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JLS Parents Guide
Table of Contents
Introduction
THE SCHOOL DAY
Getting to school
Playground before school
Starting the day
Possessions and storage
Class time
Bathroom procedures
Recess
Lunchtime
Snacks
End of the day
PARENTAL CONCERNS
Discipline matters
Injuries and illnesses
Homework
Contacting your child
Contacting the school staff
Attendance
School Books and Supplies
Communications
The Facility
ACADEMIC MATTERS
School structure / history
Tracking your child’s progress
District issues
Special needs
Parental involvement
THE SCHOOL YEAR: EVENTS AND ACTIVITIES
Days off and early release
Extra-curricular activities
Special events
Field trips
ABOUT THE JLS PTA
Introduction
The Parents’ Answer Guide
Jefferson Lighthouse School
Compiled and written by Jefferson Lighthouse PTA
Welcome to another school year at Jefferson Lighthouse School. As a parent, you probably have many questions about the school, its policies and procedures. This booklet is designed to provide answers to many of those questions. It was prepared with input from parents like you—members and officers of the Jefferson Lighthouse PTA.
This booklet is also a work in progress. We plan to update it regularly, revising information as necessary and incorporating questions you may have that we didn’t include. So you tell us—what did we miss? Please let us know. We welcome all your inquiries. The questions you ask this year may help other parents in years to come.
Thank you for taking the time to read this. We hope it’s helpful.
Kathy Holley
PTA President / Communication Committee Chairperson
637-9093
p-kholley@sbcglobal.net
Kara Wunderle
PTA Past President
How does the busing system work?
Students in the Racine Unified School District are eligible for busing if they live more than two miles from the school which they will attend. If you are eligible, you should receive information about busing in the mail, usually about the week before school starts.
Who determines bus routes?
Bus routes are determined by the school district in conjunction with the company which handles busing for the school district.
Who do I contact if I have questions or concerns about bus-related matters?
You should contact the Racine Unified School District’s transportation office at 631-6998. This office handles all busing matters for the district.
Can I get bus transportation for my child even if we live less than two miles from the school?
Yes, in some cases, those who live less than two miles from school can choose to pay to have their students ride the school bus. Such cases are determined on an individual basis. Again, you should contact the district’s transportation office at 631-7138 for more information.
What’s the proper procedure for dropping off my child at school?
The designated location for dropping off students is northbound along
Cliff Avenue. A line of cars forms there. If yours is the first car in line, pull up as far as possible—just beyond the steps. Otherwise, line up behind the other cars in line. Please don’t wait to move to the front of the line—stop briefly and let your student(s) get out of the car on the passenger side. Then, return to the regular traffic lane as quickly as possible. Please keep the traffic moving. Otherwise, park your car on a side street and walk your student to the schoolyard.
Please do not stop on Maple Street. This is the designated area for buses to unload students. Maps showing drop-off and pick-up areas are available in the school lobby and will also be sent home with each student on the first day of the school year. Please do not park in the parking lot or drive in to drop off your student, unless you are eligible to use the handicap parking spaces there. The lot is for teacher and staff parking only and you may be ticketed for parking there.
Where should students go when they get to school?
Students may play on the playground until it is time to go into the school building. The playground is supervised beginning at approximately 8:45 a.m. When the first bell rings shortly afterwards, students should gather and start lining up according to grade level at their designated places around the school building.
What about days when the school is also used as a polling place?
On Election Day, Jefferson Lighthouse School is used as a polling place. On those days, there is parking for voters only in the Cliff Avenue drop-off area. Please be patient on those days and maneuver around any parked cars as best you can. This is an issue only a couple of days each school year.
Who can use the school parking lot?
The school parking lot is only for teachers, staff and those who require a handicap accessible parking space. You may not drop off or pick up students in the parking lot, nor park there when coming to the school during the school day. The entrance to the parking lot is often barricaded to discourage any attempts at this.
Where should I park when coming to school at times other than drop-off and pick-up?
There is parking on most of the streets surrounding the school. Please be aware that the only public entrance to the school is the main entrance on the south side of the building, facing Sixth Street.
Is the playground supervised before school starts?
Yes, teachers and staff are assigned to monitor the playground on a regular basis, beginning at 8:45 each school day. However, before school, when there are potentially 600 children using the playground, it is impossible to closely supervise every student in every area of the playground. Please encourage your children to be especially careful and respectful of others before school, when the playground is at its most-crowded levels.
What if the weather is bad?
If it is visibly raining, snowing heavily, extremely cold or windy, school personnel will allow and encourage students to come into the building as soon as they arrive. These decisions are made at the discretion of school staff.
What does the first bell mean?
The first bell rings about 10 minutes before school starts. At that time, students should get ready to line up according to grade level at their designated locations around the building.
Where should my child line up before entering the building?
Kindergarten and first graders assemble on the northeast playground area. Second graders enter through the door on the south side near the gym. Third graders line up on the west side of the building in the kickball area. Fourth graders assemble by the jungle gym. And fifth graders line up in the recessed courtyard area on the west side of the building.
What does the second bell mean?
The second bell rings at 8:58, which is the start of the school day. Students arriving after this time must enter the building through the main doors on Sixth Street and check in at the office.
When does the school day start?
The school day at Jefferson Lighthouse starts at 8:58 a.m.
What happens when students first enter the building?
Students should go to their homeroom areas. Prior to entering their homeroom, students should hang up their coats, unload their backpacks, take off boots, etc. Students who want to eat hot lunch that day must order and pay for their lunch. There will be someone at a designated table near each grade’s homerooms to take lunch orders at this time. Students who bring their lunch from home need to put that lunch in the container designated for their classroom, which is usually placed in a central location for that grade.
Where should students put their coats, boots, etc.?
Kindergartners have assigned spaces for their belongings inside the kindergarten rooms. First graders have a hook and a plastic storage box in the hallway outside their homerooms. Second and third graders have assigned hooks as well. Fourth and fifth graders have a combination of cubby areas and lockers adjacent to their homerooms.
What about lunch boxes and bags?
There is a large plastic tote box in a common area for each classroom.
Students who bring a lunch from home should put their lunches in this box at the start of the school day. Be sure to put the students first and last names and homeroom number in permanent marker on their lunchbox and accessories. If they bring their lunch in a paper bag, it should be clearly labeled with the student’s first and last names.
What about their backpacks?
Backpacks may be taken into the homeroom so that books, folders, homework, etc. can be unloaded and put into the student’s desk. But backpacks should be hung in the hallway or lockers during classroom hours.
Where do school supplies go?
With the exception of kindergartners, students are assigned a desk in their homeroom in which to store their books and all other school supplies. Kindergartners have assigned spaces for their belongings inside the kindergarten rooms.
Are there guidelines regarding desks and lockers?
Students are responsible for keeping their desks and lockers neat and presentable at all times. As papers are corrected and returned to the students, they should be brought home and not allowed to accumulate in their desks or lockers. Food is not to be kept overnight in either desks or lockers. Uneaten portions of lunches or snacks should be taken home each day.
What shouldn’t students bring to school?
In general, any item not directly related to a student’s classroom activities should be left at home. The school cannot be responsible for valuables such as personal electronics, sports equipment, jewelry, toys, games, trading cards, etc. and students are discouraged from bringing them to school. No knives are allowed—even plastic knives in lunch boxes. It is very helpful for all school supplies, backpacks, lunch boxes and student outerwear to be labeled with the student’s first and last names and homeroom number.
Can the school ban certain items?
Of course, items such as knives or guns are forbidden on school property. Even items as seemingly innocuous as plastic knives which may be packed with a lunch from home are not allowed. Other items, such as trading cards or popular toys, may be confiscated or banned at the discretion of a teacher or on a school-wide basis if those items are disrupting educational activities.
Is there a dress code?
Students at Jefferson Lighthouse are expected to dress in a neat, comfortable and appropriate manner. While there is not a specific dress code, shirts and shoes are required at all times. Teachers and staff have the right to request that a student wearing clothing they deem inappropriate change their clothes and not wear that particular item/style of clothing again. Rules regarding certain items or styles of clothing may be made and enforced on an as-needed basis. It is important that on days when the child has gym class that they either wear tennis shoes to school or have an extra pair at school to change into when it’s time for gym. Please make sure that your child is dressed appropriately for weather conditions as well. Our school is not air-conditioned and sometimes it gets very hot, particularly in the upstairs classrooms. In the winter, it’s extremely important that students have coats and something to cover their hands and heads before going outdoors. Students who do not wear boots will not be allowed to go out and play on snow-covered areas of the playground when there is snow.
