Student & Family Handbook
Nottingham West Students and Parents,
On behalf of the entire staff, we would like to welcome you to the 2023-2024 school year. We are very excited about this school year. For all of us, each school year is a new adventure. We look forward to making this a successful year for all students.
We hope that you will have a happy and healthy year of learning, and we look forward to working with you during the year. We strive to maintain an educational atmosphere that we know will be exciting for you each day. We want you to know that you are all important members of our school community. Together, we can create an environment that is conducive to learning.
This year our handbook is completely online, with the hopes that it is easier to access. Please take some time to review it as a family. It is written with students and families in mind and explains school programs and expectations. This handbook provides a ready reference to information concerning district policies and school procedures.
Learning to be a positive member of the school community is a very important part of school for every student. Students, this means showing respect for others, showing respect for yourself, and being responsible for your own actions. We will be emphasizing a climate of respect throughout the school year. You are expected to work with everyone in your classroom and around school cooperatively and respectfully. You need to arrive on time and be ready to learn. We want you to strive to be the best person possible. Our school rules help keep the school a safe place for everyone.
Please refer to the handbook when you want to know about procedures at school. If you have a question, you can ask a teacher, our school counselors, Mr. Blais & Ms. Fitzgerald, Special Education Department Head, Mrs. Leary, Preschool Department Head, Ms. Greaves, our Principal, Mr. Baker and our Assistant Principal, Mrs. Hussey.
We are looking forward to an exciting year with you!
Sincerely yours,
Scott G. Baker, Principal
Gloria Hussey, Assistant Principal
Our Vision
Hudson exemplifies excellence in education. “Facilitate and Educate to Elevate”
Our Mission
Innovative learning practices and empowered educators facilitate and inspire learners to achieve personal academic excellence in a safe and dynamic environment that elevates their engagement as valued active community members.
Core Beliefs
The Hudson School Community values and is committed to:
Strong and Respectful Relationships
- Building strong, appropriate relationships
- Respecting individuals • Building on the strengths within the educational environment.
- Embrace and champion the diversity of our school community to foster success.
Curiosity for Learning and Commitment to Excellence
- Fostering a curiosity for life-long learning that inspires commitment to personal excellence
- Continuously driving improvement to achieve greater depths of academic knowledge.
Responsive via Honest and Open Communication
- Strengthening cohesiveness through honest and open communication
- Honest and ethical with integrity in all practice.
- Increasing collaboration that supports systemic connections. Engaging Environment
- Creating dynamic educational environments
- Engaging all learners in authentic, relevant learning
Mission Statement of the Hudson Elementary Schools
Mission Statement of the Hudson Elementary Schools The mission of the Hudson Elementary Schools is to help all members of our school communities to become lifelong learners. Our goal is to create a safe environment conducive to learning; one that challenges students to reach their potential, promotes self-worth, values diversity and encourages involvement
Being informed about your child's school can help in their academic success. Hills Garrison School communicates with parents through these methods:
District website - School Board information, budget, departments, policies
Monthly school menu posted on the district website under Food & Nutrition Services and under "Families" on the school website
Nottingham West website https://www.sau81.org/nws/index
Nottingham West Elementary School Facebook page www.facebook.com/NottinghamWestElementary
Nottingham West Parents PTO Facebook page www.facebook.com/groups/nottinghamwestpto
Classroom Teachers: See your child’s Communicator Folder for teacher name, voice mail number, email address, and specialist schedule
School Day: 8:45 a.m. to 3:05 p.m.
Drop off Begins at 8:20 a.m.
Students may begin arriving at school at 8:20 A.M. There is no supervision before that time, and students cannot enter the building until 8:20. Classroom instruction begins at 8:45 AM, which is the official opening time of the school day. Students arriving after 8:45 a.m. must check in at the main office.
The front of the building serves as the school bus loop. Please refrain from parking and driving past the front of the building from 8:20 a.m. to 8:40 a.m. and from 2:45 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. to enable safe entry and exit of school buses.
Morning Drop Off/Car Pool
Students may be dropped off between 8:20 a.m. to 8:40 a.m. A teacher will be on duty at the rear of the building to supervise student arrival. For the safety of the students and staff, please make three (3) lanes of traffic and wait for the staff member to signal you to move forward. We ask that your child be seated behind the driver if possible, to expedite the drop off process. If you arrive after 8:40 a.m., you must drive to the front of the building and drop off your child at the front door.
The Fire Department has asked that parents dropping off students do not arrive before 8:10 a.m. Please observe STATE LAW and do not idle your car while waiting in the school zone.
Pick up begins at 3:05 p.m. (parents can arrive for pick up at 2:45 p.m.)
Afternoon Pick Up/Car Pool
Dismissal is at 3:05 p.m. and all students must be picked up by 3:20 p.m. If your child normally rides the bus and you are going to pick up your child at dismissal, please send in a note to your child’s teacher or call the office before 2:00 p.m. on the day of pick-up.
