Welcome to
Charlotte Avenue Elementary School
Charlotte Avenue Elementary School is committed to providing a quality education for our children.
Education is a shared partnership among families, staff, students, and community. Active involvement can be achieved through PTA membership, becoming a shared decision-making team member, and volunteering in the classroom. We encourage family participation by taking advantage of the many opportunities CAS offers to contribute to your child’s educational success.
Mission Statement
The children of Charlotte Avenue School (CAS) will be (C) confident, creative citizens who (A) achieve academic excellence by being (S) strong, self-motivated students!
Main Office Staff. . . . . . . .646-3370
Fax: 646-6396
Mrs.Danielle Grimm-Principal
Mrs. Joyce Marzullo-Secretary
School Counselor. . . . . . . . . . .646-3397
School Hours
Prekindergarten
Morning Session 9:00 a.m. –11:30 a.m.
Afternoon Session 12:30 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Kindergarten–Level 5-
8:40 a.m. – 2:25 p.m.
v Students will be allowed to proceed to their classrooms beginning at 8:30 a.m.
v At dismissal students will leave the building and proceed directly home.
v Any student participating in extracurricular activities before or after school must have prior parent/school permission.
Arrival /Dismissal Procedures
q Please note: the driveway and parking lot are one-way. You may not pass the buses when the bus flashers are on. This applies to both parking lot lanes.
q If driving your child/children to school please do not arrive between 8:20 – 8:30 a.m. This gives the buses time to arrive, have the students disembark from the bus and leave for their next route.
q When pulling into the driveway please pull as close to the stop signs as possible. This permits
q Keep in mind there is a walkway between the curb and your car when pulling into the driveway. This space (marked with a yellow line) provides the children a safe exit from the car to the sidewalk. After letting your child/children off in the driveway, please observe the stop signs.
q According to New York State Law it is illegal to pass a school bus when their RED FLASHING LIGHTS are on!
q Please observe the NO PARKING signs in front of the school.
q Please encourage your child/children who walk to utilize the crosswalks where the safety patrol is stationed.
q If there is a change in your child’s dismissal routine:
ü Notify the office in writing in advance whenever possible.
ü List classroom teacher, student’s name, and information pertaining to the change. Be sure to include: name and address of person whose house they are going to and bus number if applicable. Anyone picking up student other than a parent/guardian may need to show identification.
PreKindergarten Dismissal
*Please Remember:
After School Child Care:
The Southtowns YMCA offers before and after school childcare program Monday-Friday from 7:00 a.m.-8:25 a.m. and
2:30-6:00 p.m. Contact the Southtowns YMCA at 662-9369.
School Closings:
Occasionally school is closed due to poor weather conditions or extenuating circumstances. Local radio and television stations will give news pertaining to the closing of the Hamburg Central Schools. These closings include all evening activities.
Bikes, Skateboards, Scooters, and Roller blades:
Bus Information
Any questions you may have about the bus should be directed to Fisher Bus at 648-7766.
Alternate Site Transportation– is provided for children who need to be transported regularly to and/or from a location other than their home address for three or more days per week. Parents need to fill out an Alternate Site Application for Transportation which can be obtained from your school’s office. If you have arrangements for only one or two days a week or a schedule that varies, please send a note to the office each week or each day for bus passes. A new Alternate Site Application must be submitted to Fisher Bus (for approval), SEVEN DAYS prior to effective date of change. Upon receipt, Fisher Bus Service will notify parent/guardian of approval or disapproval of the applicaton.
Bus Behavior-
The expectations for behavior and conduct while on the bus include:
1. remaining quietly seated while the bus is in motion
2. keeping hands and heads within the bus at all times
3. keeping the aisles clear of backpacks, books, coats, etc.
4. responding respectfully to supervising adults.
Bus Policy-
The following is a listing of the disciplinary policy carried out for students who do not comply with the following:
The first violation leads to home contact (by mail) by officials of Fisher Bus. A very serious incident could result in immediate disciplinary action, but most first offences will be considered a time for warning.
A second violation should result in a timely notification to the home and school by the bus company officials. The school will follow up on these notices with an administrative conference with the student (and parents if necessary) at which time appropriate disciplinary action will be taken.
A third violation will result in a suspension of bus privileges.
Visiting Our School
To ensure the safety of all students we ask that you:
Ø Enter through the Main Office doors. Press the buzzer for door assistance.
Ø Persons with disabilities may enter through the ramp door. Press buzzer for door assistance.
Ø Obtain a visitor pass at front desk.
Ø Sign visitor log upon arrival and departure.
Note: *Items brought to school while school is in session must be left in the main office.
Health Office Services
Mrs. Cheryl Ehlers, RN School Nurse
Health Office- 646-3373
Includes voice mail available 24 hours a day.