Where is the Lost and Found area?
Every day, items are found throughout the school. Those items are placed in several large “Lost and Found” bins clearly marked and located near the school library and on the stage in the gym. There are also “Lost and Found” bins upstairs for the fourth and fifth graders.
You may check there for missing items at any time during school hours.
And be sure to check those bins occasionally throughout the year—you may find things you didn’t know were lost. At the end of the school year, all unclaimed items (and sadly, there are lots of them!) are turned over to a local charity. Labeling items such as lunch boxes, coats, jackets, boots, umbrellas, sports equipment, etc. with your student’s name and homeroom number makes it easy to identify their belongings should they end up in the “Lost and Found.”
What is “specialist time?”
Specialist time is a designated time each day when students leave their regular classroom area for a special class: art, music, gym or library. Each homeroom rotates through those classes at a regular time each day. At the beginning of the year, your student will be told what the specialist schedule is for their homeroom. The calendar of hot lunch menus that students receive each month is marked with a code that can help you determine what specialist class your child has on any particular day. Library is available for specialist time only every other week. You should have received a schedule of the weeks the library is open on the first day of school. On weeks the library is not available, your student’s homeroom teacher will find other activities for the students during the day when they are scheduled to have library specialist time.
What is “Wiggle Works?”
Wiggle Works is a special program just for first graders. At a designated time each day, the students work in their classroom under the direction of the Wiggle Works specialist, who is trained to provide intensive instruction and training in the areas of reading and writing.
Students get exposure to computers and use the computers to help them write simple stories. This class helps students make the connection between reading and writing and gives them a foundation for converting their thoughts and ideas into written materials that can be read by others.
Where are the bathrooms located?
There are bathrooms located throughout the school building. One set is just outside the gymnasium/cafeteria. Another set is located near the main lobby. There is a pair adjacent to the first grade classrooms and library area, with another set just above there in the fourth and fifth grade area. There is also a bathroom in each kindergarten classroom. Second and third graders use the bathrooms on the first floor adjacent to the lobby.
When can students use the bathroom?
Students are given ample opportunities to use the bathroom during lunch and recess breaks and other times as well. Usually, individual teachers or grade levels will set their own policies and procedure, such as designating particular times during the school day for bathroom breaks.
When do students get recess?
All first through fifth grade students at Jefferson Lighthouse receive at least one recess period a day, for 25 minutes, immediately before or after their lunch time. An optional second recess period of 10 minutes may be scheduled at the discretion of the teaching team at each grade level. Because of several constraints, such as scheduling extended blocks of time for teaching particular subjects and restrictions unique to our facility, it is not possible to offer more recess time than that.
Is there a specified area for each grade level to have recess?
Usually, kindergartners and first graders stay on the northeast playground for their recess periods. Older students may play on most areas of the playground during their recess.
Are there weather conditions that impact recess?
The same weather conditions that allow students to enter the school building prior to the start of the school day also apply here. When there is extreme cold and/or wind, visible rain or snow, school staff may decide that students will not be allowed to go outside for recess.
If students don’t go outside for recess, what do they do?
If students can’t go outside, they may socialize and play quietly in areas designated by their teachers: classrooms, the hallways or common areas around their classrooms.
Can a student be prohibited from having recess?
Yes, students may be kept inside for disciplinary reasons, at the discretion of the teaching staff. Students may also be asked to stay in during recess to complete work that was not finished during classroom time or to get extra assistance from the teacher.
What is appropriate recess attire?
When students go outside for recess they must be dressed appropriate to the weather conditions. If students do not have boots, they will not be allowed to play in the snow, etc. It is important that students have jackets, coats, hats, mittens—whatever may be necessary to keep them comfortable and dry during 10 to 25 minutes outdoors.
How is recess supervised?
Teachers and staff are assigned to supervise the playground area during recess periods on a rotating schedule. There is usually one teacher on the playground from each grade level that is having recess at that time.
Are kids allowed to bring their own playground equipment?
Yes, students may bring their own balls, sports gear, or other playground equipment; however, they do so at their own risk. Such items must be clearly labeled with the student’s name and homeroom number. The school cannot be responsible for any items lost or damaged during recess. The school does have balls and other playground equipment available for use during recess.
What happens if a student is injured during recess?
Minor injuries, such as scrapes and cuts can be taken care of by office staff or the school nurse if that person is at the school at the time the injury occurs. In the case of a more serious injury, the injury will be evaluated and appropriate action taken: either emergency personnel will be summoned immediately or parents will be notified that the child requires medical attention. Several JLS staffers have received training in first aid and CPR. There are also special first-aid kits with supplies for performing CPR located throughout the school.
How does the hot lunch program work?
Students must pre-order a lunch first thing in the morning each day they want to have hot lunch. Cost for a hot lunch this year is $1.60.
If your child will be late to school, please call the school by 9:15 to place a lunch order. If your child forgets lunch money or forgets to bring a lunch, they may still check in first thing in the morning to order a hot lunch with an IOU. You must then pay for the lunch the following day. If an IOU is older than three days, the student may be denied additional lunches on an IOU basis.
Can you pay for lunches in advance?
Yes, you may prepay for your child’s lunches with cash or a check. You can pay for a week, a month, even a semester in advance. An accurate record of your child’s account will be kept. However, even if the lunches are paid for in advance, your child must still check in each day to make sure a lunch gets ordered for him or her. If your child chooses not to buy lunch on any given day, the balance will be carried over.
What about lunches brought from home?
If a student brings a lunch from home, they must place their lunchbox or bag in a designated container for their classroom as soon as they arrive in the morning. At lunchtime, that container will be available to them in the hallway near the lunchroom and they can pick up their bag then. We encourage all lunch boxes, thermos bottles, etc. to be clearly marked with the student’s first and last names and homeroom number. At the end of lunch period, the student is responsible for putting their lunchbox back in the classroom bin. A designated student returns the bin to the classroom and students must pick up their lunchboxes and take them home at the end of the day. Please realize that a well-balanced lunch, including items like a sandwich, fruits, vegetables and dairy products, is necessary for a healthy body and mind. Please limit the amount of sweets, such as cookies and candy in your child’s lunch.
Who prepares the meals? Where are the meals prepared?
The Racine Unified School District contracts its food service for the entire district to a firm called Chartwells, a division of Marriott. At Gifford Elementary, Chartwells’ employees cook and package all food for delivery to all other elementary schools. Chartwells monitors which meals are most popular with students and offers those meals regularly. All meals are designed to fulfill many of the basic nutritional needs of students and portions are controlled at levels appropriate for grade-school age children.
What are “hot packs” and “cold packs?”
Because the lunches are assembled at another location (Gifford) and then transported to JLS, it’s important to maintain proper temperatures for both the hot and cold portions of each lunch. Therefore, each lunch comes in two parts: a hot pack (usually the entree and a side dish) and a cold pack (fruit, salad, dessert, etc.). When students order their lunches, they may also pay an additional fee to order either an extra hot or cold pack.
Where can I get the school lunch menu?
The school lunch menu is on a calendar that is usually sent home with each student a week or so prior to the start of a new month. Even if your child does not usually eat hot lunch or refer to the menu schedule, you may want to keep the calendar because it is also marked with the schedule for specialist days. The RUSD lunch menus are printed daily in the Racine Journal Times. Menus for the upcoming week are also printed in the Racine Journal Times on Saturdays and The Pennysaver on Wednesdays.
What if my child doesn’t eat all of his or her lunch?
Lunch supervisors will encourage all students to eat the entire lunch that they buy or bring. If there is a component of the lunch that can easily and neatly be saved (such as a cookie or whole piece of fruit) your child is welcome to take that item from the lunchroom and eat it at another appropriate time (such as recess or after school). However, food items which require packaging or utensils must be thrown away before leaving the lunchroom.
What if my child doesn’t finish his or her lunch in time?
Students are encouraged to eat their lunch within the allotted time.
Other classes have to use the cafeteria/gymnasium immediately after they are done, so they cannot remain in the room to finish their lunch, even though it is their recess time. If the lunch item can be easily handled, your child can take it with them and finish eating on the playground during recess. In the case of a lunch from home, they may pack up any remaining food and take it back home or eat it at another appropriate time.
Who is Pyramid Pete and what are the contests?