You will be assigned a CARPOOL PLACARD NUMBER if you will be picking up your student on a regular basis. The placard must be displayed on your dashboard. If you do not have a placard, be prepared to show a Photo ID.
The Fire Department has asked that parents picking up students do not arrive before 2:45 p.m. Please observe STATE LAW and do not idle your car while waiting in the school zone.
If you need to dismiss your student early, please park in the front of the building, and plan to depart by 2:45 p.m. If you arrive after this time, you will be asked to join the carpool line for pick up as you will not be able to pass school buses as they load students.
Student safety is a top priority for the Hudson School District. To ensure safety, we follow a dismissal procedure that requires students to be released only to the parents or emergency contacts listed on the emergency release form. Picture identification is required for all individuals before the child will be released. If you would like another individual to pick your child up, please send a note stating who will be picking up your child.
Students Dismissed as Walkers
If your child is to be dismissed as a walker, please write a note authorizing their release. Students will exit the front door of the building.
Consistent attendance and punctuality are essential to your child’s success in school. Absences and tardiness can result in the loss of instructional time which may impact educational progress. Please refer to the Hudson School District Attendance, Tardiness, and Truancy Policy. Please make every effort to have your children in school every day unless they are ill or in cases of emergency.
Reporting Absences
Please contact us to let us know if you child is going to be absent from school.
- Use the absentee form
- Call our absentee voicemail line at Nottingham West: 603 595-1570, X-3
To ensure the safety and well-being of all our students, we will notify parents/guardians if we have not received a call or absence form about a student who has not arrived at school. Notifications will be made through the School Messenger system of the PowerSchool Parent Portal. When your child returns to school, please send a note explaining the reason for the absence. This information is kept on file for the annual report of illness to the State Department of Health.
If a student is expected to have an extended absence due to illness, study materials may be requested from your child’s teacher. Please understand that it is not always possible for teachers to provide assignments when requested in advance of student absence. Although teachers may be able to provide materials for students to use at home, specific assignments may need to wait until a child returns to school following an absence. Assignments completed by students while absent from school may not adequately replace missed instruction in the classroom.
Permission for Early Dismissal
If your child must be dismissed early from school, please write a note to the teacher stating the reason and time of the dismissal. Parents or guardians are to report to the Main Office to sign out the student.
For Students:
There are four Core Values at Nottingham West to guide student behavior. These are called the PAWS rules. The purpose of these rules is to create a safe and caring school community where everyone can learn. Students are expected to follow these rules during every part of their school day, including on the bus, on the playground, in the classroom, in the cafeteria and in the halls. Your teacher will help you and your classmates create specific behavior guidelines for the classroom to be sure you have a positive place to learn.
- Positive Attitude
- Act Responsibly
- Work and Play Safely
- Show Respect
Positive Attitude means coming to school each day ready to learn, trying your best even when things are hard, and encouraging and supporting your classmates and school community.
Accept Responsibility means following routines and expected behaviors, taking care of your belonging, and keeping your focus on your schoolwork.
Work and Play Safely means using your body safely, staying in your personal space, and following health and safety guidelines.
Show Respect means treating others with kindness and courtesy, being cooperative and being a good listener.
Parents: Please see the Appendix for more information on the PAWS Expectations for Nottingham West, and the Hudson School District Student Behavior Standards. These standards provide the framework for our progressive discipline system and identify specific behaviors and possible school responses.
All members of the Nottingham West community, including students, teachers, staff and family members, are expected to meet PAWS Core Values in their communication and interactions with each other at school.
Student Behavior Action Report
When a student has difficulty meeting school wide behavior expectations, a behavior action report may be completed. This report notifies parents of the specific concerning behavior and action taken to help support more positive choices in the future.
Student Support Center/In-School Suspension/Out of School Suspension
Students having behavioral challenges may visit our Student Support Center during a recess and/or lunch meeting. This time provides an opportunity to discuss and process the problem behavior, and to make plans for handling similar problems in the future. Students may spend this time learning about positive behavior with books, videos, writing or other activities, and through conversations with Student Support Center staff, School Counselors or administrators.
During an in-school suspension, students will continue to receive academic support in the Student Support Center, while being separated from the classroom community for a period of time. In-school suspension is also a time for students to continue learning about how their behavior affects others.
Students may be suspended out of school after repeated in-school detentions/suspensions, or for safety violations and gross misconduct as defined in the Hudson School District Behavior Standards. Suspension may be from one to five days. After a suspension, a re-entry meeting will be held with the student, parent(s) and administration to outline expectations for return to school.
The Hudson School District is committed to providing all pupils a safe school environment in which all members of the school community are treated with respect. Bullying is conduct which subjects a person to insults, taunts, or challenges, whether verbal or physical in nature, that are likely to intimidate or provoke a violent or disorderly response from the person being treated in this manner. Please refer to the School District policy on bullying for more information on how school staff responds to reports of alleged bullying behavior.
