Newcastle Student Handbook

Newcastle Elementary Daily Schedules

Master School Schedule 2021-2022

Contact Information

Our school hours:	Office Hours: 8:30-4:30
Our contact info:	8400 136th Avenue S.E. Newcastle, WA  98059 425-837-5800

When you need help with…			Who to contact…
Absences			Pam Stucky, Office Professional ncattendance@issaquah.wednet.edu
Before & After School Care			School Age Care office 425-837-5080
Bus Issues			Transportation office 425-837-6329
Concerns			First address the parties directly involved; then contact: Dr. Tod Wood, Principal woodt@issaquah.wednet.edu
Enrollment, Registration, Attendance			Pam Stucky, Office Professional stuckyp@issaquah.wednet.edu
Health plans, Medications and other health concerns			Pam Gibson, School Nurse gibsonp@issaquah.wednet.edu
Health Room			Cathy Martin, Health Room martinc@issaquah.wednet.edu
Lunch			Lunch Account Payments can be made online at MySchoolBucks.com or in the office. To enroll, go to, click on “enroll now” and create an account using your child’s 7-digit District ID number.  Food Services support: 425-837-5060
Enrollment Verification Process (EVP), Payments, Fees and Scholarships			Tammy Anderson, Assistant to the Principal andersont@issaquah.wednet.edu
Regulations & Procedures			Dr. Tod Wood, Principal woodt@issaquah.wednet.edu
PTSA – events, advocacy or volunteering			info@newcastleptsa.org
Support with instructional and/or classroom issues			Please address issues with the classroom teacher first, then Dr. Tod Wood, Principal woodt@issaquah.wednet.edu
Student discipline &/or conflict such as playground conflict, harassment, intimidation or bullying			Shaun Cornwall, Dean cornwalls@issaquah.wednet.edu
Social and emotional challenges, friendship issues			Kailey Mutter, Counselor mutterk@issaquah.wednet.edu
Volunteer Approval			Pam Stucky, Office Professional stuckyp@issaquah.wednet.edu

Communication

Any great partnership starts with communication.  Here are some ways we seek to maintain quality communication with you. 

Websites: Most of our resources and communications are available on our websites.  This includes resource guides, teacher web pages, policies, procedures and general information.

Making Connections

Joining an elementary school community is often a long-term and important life commitment.  We hope your family makes new connections and experiences a strong sense of community during your time with Newcastle.  This takes effort on all parts. Here are some ideas for how to connect to our community:

1. Register with &/or Join the PTSA. The PTSA is a unique close partner with the school.  To get a complete picture of any school, become an active PTSA member.  You can purchase a Family Membership or register for free and still receive newsletters.  (School Directory is provided for members only.)
2. Read our communications.  Thank you for signing up with the PTSA and school newsletters.  We do our best to highlight the most pertinent and timely information for families, so please take the time to read your emails!
3. Attend school and PTSA events. Coming to our family nights, curriculum nights and other school events is a great way to connect.  Be bold and introduce yourself to new people!  Have your child introduce you to students he or she is connecting with and meet their parents.  Also, don’t forget the key events for adults such as PTSA meetings and Principal Coffee Talks to learn more about current issues and the inner workings of the school.
4. Join a PTSA committee.  Committees run by the PTSA serve a core function for our school. They include opportunities during the day or outside the school day such as LionArt docents, fundraising, popcorn Fridays, family events, parent education, the school yearbook, food drives, and more.
5. Volunteer in class or after school.  Volunteer opportunities with the school abound. In our classrooms, volunteers read with children, help with art and science and help with copies and logistics. The library uses volunteers regularly and there are many other opportunities such as providing recess alternatives. If you have an interest or idea, just ask your child's teacher, the principal, or the dean of students. Programs start with your ideas!
6. Become a VOICE mentor.  We operate a program to pair students with mentors.  Mentors can be school parents, community members or extended family members that want to give back to a child who would benefit with more adult connections in school.  We provide training and match mentors and mentees.

Being a Partner and Advocate

We thrive best when all our families are advocates for all our students. We recognize that your #1 job is to advocate for your child(ren).  Our goal is to partner with you in this effort to best serve your child(ren) as our student. When you have a unique concern, question or need, here are some key points to consider regarding how to advocate and partner with staff on behalf of your child:

1. Encourage your student to self-advocate.  Yes, students feel safest reporting problems to their parents.  Whenever possible, encourage your child to report problems to an adult on campus. For persistent or larger problems it is best to have students talk with their teacher or the school counselor or dean.
2. Make positive presumptions & consider other perspectives. Three things to remember when your child shares something unexpected: 1) Generally, all kids seek success, but problems emerge even when intentions are good. 2) Each child has a piece of the picture, but they also filter their experience through a personal lens. 3) The adults at school are here for children, and we are all problem solvers and ready to help!
3. Always start at the source.  Generally we ask you to start with the teacher for classroom issues. 
4. Ask for help.When concerns arise, begin by asking for help, and share what you (or your child) experienced.
5. Be proactive; don’t let it build.  We would rather address issues before they become big problems.

ATTENDANCE

We encourage students to be at school on time every day. Regular attendance is essential to a student’s success in school. Students receive the full benefit of classroom instruction only when they attend on a regular basis. By law, the State of Washington requires each school to closely monitor student attendance, including absences, tardies, and early dismissals. Research shows that frequent absences seriously affect learning. We encourage you to schedule all doctor and dental appointments during non-school hours.

Reporting an absence

Our Attendance Line is a service the school offers to enhance student safety and communication between school and home. When you know your child is not going to be at school due to illness, religious observations, or family emergencies, please call our Attendance Line at 425-837-5800, option 1 to report the absence by 8:30 AM or email the information to ncattendance@issaquah.wednet.edu. Be sure to include your name, your child’s name, the date(s) of the absence(s) and the reason for the absence in your call or e-mail.

If you receive a phone message that your child is absent and you believe your child to be at school, please call the school, as the child may have been out of the classroom when attendance was taken.

ISD Attendance Policy

As provided in District Regulation 3122, regular school attendance is necessary for mastery of the educational program provided students. Daily attendance and active participation in each class are critical parts of the learning process. Students, at times, may appropriately be absent from class. A computerized message will contact households in the evening informing parents that their student(s) missed one or more periods that day. The message will also notify parents of the potential consequences of additional unexcused absences. The following principles shall govern the development and administration of attendance procedures within the District:

Excused (School Day and Individual Class) absences are absences due to:

1. Participation in a District or school approved activity or instructional program;
2. Illness, health condition or medical appointment (including, but not limited to, medical, counseling, dental or optometry); 
3. Family emergency, including, but not limited to, a death or illness in the family;
4. Religious or cultural purpose including observance of a religious or cultural holiday or participation in religious or cultural instruction;
5. Court, judicial proceeding or serving on a jury;
6. Post-secondary, technical school or apprenticeship program visitation, or scholarship interview;
7. State-recognized search and rescue activities consistent with RCW 28A.225.055;
8. Absence directly related to the student’s homeless or foster care/dependency status;
9. Absences due to a student's migrant status;
10. Absence resulting from a disciplinary/corrective action. (e.g., short-term or long-term suspension, emergency expulsion); and
11. Absences due to student safety concerns, including absences related to threats, assaults, or bullying;
12. Principal (or designee) and parent, guardian, or emancipated youth mutually agreed upon approved activity.

The principal or designee may only grant permission for a student’s absence providing such absence does not adversely affect the student’s educational process.  

Required conference for elementary school students

If an elementary school student has five or more excused absences in a single month during the current school year or ten or more excused absences in the current school year, the district will schedule a conference with the student and their parent(s) at a reasonably convenient time. The conference is intended to identify barriers to the student’s regular attendance and to identify supports and resources so the student may regularly attend school.  A conference is not required if (1) prior notice of the excused absences was provided to the district by 8:30 a.m. on the day of the absence or (2) a pre-arranged absence form has been submitted or (3) if a doctor’s note has been provided and a plan is in place to ensure the student will not fall behind in their coursework.

A conference with the parent or guardian will be scheduled after three unexcused absences within any month during the current school year. Prior to suspension or expulsion, the parent will be notified in writing in his/her primary language that the student has unexcused absences. A conference will be scheduled to determine what corrective measures should be taken to ameliorate the cause for the student's absences from school. If the parent does not attend the conference, the parent will be notified of the steps the district has decided to take to reduce the student’s absences. A student may be suspended or expelled for habitual truancy.

Not later than the student’s fifth unexcused absence in a month the district will enter into an agreement with the student and parents that establishes school attendance requirements, refer the student to a community truancy board or file a petition and affidavit with the juvenile court alleging a violation of RCW 28A.225.010

Unexcused Absences:

An unexcused absence includes absences for personal reasons that do not meet the criteria of excused absences required by state law. Your child will be considered absent for one-half day if they arrive after 11:10 AM. Arrivals after 9:10 AM and prior to 11:10 AM will be considered tardy. Your child will be considered absent for one-half day if they leave school with more than 3-hours left in the school day.

• Examples of unexcused absences include:
  • Oversleeping
  • Errands
  • Stopping at a store
  • Missed bus or other transportation issues

All absences, including the above-mentioned absences will be considered unexcused unless we receive notification from you via the Attendance Line at 425-837-5800, option 1, or by email at ncattendance@issaquah.wednet.edu regarding the reason for the absence. 

When a child has been absent, state law requires that a written excuse accompany a child upon his/her return to school. Please be sure to include the date and teacher’s name on all written correspondence.

Pre-arranged Absences

Absences due to family trips may only be excused when prior approval has been given by the school. Prearranged Absence Forms may be requested at the office, or located online.  Prearranged absences should be submitted at least 2 weeks ahead of time.  Pre-arranged absences between 3-20 days form.