Pyramid Pete is one of several characters Chartwells uses in the lunchroom to represent the different food groups on the food pyramid. In an effort to educate kids about healthy eating choices, once a month
Chartwells offers an activity sheet for the kids to do. When they turn in a sheet with their name on it, it goes into a drawing for prizes.
Can a child buy milk to go with a lunch from home?
Yes, a student may purchase milk at a cost of 25 cents per carton. Milk is bought at the start of lunchtime.
Are there any specific rules for the lunchroom/lunchtime?
The first five minutes of the lunch period is usually designated as “silent lunch.” At this time, students are supposed to be seated and just eat, not talk. There are staff who monitor the lunchroom and work to make sure it is a comfortable, pleasant and safe atmosphere for all students. If a student needs help (opening a package, cleaning up a spill, etc.) or wants to request permission to go to the bathroom, they need to raise their hand and a lunchroom staffer will assist them. Students sit at assigned tables, based on their homeroom.
Can a parent come to school and have lunch with their child?
Yes, parents, grandparents, relatives or even special friends are welcome to occasionally visit the school and share lunch with your student. You may choose to bring in lunch for yourself, for both you and your student, or you can have your student pre-order a hot lunch for you.
Can you bring lunch to school if your child forgets it in the morning?
Yes, you may drop off a lunch for your child at the school. After checking in at the office, you can take it to your student’s classroom and put it with the other packed lunches. It can also be left in the office. Your child will then be called down in order to pick it up.
Can a child eat at school at times other than lunch?
Yes, teachers often allow snacks to be eaten during regularly scheduled recess or bathroom break periods. Snacks are especially important for younger children who may not be used to waiting a long time between meals.
Are there any snacks that are prohibited?
In general, snacks should be “finger foods” requiring no utensils and minimal clean-up. Ideally, the snack should also fulfill some of the student’s basic nutritional needs and not just be empty calories.
Is there a specific snack time?
Snack times are determined by the teaching team at each grade level.
Are birthday treats allowed?
Yes, students may bring a treat to share with the other students in their homeroom to celebrate their birthday. Please keep the snacks simple.
What are the snack sales?
Several times throughout the year, a grade level or school group may choose to have a snack sale. The sponsoring group chooses what product to sell (candy bars, frozen treats, baked goods, popcorn, etc.) and when to sell it (recess or lunch time). Profits from the sale are used to cover costs for a special trip or event. There is usually notification of an upcoming snack sale a few days in advance. It is up to you and your child to decide if they want to purchase a snack—there is no obligation.
What about water and/or other beverages?
There are bubblers throughout the school and students are encouraged to get a drink of water during regularly scheduled bathroom breaks, recess, lunch breaks and during gym class. During warm weather, most teachers allow students to bring a water bottle from home and keep it with them at their desks. Other beverages are discouraged. There are no beverage vending machines for students to use on the JLS property.
What about gum?
Some things never change—just as when we were in school, teachers forbid gum-chewing in class.
Are there ever holiday parties at school?
Yes, some grade levels have parties for holidays such as Halloween and Valentine’s Day. The time spent on the party is determined by the teaching team for each grade level. Parties are planned by parent volunteers, with refreshments contributed by other parents.
What is the Cookie Jar?
The Cookie Jar is a way for parents to show our appreciation for the teachers and staff whose dedication benefits all our children. The snacks that parents provide for the Cookie Jar are enjoyed by teachers and other JLS staff (approximately 50 in all) in the lounge during break times. Usually two parent volunteers are asked each week to send in a treat, which can be cookies or any other treat a parent would like to send. Parents are asked at the beginning of the year to volunteer to make one contribution to the Cookie Jar (if you didn’t receive a sign-up form or have questions, please contact fourth grade teacher Mrs. Boehm, Rm. 207). Those who volunteer will then be notified of their date to provide a treat.
What happens at dismissal time?
When the school bell rings at 3:42 p.m., students are responsible for collecting their belongings, putting on any coats, boots, mittens, etc. and then proceeding in a quick, orderly fashion to the first floor of the school. Students who ride the bus then go to their pre-designated bus loading area. Loading areas are designated with signs on the schoolyard fences which correlate to the bus the student rides (such as Blue Pony, Blue Train, etc.) Students who are being picked up should go either to the office area or the doors on the north side of the building (Maple Street).
Where should I go to pick up my child?
If you want to pick up your child in person, you must go to the school lobby (Sixth Street entrance) and wait for your child there. If you are going to just drive-by and pick up your child, please pick them up on the north side of the building (Maple Street). Please go eastbound only on Maple Street. It is very dangerous to go west and expect your student to cross the traffic to get to your vehicle. Please do not park and get out of your car on Maple Street—it is designed to be an efficient, speedy pick-up area. There is a school staff person assigned to monitor students as they wait to be picked up along Maple Street.
Students who are not picked up after 10 minutes are taken to the school office and a parent is then contacted to arrange for pick-up. Some teachers ask that you write a note at the start of the school year indicating that your child does not ride the bus and will be picked up or is part of a carpool. Thank you for your patience during this busy time of the day as student safety is our primary concern during the pick-up process.
What’s the procedure for buses at the end of the day?
Students generally ride the same bus home at the end of the day that they rode to school in the morning. The buses are marked by the door with a symbol easily identifiable by even the youngest, non-reading students (such as a Blue Bunny, Pink Dinosaur, etc.) so students know which bus to board. After school, the buses load on Cliff Avenue and Sixth Street.
Are the pickup areas supervised?
Yes, JLS staff members monitor the bus loading to ensure that all students get on the appropriate buses safely and orderly.
What if the weather is bad?
In the event of visible rain or snow, or extreme cold or wind, students are allowed to wait inside the building until their bus arrives. When a particular bus arrives, it is announced over the public address system and students then go outside and board the bus.
What is a Bus Buddy?
At the start of the school year, older students who ride the same bus are sometimes assigned to younger students (usually kindergarten or first graders) to help ensure they get on the right bus at the end of the school day.
What if I’m going to be late picking up my child?
All students must be picked up by 3:52 p.m. If no one has arrived for them by then, they will be taken into the school building and allowed to wait in the office. If you know you will be late, please make arrangements for someone else to pick up your child, or in the case of an emergency, call the office and inform them that you will be late. Please make every effort to pick up your child on time each day.
What if my child is going to go home with a friend?
Please remember that students need a note when their mode of transportation is different than usual (i.e. going home with a friend instead of riding the bus, staying after school for a Scout meeting, etc.). Without a note, staff must insist on the usual mode of transportation.
How long is the building open after school?
This varies. On the average day, the building is open for about 45 minutes after dismissal time, usually until around 4:30 p.m. In some cases, there are extra-curricular activities, such as Scouts or foreign language classes, which require that at least one entrance be kept open for a couple of hours after dismissal. When there are evening activities scheduled (PTA meetings, open house, etc.), entrances near the site of the event are re-opened prior to the start of those events.
What if my child forgets something important at school?
If it is within a short while after school is dismissed, you may call the school office and see if anyone is still in the building and possibly arrange to come back to school and retrieve the item. However, if it is an evening, weekend or break, you’re probably out of luck and you’ll have to wait until the building re-opens on the next school day.
How are fights and bullying handled?
Fighting and bullying will not be tolerated at Jefferson Lighthouse.
Teachers and staff will use their discretion when handling such matters. When necessary, they will contact the principal who will handle the incident fairly and appropriately. Parents/guardians will be notified if deemed necessary to assist in the process. While such incidents are not to be tolerated, they will be handled on a case-by-case basis and treated as a learning opportunity to ensure such incidents don’t repeat themselves.
Who should you contact if your child is having trouble...
...on the bus?
You should contact your child’s bus supervisor or teacher.
...on the playground?
You should contact your child’s teacher.
...in the lunchroom?
You should contact the lunchroom supervisor or your child’s teacher.
...in the classroom?
You should contact your child’s teacher.
How are classroom discipline issues handled?
Most classroom discipline issues will be handled in the classroom by the individuals who know the students best, their teachers and staff. After an attempt has been made by teachers and staff, they will refer to the principal for further advice or intervention from the office.
How are discipline issues on the bus handled?
Students must realize that the same behavior that is expected on school grounds is similarly expected on the bus. Any disciplinary issues that take place on the bus will be communicated by the bus driver to school staff and handled appropriately.
What is a “blue slip?”
Staff use “blue slips” for behavioral matters that are not able to be solved without support from the principal. These may be issues that are repetitious or serious in nature and will be handled appropriately.