Teachers, school counselors, administrators and the School Resource Officer work together to educate students about bullying, including:
- Bullying behaviors
- How to respond to negative behaviors and bullying
- How to seek help from adults and how to report bullying
- How to support peers who may be experiencing bullying
Students: If you live outside the walking limits to school you have the privilege of riding the bus to and from school. To maintain an efficient, orderly, and safe means of transportation, please remember to be on your best behavior on the bus, in the bus lines at school, and neighborhood bus stop areas.
| Positive Attitude | Greet your driver |
| Act Responsibily |
Take care of your belongings Arrive on time |
| Work & Play Safely |
Stay seated Respect personal space |
| Show Respect |
Use quiet voices Follow directions |
Parents: While riding the bus, students are expected follow the same expectations as they are throughout the school day. While driving the school bus, the school bus driver is in complete charge of the school bus and the students, and has the same authority in maintaining discipline as a teacher in the classroom. Riding the bus is a privilege which may be revoked if students are not able to maintain safe and appropriate behavior.
Students are assigned to one bus route and cannot ride another bus unless permission is given by the Transportation Coordinator and/or the principal. In case of emergency, parents must request in writing a change for the specified day. Students will be given a Bus Pass. Please provide the name of the student and the address to which they will be transported with a name and phone number for the adult at that address.
Boarding the School Bus
- Arrive at the bus stop at least five minutes before the bus is due.
- Keep at least five feet away from the roadway until the bus has fully stopped. In the winter, DO NOT stand on the snowbanks.
- At the driver’s signal, approach the bus in a single file. Do not push and shove or run to the bus. When approaching the road, keep at least ten feet from the bus (safety zone) until you are at the entrance door.
- If you must cross in front of the bus, do not begin to cross until the driver signals you that it is safe to do so. Then look left and right, before crossing. Always keep at least ten feet in front of the bus (the student should always be able to see the driver). Cross only in front of the bus.
- After boarding the bus, go directly to a seat and sit down facing forward with arms, legs, and belongings out of the aisle. NOTE: Drivers will often assign seats during the year and are encouraged to do so. There is NO changing seats along any bus route once it is started unless requested by the driver.
Leaving the School Bus
- Pay attention to your surroundings. Know when the bus is approaching your stop and be ready when it reaches your stop. Remain in your seat until the bus has fully stopped.
- When the bus has fully stopped, walk directly to the door, and carefully exit the bus. Immediately move at least ten feet away from the bus.
- If you must cross in front of the bus, wait for the driver to signal that it is safe to do so. Then walk to the headlight on the driver’s side of the bus, stop and wait for the driver to signal that it is safe to continue. When the driver signals that it is safe to continue, step to the corner of the bus and look left and right yourself before doing so. Always keep at least ten feet in front of the bus (the student should always be able to see the driver). Cross only in front of the bus.
- Never try to pick up or go after an object that has been dropped near or under the bus without telling the driver first. Wait for the driver to tell you that it is safe for you to go after the object before doing so.
Students are expected to follow the same rules of behavior while on a school bus that they do in the classroom. Bus rules and consequences are provided so each student and parent are clear on expectations and consequences. The school bus driver is in complete charge of the school bus and the students. The driver shall be responsible to the transportation coordinator and shall have the same authority in maintaining discipline as a teacher in the classroom under the supervision of the school board and the superintendent of schools. The school supports the bus drivers’ judgment in providing for the safety of students on each bus.
Parents: The School District’s Transportation Coordinator/Business Administrator handles any problems related to busing schedules and routes; any concerns should be directed to him/her. Contact information is available under Bus Routes.
The mission of the Food Service Department of the Hudson School District is to make children as passionate about eating our food as we are about making it. In our mind turning a previously picky eater into a food enthusiast with a healthy palette is music to our ears.
Our menus run the gamut from healthy kid favorites to culinary creations. Everyday, we offer a menu to delight diverse palates, dietary restrictions, and preferences. We know that good nutrition is essential to the learning process.
We pride ourselves in providing freshly prepared, nutritious lunches at a reasonable cost in a safe and pleasant environment. Our program follows the nutritional requirements of the National School Lunch Program.
Meal Prices for 2023 – 2024
| Elementary Schools | Middle School | High School | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Breakfast | $1.75 | $1.75 | $2.25 |
| Lunch | $2.75 | $2.85 | $3.25 |
| Milk | $0.50 | $0.50 | $0.50 |
Meal Payment
The Hudson School District uses a computer-based debit meal payment system. This allows you to deposit money into your child’s account and funds will automatically be deducted when cafeteria meals are purchased, using a unique 4-digit personal identification number (PIN) assigned to your child. Since this is a debit system, students will not be allowed to charge, so please keep your child's account above zero.
Online Payment
Payments may be made online at www.K12paymentcenter.com.
Pay by Check
Checks should be made out to “Hudson School Food Service.” Checks may be split between siblings in the same school only. You may also make payments online, visit www.K12payment center.com for more information.
