine. Students will let their teacher know their lunch choice each morning as part of their arrival routine.

Students attending Costello School are welcome to bring a lunch from home. For safety, students bringing a lunch or drink from home should not bring glass containers. With a physician’s note, food allergies can be accommodated. If special seating is necessary in the lunchroom please communicate this with the classroom teacher prior to the first day of school.

DISTRACTIONS FROM LEARNING:

CELL PHONES & SMART WATCHES:

Electronic devices cause distractions to the learning for the student using them as well as classmates.

See guidelines below:

Unless necessary for medical use, cell phones must be silenced or powered off and kept in the child's backpack. Elementary students are not permitted to use cell phones at any point during the school day.

Smart watches and devices with data series and message/calling capabilities (this includes GPS watches and Apple Watches) must be in "airplane" mode during the school day.

Students should not be receiving and/or sending communication via smart watches during the school day. Students may be required to remove smart devices during assessments.The school is not responsible for lost or stolen devices.

Please communicate through the main office for last minute changes in transportation. We will be sure to let your child/teacher know. For your child's safety, the adults need to ensure that the information is appropriately followed. Thank you for your cooperation.

TOYS & TRADING CARDS:

Toys and trading cards, such as Pokémon cards, can be distracting and may lead to issues if lost. While there may be occasional opportunities for these items at school, they should generally remain at home. If necessary, the teacher will hold onto any distracting items, and parents can arrange to retrieve them.

CHILDREN LEAVING WHILE SCHOOL IS IN SESSION

When it becomes necessary for a child to go home due to illness or a prearranged appointment, a parent or other responsible person designated by the parent on the student’s emergency list, must come into the main entrance and sign out using the computer. Office staff will call the classroom and have your child report to the office in order to minimize disruption of instruction. Parents are encouraged to make dental and medical appointments for the children after school hours whenever possible. If a child is going home with someone other than those designated on the emergency list (for example, going home with a friend), a parent must send in a signed note to the office, indicating the name of the individual and his/her telephone number.

SAFETY DURING DISMISSAL

Safety is our number one priority. THANK YOU for taking the time to read and to be part of the solution.

Dismissing 400+ students takes patience and a system. This system may require you to adjust your plan, but please know that it just takes one or two cars not following the plan to create chaos. The good news is we CAN make this safer and more efficient, IF everyone follows these guidelines.

WALKERS & TALKERS... (these students dismiss through the north doors)

- Walkers & Talkers (North Lot) this is designed for families who live close by and can walk to pick up their children.

- There is not enough space for parents to park, we ask that you please use the Express Loop if you are picking up your child in a vehicle.

- Parking spaces are reserved for our staff aides, substitutes, traveling staff, after school program facilitators, CARE staff, etc. These staff members are arriving or leaving during dismissal and should be able to pull in and out without issue.

- The north playground is reserved for CARE until 6PM daily. Licensing does not allow other students to use this same playground. You are welcome to use the kindergarten playground and the playground on the west side of the building after school.

The Express Loop is designed for families who are picking up their children in a vehicle. Trust the process...it is more efficient that you might think!!! As you are patiently waiting to enter the Costello lot, PLEASE BE COURTEOUS AND DO NOT BLOCK DRIVEWAYS, we do not want you to get a ticket.

• For your safety, if you are using the Express Loop, please stay in your car. Students will enter the vehicle from the back seat on the passenger side. Please consider this when securing car seats for younger children.

• Keep moving forward as far as you can and follow the directions from the staff. Some vehicles will be directed to flow through the side (north parking lot, others will come straight in through the main express loop. Even if you see your child keep moving toward the end of the loop. Students know the path and will be following staff directions to continue to move toward the end of the lot.

• Everyone is in a hurry, please be considerate of others. If you need a faster pick up, plan to arrive earlier to position yourself at the front of the loop.

• Be sure to inform your child’s teacher via an e-mail or note if you make a last minute transportation change. Also, please be aware that teachers are not checking email while they are teaching. If a last minute arrangement is made (after 3:25) please call the office and we will get the message to your child's teacher.

IMPORTANT SAFETY REMINDERS…

-Walkers, for everyone’s safety, PLEASE use the crosswalk.