What happens if a student receives a “blue slip?”
When a teacher issues a blue slip, the student must report to the principal’s office. The principal will discuss with the student the reason for receiving the blue slip to ensure understanding. Together, they will devise alternative actions the student could have taken and will take if a similar situation arises in the future. The principal will use discretion when contacting parents regarding the blue slip, especially for repeat offenses. The principal will communicate the results of the meeting with the student to the teacher(s) involved and the parent(s).
Who should you contact if you have a concern about a discipline matter involving your child?
The first line of communication in most cases should be your child’s homeroom teacher. From there, the teacher can refer you to the proper person.
What happens if a child is injured at school?
If a child is injured at school, the appropriate action is determined by the severity of the injury. Minor injuries can usually be handled by school office staff or the school nurse, if present at the school at the time of the injury. If the injury is more serious (but not life-threatening) and requires medical attention, a parent will be contacted immediately, using the information on the pink emergency card sent home at the beginning of each school year (that’s also why it’s important that you update the information on that card should there be a change in your phone numbers, such as at work or for your cell phone). In the case of serious injuries, emergency personnel will be summoned immediately. In addition, several members of the JLS staff are certified to perform CPR and others have received first aid training and can be called upon to assist until emergency personnel arrive. There are special kits with equipment for performing CPR located throughout the school.
What happens if a child becomes ill at school?
If a child doesn’t feel well, they should let their teacher know. The teacher will then probably send the student to the office (or school nurse if available) for further evaluation (usually to check their temperature and see if they have a fever). If it is apparent that the student is ill, office staff will notify a parent or other contact person so that someone can come and take the student home. The office will use the information on the pink emergency card sent home at the beginning of each school year (that’s also why it’s important that you update the information on that card should there be a change in your phone numbers, such as at work or for your cell phone).
Who handles medical problems?
Jefferson Lighthouse has a school nurse but that person is not on site at all times. The primary function of the school nurse is to administer regular health screenings, such as vision and hearing tests. If the nurse is unavailable, office staff will take care of any medical problems.
What about medications?
Medications should be sent to school with your child only when absolutely necessary. Every effort should be made to arrange medications to be administered before or after school hours. If your child must take medicine during the school day, the following procedures are to be followed:
1. The medication must be in its original container from the pharmacist with dosage instructions on it.
2. Instructions for dosage and times to be administered must be included, as should details related to storage of the medication, such as refrigeration.
3. The medication is to be taken to the office where it is kept in a secure location. It may not be kept in the child’s lunch box or in the classroom.
4. It is your child’s responsibility to go to the office to receive the medication. The teacher and office staff are not responsible for making sure your child goes to the office to take the medication.
What is the “home/school” folder?
Every student needs a home/school folder to use each day during the school year. Nothing fancy—just a simple two-pocket folder labeled with the student’s name. Sometimes the homeroom teacher will supply this folder, other times you will be asked to provide one (and replace it as it becomes worn during the year). This folder is used for transporting important information both to and from school. One side of the folder is for items to be taken home and shared with parents, such as homework assignments, notification of school events, permission slips, etc. The other side of the folder is for items that need to be returned to school, such as completed homework assignments, notes to the teacher, sign-up sheets, etc. It is extremely important that your child takes his or her home/school folder to and from school every single day. Likewise, it is important for you to look at your child’s folder every day—it contains important information to keep you informed on your child’s activities at school. This simple system helps even the youngest student begin to learn the importance of organization, responsibility and good communication.
Who gets assignment notebooks and how are they used?
The teaching teams for third graders and up are working to instill responsible work habits and organization skills in their students. To help them, the PTA provides each student in third grade with an assignment notebook at the start of the school year. Students are taught to use their notebooks to keep track of classwork and homework assignments. This helps students learn to budget their time and be responsible for the work that needs to be done. In future years, parents may choose to purchase assignment notebooks for their child to use. The PTA makes them available for sale at the beginning of the school year.
How can I reach my child during the school day?
If you need to contact your child during the school day, you may either come to the school in person or call the school office and ask that a message be given to your child. Unfortunately, we cannot allow students to come to the office to take a phone call.
Can students use cell phones or pagers?
We do not allow students to use cell phones or pagers during classroom time. In general, we discourage students from bringing personal electronics to school.
Is there a way to get a message to my child?
Yes, you may call the school office and ask that a message be given to your student. We hope that you will reserve this for special situations and not request that messages be taken on an everyday basis.
How can I get a message to my child’s teachers?
One of the easiest and most efficient ways is to put a note or message in the child’s home/school folder. The child should pass that note along to their teacher when they arrive at school. You may also call the school office (664-6900) and ask to be connected to the teacher’s voice mail and leave a message. All our teachers have their own voice mailboxes at the school and they check for messages regularly. They then may return calls either before or after school, at lunchtime or when their students are having specialist time. That is also one of the best times to call a teacher; you may be able to reach them directly and not have to play phone tag. You will receive a schedule at the start of the school year which indicates the specialist times for each grade level. Another option is to come to the school and see the teacher in person. However, unless you have set up an appointment for this in advance, the teacher will probably be busy teaching and not able to see you immediately.
Is it okay to call a teacher at home?
Different teachers have different preferences regarding this. Some don’t mind while others prefer not to receive school-related calls at home. In general, it is best to contact teachers through the school, during regular hours. Some teachers make an e-mail address available so parents may contact them that way.
What is the best way to speak to a school staff member, such as the principal?
You may call and ask to speak with that particular person, but keep in mind that they may not be available for phone calls at all times. In that case, you are welcome to leave a voice mail message. The same goes for coming to the school to meet directly with a staff member. Unless an appointment has been arranged in advance, you run the risk of not being able to meet with that person because they are busy with other school business.
What should I do if my child will not be coming to school on any particular day?
If, for whatever reason, your child will not be coming to school, you must call the school’s attendance line (664-6905) and leave a message, notifying them of the absence. This procedure must be followed every day your child is absent. If you do not call in, you will probably receive a phone call from the school, checking on the status of your child. If the absence is planned in advance (a medical appointment, a family trip, etc.) you may notify the office and your child’s teachers in writing prior to the absence, detailing how many days the child will miss school. Please make every effort to plan things such as family vacations around school days to minimize the number of days your child misses throughout the school year.
What about when my child returns to school?
When your child comes back to school after being absent for one or more days, they must return with a note explaining the absence. Some pre-printed forms are sent home with each student at the beginning of the school year for this purpose. Please keep them and use them as needed throughout the year.
How should I prepare for a planned absence?
If you know that your child is going to be absent from school (scheduled medical procedures, trips, etc.) you should notify both the child’s homeroom teacher and the school office in advance, in writing. If the absence is going to be more than one day, you may ask the teacher to contact you, so you can arrange to get your child’s classroom work in advance so they can work on it during their absence instead of having to play catch-up after they return.
How can I get my child’s schoolwork if they absent due to an illness?
If the child only misses a day or two of school, they can usually catch up after they return to school. However, if their absence stretches beyond two days, you may want to call your child’s homeroom teacher and arrange for some of their classwork to be assembled. Someone may drop by the school and pick up the work and any necessary books and materials, or it can be sent home with a sibling or classmate who also attends JLS. Please allow 24 hours notice for a teacher to assemble homework for an absent child.
What is the procedure for taking my child out of school for part of a day?
Often, students need to be gone for part of the school day for medical or dental appointments, etc. While it’s preferable that appointments like that be scheduled for non-school hours, or on days when there is no school, we realize that isn’t always possible. If the student is going to be gone first thing in the morning, you should call the school attendance line, report that your child is not there but indicate the approximate time your child will be coming to school. You may also want to notify your child’s homeroom teacher of this with a note sent to school the day before. If the absence is for later in the school day, it’s a good idea to send a note to your child’s homeroom teacher, indicating the time that your child will be picked up and the time when they are expected to return. You must then come to the school lobby and pick your child up at the appointed time. Come to the desk and ask that your student be pulled from their class. There is a sign-out sheet at the office that you must fill out. You must also sign your student back in when you return them to school.
If my child stays home sick but later feels better can they come to school for part of the day?
As a parent, you are the best person to gauge your child’s condition. If it is apparent that your child is indeed feeling better and they do not have a fever or symptoms that would disrupt a class, you may choose to bring them to school for part of the day. Please stop in the office and explain the situation when you drop your child off.