Special Dietary Needs
Students requiring special dietary needs must submit a Special Dietary Medical Statement signed by a physician.
As always if you have any questions or concerns please feel free to contact the Food Service Department, katherton@sau81.org or sjackson@sau81.org or call 603-886-1245.
Celebrating a birthday is an exciting thing for many students, and we recognize that many wish to share some of the joy with their classmates. There are many ways to recognize a birthday here at school, and we ask anyone wishing to send a snack for the class to share to remain mindful of policy JLCF Wellness by the Hudson School Board. Fruit cups, cheese and crackers, or other healthy treats are a welcome way to celebrate, as are non-food items like pencils or bookmarks. Please also remain mindful of any allergy restrictions in your child’s classroom.
We discourage sending balloons or flowers to your child at school as it is a distraction from the learning in the classroom. Additionally, these items cannot be transported on the bus.
Classroom celebrations are for holidays or special events are at the discretion of the classroom teacher. Information will be sent to you directly regarding any classroom events. During Halloween or other special events during the school day, costumes must be safe and should not include masks, make-up, or weapons of any kind.
Student cell phone use is NOT allowed in school. We discourage students from bringing cell phones on school property or the school bus. If a child brings a cell phone into school, it must be turned off at all times and kept in a student backpack or locker. If a student uses a cell phone during the school day, a school administrator will hold the cell phone until a parent/guardian can pick it up.
Students are discouraged from bringing any personal electronics (including smartwatches) to school as these devices are not allowed in the classroom or on the playground. Students using cell phones or other personal electronics on the school bus must use headphones or ear buds.
The goal of classroom placement is to ensure that classes are balanced by gender, number, diversity, special needs, academic levels and behavioral/social needs. Placement decisions are made by a school team of teachers, School Counselors, Special Educators, Reading Specialist and Administrators.
If you have a concern about your child’s placement for the next year, please notify their teacher, school counselor or administration in writing. Your concerns will be taken into consideration when classroom placement is determined. We cannot accept requests for specific teachers or for specific students to be placed together.
The Hills Garrison clothing guidelines are designed to ensure that students, parents, staff members and members of the community will not be offended or distracted. For safety reasons, students are encouraged to wear practical clothing and footwear at school. Clothing should be appropriate for the weather and activities of the day as students routinely go outside for recess. Only students wearing appropriate footwear will be permitted to use the playground equipment. Hats and hoodies should not be worn inside the school building with the exception of special events or accommodations for medical conditions.
Inappropriate dress would consist of, but is not restricted to:
- Items that promote drugs, alcohol, or tobacco
- Items with rude words or pictures
- Halter-tops, tube tops, cropped shirts, very short shorts or skirts
- Flip-flops, backless shoes or high heeled shoes
School staff use their discretion about the guidelines so that standards and safety are maintained. We may offer students a change of clothing, send a reminder home or make a phone call to a parent.
Parents, due to the substantial number of families we serve, it is important to inform the office of any custody stipulations/restrictions that are in place. It is your responsibility to provide legal documentation and to work out all special arrangements for student pick-up and such. All matters will be handled in a confidential manner. Our priority is the safety and the well-being of each child, and the school will remain a neutral haven for them. We expect and appreciate your cooperation. Without written legal documentation on file the school is unable to enforce any restrictions. An original or notarized copy must be presented.
Policy JICH Drug and Alcohol Use by Students is required to be included in all handbooks. This policy is part of the student verification process that parents and guardians must complete prior to the start of the school year. Address the topic using your discretion with your child.
In October, elementary schools participate in Red Ribbon Week, a school wide event organized by the guidance departments to promote healthy decision-making.
The Hudson School District is dedicated to ensuring the safety of students and staff. Policies and procedures support the prevention of, and immediate response, to emergency situations. The procedures have been developed in cooperation with New Hampshire Homeland Security, the Hudson Fire Department and the Hudson Police Department.
Staff and student training are important to establish the preparedness of our schools. Emergency drills are practiced throughout the year to familiarize students and staff with the efficient and effective responses during emergency situations.
The Incident Command System (ICS) is the method used to manage any emergency situations. Both the Hudson Fire Department and Hudson Police Department use this system. Therefore, coordination will occur when all the above organizations are on scene during a crisis situation. Key personnel are assigned particular jobs to promote efficiency in handling the situation.
Emergency situations occur as a result of natural disasters, hazardous materials, and sometimes violence or threats. While schools are still statistically the safest place for students to be, we want to be prepared for any emergency situation in order to react in the most effective way to keep our students and staff safe. The following exercises will be used in response to various emergency situations.
ALICE Protocol
ALICE protocol is used to handle the threat of an armed intruder or intruders in the building. The acronym stands for Alert, Lockdown, Inform, Counter, Evacuate and represent the options that may be used given the specifics of the threat. Drill are held twice a year, with the training and practice being age and grade appropriate. Students are given an overview of all potential responses along with the opportunity to practice prior to all ALICE drills.