The Health Office is located directly across from the cafeteria.
Reporting an Absence/Tardy
Whenever a student is absent/tardy please call the health office. A written absence/tardy excuse stating the reason must accompany the student when he/she returns to school. An absence will become illegal if a written note is not sent to school.
Leaving School Early
Hamburg Central Schools
Health Services:
· Medical Health Appraisal: (Physical examination) of students in Levels 1, 3, 7, 10, and all new entrants. Parents who prefer to have their children examined by their private physician are requested to contact the school nurse for the necessary health form prior to physicals set up by the school.
· Annual Screening Procedures: The following are annual screening procedures:
*Hearing *Color Perception
*Height and Weight *Scoliosis (Levels 4 & 5)
· Accident and Emergency Treatment: Any accidents or injuries during the school day
will be assessed by the Health Office.
·Emergencies at School: We have a well-qualified team who responds to both medical and non-medical emergencies. When you are in the building and you hear that a “Lock Down" is in effect, the team will be responding. Please proceed to the nearest classroom.
Guidelines for keeping your child home from school:
You should not send your child to school if he/she has:
§ Fever in the past 24 hours.
§ Vomiting in the past 24 hours.
§ Diarrhea in the past 24 hours.
§ Strep throat until on antibiotics for 24 hours.
§ Bad cold with a very runny nose, extremely congested, or a bad cough that would be
§ Head lice until treated and nit free.
§ Pink eye until on antibiotic eye drops for 24 hours.
§ Undiagnosed rash.
Medications:
Do not send medications of any kind to school with your child. No medication (including Tylenol, Motrin, stomach medications, inhalers, cough medication, or cough drops), may be given during the school hours, by the school nurse, unless you comply with the following regulation of the New York State Law:
1. A written order from the doctor, indicating name, frequency and dosage of medication.
2. Written permission from the parent allowing the school nurse to dispense the medication.
3. A supply of the medication, properly labeled in the original container.
DO NOT SEND ANY MEDICATION TO SCHOOL WITH A CHILD.
Health Curriculum:
The Health Curriculum is taught to all students in levels K-5 by the district Elementary Health
Teacher: Mrs. Mary Lynn Gallagher.
The following units are taught:
Elementary School Code of Conduct
Student Rights and Responsibilities
The District is committed to safeguarding the rights given to all students under state and federal law. However, with all rights come responsibilities.
STUDENT RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES
The District is committed to safeguarding the rights given to all students under state and federal law. However, with all rights come responsibilities.
STUDENT BILL OF RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES
With every right comes a responsibility.
It is the student's right: It is the student's responsibility:
1) | To attend school in the district in which one's parent or legal guardian resides. | → | To attend school daily, regularly and on time, perform assignments, and strive to do the highest quality work possible and be granted the opportunity to receive a good education. | |
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2) | To expect that school will be a safe, orderly and purposeful place for all students to gain an education and to be treated fairly. | → | To be aware of all rules and expectations regulating student's behavior and conduct oneself in accordance with these guidelines. | |
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3) | To be respected as an individual. | → | To respect one another, and to treat others in the manner that one would want to be treated. | |
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4) | To express one's opinions verbally or in writing. | → | To express opinions and ideas in a respectful manner so as not to offend, slander, or restrict, the rights and privileges of others. | |
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5) | To dress in such a way as to express one's personality. | → | To dress appropriately in accordance with the dress code, so as not to endanger physical health, safety, limit participation in school activities or be unduly distracting. | |
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6) | To be afforded equal and appropriate educational opportunities. | → | To be aware of available educational programs in order to use and develop one's capabilities to their maximum. | |
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7) | To take part in all school activities on an equal basis regardless of race, color creed, religion, religious practice, sex, sexual orientation, gender, national origin, ethnic group, political affiliation, age, marital status, or disability. | → | To work to the best of one's ability in all academic and extracurricular activities, as well as being fair and supportive of others. | |
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8) | To have access to relevant and objective information concerning drug and alcohol abuse, as well as access to individuals or agencies capable of providing direct assistance to students with serious personal problems. | → | To be aware of the information and services available and to seek assistance in dealing with personal problems, when appropriate. | |
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9) | To be protected from intimidation, harassment, or discrimination based on actual or perceived race, color, weight, national origin, ethnic group, religion, or religious practice, sex, gender/gender identity, sexual orientation, or disability, by employees or students on school property or at a school-sponsored event, function or activity. | → | To respect one another and treat others fairly in accordance with the District Code of Conduct and the provisions of the Dignity Act. To conduct themselves in a manner that fosters an environment that is free from intimidation, harassment, or discrimination. To report and encourage others, to report any incidents of intimidation, harassment or discrimination. | |
Elementary Student Rights and Responsibilities
This Code of Conduct is an explanation of the behavior that is expected of students in our elementary schools. It applies to student behaviors in and out of the school buildings including, but not limited to classrooms, auditoriums, cafeterias, field trips and buses. We believe that responsible behavior results in privileges. This Code of Conduct is meant to stop problems before they start; if students misbehave they must accept the consequences, penalties or loss of privileges. We will maintain contact with parents and guardians to make sure the policies and consequences of the Code are understood and successfully carried out.