When your child returns from an excused absence, the teacher will provide a list of make-up assignments, along with a reasonable timeline for completion. The student is responsible for completing missed work (ISD Elementary Schools Parent Handbook, pg 2). Please make an attempt to schedule family trips during non-school dates. It is very difficult to make up lost instructional time. Absences for family trips without prior principal permission will result in an unexcused absence for the dates.

For students who are requesting to be excused for greater than 20 days, students are unenrolled, as per RCW 28A.225.010. The school must have a signed agreement between parent/guardian and school principal that the absence will not cause a serious adverse effect upon the student’s educational progress.  Pre-arranged absences for 20+ days form.

The principal or designee may only grant permission for a student’s absence providing such absence does not adversely affect the student’s educational process.

Make-Up Work

Absences may be excused with prior principal permission. When your child returns from an excused absence, the teacher will provide a list of make-up assignments, along with a reasonable timeline for completion. The student is responsible for completing missed work (from ISD Elementary Schools Parent Handbook).

Please note that per district policy and as indicated on the Pre-Approved Absence Request Form that we do not provide assignment in advance of their absences.  Instead we will provide make-up work.  When possible, your teacher may have suggestions for how you can support your child’s learning during the absence (reading, making a trip journal, digital math/reading practice, etc.).

Important Regulations & Procedures:

Supervision

Children should not be on the school grounds before 9:00 a.m.  No supervision is provided beyond the immediate dismissal time.  Accompany and monitor your child at all after hours functions.

Drop-Off / Pick-Up

The start and end of each day presents a unique challenge to us. We are stretched thin in our supervision, activity all around our building reaches a peak, and the mix of people in a rush, people socializing and cars and kids in the same area makes us all nervous. Please help us keep kids safe and make for an efficient transition by following these procedures. If you prefer to walk your child to their assigned class door, please feel free to park and do so. At the end of the day if you park, please arrange with your child to meet you at a specific location at the front or rear of the building. Parents/visitors should not enter the building during these transition times.  If you are driving your child to or from school, please follow the school procedure in our school handbook website.

Parking Lot Safety and Courtesy

Please drive safely in the parking lot, following the signs and directions, parking in properly marked stalls and refrain from using your cell phone even while driving inside our parking lot.

Late Arrival

Please accompany your student into the office if they arrive after car drop off has concluded.  Once the staff member supervising drop-off re-enters the building around 9:15, parents need to sign their student into school in the main office. If students go straight to the classroom, they will remain marked absent and parents will receive an absentee call.

Early Dismissals

If you need to pick up your student prior to regular dismissal time, please send a note in the morning to your student’s teacher. At the pick- up time, please come to the office, sign your child out and the office staff will call the child to the office.

Bus Passes

If your child will be riding a bus that is not his/her typical route or needs to use a different bus stop than normal, a bus pass is required.  To issue a bus pass the SCHOOL OFFICE will need a written note or email from a parent.

Transportation Changes:

If making a change in after-school transportation please notify the school office and teacher by email or note in the morning stating the plan for after school. We ask that you inform your child BEFORE they leave for school in the morning what their afternoon routine will be for the day.  When the office is asked during the day to inform a child of any changes, it causes a disruption in the classroom and interferes with student learning.

Lunch Program

Go to current lunch menu to find out what is being served in our Newcastle Dining Den today! You can pay for your student’s school lunches online. To enroll, go to www.MySchoolBucks.com, click on “enroll now” and create an account. You will initially need your student’s District ID number, which is available through our school’s registrar or secretary. If you have any questions or difficulty enrolling, call 425-837-5060.

Meeting with School Staff

If you need to talk with your student’s teacher (or other Newcastle staff members) please make an appointment in advance whenever possible.  To make an appointment, it is recommended you email the staff member to make arrangements.  You may also call and will be directed to voice mail if the staff member is teaching or otherwise busy.

Deliveries

If a student leaves non-essential items at home, we ask that they not be delivered to the school.  Items that must be delivered to the student should be left with the office staff and will be delivered to students at an appropriate time that minimizes disruptions to the class.

Visitor/Volunteers IMPORTANT SAFETY MESSAGE:

District Regulation 4311 governs visitors and District Regulation 5630 governs volunteers.  For the safety of our school community, all visitors and volunteers are required to sign in at the office upon arrival and sign out when leaving. Name badges or “Volunteer/Visitor” badges should be visible at all times. In the event of an emergency drill where we exit to the playground, please check in with office staff as soon as you get outside. All students, staff and volunteers/visitors must be accounted for before the drill is considered complete.

Volunteer Registration Procedures

All volunteers must complete an online application ANNUALLY, though the process is now much shorter on your second year of doing this volunteer registration process. If you have students at different schools in Issaquah, you only need to fill this out once and will be asked to mark which schools you want to volunteer at. Click the link, https://issaquahvolunteers.hrmplus.net to apply to volunteer.

Our goal is to have every parent register as a volunteer in order to be ready if an opportunity comes up!

IMPORTANT: Make sure you complete all the steps, your application won’t be processed until all steps are complete. You will receive an e-mail once you have completed the FIRST STEP (setting up the profile) and then AGAIN once your application is APPROVED (it may take a couple days).  Some parents started the process but did not complete the checklist.  You can log-on to the link above to verify your application is complete.  Below are some instructions that may help

After the first steps of entering a profile, be sure to click the “My Checklist” button.

Now complete each “activity” until there are 5 green checks where the red X’s are.

Volunteer opportunities include:

• Room Representative
• Vision/Hearing screening
• Art Docent
• Book Fair
• Literacy/Reading
• Field Trip Chaperones
• Library

V.O.I.C.E

The Issaquah Schools Foundation partners with community members to mentor and support students to succeed in their school day by working with them once a week.  VOICE mentors go through the same background check and training to ensure student safety.

Dress Code

Child safety and an environment conducive to learning are paramount goals at Newcastle. The following dress code is designed to facilitate these goals and be consistent with district guidelines.

Shoes: Shoes must be worn to school. For safety reasons, flip flops, slippers and shoes with wheels are not appropriate on the school campus, playground or at P.E.

Tops: All tops need to be long enough to cover the midriff at all times. Low-cut tops can only be worn with under-shirts.

Shorts and Skirts:  Shorts and skirts must be a respectable length. When standing with arms at sides, shorts and skirts need to fall within the finger area. Pants, shorts, and skirts should cover underwear at all times.

Designs and Logos: Designs and logos on clothes must be appropriate for a school setting as determined by school staff.

Hats & Hoods:  Students may be asked to remove hats or hoods according to class expectations.

Personal Items

• If personal items brought to school from home interfere with learning or cause social problems, students will be asked to discontinue bringing them, and items could possibly be held in the main office.
• Buying, selling or trading items is not allowed. Trading cards (such as Pokemon cards) are not allowed.
• E-readers are allowed but require a parent consent form, available in the school office.
• Other Electronic Devises (phones, mp3 players, games) should not be on, heard or visible except when explicitly allowed for academic purposes.

Birthdays

Birthday treats are not allowed at school. Teachers may offer non-food recognition in honor of the child.

Note concerning private birthday parties: If inviting ALL students in a class your child may distribute invitations using the class mailbox or take-home folder system.  If not inviting all students we ask that invitations be handled outside of school &/or discretely and mindful of the hurt that can be caused when some students feel excluded.

Walking and Biking to School

Bicyclists and scooter riders must:

• Be in grades 3-5 to ride to school independently.
• Wear a helmet.
• Respect pedestrian right-of-way.
• Dismount and walk bike/scooter on the school grounds for the safety of those on foot.
• Park and lock bike/scooter at the rack located at the school

Walkers must:

• Cross at the appropriate crossings and follow the directions of the school patrol.
• Stay out of neighbors’ yards.
• Dispose of all trash properly.
• Stay on the sidewalk and walk directly to and from school.
• Be alert and aware of bicyclists/scooters on the sidewalk.
• Safely walk and watch for turning vehicles when crossing side street.

EMERGENCIES

Emergency School Closure

There may be days when unexpected emergencies or inclement weather make it necessary to close or delay school for the day. If there is NO announcement, then school will be held as usual. Please listen to local radio and television stations for information about the Issaquah School District. You can also access emergency information at the District web page.

For direct notifications, you can subscribe to District e-news messages or at www.flashalert.net.

Emergency Procedures

Providing students with a safe environment is a primary concern. We routinely practice drills in anticipation of emergency situations. If you are on school grounds during an emergency drill, we ask that you fully participate in the drill, and follow building procedures as directed by staff. If you come to pick up your student following an actual emergency, keep fire lanes, doorways, and hallways clear for Emergency Response Teams and follow these steps:

1. Follow signs to Parent Check-In
2. Follow any directions/procedures as provided at Check-In
3. Follow signs to Reunion Area to sign your student out.
   ALL students must be checked out through school personnel.

Each student must be released to an authorized adult following an emergency. A rush of worried parents requires more time of staff assigned to reunite parents and students. Understand that, situation depending, parents may not be allowed on-campus access to students. In emergencies, it is vital students follow orders and the prescribed school emergency procedures. Parents calling with different instructions for their kids pit parental authority against school authority when safety can best be ensured when everyone follows school directions and responds as drills have been practiced.

 

STUDENT HEALTH INFORMATION

Student Health Information

Each student must have a current Emergency Information Form on file. It is vital that the office has names and telephone numbers (including cell phone numbers) of alternative contacts should an emergency situation arise. Please email NCoffice@issaquah.wednet.edu to update your emergency form if there are any changes. It is also important for you to let us know of any health problem your child has, and keep us informed about changes in health.

Health Room

If your child is ill or injured at school, he/she will be sent to our health room for care. The health room is located in the office.  If your child is too sick to stay in class, every attempt will be made to contact you or someone you have listed on your Emergency Information Form to come and pick up your child and take him/her home.