Evacuation - clears the building for any emergency situation, i.e. a fire or gas leak.
Reverse Evacuation - brings students and staff into the building for any emergency situation that is occurring while students are outside the building, i.e. severe weather.
Shelter in Place - used when remaining in the building or in a location of the building due to an emergency situation to allow safe access for EMS personnel.
Drop and Cover - used for personal protection from an immediate emergency situation, i.e. extreme winds or earthquake.
Scan in Place - used to search the building due to a low-level bomb threat. A low-level threat is one in which school and police personnel have no reason to believe is substantial
Emergency release information
All parents will be required to provide the school with emergency release information. The information is important to have in the event that an early release occurs or for an emergency situation. This information includes important medical information. Please name two local individuals, other than the adults that the child lives with, who can be contacted if the parents/guardians cannot be contacted. Throughout the school year, if changes occur (i.e. phone numbers, addresses, contact people…) you must update the school records with those changes.
The State of New Hampshire provides guidelines for health requirements for students in the public schools. The nurse is required to follow these rules:
- All children must be immunized in accordance to State Law on mandatory immunizations.
- Kindergarten, first grade and preschool students must have a complete physical exam prior to entering school. The health records are transferred to the elementary schools when the student enters second grade.
- Transfer students from another school district must provide written health records that are signed by a physician.
- FERPA Laws mandate that schools can only share medical information on a “need to know” basis with parent permission. Please complete student verification on the PowerSchool Parent Portal.
- If a student has a fever, or if they experienced vomiting or diarrhea, they need to stay home for 24 hours to recover.
- Below are the guidelines the school nurse will follow regarding attendance at school.
| Disease | Isolation of Patient at home |
|---|---|
|
Chicken Pox |
Until sores have healed |
| Scarlet Fever | When verified by a physician and on medication, and when rash has disappeared, a student may return to school with the physician’s permission. |
| Strep Throat | When verified by throat culture, and on medication for over 24 hours, a student may return to school if free from other symptoms. |
| Measles/Mumps | If verified by a physician, a student will be excluded from school until all symptoms and rashes have disappeared. NOTE: With proper immunization or vaccines, the above diseases are rare. |
|
Pediculosis Screening (Head Lice) |
The American Academy of Pediatrics recognizes that school-wide screening for nits alone is not an accurate way of predicting which children will become infested with head lice, and screening for live lice has not proven to have a significant decrease on the incidence of head lice in a school community. The school nurse will periodically provide information to families of all children on the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of head lice. Parents are encouraged to check their children’s head for lice if the child is symptomatic. The school nurse may check the child’s head if the student is demonstrating symptoms. If the student is identified by the nurse as having live head lice or nits in a student previously untreated, a parent/guardian will be called, the student will be dismissed and treatment options will be discussed. Following appropriate treatment, the student may return to school after being reevaluated by the school nurse. Students with nits remaining after appropriate treatment, but with no evidence of live lice may be permitted to remain in school dependent upon school medical staff clinical judgment. A recheck should be done by the school nurse in 10-14 days. Every effort is made to ensure that student confidentiality is maintained. |
Medications
- Students may NOT keep medicine on their persons or classroom at any time.
- A designated adult must bring all medicines in their original containers to the nurse, with information on the container stating student name, medication, dose and frequency. All medication must be dispensed by the nurse or the nurse designee.
- If a child requires medication and the school does not have the above order, the parent or guardian must come to the school to dispense meds in the nurse’s office
- The school nurse or nurse designee receiving the prescription medication shall document in the SNAP data base, the quantity of the medication delivered by parent/guardian
- Prescription medicines may be delivered to the school by other designated adults, provided the parent/guardian notifies the nurse in advance and specifies the quantity of prescription medication being delivered, accompanied with a doctor’s order.
- All medicines, prescriptions, or over the counter medicines, must be picked up at the end of the school year by an adult. If these medicines are not picked up by a parent/guardian or designee, the medicines will be disposed of by the nurse. These medicines cannot go home with the child.
Vision Screenings
The school may make vision screenings available to students at the elementary level and on a referral basis, with parent permission. Parents are notified of all findings so they can follow-up when needed.
Illness and Emergencies
School personnel may not diagnose illness or injury. Injured or ill students must be picked-up from school by an adult who is authorized on the student's emergency data base.
Allergies, Asthma and Medications
Many of our students have allergies to environmental, food or airborne allergens. Should your child require medication at school or extra support due to food allergies, please contact the School Nurse.
Immunizations
Students must be immunized against certain communicable diseases, u nless a pupil's parent or legal guardian provides the school with an acceptable signed and notarized medical exemption or religious exemption. Students are prohibited from attending school until the immunization requirements are met. The school district cooperates with local health officials to provide measures necessary for the prevention and control of communicable diseases in school age children.