and other staff.
and equipment (books, computers,
playground facilities, etc.)
and other staff.
either with hands or words. way they would like to be treated.
based on differences that occur that supports an environment that is free
at school events. from intimidation, discrimination, and
harassment. To report and encourage others to report when they see
negative events occurring.
“I Care Rules”:
These rules are affirmative statements, which promote positive behavior and good citizenship.
1)We listen to each other.
2) Hands are for helping, not hurting.
3) We are responsible for what we say.
4) We use I-Care Language.
5)We care about each other’s feelings.
Support Services
Mrs. Gilhooley, School Counselor
Counseling Office– 646-3397
There are times when children and families face crises, which have an impact on their school performance. Parents may take comfort in knowing that our teachers are caring, professional people. Sensitive family issues, will remain confidential.
Counseling:
The counseling program at CAS provides group and individual counseling for children in grades K-5.
Topics include identifying the child’s strength’s as they relate to divorce, grief, friendships, anger management, stress, and improving behavior. Our preventive counseling program also provides classroom instruction based on the “We Care Rules” and the Second Step Violence Prevention Program in all grade levels.
Topics include:
District Family Support Center
The Family Support Center of Hamburg in partnership with parents and community human services agencies serves the residents of the Frontier and Hamburg School Districts. The goal of this partnership is to improve student’s achievement and behaviors at school by identifying strengths and resources in families and schools focusing them toward a common goal. The Family Support Center sessions are completely confidential, and can be scheduled during the day or early evening. To make an appointment or for more information, contact your child’s school counselor, social worker, principal, or the Family Support Center directly at 646-9593.
Charlotte Avenue Student Support Team (SST)
The Student Support Team is a group of school personnel formed in order to address both academic and behavioral concerns. The team meets at the request of the teacher, parent, or administrator to discuss specific concerns. Our approach is to capitalize on student’s successes while discussing concerns, developing recommendations and strategies, while monitoring student progress.
Academic Intervention Services (AIS)
Our testing occasionally reveals children who may need extra instructional support in reading, math, and writing. Teachers’ recommendations also help the school to provide this important resource to children. In such instances, parents are notified by a letter from the principal.
Other Services:
Peer Helpers:
Peer helpers are fifth grade students who are trained to assist other students in a variety of tasks in order to gain valuable leadership skills. Students are chosen at the end of fourth grade. They participate in two and one half days of training during the summer where they are taught listening, friendship, and trust-building skills. Peer Helpers meet with the school counselor twice a month during lunch to review assignments. The peer helpers duties may include meeting new students, reading to smaller children, tutoring, and other community service activities.
Other Student Service Activities:
Safety Patrol, Morning Announcements
Dress Code:
Students have a responsibility to dress in a manner that promotes health, safety, full participation in school activities, and does not interfere with the educational process.
Parent Teacher Student Association (PTSA):
PTSA is a very active and supportive group at Charlotte Avenue Elementary School. The PTSA sponsors numerous school and family activities as well as educational programs/assemblies throughout the school year. Parents are encouraged to join and take an active part in PTSA.
Lunch Program
Hamburg Central Schools makes lunch available in the schools. The Food Service Department operates on a self-sustaining basis. Prices are set annually by the Board of Education and posted on the menus printed in the Focus. Extra items are available for sale for students who carry a lunch.
Free or Reduced Lunches: Applications are sent home for free or reduced meals to all students on the first day of school each year. Anyone eligible may apply then or at any time. One application is needed per family. The application allows benefits for both breakfast and lunch.
*Anyone receiving a letter from Social Services which qualifies them for benefits must list the name(s) of their child(ren) and the school(s) and grade(s) they are attending, then submit the original letter to the Food Service Department. With a Social Service letter, there is no need to submit a free or reduced price meal application.
Pre-Payment for Meals: The Food Service Department also makes available a pre-payment plan for meals. The cafeteria keeps an account of meal money used. Payment can be made by cash or check payable to “Hamburg School Lunch Fund” and submitted to the cafeteria.
Cafeteria Rules:
Physical Education:
Students in Levels Kindergarten-5 participate in physical education classes twice per week. All physical education students are required to wear sneakers. No jewelry is allowed.