What’s the procedure for dealing with tardiness?
If your child is just a few minutes late, you need to bring your child to the office and explain the tardiness. If you know that your child is going to be significantly late, please call the school office if possible and notify them of the tardiness. Chronic tardiness deprives your child of the optimal school experience and is not conducive to developing good work and study habits.
What supplies will my child need for school?
School supplies vary according to each grade level. Lists of school supplies are usually distributed at the end of the school year so parents can prepare for the upcoming school year. Many local retail stores also have copies of our school supply lists available. Please follow the list as closely as possible. In general, the supplies needed are readily available and not terribly expensive. Some supplies may be “pooled” in each classroom and used by everyone (such as tissues). In the younger grades, some teachers choose to pool all the supplies—markers, crayons, scissors—to simplify clean-up times and minimize disputes over ownership.
What is the school store and how does it function?
Some basic school supplies are available for purchase in the JLS office. These supplies are offered as an emergency measure and should not be used as your child’s only source for supplies. The Student Council also operates a “School Store” as a way to raise funds for its activities. This “store” sells novelty items and is set up at the library on Wednesdays and Fridays before school starts. It takes a few months at the start of the year to get the Student Council store up and running.
Is there a fee for textbook usage?
At the beginning of the school year you will receive information about book fees. These fees pay for workbooks that your child will use during the school year and the ongoing costs associated with providing textbooks to our students.
How does the school library function?
All students at JLS are able to check out books from the school library. Library is one of the regular rotating specialist classes that students attend regularly throughout the year. When students have library, they are allowed to check out books at that time. They may choose to keep the books at school and read them during reading time in their classrooms, or take them home to read. If books are taken home, students (and parents) must be diligent about returning them on time. Books are then due back the next time their class has library. Students are limited in the number of books they can check out based on their grade level. If books are not returned, students may not check out any other books. This year, our library will only be open for specialist classes every other week. A schedule showing when the JLS library is open was sent home with your student on the first day of school. When your child has library in the specialist rotation during a week that the library is not open, their homeroom teacher will find an alternate activity for them.
What is school spirit wear?
We all like to show our loyalty to our favorite sports team or organization. For your child, that’s their school! Each year, the PTA makes school spirit wear available—shirts and accessories emblazoned with the JLS logo or a school-related saying. The PTA works to make sure there are a wide variety of choices for both kids and adults: t-shirts, denim shirts, sweatshirts, etc. We strive to have items that are high quality, yet affordable. Order information and forms for school spirit wear are sent home in the fall. Spirit wear is also available at other times throughout the year.
When are school pictures taken?
School pictures are taken twice a year, in the fall and in the spring. You will receive notification a few weeks advance of when picture days will be held. Private firms contract with the school to take the pictures; they may then sell you prints of those photos. Every child is photographed each time, but you are under no obligation to purchase any of the pictures. The fall pictures are the official school pictures. Every student’s photo is taken for the yearbook—there is no charge. The company that takes these photos requires that you pre-order and pre-pay if you would like to buy photos of your child. If you are not happy with the way the photos turn out, you may have them re-taken on a designated day. The spring photos are a bit different. The company that takes those photos prints packets of photos of every student and sends them home. You may then choose which, if any, pictures you want to purchase and return the rest.
Can I get just a class picture?
Yes, group photos of each homeroom class are taken a few months after the fall school pictures and are available for purchase. Class pictures are delivered in the spring.
How does the school communicate with parents?
One of the most important things your child will bring home from school every day is their home/school folder. Each day you will probably find something from the school that you need to read: notification of an upcoming meeting, information about something going on in your child’s classroom, a request for assistance or supplies, news about school policies and procedures, permission slips, etc. Please get in the habit of checking that folder daily—it’s one of the easiest and most efficient ways for the school to stay in touch with parents. There is official communication with parents three times a year via report cards each quarter. And parent teacher conferences are held in November at the end of the first quarter.
Is there a school newsletter?
Yes, the JLS PTA publishes a newsletter called “The Link” each month during the school year. “The Link” contains more than just PTA news—it’s information about students and activities at our school. You’ll find school news, grade level happenings, a letter from the principal, mentions of students who have made special achievements, PTA meeting minutes, and our “Kids Pages” with student contributions and puzzles and games for your child. “The Link” is put together by parent and student volunteers. It is sent home the first week of the month, usually a few days prior to the regularly scheduled PTA meeting. We encourage you to take a few minutes to read our newsletter and stay in touch with all the things that are happening in your child’s world.
Does JLS have a website?
Yes, Jefferson Lighthouse has web space on the Racine Unified site.
Our PTA has recently stepped up our online communication efforts,
through the efforts of some involved and talented parent volunteers.
We’re working to make sure the JLS site is updated frequently and contains useful and pertinent information. Our address is: http://www.racine.k12.wi.us/default.asp?pid=230. Please bookmark it and check it regularly. The website can also be accessed from the Racine Unified School District’s home page by clicking on the “schools” link.
How can a parent voice their opinion or get answers to further questions?
If you have questions or concerns, the teachers and staff at JLS are always very willing to listen and help. You may call the school office and ask to speak to the appropriate person. Another avenue may be to contact the PTA. In addition to our regular monthly meetings, the JLS PTA offers “Chat Time,” an informal gathering and talk session held one morning a month, on a Friday. This is a good opportunity to meet other parents and ask those questions that you might worry are too insignificant or obvious to be asked anywhere else! And of course, there’s this booklet. What have we missed? What questions do you still have? Contact us (information on page 2) and we’ll make sure we answer those questions in the next edition.
Who represents Jefferson Lighthouse on the Racine Unified School Board?
While all members of the school board are elected to represent everyone in the school district, each school board member also takes a special interest in the unique role and needs of several individual schools in the district. Armin Clobes is the school board member who represents our school. Mr. Clobes had children who attended our school. He receives our school newsletter and sometimes attends our PTA meetings. Board member Russ Carlsen has also been very interested and involved with JLS, attending several of our Chat Time sessions. And board member Randy Bangs is a JLS parent and past PTA president with very close ties to our school. Of course, you may always contact any school board member if you have concerns or questions about RUSD business.
What is the JLS directory?
Our school includes more than 550 students, from over 400 families—it’s a community. In order to foster communication within our school community, the PTA publishes a school directory each year. The directory contains an alphabetical listing of student’s names, their parent’s names, address, phone number and e-mail address. The directory is compiled, assembled and distributed within the first two months of the school year. Every family receives one, whether they are listed or not. It is up to you whether you want to be listed in the directory—it is strictly optional, and you may decide how much or little information you want to include. You can be assured that the directory is for use only by JLS families—the information is never sold nor distributed elsewhere.
Why should we be listed in the directory?
The directory can be very helpful—you might be surprised how often you refer to it! It can help you fill in the gaps when your child wants to invite his classmate over to play, but doesn’t know their phone number. Or those times when you need to go to someone’s house for a birthday party, but don’t know the address. You might discover that your co-worker’s children also attend JLS. And on those days when the homework assignment doesn’t quite make sense, you might be able to find another parent who can help unravel the mystery.
A school yearbook? Isn’t that usually for high schoolers?
Not anymore! Jefferson Lighthouse publishes a school yearbook every year. While not as elaborate (or expensive) as the high school versions, a yearbook is still a nice way for kids to remember faces and activities from their school year. Our yearbook includes photos of each student, grouped by homeroom and grade level, teachers and staff, clubs and organizations, and school events and activities. Much like the directory, the yearbook is also a handy way for parents to put names and faces together and become more familiar with the students and friends their child talks about. You will receive an order form for a yearbook in the spring. You are under no obligation to order one. Yearbooks are usually delivered and distributed in late May, just before the end of the school year. Teachers often set aside a short period of time for students to mingle and autograph each others’ books when they are handed out.
Who is responsible for cleaning up broken glass and other debris on the playgrounds or sidewalks surrounding the school?
Just as a homeowner is responsible for maintaining the sidewalk in front of their home, the JLS custodial staff is responsible for cleaning up any dangerous glass or debris around our school. It is impossible for the custodial staff to monitor all the outside grounds at all times; they inspect the grounds as part of their regular maintenance tasks. As a parent, if you see anything on or around the school grounds that needs attention, please inform the office staff and the information will be forwarded to the custodial staff.
How was JLS formed?