Casts and crutches
If your child has been injured and requires the use of a cast or crutches, please provide a note from the doctor letting us know if special arrangements are needed. Parents and student should check in with the school nurse to discuss accommodations and receive an elevator pass.
Students
Homework is an important learning activity. Your teacher may assign activities that help you practice what you have learned and that you can do on your own or with a little help from family members. You should read and practice math at home every day. Being responsible for your homework helps you to be a successful learner.
Parents
You can expect assigned homework will be purposeful and geared to help your student practice, review and reinforce classroom instruction. Too much homework, without a purpose, can be harmful rather than helpful. Time to socialize after school is just as important and it is with this thought in mind that homework is not overly stressed at the elementary level.
Helping Your Child with Homework
- Set aside a regular time that works best for your family for homework to be done.
- Find a space that is free of distractions where you can check on your child’s progress.
- Provide all the tools – paper, pencil, dictionary, rulers – including good lighting.
- Set appropriate time limits. If homework takes too long, check with the teacher. You can use a timer to break up homework time into smaller increments.
- Encourage your child to read directions aloud to you or show you an example. If you notice mistakes on homework, please do not erase or correct your child’s work. The teacher will want to know where re-teaching and practice are needed.
Read Every Day
As part of regular homework, all students should read at home. The most important way to help your child succeed in school and to develop good study habits is to set aside a time for daily reading. The expectation is that all children will read at home AT LEAST four out of seven days a week. The following times are appropriate guidelines for each grade level.
| Kindergarten & Grade 1 | 10 minutes |
| Grade 2 | 15 minutes |
| Grades 3 & 4 | 20 minutes |
| Grade 5 | 25 minutes |
The school library maintains collections to support students’ informational and recreational reading, as well as staff needs for curriculum related materials. Students are expected to choose library books weekly as part of their development as readers and learners.
Length of checkout
Students attend library classes weekly for lessons and book checkout. Books are due to be returned on the student’s next scheduled library day. Students may be able to exchange books on days other than their scheduled library days, at the discretion and availability of the library staff.
Selection of books
Students are allowed time during each library class to select books. Students may have two library books out at a time. Students are encouraged to choose one “just right” reading book. A “reading book” can be fiction or nonfiction and has an appropriate amount of text for the student’s reading ability. A book is “just right” when the student can read on his or her own, knowing most of the words and comprehending the meaning. The second book can be any book the student chooses, including “challenge books” (a book that he or she may be reading with help), a book on a subject of particular interest, a graphic novel, or a book from a favorite series or author.
Renewals/ Holds/Reserves
A book may be renewed twice if there are no pending holds on it. High-demand materials may not be renewable, at the library staff’s discretion. If a student forgets to return books and is ineligible to check out books, holds will be held for one day beyond the student’s library day. After that, the book goes to another student on the hold list or is re-shelved if there are no holds pending.
Overdue notices
If a student does not return books the first week they are due, the student may not check out other books. If books are not returned a second week, the student is given a printed overdue notice as a reminder. After 30 days from the original due date, a notice is mailed to parents asking for help in locating the book(s) or paying for lost items.
Damaged books
Families may be responsible for paying for damaged books, beyond regular wear and tear, at the library staff’s discretion. Staff will make reasonable attempts to repair damaged books. Students should not attempt to repair books on their own but should bring them to the library for repair.
Payment
Payment for lost or damaged books is due for the book’s full replacement cost. If a book is found and returned to the library within 30 days of payment, a refund will be given.
The goal of classroom placement is to ensure that classes are balanced by gender, number, diversity, special needs, academic levels and behavioral/social needs. Placement decisions are made by a school team of teachers, School Counselors, Special Educators, Reading Specialist and Administrators.
If you have a concern about your child’s placement for the next year, please notify their teacher, school counselor or administration in writing. Your concerns will be taken into consideration when classroom placement is determined. We cannot accept requests for specific teachers or for specific students to be placed together.
Chorus
A chorus program is open to interested fifth grade students who love to sing! Chorus meets after school in the music room. Students rehearse for 10-12 weeks to prepare for a 30-minute evening concert for parents. There is a fall and a spring session of chorus. Students participate in one or both sessions. An activities fee covers the cost of a student t-shirt as well as a pizza celebration at the end of the year for all participants. Students are engaged in a more rigorous study of the singing voice than in their general music setting and use a variety of current and traditional choral arrangements to demonstrate their growth over the course of the choral program.
Students who participate in the chorus program receive an informative packet with pertinent rehearsal and concert dates, field trips, attendance policies and behavioral expectations.
Band
A band program is open to interested fifth graders who are interested in instrumental music. Instruments offered are flute, clarinet, saxophone, trumpet, trombone, and percussion (xylophone or “bell set”). Band meets before school for instruction. Students work throughout the year toward performing an evening concert for parents. Students who participate in the band program receive a student handbook with pertinent rehearsal and concert dates, practice log requirements, attendance policies and behavioral expectations.