-During arrival and departure skateboards, bikes, scooters, etc. on the sidewalk in front of the school and around all traffic flow should be carried or pushed. The Troy Police Department partners with our schools to enforce our safety rules.

Patience starts in the car rider loop, show your Cardinal Traits! Thank you for your cooperation!

TORNADO DRILLS

When given the tornado warning signal, children will go to designated areas in the building that provide the safest conditions. They will remain with their teachers in this area until the “all clear” is given. Tornado drills are conducted five times annually.

During actual tornado alerts, it is recommended that children remain at school until the authorities give an official "all clear" signal. Please do not call the school so that we may keep lines open for emergency situations.

FIRE DRILLS

Fire drills are conducted throughout the school year. Students are provided with specific instructions regarding the proper procedures to follow. We encourage families to conduct Exit Drills in the Home (EDITH) on a regular basis to familiarize students with what to do and where to meet in the event of a fire emergency. We encourage you to change the batteries in smoke and carbon monoxide detectors two times yearly, each time we change to or from Daylight Savings Time. It is also recommended that smoke detectors and carbon dioxide detectors be replaced every ten years.

SECURITY DRILLS

Students will participate in fire and weather drills as well as safety drills designed to increase the safety while at school.

DISCIPLINE POLICIES

All Troy students are to follow the TSD Code of Conduct https://www.troy.k12.mi.us/student-life/code-of-conduct review this information with your children.

FEES AND SUPPLIES

The school provides books, pencils, paper and various supplies needed for the academic day. For safety, students need to wear sneakers for physical education. Throughout the school year, special occasions arise in which staff members will ask parents to send funds to school for special class projects, field trips, etc. If you need assistance, please reach out to the teacher they can help coordinate support.

LIBRARY BOOKS

Children are expected to return books on or before the due date. Late and/or missing books need to be returned or paid for before the end of the January and June semesters.

STUDENT PARTIES AT SCHOOL

During the school year, each child participates in three parties: October: Halloween Party, December: Winter Wonderland, and the end of the year classroom party. Room parents and classroom teachers will provide and arrange for refreshments. Our PTO requests that students turn in party money by the end of September.

BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION GUIDELINES

It has been the tradition for many elementary students to celebrate their birthday at school by bringing in cupcakes, cookies, or other food related treats. While the district intends to continue to celebrate the child’s special day, there is a need to do so in a way that is healthy for everyone involved. The reasons are listed below:

There are students in every elementary building who have severe, sometimes life-threatening, allergies, and in many cases they are unable to partake of the treat. Also, district staff learned in an Epi-pen training session this summer that 25% of all first time anaphylactic reactions occur in schools.

Schools have been charged with promoting healthy eating habits inside and outside of school.

Our schools are committed to preserving instructional time. There is no obligation to recognize your child’s birthday at school. However, if you choose to recognize your child’s special day, please do not send birthday treats to school, as they will not be shared with the class. Instead, of bringing or sending a food treat to celebrate your child’s birthday, parents may:

Send in a favorite book for the student to share with the class on the child’s special day.

Donate a book for the classroom in honor of the child’s special day.

Send in for the day or donate a recess game for indoor recesses.

Send in for the day or donate a piece of playground equipment (various balls or games) for outdoor recesses.

If you have another idea of how to celebrate your child’s birthday, you may discuss this with your child’s teacher.

Our elementary buildings will continue to recognize and celebrate our students’ birthdays at school, even as that recognition takes new forms. The district appreciates your cooperation and hopes you will understand the reasoning behind this decision.

This procedure for celebrating students’ birthdays does not extend to the classroom holiday parties, though please note there may be allergy restrictions for those events as well. The food/treats that are provided at these events will be determined by the buildings.

PARTIES OUTSIDE OF SCHOOL

Parties can be a fun time for all students!! Many times throughout the school year, students wish to hold special event parties outside of school. If invitations to such parent-supervised parties are distributed at school, it will be mandatory that all “boys”, all “girls” or all students in the class be invited. If not, distribution of invitations will not be permitted. Many times, one or two students are left out of such events causing hurt feelings, tears and low self-esteem. Help us help each child feel good about him/her by including all in extra activities.