Jefferson Lighthouse is a centrally-located magnet school which focuses on the needs of the intellectually gifted. The school was created in 1977, when clusters of gifted children from Goodland, Roosevelt and West Ridge schools were brought together. Over time, the school and its curriculum have evolved to what it is today. The Lighthouse Program has received both state and national recognition for its exemplary curriculum model. Some staff members have received specialized training in the area of gifted and talented education.
Why is the school named Jefferson Lighthouse?
When the program for gifted and talented students was first established, it was called the Lighthouse Program. Initially, this program consisted of three groups of gifted children who attended Goodland, Roosevelt and West Ridge schools. In 1977, these three groups were combined and moved into the Jefferson School building. Once the program moved in, the school became known as Jefferson Lighthouse School.
How are children admitted to the gifted and talented program?
Children currently enrolled in a Racine Unified kindergarten program are tested during April and May of their kindergarten year. These cognitive tests are given by their classroom teachers. Those children who score in the top sixth percentile are identified as intellectually gifted. This identification stays with the child throughout their Unified school career. All children transferring into Unified from another school are tested as standard procedure. That testing is conducted by the Office of Enrollment and Testing at Unified’s central office. Parents of children identified as gifted are notified in May of their child’s kindergarten year and offered a possible position in Jefferson Lighthouse’s first grade. Those available slots are filled on a first come, first served basis. If a child is identified as intellectually gifted, and they don’t get a position in the program because it is full, then they are placed on a waiting list and offered a position as one becomes available. Students may also enter the open enrollment lottery each year to try to get a position in the program.
What is the “team teaching concept” used at JLS?
At Jefferson Lighthouse, teachers in each grade level work together as a team. Except for kindergarten, there are four teachers for each grade. Students are assigned to a homeroom teacher but will probably have some the other teachers at their grade level teaching them in specific subjects such as reading, math, or science. The teachers at each grade level work closely together as a team, sharing ideas, materials, projects, etc. so all students are exposed to the same curriculum and enrichment experiences.
When are parent-teacher conferences held?
Parent-teacher conferences are usually held in November, often on the days just before Thanksgiving break. The actual dates are listed on the school district calendar you should receive at the start of every school year. Conferences are scheduled throughout the day and in the evenings to give everyone an opportunity to attend. Each homeroom teacher determines their own schedule. You may sign up for a conference when you visit the school for Open House. Otherwise, teachers will send home a form indicating the times available for your conference. It is important that you make every effort to attend a conference with your child’s teacher to discuss progress and expectations. You may schedule your conference when you attend JLS Open House night (usually in late September or early October). If you do not sign up at that time, information will be sent home later. If you have further concerns at other times throughout the year, or with a teacher other than your child’s homeroom teacher, you may call the school, contact the teacher, and a conference can be arranged.
Can I have a conference with teachers other than my child’s homeroom teacher?
During formal parent-teacher conference days, we prefer that you meet just with your child’s homeroom teacher. Core subject teachers (reading and math) will give your student’s homeroom teacher pertinent information to share with you about how your child is doing in those subjects. If you have further concerns about how your student is doing in particular subject areas you may schedule a meeting with that teacher at a later time.
When are report cards issued?
The first report card of the year is presented to the parents at parent-teacher conferences. Otherwise, report cards are issued a week or two after the end of each quarter. During the school year, the report cards are sent home with the student. It is important that the parent sign the bottom portion of the report card and then return it to school in the envelope provided to confirm that the report card has been received. The fourth quarter report card is mailed to parents after the school year ends. That report card will also indicate which homeroom your child has been assigned to for the coming year.
Why are different types of report cards used for different grades?
Students in grades K-2 receive report cards that use different letters to indicate progress in particular areas: satisfactory, needs improvement, etc. Traditional letter grades (A, B, C, etc.) are used for students in grades 3-5. This is the district’s policy.
Why is a different type of report card used for first quarter?
The first quarter report card is presented to parents at conferences so it is designed to serve as a conference guideline as well.
How is honor roll determined?
Grades for students in third, fourth and fifth grade are eligible for the honor roll. Students receiving a B-average or above are included on the honor roll. Honor rolls are submitted to the Racine Journal Times and appear in the Tuesday “A+” section at the paper’s discretion.
How do I find out my child’s room assignment for the next year?
For students already at JLS, their homeroom assignment appears on their final report card, in the upper right-hand corner. Students entering JLS for the first time should receive notification in the mail shortly before school starts, telling them to which homeroom they have been assigned. Incoming kindergarten students will receive notification by mail in June, indicating their room assignment and whether they will attend morning or afternoon kindergarten.
How is my child’s homeroom assignment determined?
Teachers develop four balanced classrooms for the next school year.
The principal assigns one teacher to each room.
Can I get my child placed into a different homeroom or with a different teacher for a particular subject?
It is our hope that all students and teachers will work together with each other in a polite and respectful manner. While your student may have a preference for a particular teacher, please keep in mind that your child will probably receive instruction from every teacher on the team for his or her grade level. If you feel there is a serious problem which warrants a change in teachers for your child, you may contact the school staff and discuss the matter.
What tests are administered at JLS and when?
Fourth grade students take the Wisconsin Knowledge and Concepts Exam, usually in November. During the ‘04-’05 school year, students throughout the Racine Unified School District began taking the Northwest Evaluation Association Measurement of Academic Progress (NWEA-MAP) tests. These are given three times a year to students in grades 3-5 and once a year to second graders in order to more accurately track student progress in reading and math. This test is given on a computer and results are available quickly, providing more opportunity for early intervention should problems be evident.
How can I find out how my child did on standardized tests?
Test scores become a part of your child’s permanent record. When you attend parent-teacher conference you will have access to the scores from any tests your child took during the previous school year.
How much “teaching to the test” is done at JLS?
While some states require regular standardized testing on a predetermined body of material, the tests administered at JLS do not fall into that category. The tests our students take provide a way to gauge how well students are learning, not memorization of a particular set of facts.
Other than report cards, can I get more frequent updates on my child’s classroom progress?
If there is a particular subject area where you have concerns about your child’s progress, you may contact that teacher and arrange a way for you to more closely monitor their performance in that subject area.
Is the curriculum at JLS different than at other schools in the district?
No. JLS uses the same curriculum as all other RUSD elementary schools.
But while a third grade class at other elementary schools may spend three weeks on a particular area of study, JLS students might complete that work in two weeks. The additional time is spent with further exploration and enhancement of the material just learned. The goal is not to push students ahead of their grade level but rather to expand and broaden their learning.
What is the district “plan” that I hear so much about?
The Racine Unified School District has made a public commitment to its constituents to dramatically improve student performance. To achieve that goal, officials within the district have developed a multi-faceted plan which is in the process of being implemented. This plan is called the Quality District Model, or QDM. The first major element of this plan was to take a proactive approach toward improving the reading skills of every student in the district. The plan uses a combination of three specific components: continuous progress, mastery learning and psychologically-based theory. Students are tested, then placed in groups according to their abilities, with the opportunity to move up as their skills improve. In the current school year, a similar approach will be applied to teaching math skills.
What is continuous progress?
Continuous progress places children at their own individual achievement level and works with them from there. Students move on at their own pace, from their own starting point.
What is mastery learning?
Mastery learning means having students work at their own level of ability until they master that work—achieve a particular level of success, probably 80 percent (a B-level grade). Only then will they be moved to a more difficult level of study. For instance, a fourth grade student who reads at a mid-third grade level won’t be moved on to fourth-grade level reading until he or she has mastered third-grade reading. This student will still be in fourth grade, but the goal will be to close the gap between the grade level and the reading level.
What is psychologically based theory?
Psychologically-based theory makes all children responsible for their own behaviors. When exhibiting behavior that violates school or district rules, students will be presented with a series of questions: What are you doing? Do you know what the rule is? Can you follow that rule? Will you follow that rule? The goal is to help students take control of their own behavior and make appropriate choices. Many JLS staff have been trained in psychologically based theory.
Why are students put into groups for reading and math?
Sometimes teaching teams choose to reorganize the students at each grade level for reading and math. This provides some diversion for the students throughout the day. It also exposes them to different teachers and students. Students learn at different rates. Grouping students according to competency levels provides a way for their individual needs to be met—while some need extra help, others who master the material quickly need more challenges. Since math and reading are the core curriculum in the early grades, the goal is to provide each student with what they need to master the grade level work.
What is “Kids Korner”?
That’s the name of the resource room for Jefferson Lighthouse’s exceptional education program.
Is there a speech therapist at JLS?