Chorus and band programs are directed by Ms. Kirsten Mohring, NWES Music Teacher and provide a foundation for participation in music programs at the middle school and high school level.
School will be held during inclement weather unless it is unsafe for buses to negotiate their routes.
The decision to cancel or delay school due to weather conditions is made by the superintendent. We ask all parents to use their discretion in sending children to school during a storm.
If there is a delayed opening, the delay is two hours and school begins at 10:45 a.m.
In the event of a cancellation or delay, the Hudson School District will send an emergency notification through the district’s messaging system to your contact information.
Emergency notifications will not be sent before 5:00 a.m. or after 9:00p.m. Please make certain we have the most up-to-date telephone numbers and email addresses. The superintendent may determine to hold a remote learning day instead of a school closure due to weather or other circumstances. Information regarding student expectations during remote learning days will be provided by your child’s classroom teacher.
Early in the school year, parents are invited to school to meet classroom and related arts teachers, and to learn about school programs, educational technology and philosophy. Parents are encouraged to ask questions concerning curriculum, visit classrooms, and learn about classroom procedures. This evening is not designed for individual conferences but is intended to give you an overview of what your child will experience during the school year at Nottingham West.
Conferences are scheduled twice a year in November and February. Conferences provide an opportunity to meet with your child’s teacher to discuss strengths and challenges in all facets of development. Parents have the option to attend conferences in person or remotely. Parents wishing to meet with teachers at any other time in the school year may contact the teacher by email or phone to make an appointment.
The NWES Parent Teacher Organization and the Help Our Teachers volunteer program are two key opportunities for parents to get involved in their child’s school. Volunteers are needed during the school day, and at other special activities. More details are available on the PTO webpage. Please join us!
Students: Recess is time to have fun! Please remember that safety comes first, and that everyone has the right to play. Your lunch/recess monitor will remind you of the playground rules and expectations and help you to have a safe, enjoyable recess.
Playground Equipment
The following guidelines have been established to allow for safe play and a fun recess for ALL!
PLEASE remember when playing games, be fair and consistent with your rules and take turns. Try to include everyone in your game. No one likes to feel left out.
Playground guidelines
Note: these guidelines apply to ALL the district's elementary schools, equipment varies at each building.
- Slides – only one person down at a time, sitting – don't climb up the slide.
- Ladders/climbers – one person up at a time.
- Swings – swing sitting down, one at a time. Do not jump off. You must take turns – a monitor will be nearby and signal you to switch.
- Balance beam – line up and ALL go across the same direction.
- Sandboxes – nice play only – NO throwing sand. Share the sand toys – keep the sand in the sandboxes.
- Talk tubes – quiet talk – NO yelling into them.
- Hardtop Games/Ball Games – Equipment is to be shared by everyone. Be fair and consistent with your rules and try to include everyone in your game.
- Tag/Running – Tag, running, and games such as soccer or football are allowed on the field only. Please do not run near the playground structures or swings.
- NEVER push or pull anyone on the equipment.
Students: At the end of recess the monitors will blow the whistle. Stop what you are doing and line up, by classroom. The monitors will walk you in a single file line to the door. Students will then enter the building silently, so as not to disturb others working.
| Positive attitude |
Have fun! Include others |
|---|---|
| Accept responsibility |
Take turns Report problems to an adult |
| Work & play safely |
Respect personal space Use equipment the right way |
| Show respect |
Follow directions Use appropriate words |
Students benefit from active play during recess. They should come prepared to play outdoors when:
- Temperatures are 20° or above with consideration given to wind chill factor
- Light precipitation (e.g., snow flurries, drizzle)
- Snow is on the ground, depending upon how different play areas are affected
- Students who have the appropriate attire (snow pants, boots, mittens, hat, jacket) may access snow covered areas of the playground.
If weather conditions do not allow for outside recess, students will have recess in their classrooms under the supervision of the lunch/recess monitors. During indoor recess, students may read, draw, play board or card games, use toys and activities made available by the classroom teacher, or socialize with friends.
Report cards provide information to parents about student performance. Report cards are issued three time per year, after each trimester marking period, and are available through the PowerSchool Parent Portal.
Student progress is compared to a clearly defined standard, and not to the performance of other students. Standards allow each child, parent and teacher to know the expectations before instruction, and the progress a student is making toward mastery of the topic or skill.
The best interest of the student is the primary factor when retention is being considered. Research has shown that in most cases, retention does not have a lasting benefit academically and may also be detrimental to students emotionally and socially. If a parent or teacher would like to consider retention, they should contact the Assistant Principal or School Counselor as early in the school year as possible.
Consideration of retention is a last resort after providing interventions and support for the child. Multiple sources of data are used for objective information to help school staff make recommendations to parents. During a meeting with parents, the Student Success Team shares input regarding the child and will help parents make an informed decision about their child’s promotion or retention.