Health Screening

Each year routine vision and hearing screenings are done at school for grades K, 1, 2, 3, and 5.  Parents will be advised and specific information will be sent to you prior to the screenings.

Individual Health Plan/Life Threatening Conditions

In accordance with law (House Bill 2834), children with life-threatening conditions such as severe bee sting or food allergies, severe asthma, unstable diabetes, severe seizure, etc. are required to have a medication and treatment order (Individual Health Plan or IHP) in place before they can start school. This order from the child’s licensed health care provider must be filed with the school nurse.

Immunization Records

Washington State Law requires all students to be immunized (DTP, MMR, Hepatitis B, Varicella, and Polio). The law requires that parents fill out and sign the Certificate of Immunization form. Without this on file, your child will not be allowed to attend school.

Illness at School

Please have plans in place with arrangements for your children if they become ill at school. It will help our process greatly if you can be certain to maintain current information on your Emergency Information Form, including current names and telephone numbers of people who may be contacted if you cannot be reached. 

Should a student have a temperature of 100 degrees or higher, show clear signs of illness (such as the stomach flu), or have unidentifiable rashes, they will be asked to remain at home for the next 24 hours. If they are at school when such symptoms arise, a parent will be called to take them home.

Medication at School

State law prohibits school personnel from giving any medication (prescription and/or over the counter) without specific instructions from your licensed health care provider, acting within the scope of his/her license, and either a parent or a legal guardian. The Administration of Medication at School form is available from the office. This form must be filled out completely and signed by both the health care provider and parent/guardian before we can administer any medication.

All medication must be hand delivered by an adult in the original container labeled with the student’s name, name of medication, dosage, mode of administration, and name of health care provider. No more than a twenty-day supply may be sent at one time. Students may carry and self-administer medications for emergency health reasons only when requested by the licensed health care provider and parent/legal guardian, and approved by the principal and school nurse. If you have any further questions, please feel free to call our nurse at 425-837-5808.

 

 

Head Injuries

Should a student bump or injure their head, that student is sent immediately to the health room if it is deemed safe, (or a nurse or paraprofessional will stay with the student and radio the office). Parents would be notified of the injury and a letter describing what took place and what to look for in the next 24 hours would also be sent home with the parent. The student may then go home for the remainder of the day or return to class.  If that student returns to the health room during the same day, parents would be called to take them home.

Contagious Disease

If a student should contact a contagious illness, the student would be sent to the nurse’s office. A parent or guardian would be called to pick up their child for further care. Questions can also be answered by the school nurse at (425) 837-5808.

STUDENT HEALTH INFORMATION

Student Health Information

Each student must have a current Emergency Information Form on file. It is vital that the office has names and telephone numbers (including cell phone numbers) of alternative contacts should an emergency situation arise. Please email NCoffice@issaquah.wednet.edu to update your emergency form if there are any changes. It is also important for you to let us know of any health problem your child has, and keep us informed about changes in health.

Health Room

If your child is ill or injured at school, he/she will be sent to our health room for care. The health room is located in the office.  If your child is too sick to stay in class, every attempt will be made to contact you or someone you have listed on your Emergency Information Form to come and pick up your child and take him/her home.

Health Screening

Each year routine vision and hearing screenings are done at school for grades K, 1, 2, 3, and 5.  Parents will be advised and specific information will be sent to you prior to the screenings.

Individual Health Plan/Life Threatening Conditions

In accordance with law (House Bill 2834), children with life-threatening conditions such as severe bee sting or food allergies, severe asthma, unstable diabetes, severe seizure, etc. are required to have a medication and treatment order (Individual Health Plan or IHP) in place before they can start school. This order from the child’s licensed health care provider must be filed with the school nurse.

Immunization Records

Washington State Law requires all students to be immunized (DTP, MMR, Hepatitis B, Varicella, and Polio). The law requires that parents fill out and sign the Certificate of Immunization form. Without this on file, your child will not be allowed to attend school.

Illness at School

Please have plans in place with arrangements for your children if they become ill at school. It will help our process greatly if you can be certain to maintain current information on your Emergency Information Form, including current names and telephone numbers of people who may be contacted if you cannot be reached. 

Should a student have a temperature of 100 degrees or higher, show clear signs of illness (such as the stomach flu), or have unidentifiable rashes, they will be asked to remain at home for the next 24 hours. If they are at school when such symptoms arise, a parent will be called to take them home.

Medication at School

State law prohibits school personnel from giving any medication (prescription and/or over the counter) without specific instructions from your licensed health care provider, acting within the scope of his/her license, and either a parent or a legal guardian. The Administration of Medication at School form is available from the office. This form must be filled out completely and signed by both the health care provider and parent/guardian before we can administer any medication.

All medication must be hand delivered by an adult in the original container labeled with the student’s name, name of medication, dosage, mode of administration, and name of health care provider. No more than a twenty-day supply may be sent at one time. Students may carry and self-administer medications for emergency health reasons only when requested by the licensed health care provider and parent/legal guardian, and approved by the principal and school nurse. If you have any further questions, please feel free to call our nurse at 425-837-5808.

Head Injuries

Should a student bump or injure their head, that student is sent immediately to the health room if it is deemed safe, (or a nurse or paraprofessional will stay with the student and radio the office). Parents would be notified of the injury and a letter describing what took place and what to look for in the next 24 hours would also be sent home with the parent. The student may then go home for the remainder of the day or return to class.  If that student returns to the health room during the same day, parents would be called to take them home.

Contagious Disease

If a student should contact a contagious illness, the student would be sent to the nurse’s office. A parent or guardian would be called to pick up their child for further care. Questions can also be answered by the school nurse at 425-837-5808.

Statement of Confidentiality

Students, teachers, and parents ALL have an expectation of privacy and respect.

Any time that you are in a classroom or volunteering around the school, you may have access to confidential or private information about a child’s academic or behavior performance.  Just as all Newcastle staff is required to maintain a high level of confidentiality, you as volunteers will be held to the same expectation. Please remember that to share confidential or private information with anyone other than the teacher or educational assistant is possibly violating the child’s right to privacy in their educational records under FERPA.

A Few Guidelines:

• If you and the teacher need to discuss a difficulty you’ve had with a particular student, it should be done in private.
• When discussing any student performance (positive and/or negative) the teacher is your only audience. The teacher will communicate any information to parents.
• At times, teachers may need to share information and strategies with you to facilitate maximum effectiveness for your work. This information should remain confidential. It is the teacher’s role to communicate student needs to other volunteers.
• A good question to ask yourself as a reminder: “Would I want someone sharing this about MY child to another parent?”

We depend upon the enormous support our volunteers provide to our children. Our children depend upon you to be sensitive, thoughtful, and confidential with your knowledge.

STUDENT CONDUCT

To provide a positive learning environment for all children at Newcastle, we have developed the following behavior guidelines. Because it is in the best interest of all of us to work together, we ask that you review this with your child. Expectations are taught and behavior is modeled and discussed throughout the year beginning with the first day of school. We will also be in contact with you regarding your child’s progress at school.

Any student, who willfully performs any act which materially interferes with, or is detrimental to, the orderly operation of a school-sponsored activity, or any other aspect of the educational process within the Issaquah School District, will be subject to discipline, suspension, or expulsion.

The District requires that each student adhere to the rules of conduct and submit to corrective action taken as a result of conduct violations. The rules of conduct are applicable during the school day as well as during any school activity conducted on or off campus. Special rules are also applicable while riding on a school bus.

Students are expected to:

• Conform to reasonable standards of acceptable behavior;
• Respect the rights, person and property of others;
• Preserve the degree of order necessary for a positive climate for learning; and
• Submit to the authority of staff and respond accordingly.

Student discipline, suspension, and/or expulsion will be administered in such a manner as to take into consideration the nature, severity, and circumstances of the violation, the individual circumstances of the student, and prior or other forms of corrective action or discipline which may have been imposed.  A complete copy of Regulation 3240 and related Regulations are available on the District’s website.

Any action, which removes a student from school for longer than one day, will comprise a “disciplinary action” and will be documented.

School Rules

We make choices are helpful to the community around us.

Be Safe

Be Kind

Be Productive 

Newcastle Elementary Code of Conduct & Parent Guide to PBSES

The staff at Newcastle is committed to working cooperatively with parents and students to promote a positive and safe environment with Positive Behavioral, Social, and Emotional Supports (PBSES). This document provides a guide to our PBSES program based on best research and practices.

The Newcastle Code of Conduct is designed to …

• Support our school mission, vision and goals by helping students develop attitudes, habits, and skills that encourage their success and learning.
• Describe practices to understand and address the causes of adverse behaviors and support productive behaviors, reconciliation and problem solving.
• Collaborate and communicate with families. Partnerships between home and school are critical to developing student’s conflict resolution skills and positive personal choices.
• Prevent escalation of behaviors such as harassment, intimidation, and bullying.

Lion’s Pledge
I am a Newcastle Lion
I have GREATNESS inside of me
I will use my greatness
To focus my mind and body.
To make good choices.
To treat others with respect and kindness.
To help solve problems.
To be the BEST me I can be.

The Lion’s Pledge

The Lion’s Pledge originated with the foundation of our school. The pledge starts and ends with a growth mindset statement. Recently added to this statement are four positive behavior expectations for all students.

Newcastle Lion PAWS-itive Behaviors

I focus my mind and body. Second Steps, our social-emotional curriculum, calls this ‘skills for learning’. Strategies for focusing the mind and body include active listening, avoiding distractions, following directions, positive self-talk and being assertive. In nearly every situation students need to learn how to focus their attention, sustain effort and avoid distractions.

I make good choices. Making good choices is about self-management or emotional management. It begins with self-awareness about our body, emotions and thinking. Sometimes it requires the use of calm-down strategies or strategies for managing frustration. We also teach how to handle anger, disappointment, mistakes, disagreements and worry in a positive and productive way.