The speech clinician is available one day per week. Students are helped in all areas of speech therapy. Students are referred by teachers who notice such difficulties. Students may also be tested at the request of the parent. If the child is in school, the parent should go through the school’s speech clinician to make an appointment.
How are special educational needs addressed?
Mrs. Cecilia Smith is the Special Education instructor at JLS. She works with students who have special educational needs, although on a limited basis when necessary. At JLS, all students are included in the regular classroom educational environment as much as possible.
What is the role of the Social Worker/Counselor at JLS?
Social Workers/Counselors are in the school system to help children develop a good attitude toward learning, build relationships and acquire appropriate social behaviors. Mrs. Peggy Redfearn, MSW, is the social worker/counselor at our school. She is available to JLS parents, students and teachers on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. At other times, she is serving students at Fine Arts School.
Mrs. Redfearn is responsible for:
• Making sure students are in school and on time every day
• Being part of the multi-disciplinary team for students with special needs
• Individual or group counseling as the need arises
• Provide references to community agencies and activities as the need arises
• Promoting student involvement and building school spirit at JLS, through program such as Student Council, the Peer Mediation program, etc.
How can I help in my child’s room or the school?
The PTA offers many opportunities for involvement in Jefferson Lighthouse School. There are many committees or events which require volunteer assistance. These needs are often publicized in the school’s monthly newsletter, “The Link” or in materials sent directly home from school with your child. In addition, you may also speak directly to your child’s teachers, letting them know of your desire to help at the school. The school office may also know of places where help is needed.
What are some things I can do to contribute to the school’s needs?
The best thing any parent can do is to remain interested and involved in your child’s day to day activities at school. There are also many opportunities for volunteer assistance within the school. The school also has a “wish list” which is published each month in the school newsletter, “The Link.” This list may include needs such as supplies for a particular project, assistance from people with specific talents and skills, or even equipment which could be donated to our school.
What days do students get off from school?
When school starts, parents will receive a calendar from both the school district and JLS, listing days when school will not be held. Some of the reasons for days off from school include: parent-teacher conferences, state teachers convention, holiday breaks, etc. The exact days are subject to change each year.
What are early release days?
There are six early release days scheduled for Racine Unified students each year, always on a Thursday. On an early release day, students start school at the regular time. However, they are dismissed two hours earlier than normal. During those two hours, teachers will receive specialized training or instruction. You will usually receive a note reminding you of an upcoming early release day a few days before it is scheduled.
What about weather-related school cancellations?
This is Wisconsin—it is probable that there will be at least one day each year when either snow or cold will cause the district to cancel school for the day, because it is deemed dangerous for children to attempt to get to school. Those days are made up at the end of the school year. The determination to close school is made quite early in the morning and is broadcast on most area radio and television stations. Changing weather conditions sometimes result in schools being closed early. Again, everything possible is done to notify parents that their students will be dismissed from school early. If more than two hours of classroom instruction has occurred by the time school is dismissed, that day does not have to be made up.
What sort of activities are held after school?
Unlike middle school and high school, there are not a lot of extra-curricular activities at the elementary school level. However, our students do have choices available to them. There are active Boy Scout and Girl Scout troops at JLS for all grades. You will receive notification of sign-ups for Scouting in the fall; meetings are then held in the school building on pre-determined days after the classroom day is done. Parents are responsible for picking up their children after Scout activities. Other after-school activities available include a PTA-sponsored foreign language program and Science and Technology Club. There are not any extra-curricular sports activities available through JLS at this time.
What is the foreign language program?
Each winter, the JLS PTA sponsors a special program to give students in grades 1-5 an early, basic exposure to foreign language education. Classes are held after school, once a week, for eight weeks usually during February and March, and are taught by students from local high schools’ foreign language programs. JLS parents have also taught or assisted with these classes. Classes are offered in Spanish, French, German, Latin, and sign language. You will receive sign-up information. Parents are responsible for picking their children up at the school after each class.
What does the JLS Student Council do?
The Student Council is overseen by our school’s social worker. The purpose of Student Council is to give students a role in leading and directing some of the activities at their school. It also provides a means for building school spirit and a sense of community. Student Council also provides an early exposure to basic politics and actions of a governing body. Student Council is available for children in grades three through five. Each third, fourth and fifth grade homeroom elects two representatives. Elected representatives who want to run for a particular office can ask to be put on the ballot. The third through fifth grade student body then votes to select the officers for that school year. The Student Council meets once a month during the lunch period. They may choose to take part in charitable fund-raising activities, designate a particular day each month as a fun day (such as Pajama Day, Crazy Hair Day, etc.) or determine other activities for the fun and enrichment of the entire student body.
What are Skatetown nights?
Once a month, a local roller skating facility (Skatetown) designates a particular evening for our school. It’s usually the first Tuesday of each month. On that night, students and their families are invited to come and have fun roller skating. There is a special price for the evening and a portion of the proceeds are returned to the school if more than 100 people attend. Food can also be purchased if your family doesn’t have time to eat dinner beforehand. You should receive a reminder about Skatetown nights a couple of days beforehand. This is an optional activity and no one is under any obligation to attend.
What are peer mediators?
Peer mediators are fourth and fifth grade students who demonstrate leadership qualities and abilities. They receive special training in mediating disputes and are called upon to hear and make decisions when there are simple disagreements between their fellow students. The peer mediation program is overseen by Mrs. Redfearn. Students are recommended for peer mediator positions by their teachers.
What is the WordMasters Challenge?
The WordMasters Challenge is a national language arts competition entered by over 250,000 students annually. It consists of three separate meets held at intervals during the school year. This is an enrichment and challenge activity for our students. Their performance on the test/meets do not affect their classroom grade. Teachers may assign a classroom activity or exercise using a word, which may be graded, but a student’s performance on the test is not counted toward their grade. The WordMasters Challenge is an exercise in critical thinking that first encourages students to become familiar with a set of interesting words (considerably harder than grade level) and then challenges them to use those words to complete analogies expressing various kinds of relationships. The reasoning ability developed by students participating in the WordMasters Challenge is like the aptitude measured for high school juniors and seniors by the verbal SAT I exam. The WordMasters word lists and analogies, however, have been specifically designed the challenge younger students, in grades three through eight. They are particularly well suited for able and interested children, who rise to the challenge of learning new words and enjoy the logical puzzle posed by analogies.
What is the fourth and fifth grade choir?
Students in those grades who enjoy singing are invited to audition for the JLS choir. The choir meets during recesses and lunch times, usually once a week. The choir performs one or two concerts during the school year.
What is the strings program?
JLS is one of only four elementary schools in the district that has a second and third grade Suzuki strings program. Students in those grades may choose to take lessons in either violin or cello. The lessons are given during school hours, once a week, in a small group setting. The student is responsible for making up any classroom work they miss during their lesson. The lessons are given by Mrs. Charlene Melzer, a talented and trained strings instructor and performer. The lessons are free; however the student’s family must rent an instrument and purchase any necessary instruction books and equipment. A family member must also commit to regularly attending the lessons and then working with the student at home during regular practice sessions. The strings students have formal performances several times throughout the year, both for their fellow students and their families. Students may continue with the Suzuki lessons with Mrs. Melzer when they reach fourth and fifth grade and become part of the JLS orchestra. Early musical instruction has been shown to have positive impact on student’s cognitive skills, and help provide a foundation for other areas of study, such as math, reading, history and culture.
What about band?
When students are in fifth grade, they may choose to learn how to play a band instrument through the JLS band program. Lessons are given weekly by Mr. Kopecky during regular school hours. Regular band rehearsals are held during school hours. Band performances are scheduled throughout the year. As with the second and third grade strings program, the student’s family is responsible for renting an instrument and purchasing whatever instruction books and other necessary items associated with the instrument.
What about orchestra?
When students are in fourth and fifth grade, they may choose to learn how to play a string instrument and be part of the JLS orchestra program. Lessons are given weekly during regular school hours. Regular orchestra rehearsals are held during school hours. Orchestra performances are scheduled throughout the year. As with the second and third grade strings program, the student’s family is responsible for renting an instrument and purchasing whatever instruction books and other necessary items associated with the instrument. Orchestra students do not have to have been part of the second and third grade strings program. Students who have been in the second and third grade strings program can take part in orchestra, either on the musical instrument they have been studying or a different string instrument of their choosing.
What is Battle of the Books?