PARENT VOLUNTEERS -

BACKGROUND CHECK MUST BE ON FILE IN ORDER TO VOLUNTEER AT COSTELLO OR CHAPERONE FIELD TRIPS - https://www.troy.k12.mi.us/community-links/volunteer-background-form

Parent volunteers help our school in many ways. They work in the media center, office, supervise students on field trips, help with fundraising activities, assist teachers in the classroom, as well as serve as interpreters. If you are proficient in a language other than English, and are willing to interpret for us, please contact the office. There are many opportunities for parents to be of service at school. We encourage everyone to get involved. Please contact your child’s teacher or the office if you are able to volunteer.

DRESS CODE FOR STUDENTS

Consider the Cardinal trait of respect when choosing what to wear to school. The TSD Code of Conduct for more details on dress code Troy School District Code of Conduct. Students are encouraged to only wear sneakers. (For safety concerns, shoes worn to school and in gym class may not have a sole and heel height taller than one inch.) Clothing depicting weapons, alcohol, tobacco or other substances not in keeping with healthy lifestyles will not be permitted. We ask that adults model these same behaviors.

LOST AND FOUND

Label, label, label...by marking clothing (on the inside) and equipment with the owner’s name, we are able to return items to the owner promptly. Lost articles will be placed in the Lost and Found are located in the vestibule. Unclaimed clothing will be donated to the needy. Smaller items such as jewelry, wallets, etc. are kept in the office.

CARE OF SCHOOL PROPERTY

Students are expected to show respect for school property and school grounds. Willful damage to any Troy School District properties, or the property of a fellow student or staff member, will require financial adjustment as assessed by the administration. Students and their parents will be responsible for restitution. Book damage and lost material fines are assessed at the end of each semester.

SAFETY PATROL

5th grade safety patrol members are on duty from 9:00 to 9:04 a.m. and 4:07 p.m. to 4:13 p.m. Please make sure your children do not arrive at school too early.

MEDICATION AT SCHOOL

This is an important notification for parents whose students may take medication at Costello. State and school district policies dictate school medication procedures. See updated medication policies .https://www.troy.k12.mi.us/students/student-code-of-conduct

HEARING SCREENINGS

Each year, the Oakland County Health Division screens students for vision and hearing. Vision Screening is for grades 1, 3, 5 and Special Ed. Hearing Screening is for grades K, 2, 4, and Special Ed.

COMMUNICABLE DISEASES

Contracted communicable disease(s) must be reported to the school office. This information is relayed to the Oakland County Health Division to keep them informed of developments within the school district and the county. When you call in an absence for your child due to illness, please be specific and be sure to report cases of strep, flu, pinkeye, lice, impetigo, or other communicable disease. If you are unsure if the illness is contagious, please consult your physician.

For more information about communicable diseases, such as lice, etc., please go to the Oakland County Health Department Website: OCHD

IMMUNIZATIONS

Michigan law requires Kindergarten and new to the district students enrolling in a Michigan school to submit a current immunization record. The immunization record must show at least four doses of: DTP, DTaP (Diptheria, Tetanus and Pertussis) or TD (Tetanus and Diptheria); and Polio; at least one dose of Varicella (chicken pox), Measles, Mumps and Rubella (MMR), and at least two doses of Hepatitis B (HBV). Any student receiving the minimum doses must complete the series within the scheduled time span. A parent notification letter may be sent regarding the needed immunizations. If a student’s immunization records are not in accordance with the law, the student may not be permitted to attend school. The Oakland County Health Division offers immunizations.

Due to an immunization rule change from the Michigan Department of Community Health, waivers exempting children from receiving immunizations can no longer be obtained from schools. Non-Medical waivers based on religious or philosophical beliefs must first be certified at the Oakland County Health Division. Parents/guardians of children who are unable to receive vaccinations due to medical reasons should consult their healthcare provider for a medical waiver form.

INSURANCE

Troy School District does not provide accident or dental insurance for students involved in school-related injuries. Students may enroll in an insurance program underwritten by an independent insurance agency, Student Assurance Services, Inc., that covers accidents on a 24-hour basis for one full year. In addition, there is an optional dental coverage provided by the same insurance carrier. Insurance forms are sent home with students during the first week of school. If parents are interested in purchasing this type of insurance, they should complete the form that was distributed on the first day of school, and return it to the school office. Coverage is effective the date the premium is received – you may sign up at any time throughout the school year, but the coverage cannot be pro-rated.