I treat others with respect and kindness. Respect and kindness includes using common courtesy words, learning to identify feelings, embracing differences and being empathetic, caring and helpful.

I help solve problems. In both academic and social settings, learning to be students and citizens entails encountering problems and working toward solutions. Socially students learn how to be inclusive, play fair and handle interpersonal conflict from small typical problems to larger problems that require getting help or advocating for others.

For more information on Second Step, go to https://www.cfchildren.org/second-step

School Rules In the Common Areas

School rules and routines are designed to promote a learning environment and preserve a safe and orderly environment in a way that exemplifies the four core expectations. This table gives simple guidelines for positive behaviors throughout our school. The expectations describe HOW students should focus mind and body, make good choices, treat others with respect and kindness, and help solve problems in our common areas

Common Areas	Student Expectations	Staff Role
HALLWAYS	Be silent Go straight to your destination Walk	Teach/practice hallway behaviors Supervise group transitions All staff respectfully retract students of the expectations
PLAYGROUND	Include and invite others to play Play fair, follow the rules Play safe, watch for others Apologize for accidents Use kind words Try to solve SMALL problems Report BIG/continuing problems	Supervisors watch for unsafe behaviors Help students solve problems Report continuing problems to the Dean
RESTROOMS	Be quick (do your business and go) Be quiet (whisper voice) Be clean (wash hands, pick up after self	Teach the rules Notice and address student being loud or messing in and around the restrooms
BEFORE AFTER SCHOOL (CAR, BUS OR WALKING)	Watch for people and cars Follow crossing or pick-up/drop-off procedures Don’t play around Keep/hold backpack calmly	Supervisors monitor and address behaviors Help students know where they are supposed to be Help facilitate first five minutes of after school transition
LUNCHROOM	Use a table voice Stop talking and listen when an adult is on the mic Stay in one seat (get permission for restroom use) Keep feet under the table Clean after yourself Go one time to waste station	Supervisors monitor and help students Minimize microphone use Follow end-of-lunch transition plan in a timely manner
WHOLE SCHOOL	Use courtesy words Please, Thank you Excuse me, Sorry Good morning, hello	Greet students in the morning Model voice level and courtesy

School Rules In the Common Areas

School rules and routines are designed to promote a learning environment and preserve a safe and orderly environment in a way that exemplifies the four core expectations. This table gives simple guidelines for positive behaviors throughout our school. The expectations describe HOW students should focus mind and body, make good choices, treat others with respect and kindness, and help solve problems in our common areas

Common Areas	Student Expectations	Staff Role
HALLWAYS	Be silent Go straight to your destination Walk	Teach/practice hallway behaviors Supervise group transitions All staff respectfully retract students of the expectations
PLAYGROUND	Include and invite others to play Play fair, follow the rules Play safe, watch for others Apologize for accidents Use kind words Try to solve SMALL problems Report BIG/continuing problems	Supervisors watch for unsafe behaviors Help students solve problems Report continuing problems to the Dean
RESTROOMS	Be quick (do your business and go) Be quiet (whisper voice) Be clean (wash hands, pick up after self	Teach the rules Notice and address student being loud or messing in and around the restrooms
BEFORE AFTER SCHOOL (CAR, BUS OR WALKING)	Watch for people and cars Follow crossing or pick-up/drop-off procedures Don’t play around Keep/hold backpack calmly	Supervisors monitor and address behaviors Help students know where they are supposed to be Help facilitate first five minutes of after school transition
LUNCHROOM	Use a table voice Stop talking and listen when an adult is on the mic Stay in one seat (get permission for restroom use) Keep feet under the table Clean after yourself Go one time to waste station	Supervisors monitor and help students Minimize microphone use Follow end-of-lunch transition plan in a timely manner
WHOLE SCHOOL	Use courtesy words Please, Thank you Excuse me, Sorry Good morning, hello	Greet students in the morning Model voice level and courtesy

Playground Rules and Routines

• Remain on walkways - Keep out of garden areas.
• Include others in group games - no lock-outs.
• Follow generally accepted rules for games and sports*. When unsure of the rules of a game consult a playground supervisor or teacher.
• Bathroom and Nurse Passes. Get a pass from a playground supervisor. Use bathroom by cafeteria.
• Clean up after recess – Put away all equipment, throw away popcorn bags.
• Play Safe - Two-hand touch rules, don’t put yourself in unsafe situations and be aware of those around you who are also playing.

If personal items are brought onto the playground they should be used consistent with our school rules and be appropriate for safe play and positive social interaction. No trading cards, pencils or e-readers are allowed outside.

Playground Sports Expectations:

• Players commit to safe-contact. This requires controlled play with only moderate and safe contact so as to avoid accidents. Ex. No slide tackles.
• Players commit to inclusion. This means playing with a focus on everyone having fun first and competing second.
• Players commit to fair play. Fair play happens when students place fairness ahead of self-interest.
• Players commit to emotional control. Students playing sports must not allow games to get carried away.
• Players commit to productive and creative conflict resolution. Active participants are not objective or impartial, but must seek to calmly find a fair and positive resolution to disputes.
• Players commit to kindness, camaraderie and sportsmanship. Every student should leave the game feeling respected. Students should be encouraging of each other, particularly when a student takes a risk to try something new or difficult.

Behaviors Requiring Education and Intervention

We promote a consistent, positive school climate for all students. However, sometimes students make choices and engage in conflict that requires education and intervention. Please do not interpret education & intervention as synonymous with discipline. Discipline is only a part of intervention. Types of behaviors that require intervention may include:

1. Friendship issues or disagreements
2. Conflict (typical for age, may be mutual, unplanned… )
3. Persistent minor violations of the code of conduct
4. Harassment, intimidation, bullying
5. Other exceptional misconduct or severe conflict or aggression

Bullying or Conflict?

Bullying is not the generic term for conflict or aggression.  Bullying is a LEGAL term for a pattern of intentional acts causing substantial harm.  Typically, when bullying occurs, the aggressor will not change behavior or seek reconciliation after the behavior is addressed by authorities. 

Newcastle staff will work with students to assess the nature and scope of student behaviors and determine appropriate education and intervention steps.

Behavior Intervention & Discipline

ALL staff work to support positive behaviors and interventions, but it is still important to know when behaviors should be referred to school support staff or the administration team. Interventions depend on the type of behavior when considering intent, impact and persistence.

Low Impact Behaviors	Medium Impact Behaviors	High Impact Behaviors
→ → → → → → Persistence of behavior increases impact → → → → → →
Age-typical or Minimal negative impact on other students &/or Not intentionally harmful Examples: Inattention/impulsivity Minor disruption Minor emotional outburst Talking back / Not following directions Running in hallway Arguing ‘Friendly’ teasing, impulsive name calling Occasional or minor mean or disrespectful behaviors Impulsive touching (person or stuff) Horseplay, Minor physical conflict	Intentional, repetitive &/or severe Cause others to be or feel significantly less safe or able to participate in school Examples: Persistent Low-Impact Behaviors Consistent emotional dysregulation Refusal to comply, defiance Social intimidation (verbal/physical) Repeated name calling / intentional rumors Other persistent or severe mean behaviors, Non-aggressive physical conflict	Cause substantial harm such as injury &/or Significant interference with learning Examples: Persistent medium impact behaviors Harassment or Intimidation based on a protected class (race, disability…) Bullying (targeting) Weapons Severe disruption of the class (yelling, throwing objects…) Severe or persistent aggressive physical conflict

 

 

Interventions and Actions
Immediate Staff Intervention The staff person who sees or receives the report, will intervene.       Interventions may include: Redirection / reteaching STEP Plan / Replacement Behaviors Parent outreach Report to classroom teacher	Consultation (teacher still in the lead) Ensure immediate safety Initial Reteaching (if appropriate) Consult with Support Staff   Intervention may include: Parent outreach Reconciliation / Mediation Restoration Circle Student support plan – focus on safety / replacement behaviors SSC/Counselor referral Recess detention	Office Referral (Admin takes the lead) Ensure immediate safety Call office for assistance (if needed) Office referral   Intervention may include: Disciplinary investigation Student support plan – focus on safety / replacement behaviors Intervention services Detention – Suspension Reconciliation /Mediation Restoration Circle

 

Physical Conflict and Aggression

What types of physical conflict should be addressed with redirection and reteaching* and what physical contact is considered exceptional or aggressive, requiring an office referral?

*Reteaching may require counselor support

Primary Years Reteaching appropriate physical interactions	Primary Years Office referrals for physical misconduct
Actions stemming from a lack of social awareness or self-management skills Examples of when reteaching is appropriate: Rough play Excessive affection Emotional outbursts including hitting Lack of awareness leading to knocking into others	If questionable consider… Severity Persistence Emotional content Provocations Office referrals for… Intentional aggression Highly violent act

 

Intermediate Years Reteaching appropriate physical interactions

Intermediate Years Office referrals for physical misconduct

Increased physical self-awareness and control is expected, but social awareness is still developing. Examples of when reteaching is appropriate: Impulsivity (annoying, not hurting), Fouling during a game NOTE: Some levels of physical aggression may result in suspension. For a 2nd act of physical aggression at the intermediate level suspension will be considered as a primary consequence. Mitigating circumstances are considered.

Common “gray area” issues: Rough play Inappropriate affection   Office referrals for… Intentional aggression Emotional physical responses Persistent touching when asked to stop “No zone” touching (private areas)

 

Positive Behavior, Social, and Emotional Supports (PBSES)

PBSES is a system of proactively creating the social and emotional environment for success in school.