Students in some of the fourth and fifth grade reading groups are encouraged to take part in a competition called Battle of the Books, sponsored by the Racine Public Library. Students work in teams and read from a pre-determined list of 40 books, which encompass a wide range of material: history, biography, poetry, novels, non-fiction, etc. In March and April, teams from JLS compete at the library in a live, quiz-show format against other teams from throughout Racine County. Questions are determined by the content of the books on the assigned list.
What is the JLS Geography Bee?
Started in 2005, the JLS Geography Bee really captured our students’ imaginations and got everyone thinking about the world in which we live. Sponsored by the PTA, a committee created weekly study sheets that students could fill out over a 12-week period. Cards posted in the hall tested our geography knowledge with brain teasers. Then in April, teams from each homeroom competed against each other live on the stage at lunchtime. The program was popular and fun and the PTA plans to do it again each year.
And there’s a Science and Technology Club, too?
Another new initiative from the PTA, the Science and Technology Club was started in the ‘04-’05 school year. Students who chose to participate met after school and learned about a different science topic each session. Parent volunteers developed the program and presented demonstrations, experiments and hands-on activities for the students.
What are student council theme days?
Throughout the year, the student council will designate a particular day each month, usually a Friday, as a “theme” day. Students decide on a fun theme, such as Crazy Hat Day or Hawaiian Day, and students are encouraged to take part with fitting attire. Student council members make posters for the hall to publicize the event.
What is “Reflections?”
Reflections is a cultural arts program of the National PTA which encourages students in grades K-12 to express their thoughts and feelings through the creative arts. Each year a new theme is chosen and students create artwork at home or school. There are four different categories of artwork in which students can compete: literature, visual arts, photography and music. The entries are then evaluated on a state-wide level. Students who win a state award then go on to compete against winning entries from other states for national honors. Students at JLS love Reflections! We regularly have more students who choose to enter than any other school in the district, and have had several state winners in the past. The PTA honors everyone who enters Reflections with an ice cream party in May. Watch for Reflections entry information in November. Submissions are due in early December.
Are JLS students able to take part in a Science Fair?
Yes, all students in the Racine Unified School District are invited to take part in a district-wide Science Fair, held in April at Racine’s Festival Hall. Watch for your child to bring information home in March.
Does JLS have a school carnival?
For the past several years, the late-winter season has been livened up with our PTA-sponsored school carnival, usually held on a Saturday in early March. Families come to the school for games, entertainment, food and fun. An obstacle course in the gym, a raffle and a cakewalk are just some of the attractions.
What kind of activities are held for Teacher Appreciation week?
Each May, the JLS PTA takes part in activities for National Teacher Appreciation Week. A committee plans special event and activities throughout the week to let our teachers know how much we appreciate their creativity, expertise and energy.
Is there a policy about giving gifts to teachers?
Most teachers at JLS have many years of experience teaching and they’d tell you that they teach because they love it. They are enthusiastic about their profession and take pride in helping students succeed.You may choose to give our teachers a small gift, but it is never required. A heartfelt thank-you note from you or your child is always appreciated. Should you choose, gifts which are appreciated may include gift cards/certificates from local bookstores, discount stores, restaurants or stores which cater to teachers.
A first grade musical? That sounds like a big undertaking.
The JLS First Grade Musical is legendary. For more than 20 years, our first grade team has been doing the impossible: producing a professionally staged musical revue highlighting the talents of 100 seven year-olds. Each student has some lines to memorize and deliver; they also sing and dance their way through more than a dozen different songs. Parents are also actively involved, helping with set decoration, costumes and make-up. Preparation for the musical begins in January and the show is presented for fellow students and parents at the end of May. Students learn far more than just singing and dancing. The experience builds teamwork, poise, and confidence, which are skills students will draw on throughout their lives.
Is there any sort of ceremony or program to honor fifth graders as they move on to middle school?
The transition from elementary to middle school is an important stepping stone for our students. JLS recognizes this event with a special program called Fifth Grade Awards Night, organized by the fifth grade team of teachers with support from the PTA. On that evening, students and their parents gather in the school gym. Students are honored for a variety of achievements and accomplishments. Each student is recognized and receives some special mementos of their fifth grade year at JLS.
Are students’ birthdays recognized at school?
Students may choose to celebrate their birthdays by bringing a treat to share with the members of their homeroom class. Students whose birthdays fall on a weekend, day off from school or summer vacation can bring in a treat at another time if they want. Students’ birthdays are posted on a special bulletin board in the first floor hallway near the gym. PTA volunteers decorate the board with a different theme each month and list each student who has a birthday during that month.
How should invitations to birthday parties or other social events be handled?
Invitations to events like this should be distributed outside of the school environment to avoid hurt feelings among those who are not invited to the activity.
Does JLS support any charitable organizations or events?
Students at JLS regularly take part in several charitable activities throughout the year. Programs like this help our students understand and connect with their community and the world at large. Some are sponsored by Student Council (such as Coins for Cancer), others by the
PTA (Sixth Street Bridge outreach) or others by a particular class (Jump Rope for Heart in gym class). Student participation is always voluntary, but our students always come through for these events in a big way.
What is the procedure for field trips?
Field trips are determined by the teaching team for each grade level. Typically, each grade takes several field trips each year. Some trips are directly related to a particular area in that grade level’s curriculum; others are designed to simply enhance the student’s educational experience. For the most part, field trips at JLS take place during the course of a regular school day.
Who pays for field trips?
Parents/guardians will receive information about an upcoming field trip from the student’s homeroom teacher. There will be a permission slip and information about the cost of the trip. The permission slip and payment must then be returned to school as soon as possible. If any family is not able to pay the cost for a field trip they may confidentially contact the school. Funds are available so that no child is ever left out of a field trip opportunity. Each year, PTA provides funds for each grade level to help offset the costs of field trips for all students.
When are PTA meetings?
Our regular business meetings for the ‘05-’06 school year will be held on the second Thursday of each month, starting at 6 p.m. in the school library.
What happens at PTA meetings?
Don’t worry—it’s not all boring “Roberts’ Rules of Order” stuff. Yes, we have a gavel, but we seldom use it. Members of the executive board and the principal present reports about what’s going on—like the status of our budget—and then, committee chairpersons may also share what’s their group is doing. Old business, new business, pleasant company and a few good laughs—PTA meetings are a great way to connect with other parents and get a better idea of what’s happening at your child’s school. Sometimes we’ll have a special guest speaker at our meetings, too.
What are “Chat Time” meetings?
These are informal meetings held once a month, usually on a Friday morning. These sessions are a great opportunity to raise questions or discuss matters in an in-depth fashion with other involved parents.
What do I do with my children during meetings?
Bring them along—the JLS PTA provides FREE child care in the gym during our meetings. The kids love it—they get to run, yell and play with other kids from school while you get to interact with real, live grown-ups at the meeting.
Why should I be a member?
Being a member supports our local, state and national PTA organizations and gives you access to a wide variety of information regarding education and parenting on the National PTA website.
If I’m not a member, can I still attend meetings and can my child take part in PTA-sponsored events?
Absolutely! PTA events are designed to benefit all children in our school community—and no one is ever turned away nor denied a voice at our meetings. You are also welcome to volunteer and serve our school through PTA-sponsored programs whether or not you’re a member. However, you must be a member in order to vote on PTA matters.
How much does it cost to be a member?
Annual membership in the JLS PTA costs $10 per adult, $15 for two adults. Membership forms are sent home with students on the first day of school and are also available in the school lobby and at PTA meetings throughout the year.
What can you tell me about the annual pizza sale?
The pizza sale is the PTA’s major fundraiser each year. Held in January, students may sell pizzas and other food products to their families, friends and neighbors. The food products are delivered in March. Parents and enthusiastic students have helped make this a very successful endeavor for our school.
What is “Market Day?”
Market Day is a company that sells restaurant-quality food to families and individuals, with a portion of the purchase price going to benefit the JLS PTA. Order forms are sent home with students monthly; orders can then be returned to the school or entered online. Families pick up their food orders at the school on a particular day and time. Participation is not required but many families have found this tasty, convenient food meets their needs and are regular customers each month.
What is “Citizen of the Year?”
Each year, every Racine PTA honors one person for their contributions to their school community for the benefits of children and education. It can be a parent, teacher, administrator, volunteer or staff member. The PTA seeks nominations for this honor each spring. The Citizen of the Year is selected by a vote of the members attending the April PTA meeting. Our Citizen of the Year is then honored with those from other schools at the Racine PTA Council banquet.
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