CARDINAL TRAITS

Respect, responsibility, integrity and perseverance are our Cardinal Traits. Students will learn about these traits starting in kindergarten daily and during our Cardinal Nesting lessons. Adults and students use and model the Cardinal Traits. Parents can partner with us to use these same traits at home.

SNACKS AT SCHOOL

We are going to be off to a HEALTHY start this year at school. Many teachers allow students to bring a snack each day. We have always encouraged HEALTHY snacks such as fresh fruit, fresh vegetables, protein bars, or crackers, along with fresh water. Brain research clearly shows that fresh, healthy foods and water are beneficial to learning, while unhealthy snacks can actually hinder learning.

CAFETERIA RULES

Students are expected to display good manners and the Cardinal traits in the lunchroom.

1. Students are expected to wash their hands prior to entering the lunchroom.

2. Students are to talk in a quiet voice.

3. Students are to walk in the lunchroom.

4. Students are to remain seated until they have finished eating.

6. Students are not to trade or food.

7. Students are responsible for the disposal of food, papers, etc.

9. Students will show respect to the cafeteria supervisors at all times.

10. Students are encouraged to use proper table manners.

INSIDE RULES DURING RECESS AND NOON HOURS

OUTDOOR RECESS

When recesses are held outdoors, all students are expected to participate. Teaching staff and lunchtime supervisors go outside with the students -- there is no supervision available for students wishing to remain indoors. If students are well enough to attend school, they are expected to participate in all activities including recesses. A doctor’s note is required to excuse a student from recess for medical reasons.

PLAYGROUND RULES

Though this is a long list, it is not all inclusive, in general, students should use common sense on the playground. Most accidents can be prevented. For all students' safety your child will be expected to observe the following rules on the playground:

1. Stay on the playground at all times. If a ball or equipment goes off the playground, children must find an adult on duty to retrieve it.

2. Keep the playground clean. All eating is to be done in the cafeteria.

3. Do not throw snowballs, gravel, stones, wood chips, or any sharp or dangerous objects.

4. Rough play, such as wrestling, pushing, tackling, tripping, or any other activity that could be potentially dangerous, is not allowed.

5. When playing on the swings:

a. Be fair, take turns.

b. Only one person at a time should be on a swing.

c. Sit in swings at all times. Do not stand.

d. Swings are for swinging only. Playing should be done in other areas.

e. Do not run in front of, behind, or between swings.

f. Do not jump off swings or swing crooked.

6. When playing on slides:

a. Be fair, take turns.

b. Slide down one at a time, sitting down, feet first.

c. Go up the ladder and down the slide.

d. Do not push each other on the slide or the slide ladder.

e. Do not jump off the slide ladder.

f. Do not play under the slides.

g. When there is a puddle of water, do not use the slides.

7. When playing football:

a. Only touch or flag football is allowed.

b. Touching must be below the neck with no straight-arming.

All football must be played away from buildings and magic squares.

8. When playing softball/kickball:

a. Use equipment properly.

b. All spectators must stand behind the backstop.

c. Play on the assigned field.

d. Do not throw the bat.

e. No hardballs are allowed. Do not bring bats from home.

9. When playing on the “Big Toys”:

a. Be fair, take turns.

b. Slide down slides one at a time sitting down, feet first.

c. Do not jump off the structure.

d. Only two people at one time are to use the tire swings.

e. Do not push or trip while on the structure.

f. One person at a time may slide down vertical poles.

10. Snowballs are prohibited on any part of the school property.

11. Climbing ring/glider

a. One person at a time may climb on rings and glider.

Do not push or pull a person crossing on rings or glider.

12. Running Track

a. Move to the left side to let faster runners pass.

b. Persons should run in a clockwise direction.

Watch for runners when crossing path.

13. Appropriate language is expected at all times.

Lunchtime supervisors are employed to supervise the playground, help organize games, circulate among the students, and to encourage good sportsmanship and fair play. Students are expected to follow the directions of the lunchtime supervisors.