There are 4 components to PBSES

• Positive Behavior Intervention Support. Examples include support for classrooms through our Student Support Coach, Access to our school counselor, use of friendship groups or other ways of helping students learn positive behaviors. This also includes building the school-wide expectations and interventions described in this code of conduct.
• Social Emotional Learning. Integration of Second Step into our curriculum will set the foundation of teaching all students positive self-management and social skills.
• Positive Relationships. Our staff team is committed to building positive relationships with students and building trust and rapport. This includes positive reinforcements school-wide with ways of recognizing students for their PAWS-itive behaviors.
• Proactive Classroom Management. Our staff team uses and trains on a blend of strategies to ensure the development of positive routines and practices in building classroom communities.

10 Underlying Beliefs of PBSES

1. Whole child perspective: academic, cognitive, social, emotional and physical functioning are interconnected.
2. Social-emotional skills are an essential aspect of effective learning.
3. Positive relationships between students and teachers are a prerequisite for learning.
4. A positive school climate provides the context in which all people (students, families, staff) thrive.
5. All people, including students are motivated intrinsically and extrinsically.
6. Avoid labeling: the character of a person / child is not defined by his or her behavior.
7. Our school can make a difference for every child.
8. Students’ experiences affect their attitude toward for school.
9. Children possess varying levels of need.
10. Punitive discipline doesn’t work outside the context of support, problem solving and intervention.

Reporting, Investigation and Problem Solving

All reports of misconduct or conflict are addressed according to the nature and severity of the issue. To understand how our school addresses issues, note the process below.

Stage 1: Complaint. Either a behavior is noticed by staff or a student or adult reports a behavioral issue.

Parent note: if the behavior is not observed or understood to be problematic and it is not reported to the teacher or school, then the school cannot take action. We prefer to deal with issues early and decisively so if you know that there is a problematic behavior taking place, please inform the appropriate school staff – when in doubt contact the Dean of Students.

Stage 2: Intake / Determination. Whoever observes the incident or receives the report will make an initial determination of the nature of the behavior according to our student discipline regulation and the Tiers of Intervention matrix above. When in doubt the behavior may be referred to the Dean of Students to repeat intake of the issue and determine the level of intervention or investigation needed.

For example: if the issue is determined to be a friendship issue, based on the facts known at the time, the issue may be referred to the counselor. If the issue is determined to be a Tier 1 misconduct, the issue may be referred to the classroom teacher or supervisor or may continue to the investigation stage.

Parent note: Students don’t always report all the facts and sometimes even when asked questions at school, the impressions of the events shared at home don’t match what was shared at school. If you need clarification of our actions or hear more that the school should know or would like an issue to be reconsidered. Please contact the school / Dean of Students promptly so we can work toward all parties understanding the issues and confident in the resolution.

Stage 3: Investigation. Investigation for minor issues are quick, timely and done in a way to promote conflict resolution and a sense of safety and support. They feel less formal. Typically parents are informed unless the determination is that the issue was a typical student interaction and doesn’t leave a lasting effect on students. As an issue is more severe the investigation becomes more formal as due process is followed. This often requires more parent notification and communication, more written documentation and during the process may feel more like a disciplinary investigation and less like a friendly resolution. This is to protect all students involved.

Stage 4: Resolution. The investigation results in findings: the determination of facts and any conclusions as to violations of our code of conduct or district student behavior regulations. Interventions and consequences are assigned, notifications are made and the opportunity for appeal may be offered in applicable situations. Also, supports are offered for students negatively impacted by misconduct, including support from our school counselor if determined to be appropriate.

Parent note: The investigation and resolution stages take time and require an objective approach. Please be understanding that this is to support all students. This may cause some anxiety by all parties. Communication and patience are needed at these stages. If you have concerns along the way, please work closely with the person conducting the investigation in a spirit of cooperation and mutual concern for a positive resolution for all parties.

Student Services, Programs and Events

S.A.G.E

Special Approach to Gifted Education is a program offered to serve identified highly capable students in all grades with a program tailored to the needs of both the students and individual school programs.

ELL Services

Some students come to school speaking very little English. Newcastle provides assisted instruction with emphasis on listening and speaking skills first, then reading and writing skills. Students in all grades are eligible for ELL services.

F.L.A.S.H.

Family Life And Sexual Health is a basic introduction to personal hygiene and sexual health and part of the 5th grade spring curriculum. Parents of 5th graders will be notified in advance of the specific areas covered in this unit. The Issaquah School District also has additional information on this subject.

PTA Reflections

Reflections is a National PTA and Washington State PTA cultural arts competition to provide an opportunity for students to use their creative talents through original works including literature, music composition, photography and visual arts. In late September, students will be provided more information through their classroom teacher and information is also available on the PTSA website. All students are highly encouraged to participate.

Science Fair

Every spring, students have an opportunity to become scientists and make a presentation of their findings to their peers, as well as parents, family and friends. This event is held both during the school day and again in the evening. All students who participate will receive a certificate for their efforts.

5th grade Camp

Every year the entire fifth grade attends an environmental overnight camp. They learn outdoor skills, play games and learn about ways to protect the Greater Northwest.

Newcastle Lion’s Chorus

The 4th and 5th grade students have the opportunity to take part in Newcastle’s Chorus organized by our music teacher.  Practices are held before school on a weekly basis. The Newcastle Lion’s Chorus may give performances to others in the community as well as at school assemblies.

Book Fair

Book Fairs are typically held at multiple dates throughout each school year. A small “book store,” typically featuring Scholastic book titles, is staged for friends and families of the Newcastle community. Teachers may provide “book wish lists” for their classrooms as well. A portion of the cash sales also is rebated back to Newcastle library.

Parent Rights and Responsibilities

At Newcastle, we believe in building a partnership between home and school to support students’ growth and learning. Working together, we can help students develop healthy behaviors, problem solving skills, and strategies for success. In the interest of building this partnership, we ask parents to:

1. Report and Collaborate

When conflicts between students arise, children don’t always report events to teachers and staff. Therefore, we ask that if you become aware of a conflict at school that needs to be addressed, please let us know. By working collaboratively and in partnership, we can solve problems in a timely manner, not allow problems to build/grow and help make every child’s experience at Newcastle positive.

Always assume positive intent and partnership. When conflict does occur, you are your child’s advocate. However, please work with the assumption that school staff are also deeply committed to and engaged in your child’s well-being.

2. Privacy & Discipline Records

Privacy: At all stages of any disciplinary investigation the privacy of all students must be protected. That means that parents may only receive information regarding their child and assurances that the regulations and procedures in this document and all relevant laws or district policies are being appropriately applied to all involved students.

Records: Only violations resulting in suspension are added to the electronic student discipline record. All other records are kept in the confidential dean files. If you have concern about your child’s record, please contact the Dean of Students or Principal.

3. Know Your Rights & Responsibilities

In the Issaquah School District, we work hard to cultivate mutual respect and collaboration. School staff will follow procedures and policies, and it is critical that you are familiar with these policies.

Most misconduct is dealt with in Tiers I & II. Interventions at this level do not result in reports that are retained in student records. Parents have the opportunity to request a formal investigation or appeal an administrative action. The policies below describe the conditions and timeline for such requests and appeals.

ISD Regulations 3207, 3213, 3240, 3241, 3242, 3243, 3244, 3245, 3246

COMMUNICATIONS

E-News

Newsletters are sent to parents who subscribe to Newcastle E-news approximately once a week or as needed. E-news is an email group both at the school and District level to provide up to date information electronically. Information provided in the newsletter include important dates regarding upcoming events, information about events and activities on campus and other school related news information.

To register visit, https://www.isd411.org/about-us/announcements/sign-up

Report Cards

Student trimester progress is provided in their report cards. Report cards become accessible on Family Access three times a year (by clicking on portfolio)– November, March and June. Exact dates the Report Cards will be in communications from the teacher.

Parent Conferences

Parent teacher conferences are scheduled the first week of December. Please look for information from your child’s teacher regarding scheduling your exact day and time for the conference. Parents are welcome to call or e-mail their child’s teacher in order to schedule conferences at other times to discuss their child’s progress and growth.

Kid Mail

Often items sent home for parents to read and sometimes respond to are sent via kid-mail. Children are given the items to take home as opposed to mailing it through the US Postal Service. Please check your child’s take home folder or backpack to make sure you are receiving any information sent home.

If you have any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to email or call your child’s teacher or the office. A list of the staff numbers and email addresses are available at:  https://newcastle.isd411.org/staff

VISITING SCHOOL

All visitors and volunteers must fill out the district volunteer application which can be found at, https://www.isd411.org/get-involved/volunteer.  This must be done even if you plan to come and eat lunch with your student.  Sign in at the office upon entering the building and wear a visitor’s badge at all times.  This is especially important when events like fire or earthquake drills occur. This also assures safety within the building, as the office is aware of all people in the building. Tags should be returned to the office and everyone is required to check out prior to departure from Newcastle.

Visits to the classroom during the school day are to be pre-arranged with the teacher.

If you need to meet or talk to a teacher, please be sure to contact them and make an appointment to ensure their availability. If you need to drop off something for a student, please leave it with the main office and it will be delivered to the student. These procedures are in place to insure that all students are safe and are able to have quality classroom instruction with minimal disruption during each and every school day.

Sibling Guidelines

The Newcastle Elementary Sibling Guideline is one that considers the needs of students, staff, and families. This guideline was designed to support participation and ensure both teacher and volunteer can focus entirely on the children in the classroom. The Newcastle Site Council has adopted the following guidelines:

• Siblings are welcome to accompany parents to after school events and assemblies.
• Siblings are welcome to accompany parents in the lunchroom for special occasions.
• For safety reasons, no children are allowed in the workroom or staff room.
• Siblings are not allowed at recess.
• Siblings are to remain at home, or in alternate care, when parents chaperone field trips.
• Siblings are not allowed when parent volunteers are in the classroom during instructional time.

Instructional time includes working with students on an individual basis (classroom or hallway pull-out), as well as working with students in the classroom.