*For students who need to wear glasses during physical education class, a permission note from home is requested.
*For students who need to be excused from physical education classes, a note is required indicating the reason and duration.
*For students who need to be excused for an extended period of time, a physician’s note is requested. Contact the school nurse for further information and/or necessary forms.
Levels K-3:
Students do not change clothes. Please keep this in mind when dressing for school on physical education days.
Levels 4-5:
Students need a change of clothes: sneakers, socks, shorts, and t-shirt (a sweatshirt and sweatpants for cooler weather) to keep in their gym locker. Please place name on all clothing. Gym locks must be purchased from the physical education teacher.
Intramurals:
As an outgrowth of our physical education program a variety of intramural activities are offered to all level 4 and 5 students. To participate, prior parental permission is required. The school does not provide transportation.
Music Activities:
Vocal Music
Students at CAS participate in music class twice a week (K-3), once a week plus chorus ( 4-5). Also included in our music program are:
The School Musicals
Erie County Chorus- Level 5 students are selected by audition to represent CAS.
Select Chorus- Open to Levels 4-5 by audition in the fall and spring. Rehearsals are held before and after school.
Instrumental Music
Art Education:
Students at CAS participate in the art education program once a week. All students are required to bring a cover-up to protect their clothing.
Library Media Center:
The library media center enables students to become effective users of ideas and information, as well as promote the enjoyment of literature through a variety of activities. Students K-5 will attend the Library Media Center once a week.
Parent/Teacher Conferences:
Parent/Teacher conferences will be held in the fall. Please refer to the district calendar for dates. A parent or teacher may request a conference at any time.
Report Cards:
Report cards are issued at different times throughout the year according to grade level.
*Notification of class assignments for the next school year will be mailed home at the end of August.
The Hamburg Central School District (HCSD hereafter) recognizes that effective use of technology is important to our students and will be essential to them as adults. Consequently, the School System will provide access to various computerized information resources through the District’s computer system (DCS hereafter) consisting of software, hardware, computer networks and electronic communications systems. This may include access to electronic mail, so called “on-line services” and “Internet.” The District shall provide personnel support for such usage.
Student and Parent - End User Agreement
In order to continue as a user of the Hamburg Central School District’s computer facilities, equipment, and Internet accounts, I understand that it is necessary to comply with District policy and regulations for the use of technology as presently in force and as may be amended from time to time. A violation of the District’s policy and/or regulations regarding use of computerized information resources (“Acceptable Use Guidelines”) may result in the loss of computer access, disciplinary action and/or prosecution in accordance with law, regulation and/or the District Code of Conduct. I further understand that access to the computer facilities will include filtered access to the Internet.
*I understand that individuals and families may be liable for violations of District policies and regulations/procedures for such use. While every reasonable effort will be made by School District personnel to monitor proper usage and provide Internet filters to questionable materials, I also accept responsibility for guidance of Internet use – setting and conveying standards for my son/daughter to follow when selecting, sharing or exploring information and media. Students who abuse the acceptable use of technology on the Internet may be removed from access in accordance with applicable due process procedures.
*I have reviewed the HCSD Acceptable Use Policy and Regulations for use of technology with my son/daughter. In consideration of the use of the HCSD networks and in consideration for having access to the information contained on them and an Internet account, I release the HCSD from any claims of any nature arising from my son/daughter’s use of the Internet.
Request To Deny Computer Usage
In order to achieve the career development and technical education (occupational) learning standards articulated by the New York State Department of Education, students will be provided access to instructional materials and processes only available through the use of computers. I understand that if I do not request, in writing, that my child is not to use computers, an account will be created to facilitate such access. Parent / guardian requests to deny student use of District computers will be considered in accordance with law and/or regulations. This information is an excerpt of HCSD Policy 7314 – Student Use of Computerized Information Resources.
The full text of this policy can be found at http://www.hamburgschools.org.
Children Learn What They Live
If a child lives with criticism,
he learns to condemn.
If a child lives with hostility,
he learns to fight.
If a child lives with fear,
he learns to be apprehensive.
If a child lives with pity,
he learns to be sorry for himself.
If a child lives with jealousy,
he learns to feel guilty.
If a child lives with encouragement,
he learns to be confident.
If a child lives with tolerance,
he learns to be patient.
If a child lives with praise,
he learns to be appreciative.
If a child lives with acceptance,
he learns to love.
If a child lives with approval,
he learns to like himself.
If a child lives with recognition,
he learns to have a goal.
If a child lives with fairness,
he learns what justice is.
If a child lives with security,
he learns to have faith in himself.
If a child lives with friendliness,
he learns that a world is a nice place
in which to live.
-Dorothy Law Nolte