RULES FOR SCHOOL BUS RIDERS

The responsibility for student conduct and safety, while riding on district buses, is the shared responsibility of the students, parents, bus drivers, school principal and staff. The behavior of students while in transit to or from school or at any co-curricular school-sponsored activity will be consistent with the discipline procedures of the regular school day. Repeated violations will result in the suspension of school bus privileges.

1. While at the bus stop, students are expected to:

a. be at their designated bus stop five minutes before the scheduled bus arrival time.

walk on the left side of the road, facing traffic, to and from their designated bus stop. (Use

sidewalks when available.)

c. be orderly, courteous, and respectful of others and their property, as they wait for the bus to arrive.

d. wait for the bus on the side of the road, or on the sidewalk, until the bus comes to a complete stop before moving toward embarkation.

2. When riding on the bus, students are expected to:

a. occupy a seat upon entering the bus and remain seated while the bus is in motion

b. follow the drivers' instructions

c. keep hands, arms, and head inside the bus at all times.

3. When arriving at school, students are expected to:

a. leave the bus only at the consent of the driver.

b. refrain from pushing, jostling, or tripping students.

c. use the safety handrail while stepping off the bus.

4. When leaving the bus at the designated stop, students are expected to:

a. move at least 3 feet away from the side of the bus after leaving.

cross the road at least 10 feet in front of the bus after having received the signal from the driver to do so.

c. look both ways at the center line of the road before continuing -- WALK, don’t run.

walk along the left side of the road, facing oncoming traffic, to and from home. (Use sidewalks when available.)

RULES FOR SAFETY WITH BICYCLES, ROLLERBLADES, SKATEBOARDS, ROLLER SHOES OR SCOOTERS

State law and city ordinances spell out many regulations for bicycle riders. The Troy Schools and The Troy Police Department feel that compliance with the rules listed below is of the utmost importance for the safety of children. Parents should review these rules with their children. It is important that they understand and practice them at all times. Students should wear a protective helmet when biking, rollerblading, skateboarding or riding a scooter on school property.

RULES FOR SAFE WALKING

Children should observe the following rules when walking:

Carry or wear something white at night to be more visible to drivers.

Cross at corners and crosswalks. Keep to the right in the crosswalk.

Before crossing, look both ways to be sure the way is clear.

Obey safety patrols and adult guards.

Cross only on proper signal.

Watch for turning cars.

Never go into the roadway from between parked cars.

Where there is no sidewalk and it is necessary to walk in the roadway, walk on the left side facing traffic.

SAFETY WITH STRANGERS

Troy School District staff members, in cooperation with the Troy Police Department, have prepared these guidelines to be used for discussion with children regarding “Safety with Strangers.”

Do not accept candy or gifts from strangers.

Do not accept rides with strangers or people you do not know very well.

Do not walk alone. Walk with a friend or in a group.

Go directly home after school.

Never go anywhere without telling parents first.

Be cautious when approached by strangers. If a stranger stops to ask a question, WALK AWAY. NEVER go over to a stranger or a strange car, for ANY reason.

Tell parents or a teacher immediately about a suspicious person.

Seek assistance if a stranger forces attention upon you. If someone is following you, run to a house where you think someone is at home and pound on the door and yell. You can also run inside a building, such as a store, where there are people. Ask someone to call the police immediately. Do not run into a woods, park or shrub area.

If possible, get the license number of any car that is following you and tell the police immediately. They may be able to catch the car before it leaves the neighborhood. Never wait around to get the number or description of the car. RUN FIRST.

If you call the police, it would help them to know the following information:

The address where you are.

The license number and description of the car.

The description of the person

DRUG-FREE SCHOOLS

The Troy School District participates in the Drug Free Schools program. Students, staff, parents and community members are to be aware that the use of illicit drugs and the unlawful possession and use of alcohol is wrong and harmful.

SCHOOL SAFETY INITIATIVE

The safety of our students is one of the top concerns of our schools. The State of Michigan has adopted a School Safety that requires background checks for all school employees. The Troy School district conducts background checks on volunteers who will be supervising students when a Troy School District staff member is not readily accessible. Examples of such volunteers are those who drive students on field trips, parents who coach school-sponsored clubs or activities that meet after school and volunteers who supervise students on certain field trips. We feel that it is important that our parents know that we have taken these extra precautions regarding any adult who has the responsibility for supervising our students.