Pets/Animals on campus

District Regulation 2029 prohibits animals on District property. An “animal” is a living, non-human mammal, reptile, insect, bird, fish or amphibian.  

Animal access is allowed on District property if one of the following conditions is met:

1. The animal serves as an aid specific to an individual who has a documented need for an accommodation from a qualified provider. In such cases, the animal owner/handler must notify the Executive Director of Personnel Services, who will grant accommodation in accordance with the American with Disabilities Act (ADA), Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), and all other national and state law.
2. The animal is an instructional support to a classroom lesson outlined in District adopted curriculum, and its presence provides an educational benefit.
3. District staff members are complying with law-enforcement or other government emergency-service agencies.
4. Exceptions to this policy may be requested and granted as specified in the Animals on District Property Procedures.

PERSONAL PROPERTY

Newcastle Elementary is not responsible for any lost or stolen items. Please encourage your child to be responsible for all their belongings while on campus.

Toys

Students are discouraged from bringing any toys, stuffed animals or non-educational items to school.  Trading cards (Yu-Gi-Oh, Pokemon, etc.), and other non-educational items are not allowed at school. If a student needs the item(s) for afterschool activities, the student should be reminded to keep it in their backpack and not remove it on school grounds.

On occasion, the school or the classroom teacher may have a special activity where such items may be allowed. Please check E-news or the teacher’s website to ensure that the student is allowed to bring a toy/personal item.

Scooters, Bicycle, Skateboards, Roller skates and shoes with wheels

Bicycle and Scooter guideline for Newcastle Elementary:

1.    Be in grades 3 – 5 to ride to school, or in grades K-2 if accompanied by an adult.

2.    Required to wear helmets (King County Board of Health Code, Title 9)

3.    Walk their bicycles off and onto the school grounds, using the marked crossings.

4.    Follow the directions of the school patrol.

5.    Give pedestrians the right of way on the sidewalks.

Skateboards, roller skates, in-line skates, wheeled shoes, and motorized scooters are prohibited.

 Lost and Found

If you find money or a valuable possession, please turn it in to the office. The Lost and Found for large items such as coats, sweaters, lunch boxes, gloves, etc.  is located on the first floor near the stage entrance.   Small items such as rings, watches, necklaces, etc. are located in the office.  Periodically and at the end of the year, E-news will notify families that Lost and Found items are going to be taken to the Issaquah Food Bank.

Cell phones

Students are allowed to use school telephones with permission in an emergency. Cell phones and all other electronic devices (unless teacher approved) are not allowed to be used during the school day and must be kept out of sight and silenced at all times or the device will be confiscated.

Electronic Devices

Students will be allowed to use electronic reading devices (Nook, Kindle, iPad, etc.) in their classroom only with parent and teacher permission. The device should only be used for reading; no playing games or accessing the Internet will be allowed. The device needs to be fully charged at home prior to school. Students wishing to use an electronic reading device at school must submit an “Electronic Reading Device Permission” form (located on the last page of this packet and on the school website). The device will be confiscated and not allowed for use if a form has not been completed and submitted to your child’s teacher or it is used inappropriately. The school is not responsible if the device is lost, damaged, or stolen.

SCHOOL ASSESSMENTS

In order to provide the best education for our students, state, district, and teacher generated assessments are administered throughout the year. These assessments help teachers meet students at the appropriate level for optimum student learning.

There are several tests that students take to meet state requirements.  Students in Kindergarten and Second grade are given the CogAt screener which is used to determine qualification into highly capable programs.  Kindergarten students are given the WA Kids screener to catch early learning deficits.  Second grade students take the national Iowa test.  Students in grades 3, 4 and 5 take the Smarter Balanced Assessment in the spring. That test consists of four tests – two in language arts and two for math.

Parents can help their students be successful on any school testing by encouraging their child to do their best. A good breakfast and adequate sleep the night before, along with positive adult encouragement, has shown to make a statistically beneficial difference to student test takers.

Information regarding testing dates will be provided in advance so be sure to schedule appointments and absences so that they do not conflict with the testing dates. We are unable to allow pre-arranged absences during the testing dates.

SCHOOL ASSEMBLIES

Assemblies help build school spirt and school community. Assemblies may be focused on various themes such as bullying, school expectations and behavior, Veterans Day celebration, musical or other art presentations, academics or general school community celebration.

 

STUDENT PHOTOS

Individual Photos

In the fall, a photographer comes to Newcastle and students have their individual pictures taken. Payment is made at the time the photo is taken and the pictures are sent home via kid mail. For those who cannot make this time or for those who wish retakes, the photographer schedules a makeup day and those pictures are taken during the school day. Payment envelopes would be distributed via kid mail with notification through eNews. Payment envelopes should be returned the day the photo shoot takes place.

**Even if a student is not purchasing a photo packet, they need to take a photo for the school/Family Access so that they can be identified by school personnel.

Class Photos

Classroom pictures are taken during the spring of each year. They can be purchased through the photography company and news of this event is given through eNews. Purchase envelopes will be sent via kid mail.

Student photos may be taken by staff or parents and posted on the website. If you do not wish to have your child’s photograph taken, you must make a request in writing and send it to the principal by September 15 of every school year.

 

LUNCH

Newcastle Elementary has five lunch times. Please check the daily schedule to determine when your child has recess and lunch. Students will review playground and lunch rules and expectations. Please review appropriate behavior during recess and lunch with them. If you need to deliver your child’s lunch to school, please leave it at the front office.

Lunch Accounts

Newcastle students are each assigned their own lunch account with their own number which they will have through high school if they remain in the Issaquah School District. Parents may prepay any amount to the kitchen or online at myschoolbucks.com. Students enter their individual number on an electronic

pad and their purchase is automatically withdrawn from their account.

Free and Reduced Lunch

For those families in need, financial assistance for free or reduced lunches are available. Applications are found online and confidentiality is given to all.  https://www.issaquah.wednet.edu/district/departments/operations/foodservice

Lunch Menu and nutrition

Lunch information can be accessed at https://www.issaquah.wednet.edu/district/departments/operations/foodservice

Lunchroom expectations

·         We walk in the lunchroom.

·         We only eat and touch our own food.

·         We raise our hand to ask for help.

·         We keep the table and floor clean.

·         We have kind conversations.

·         We wait our turn.

·         We keep our body to our self.

·         We keep our voice at levels 0-2.

·         We remain seated until we are dismissed.

·         We listen to the speaker.

We focus on eating our lunch

LUNCH

Newcastle Elementary has five lunch times. Please check the daily schedule to determine when your child has recess and lunch. Students will review playground and lunch rules and expectations. Please review appropriate behavior during recess and lunch with them. If you need to deliver your child’s lunch to school, please leave it at the front office.

Lunch Accounts

Newcastle students are each assigned their own lunch account with their own number which they will have through high school if they remain in the Issaquah School District. Parents may prepay any amount to the kitchen or online at myschoolbucks.com. Students enter their individual number on an electronic pad and their purchase is automatically withdrawn from their account.

Free and Reduced Lunch

For those families in need, financial assistance for free or reduced lunches are available. Applications are found online and confidentiality is given to all.  https://www.isd411.org/programs-services/lunch

Lunch Menu and nutrition

Lunch information can be accessed at https://www.isd411.org/programs-services/lunch

Lunchroom expectations

• We walk in the lunchroom.
• We only eat and touch our own food.
• We raise our hand to ask for help.
• We keep the table and floor clean.
• We have kind conversations.
• We wait our turn.
• We keep our body to our self.
• We keep our voice at levels 0-2.
• We remain seated until we are dismissed.
• We listen to the speaker.
• We focus on eating our lunch

RECESS

The main concern at all times is SAFETY.  Any time recess supervisors determine that a game or situation is not safe, the game or situation will be suspended until supervisors determine it can be played in a safe manner.

All students are responsible for all equipment. Please return all recess items to the equipment cart at the end of recess. Equipment is to be shared; even equipment brought from home. Any equipment brought from home should have the student’s full name on it. Anyone who wants to play is allowed, as long as there are no problems. Trinkets, Pokemon Cards (trading cards of any kind), cell phones, stuffed animals, or any other object that is not recess equipment, will not be allowed on the playground. If found, it will be confiscated and given to the student’s teacher or the office. Drawing and writing materials are allowed on the playground.  Students may not bring any electronic or battery-operated items to school. The school is not responsible for lost or stolen items.

Basic rules for the playground are:

• Be respectful of yourself, others, and the equipment.
• Always display good sportsmanship.  Failure to do so may result in a loss of playing privileges.
• Be safe and responsible. Keep hands, feet, and inappropriate comments to yourself.
• Use common sense.  Know the difference between right and wrong.
• Be responsible for your own actions.
• Be a problem solver. Use Kelso’s Wheel of Choices first and then adults to help solve small problems.

There will be no food or drink allowed on the playground, except on Fridays when popcorn may be purchased

Stay on playground:

• Get permission from an adult to enter the building
• If you are hurt, you need to let a Para Professional know so you can go to the nurse’s office
• Stay in designated play areas

Equipment and Play area:

• Use it appropriately (no tug-o-war with jump rope)
• Put it away when you are done playing
• Share equipment
• Go down slide
• Walking area – no tag or running; especially on the big toy
• Sand area – no tunneling, fill in pins, toys stay in Sand Box
• All sand STAYS ON THE GROUND
• Be aware of others in the area when playing tether ball
• Tag is not allowed in the Big Toy area.
• Flag football is played during recess (no touch).
• Football, soccer and basketball is played for fun. No rough play.  Be conscious of other students’ skill level and ability.

Be Kind:

• Be fair and share (balls, sand toys, Big Toy)
• Take turns (on tether ball, Big Toy, with all equipment)
• Have kind conversations
• Be inclusive
• Solve problems together or get help from adult
• Follow adult directions right away

End of recess:

• Line up quickly
• Put away equipment

Whistles Tones:

• One tone – pay attention to adult
• Three tones – Emergency, listen to Para’s instructions

Play Fighting:

There is no play-fighting allowed because all too often it leads to real fighting. Disciplinary action will be enforced for all play-fighting incidents.