Parents who volunteer in this capacity will be asked to complete a form that will allow the district to complete a background check through the Michigan State Police Department. All information will be treated confidentially. Once completed, the background check will permit the parent to volunteer for similar activities at any level (elementary, middle school, high school) for this school year.

The Troy School District values its volunteers. Our parents and community volunteers provide critical support that enhances the learning and success of our students. These added measures are only being taken to ensure that our students are able to receive all of their school experiences in the safest environment possible.

Safety protocols are continuously reviewed, count on us to communicate any updates.

Thank you for your continued support of our schools. If you have any questions regarding this issue, please contact our school office.

NOTICE TO ALL PARENTS AND GUARDIANS

WEAPONS/EXPULSION FROM SCHOOL

The Michigan State Legislature passed into law a bill that amends Section 1311 of the Public Acts of 1993. All students in the Troy School District and the State of Michigan are affected by this legislation. Included below, for your information, are portions of the law with which you should be familiar.

The law requires school districts to expel a pupil permanently, subject to possible reinstatement, if a pupil possesses a dangerous weapon, commits arson or rapes someone in a school building or on school grounds. Expulsion is required for all of the above except in the case of weapon possession where the pupil establishes in a clear and convincing manner at least one of the following:

The object possessed was not for use as a weapon or for direct or indirect delivery to another person for use as a weapon.

The student did not knowingly possess the weapon.

The student did not know or have reason to know that the object possessed constituted a dangerous weapon.

The student with the express permission of the school or police authorities possessed the weapon.

A dangerous weapon is defined in the School Code of 1993, Section 380.1313 as a firearm, dagger, dirk, stiletto, knife with a blade over three inches in length, pocket knife opened by a mechanical device, iron bar or brass knuckles.

The length of the expulsion must be a minimum of 90 school days for pupils in grades five or below and 180 school days for pupils in grades six and above. Petitions for reinstatement may be initiated 60 school days after the expulsion for a pupil in grade five and below and 150 school days after the expulsion for a pupil in grade six and above. All Troy School District procedures relating to student discipline, including expulsion, are explained in the Student Code of Conduct. If you have any questions regarding this legislation, please contact the building principal or the Assistant Superintendent’s office at (248) 823-4000.

CHILD ABUSE/NEGLECT - Under the Michigan Child Protection Law, MCLA 722.621; MSA 25.248(1), school district employees are obligated to report suspected child abuse or neglect to appropriate authorities.

Centralized Intake for Abuse and Neglect

Centralized Intake (CI) for abuse and neglect complaints is now taking calls for Children’s Protective Services (CPS) and Adult Protective Services (APS). The Department of Human Services has established Centralized Intake to ensure consistency across the state in how complaints of abuse and neglect of children and adults are documented and assigned for investigation. Centralized Intake will accept and process reports of alleged abuse and neglect twenty four (24) hours a day, seven (7) days a week for the entire year. Please call:

Centralized Intake for Abuse and Neglect (855)444-3911 (616)977-1154 (FAX)

DHS-CPS-CIGroup@michigan.gov

DEFINITION OF BULLYING

Bullying has two key components: Repeated harmful acts and an imbalance of power. It involves repeated physical, verbal, or psychological attacks or intimidation directed against a victim who cannot properly defend him- or herself because of size or strength, or because the victim is outnumbered or less psychologically resilient. Bullying includes assault, tripping, intimidation, rumor-spreading and isolation, demands for money, destruction of property, theft of valued possessions, destruction of another’s work, and name-calling. In the United States, several other school behaviors (some which are illegal) are recognized as forms of bullying.

Not all taunting, teasing and fighting among schoolchildren constitutes bullying. “Two persons of approximately the same strength (physical or psychological) fighting or quarreling” is not bullying. Rather, bullying entails repeated acts by someone perceived as physically or psychologically more powerful.*

All suspected bullying incidents, as defined above, must be reported to the building Principal for further investigation.

ATTENTION STUDENTS, PARENTS, AND CITIZENS OF

THE TROY SCHOOL DISTRICT:

POLICY OF NONDISCRIMINATION

Title IX of the Educational Amendments of 1972 provides that no person shall, on the basis of sex, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any educational program or activity receiving Federal financial assistance except as may be permitted by law.

Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the American's with Disabilities Act (ADA) provides that no otherwise qualified handicapped individual shall, solely by reason of his or her handicap, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any program or activity receiving Federal financial assistance.

It is the policy of Troy School District not to discriminate on the basis of sex or handicap in admission or access to, treatment or employment in its programs and activities. Troy School District periodically reviews its educational and employment programs and activities to assure compliance with Title IX and Section 504/ADA.

Troy School District has established a grievance procedure to provide for the prompt and equitable resolution of complaints by students, employees or members of the community, alleging discrimination on the basis of sex or handicap. The grievance procedure is available through any school office or by contacting the Coordinator for Title IX and Section 504/ADA matters listed below. In addition, a School District employee who is part of a bargaining unit may process a complaint through the grievance procedure established in the collective bargaining agreement.

Troy School District

4400 Livernois Road

Troy, Michigan 48098-4799

Telephone: 248-823-4000

PESTICIDE APPLICATION NOTIFICATION

We would like to inform you that an Integrated Pest Management (IPM) approach for controlling insects, rodents, and weeds will be used for the Troy School District schools. The IPM approach we will be using focuses on making the school buildings and grounds an unfavorable place for pests to live and breed. Through maintenance and cleaning, we will reduce or eliminate available food and water sources, and hiding places for the pests. We will also routinely monitor the school area to detect pest problems and prevent the pests from becoming established. Some IPM techniques we will employ including monitoring, increased sanitation, sealing entry points, physically removing the pest, and modifying storage practices.

From time to time, it may be necessary to use chemicals to control a pest problem. Chemicals will only be used when necessary, and will not be routinely applied. When chemicals must be used, the district will try to use the least toxic products when possible. Access to treated areas will be secured against unauthorized access for the period specified on the pesticide label. Notices will be posted at application sites and will remain there until the posted safe re-entry time is met.

For you information, we have a list of pesticides and material safety and data sheets (MSDS) that may be used in the school this school year. This list may be obtained by contacting the IPM coordinator (Rob Carson) in writing at 1140 Rankin, Troy, Michigan 48083.

Parents or guardians may request prior notification of specific pesticide applications made at the school. To receive notifications, you must be placed on the notification registry. After August 30, 2005, the registrants will be notified at least 72 hours before a pesticide is applied. If a chemical application must be made to control an emergency pest problem, notice will be provided as soon as possible after the application. Exemptions to this notification include cleaners (disinfectants), baits and gels, and any EPA exempt pesticides. If you would like to be placed on the registry, please complete and return the enclosed form.

If you have any questions, please contact Rob Carson. For further information about school IPM, please visit http://schoolipm.ifas.ufl.edu/ or http://www.epa.gov/pesticides/ipm/ .

Robert Carson

Director of Operations

TROY SCHOOL DISTRICT PHONE NUMBERS

ADMINISTRATIVE CENTER 4400 Livernois, 48098 823-4000

SERVICES BUILDING 823-4420

SPECIAL EDUCATION OFFICE 4420 Livernois, 48098 (at Services Building) 823-5002

TRANSPORTATION OFFICE 823-4056

CARE Company - main number (Niles) 823-5100

Costello CARE Company 823-3709

ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS

Barnard 823-4300

Bemis 823-4100

Costello 823-3700

Hamilton 823-4400

Hill 823-3500

Leonard 823-3300

Martell 823-3800

Morse 823-3200

Schroeder 823-3600

Troy Union 823-3100

Wass 823-3900

Wattles 823-3400

MIDDLE SCHOOLS

Baker 823-4600

Boulan Park 823-4900

Larson 823-4800

Smith 823-4700

HIGH SCHOOLS

Athens 823-2900

Troy High 823-2700

MISCELLANEOUS

Emergency (Police, Fire, and Medical) 911

Police Dept (Non-Emergency). 524-3477

Fire Dept. Non-Emergency 524-3419

Poison Control 1-800-764-7661

Troy City Hall 524-3400

Troy Parks & Rec. 524-3434

Oakland County Health Dept. 248-424-7164

regularly.