Fences/Cement Pillars/Handrails:

No jumping from or standing on fences, cement pillars supporting the overhead structures, tables, benches or handrails

Discipline Plan:

All staff members will intervene to redirect inappropriate student behavior and help students solve problems. Recess Paras have the right to end a game if it becomes unsafe. Interventions may include:

• Individual tactics
• Removal from activity or area – temporary or extended
• “Time Out” for 5-10 minutes
• “Time Out” for entire recess
• Send to the office

 

Student Services, Programs and Events

 

 

S.A.G.E

Special Approach to Gifted Education is a program offered to serve identified highly capable students in all grades with a program tailored to the needs of both the students and individual school programs.

ELL Services

Some students come to school speaking very little English. Newcastle provides assisted instruction with emphasis on listening and speaking skills first, then reading and writing skills. Students in all grades are eligible for ELL services.

 

F.L.A.S.H.

Family Life And Sexual Health is a basic introduction to personal hygiene and sexual health and part of the 5th grade spring curriculum. Parents of 5th graders will be notified in advance of the specific areas covered in this unit. The Issaquah School District also has additional information on this subject.

 

 

PTA Reflections

Reflections is a National PTA and Washington State PTA cultural arts competition to provide an opportunity for students to use their creative talents through original works including literature, music composition, photography and visual arts. In late September, students will be provided more information through their classroom teacher and information is also available on the PTSA website. All students are highly encouraged to participate.

 

Science Fair

Every spring, students have an opportunity to become scientists and make a presentation of their findings to their peers, as well as parents, family and friends. This event is held both during the school day and again in the evening. All students who participate will receive a certificate for their efforts.

 

5th grade Camp

Every year the entire fifth grade attends an environmental overnight camp. They learn outdoor skills, play games and learn about ways to protect the Greater Northwest.

 

 

Newcastle Lion’s Chorus

The 4th and 5th grade students have the opportunity to take part in Newcastle’s Chorus organized by our music teacher.  Practices are held before school on a weekly basis. The Newcastle Lion’s Chorus may give performances to others in the community as well as at school assemblies.

 

 

Book Fair

Book Fairs are typically held at multiple dates throughout each school year. A small “book store,” typically featuring Scholastic book titles, is staged for friends and families of the Newcastle community. Teachers may provide “book wish lists” for their classrooms as well. A portion of the cash sales also is rebated back to Newcastle library.

 

 

 

 

 

PARENT INVOLVEMENT

PTSA (Parent Teacher Student Association)

Parent Teacher Student Association is an organization which works with the principal, staff and other parents in helping to provide a great learning environment. They coordinate various events, coordinate volunteers, activities, and fundraisers each year.  PTSA link:  http://newcastleptsa.org/Home

Financial Assistance through PTSA

PTSA scholarships can also be provided for special events such as field trips, etc. All applications are handled with confidentiality and forms can be obtained from the office.

 

 

 

SITE COUNCIL

Site Council is composed of Newcastle staff and parents and community members. This group typically meets once four times each year and these meetings are open to the public. They assist with developing a school-wide improvement plan incorporating the goals of Newcastle, as well as items sometimes involving the District.

 

 

 

 

 

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES

Approval/Background Check

All volunteers must complete an online application. If you have students at different schools in Issaquah, you only need to fill this out once and will be asked to mark which schools you want to volunteer at. The verification process can take up to two weeks so be sure to complete the process at least two weeks in advance of the date(s) you plan on volunteering at the school.  You will need to upload a copy of your driver's license. If you do not have a scanner, simply take a picture with a smart phone and save it to your desktop. Link: https://issaquahvolunteers.hrmplus.net/

 

Volunteer opportunities include:

·         Room Representative

·         Vision/Hearing screening

·         Art Docent

·         Book fair

·         Literacy/Reading

·         Field Trip Chaperones

·         Library

 

Other Volunteer Programs at Newcastle

V.O.I.C.E.

The Issaquah Schools Foundation partners with community members to mentor and support students to succeed in their school day by working with them once a week. VOICE mentors go through the same background check and training to ensure student safety.

 

Please see the PTSA website https://newcastleptsa.org/Home for other volunteer programs at Newcastle

 

PARENT INVOLVEMENT

PTSA (Parent Teacher Student Association)

Parent Teacher Student Association is an organization which works with the principal, staff and other parents in helping to provide a great learning environment. They coordinate various events, coordinate volunteers, activities, and fundraisers each year.  PTSA link:  https://newcastleptsa.org/Home

Financial Assistance through PTSA

PTSA scholarships can also be provided for special events such as field trips, etc. All applications are handled with confidentiality and forms can be obtained from the office.

SITE COUNCIL

Site Council is composed of Newcastle staff and parents and community members. This group typically meets once four times each year and these meetings are open to the public. They assist with developing a school-wide improvement plan incorporating the goals of Newcastle, as well as items sometimes involving the District.

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES

Approval/Background Check

All volunteers must complete an online application. If you have students at different schools in Issaquah, you only need to fill this out once and will be asked to mark which schools you want to volunteer at. The verification process can take up to two weeks so be sure to complete the process at least two weeks in advance of the date(s) you plan on volunteering at the school.  You will need to upload a copy of your driver's license. If you do not have a scanner, simply take a picture with a smart phone and save it to your desktop. Link: https://issaquahvolunteers.hrmplus.net/

Volunteer opportunities include:

• Room Representative
• Vision/Hearing screening
• Art Docent
• Book fair
• Literacy/Reading
• Field Trip Chaperones
• Library

Other Volunteer Programs at Newcastle

V.O.I.C.E.

The Issaquah Schools Foundation partners with community members to mentor and support students to succeed in their school day by working with them once a week. VOICE mentors go through the same background check and training to ensure student safety.

Please see the PTSA website https://newcastleptsa.org/Home for other volunteer programs at Newcastle.

 

SAFE ENVIRONMENT AT SCHOOL
STATE AND DISTRICT REGULATIONS

Weapons

Possession, transmission or use of any object that is or reasonably appears to be a dangerous weapon or related device is prohibited. Such objects include, but are not limited to: firearms, ammunition, incendiary or explosive devices, clubs, knives with blades of at least three (3) inches in length, or other cutting or stabbing instruments brought or possessed with the intent to cause bodily harm, or to instill fear and/or intimidate by their mere presence on school property or at school sponsored events.

Pursuant to RCW 9.91.160, persons over eighteen (18) years of age, and persons between fourteen (14) and eighteen (18) years of age who have written parental permission, may possess personal protection spray devices (i.e., mace or pepper spray) on school property.

No one may deliver such a spray device to anyone under fourteen (14), or to anyone between fourteen (14) and eighteen (18) who does not have written parental permission. Personal protection spray devices may only be used in self-defense as defined by state law. Possession, transmission, or use of a spray device under any other circumstances will be treated as a violation of the District’s rule prohibiting weapons.

Pursuant to RCW 9.41.280, students who possess a dangerous weapon on school premises, school-provided transportation, or areas of facilities while being used exclusively by public schools may be immediately expelled. Law enforcement and parents will be notified. Pursuant to RCW 28A.600.420, students who possess a firearm must be expelled without an opportunity for readmission for at least one (1) year. This minimum one-year expulsion will also apply to students who act with malice and display an instrument that appears to be a firearm on public school property, transportation, or other facilities being used exclusively by public schools. The superintendent of the School District or educational service District may modify the expulsion of a student on a case-by-case basis.

Drug Free/Tobacco Free/Gun Free Zone

In accordance with State Law and District Regulation 4215, all schools and school property are considered a drug free/gun free/tobacco free zone. The District recognizes that to protect students from exposure to the addictive substance of nicotine, employees and officers of the school District, and all members of the community, have an obligation as role models to refrain from tobacco use on school property at all times. Tobacco includes, but is not limited to cigarettes, cigars, snuff, smoking tobacco, smokeless tobacco, nicotine delivering devices, chemicals or devices that produce the same flavor or physical effect of nicotine substances; and any other tobacco innovation. Any person found guilty of dealing in illegal drugs within 1000 feet of school grounds is subject to double the usual penalties.

Fireworks

It is unlawful for a person/student to carry any dangerous fireworks or fire-starting materials onto school property, or areas used for school sponsored activity or school-provided transportation. Violation of this law requires emergency expulsion and notification of the police.

Nondiscrimination

Issaquah School District does not discriminate in any programs or activities on the basis of sex, race, creed, religion, color, national origin, age, veteran or military status, sexual orientation, gender expression, gender identity, disability, or the use of a trained dog guide or service animal and provides equal access to the Boy Scouts and other designated youth groups. The following employee(s) have been designated to handle questions and complaints of alleged discrimination:

Title IX Coordinator
Amanda Dorey
5150 220^th AVE SE
Issaquah, WA 98029
425-837-7056
doreya@issaquah.wednet.edu

Public Records Officer
Tricia Romo
5150 220^th AVE SE
Issaquah, WA 98029
425-837-7178
romot@issaquah.wednet.edu

District HIB Coordinator
Jordan Frost
5150 220^th AVE SE
Issaquah, WA 98029
425-837-7109
frostj@issaquah.wednet.edu

Civil Rights Compliance Officer
Amanda Dorey
5150 220^th AVE SE
Issaquah, WA 98029
425-837-7056
doreya@issaquah.wednet.edu

Student-Related Issues, Section 504 Coordinator
Pam Ridenour
5150 220^th AVE SE
Issaquah, WA 98029
425-837-7161
ridenourp@issaquah.wednet.edu

You can report discrimination and discriminatory harassment to any school staff member or to the District's Civil Rights Coordinator, listed above. You also have the right to file a complaint under District Regulation 3210.

Sexual Harassment

Students and staff are protected against sexual harassment by anyone in any school program or activity, including on the school campus, on the school bus, or off-campus during a school-sponsored activity.

Sexual harassment is unwelcome behavior or communication that is sexual in nature when:

1. A student or employee is led to believe that he or she must submit to unwelcome sexual conduct or communications in order to gain something in return, such as a grade, a promotion, a place on a sports team, or any educational or employment decision, or
2. The conduct substantially interferes with a student's educational performance, or creates an intimidating or hostile educational or employment environment. 

Examples of Sexual Harassment:

• Pressuring a person for sexual favors
• Unwelcome touching of a sexual nature
• Targeted writing of a sexual nature
• Distributing sexually explicit texts, e-mails, or pictures
• Making sexual jokes, rumors, or suggestive remarks
• Physical violence, sexual assault

You can report sexual harassment to any school staff member or Title IX Coordinator, Sena Camarata, camaratas@issaquah.wednet.edu or 425-837-7033.

COMPLAINT OPTIONS: DISCRIMINATION AND SEXUAL HARASSMENT

If you believe that you or your child have experienced unlawful discrimination, discriminatory harassment, or sexual harassment at school, you have the right to file a complaint.

Before filing a complaint, you can discuss your concerns with your child’s principal or with the school District’s Section 504 Coordinator, Title IX Officer, or Civil Rights Coordinator, who are listed above. This is often the fastest way to revolve your concerns.

Complaint to the School District

Step 1. Write Out Your Complaint

In most cases, complaints must be filed within one year from the date of the incident or conduct that is the subject of the complaint. A complaint must be in writing. Be sure to describe the conduct or incident, explain why you believe discrimination, discriminatory harassment, or sexual harassment has taken place, and describe what actions you believe the District should take to resolve the problem. Send your written complaint—by mail, fax, email, or hand delivery—to the Superintendent or civil rights compliance coordinator.

Step 2: School District Investigates Your Complaint

Once the District receives your written complaint, the coordinator will give you a copy of the complaint procedure and make sure a prompt and thorough investigation takes place. The superintendent or designee will respond to you in writing within 30 calendar days—unless you agree on a different time period. If your complaint involves exceptional circumstances that demand a lengthier investigation, the District will notify you in writing to explain why staff need a time extension and the new date for their written response.

Step 3: School District Responds to Your Complaint

In its written response, the District will include a summary of the results of the investigation, a determination of whether or not the District failed to comply with civil rights laws, notification that you can appeal this determination, and any measures necessary to bring the District into compliance with civil rights laws. Corrective measures will be put into effect within 30 calendar days after this written response—unless you agree to a different time period.

Appeal to the School District

If you disagree with the District’s decision, you may appeal to the District’s Board of Directors. You must file a notice of appeal in writing to the secretary of the Board within 10 calendar days after you received the District’s response to your complaint. The Board will schedule a hearing within 20 calendar days after they received your appeal, unless you agree on a different timeline. The Board will send you a written decision within 30 calendar days after the District received your notice of appeal. The Board’s decision will include information about how to file a complaint with the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI).

Complaint to OSPI

If you do not agree with the District’s appeal decision, state law provides the option to file a formal complaint with the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI). This is a separate complaint process that can take place if one of these two conditions has occurred: (1) you have completed the District’s complaint and appeal process, or (2) the District has not followed the complaint and appeal process correctly.

You have 20 calendar days to file a complaint to OSPI from the day you received the decision on your appeal. You can send your written complaint to the Equity and Civil Rights Office at OSPI:

Email: Equity@k12.wa.us ǀ Fax: 360-664-2967

Mail or hand deliver: PO Box 47200, 600 Washington St. S.E., Olympia, WA 98504-7200

For more information, visit www.k12.wa.us/Equity/Complaints.aspx, or contact OSPI’s Equity and Civil Rights Office at 360-725-6162/TTY: 360-664-3631 or by e-mail at equity@k12.wa.us.

Other Discrimination Complaint Options

Office for Civil Rights, U.S. Department of Education

206-607-1600 ǀ TDD: 1-800-877-8339 ǀ OCR.Seattle@ed.gov ǀ www.ed.gov/ocr 

Washington State Human Rights Commission

1-800-233-3247 ǀ TTY: 1-800-300-7525 ǀ www.hum.wa.gov

Prohibition of Harassment, Intimidation, and Bullying

If a student feels that he or she is being harassed, intimidated, or bullied for any reason including because of race, creed, color, national origin, ancestry, gender, sexual orientation, or disability, the student should immediately report such incidents to a teacher, counselor, or building administrator. A complete copy of Regulation 3207 may be obtained at any school or on the District website at https://www.isd411.org.

“Harassment, intimidation or bullying” is defined for purposes of this Regulation as any intentional written message or image - including those that are electronically transmitted, verbal or physical act, including but not limited to one shown to be motivated by race, color, religion, ancestry, national origin, gender, sexual orientation or mental or physical disability, or other distinguishing characteristics, when the act:

1. Physically harms a student or damages the student’s property; or
2. Has the effect of substantially interfering with a student’s education (for example, substantially interfering with classroom performance, attendance, or pattern of tardiness) or
3. Is so severe, persistent, or pervasive that it creates an intimidating or threatening educational environment; or
4. Has the effect of substantially disrupting the orderly operation of the school.

Conduct that may rise to the level of harassment, intimidation and bullying may take many forms, including, but not limited to: urging others to a malicious action “ganging up on someone”; spreading knowingly hurtful rumors, lies, pictures, drawings, or cartoons; slurs; jokes; innuendoes; repeated/ongoing demeaning comments; pranks; ostracism; gestures; verbal or physical aggression directed at a specific student; physical attacks or threats; or purposeful destructive acts relating to an individual or group whether electronic, written, oral, or physically transmitted messages or images.

Civility Regulation

The purpose of this Regulation is three-fold:

• To promote a work and learning environment that is safe, productive and nurturing for all staff, students, and to encourage the free flow of ideas without fear or intimidation;
• To provide our students with appropriate models for respectful problem-solving; and
• To reduce the potential triggers for violent conduct, such as fear, anger, frustration and alienation—especially by making problem-solving procedures and alternative to violence readily accessible to both youth and adults who need them.

Definition

For the purpose of this Regulation, “uncivil conduct” includes the following:

• Directing vulgar, obscene or profane gestures or words at another individual;
• Raising one’s voice at another individual, repeatedly interrupting another individual who is speaking at an appropriate time and place;
• Imposing personal demands at times or in settings where they conflict with assigned duties and cannot reasonably be met
• Invading the personal space of an individual after being directed to move away
• Physically blocking an individual’s exit from a room or location
• Remaining in a classroom or school area after a teacher or administrator in authority has directed one to leave
• Violating the privacy of another individual’s belongings (except for lawful searches by school officials conducted in connection with the administration of school rules and applicable laws)
• Other similar disruptive conduct.

Uncivil conduct does not include the expression of controversial or differing viewpoints that may be offensive to some persons, so long as (1) the ideas are presented in a respectful manner and at a time and place that are appropriate, and (2) such expression does not materially disrupt, and may not be reasonably anticipated to disrupt, the educational process.

Procedures included in Regulations 4011 and 5282 are intended to support all partners in the educational process; maintain a safe, nurturing work and learning environment; provide models of respectful problem- solving, and reduce the potential for serious or widespread disruptions within the school district.

Regulations 4011 and 5282 are meant to underscore the expectation of civil conduct in all interaction within the School District, provide all individuals the tools and knowledge to eliminate uncivil conduct they experience within the Issaquah School District, and replace uncivil conduct with acceptable, productive interactions.

EMERGENCY PROCEDURES FOR PARENTS, VOLUNTEERS, AND VISITORS

Fire (Drill):

• Initiated by alarm.
• Immediately evacuate building in an orderly manner.
• If in a classroom…please follow the class and staff member outside.
• If in the hallways, etc., exit at the nearest outside door. Do not open “fire doors”
• All students and their teachers line up at assigned classroom number at the back fence.
• All non-classroom staff, visitors, and volunteers meet on playground.
• Once ALL students and adults are accounted for, the principal will OK re-entering the building.

Earthquake Drill:

• Initiated by announcement over the intercom, “This is an earthquake drill.”
• DROP, COVER AND HOLD.
• After the drill…we will evacuate the building following fire drill procedures.

Earthquake-Genuine

• If this is the real thing…no alarm or announcement, WE WILL FEEL IT! DROP, COVER AND HOLD.
• Evacuate the building when determined safe to do so following the same procedures.
• All staff, students, visitors, and volunteers meet outside on dirt field away from trees and electrical wires.

Lockdown

Periodically Newcastle holds a Lock-down Drill.  This aids in teaching and providing safety for all in real emergency situations such as unsafe or violent intruders.

Practice Drill

• Initiated by Intercom announcement “This is a lockdown”.
• Lock doors, lights off, cover windows, stay low, and remain quiet. Do not leave the room.
• What to do:
  • If with a class, stay in the classroom.
  • If in the hallway, enter the nearest room.
  • If near the office, report to the office.
• Ongoing communication will be via e-mail to all staff.

Run, Hide, Fight (Actual Intruder on campus plan)

In a real emergency, “Run, Hide, Fight” – determine the best course of action for the unique situation.

During a Real Lockdown

Do not attempt to visit Newcastle during a lockdown.  All doors will be locked and only emergency personnel will be allowed in the building until the site is secured.

After a Lockdown or any Emergency Dismissal

Please do not arrive on campus and attempt to remove your child without office clearance. In any emergency dismissal, all students must be accounted for and cleared through our emergency dismissal process.  The only door open to our community will be the office door. An incident command center will be set up for any emergency dismissal.