School counseling and guidance services are available to all students. Counselors provide instruction in the classroom, work with students in small groups or individually, and consult with families on concerns for their children. The goal of Nottingham West School Counselors is to assist students in developing important social/emotional skills, including making healthy decisions and solving problems. If concerns or conflicts are impacting your child at school, please contact the School Counselor.
Parents are given the opportunity to purchase accident insurance for their children. Two plans are offered; one involving children during school hours, while the other policy provides twenty-four-hour coverage. A similar dental plan is also available. Information about school insurance is available through the district website.
During the school day building access is limited to the front doors for ALL visitors. All other doors will be locked and secured. Visitors must sign in at the main office and receive a visitor’s pass to wear while in the building. AT NO TIME should a parent or visitor leave the lobby to go directly to a classroom, nurse’s office, cafeteria or recess area without reporting to the office for clearance. It is necessary to enforce this practice to ensure the safety of our students and staff. Thank you for your support.
All schools are designated NON-SMOKING zones! All staff members, visitors and students must refrain from smoking anywhere on the school grounds. This includes vehicles on school property.
Children are encouraged to bring a snack from home each day. Teachers will set aside time during the school day for students to have snack in their classrooms. Please consider sending healthy snacks that will support your child’s energy and focus on learning. Filtered water fill stations are available at school. Students should bring a refillable water bottle to school daily.
Gum is only allowed in classrooms at the discretion of the classroom teacher. Gum chewing is not allowed in any other part of the school building.
The Hudson School District uses computers and technology tools to support learning and to enhance instruction. The use of computers at school, as well as access to the Internet, is a privilege. Students and staff are expected to use behavior that is responsible, ethical, considerate and legal while using these resources. Student who use school computers/technology inappropriately may have their computer privileges revoked.
Students may not reveal personal contact information about themselves or other people. Students may only access websites that have been approved by the teacher. Students must report to their teacher or another school official any message or content that is inappropriate or makes them feel uncomfortable. When using computers, students may not alter the desktop in any way.
Students sometimes bring toys or other personal items to school for use at recess time. Any toy that is brought to school is the responsibility of the owner. This means that if a toy/personal item becomes lost or broken, the school will not replace it. Toys or other items may be taken away from a student to be returned later if they are used during inappropriate times or if they are not used properly.
Certain items are not permitted at any time. These include: electronic/video games, music players, radios, toys that make noise, and toys that resemble guns, knives, or other weapons. Additionally, students are advised not to bring trading cards (such as Pokemon) to school. Teachers and school administrators may make decisions to prohibit other toys/personal items to ensure that learning and the orderly procedures of the school are not disrupted.
The possession of a dangerous object in the school building, on school property and school buses or at school functions is not allowed and may result in suspension, police intervention, and possible expulsion from school. Dangerous objects include, but are not limited to knives, slingshots, pepper spray, and other similar chemicals and/or sprays. In addition to these dangerous objects, almost any object can be potentially dangerous, depending upon its use. Any object used in an aggressive or reckless manner shall fall under the consequences of this section. Look-a-likes and/or toy weapons will be included in the category of “other weapons.” Students who use these items to frighten, harass or intimidate others will be subject to the same potential consequences as for the possession of dangerous objects. All students are encouraged to turn in “dangerous objects/other weapons” which were accidentally brought to school as soon as they are discovered. Students should turn the object in to their classroom teacher or an administrator.
| Classroom | Hallways | Bus | Cafeteria | |
| Positive Attitude |
Try, even when it’s hard Encourage others |
Smile or give a silent greeting | Greet your driver | Use good manners |
| Act Responsibily |
Be on task and focused Be prepared Follow class routines and procedures |
Go directly to your assigned location. Use lockers properly |
Take care of your belongings Arrive on time |
Clean up after lunch. Ask for permission to leave your seat |
| Work and Play Safely |
Push in chairs Respect personal space |
Walk Respect personal space Keep to the right |
Stay seated Respect personal space |
Sit safely at the table |
| Show Respect |
Listen to others Work together |
Voices off when in line Voices quiet at all other times |
Use quiet voices Follow directions |
Use indoor voices Respond to the quiet sign |
| Playground | Bathroom | Assemblies | |
| Positive Attitude |
Have fun! Include others in play |
Take care of your business and return promptly | Give your full attention to the assembly |
| Act Responsibily |
Take turns Report problems to adults |
Wait your turn Flush the toilet |
Enter and leave quietly Stay seated |
| Work and Play Safely |
Respect personal space Use equipment properly |
Wash hands with soap and water |
Respect personal space Move safely to your place |
| Show Respect |
Follow directions Use appropriate words |
Keep the bathrooms clean and neat |
Applaud appropriately Respond to the quiet sign. |
Hudson’s Strategic Plan for 2019-2024 has three pillars including Strong Learning Environments, Vibrant Learning System, and Strong Connection: School, Family and Community. Two out of the three pillars directly address Student Behavior. These connections are found in:
- Strong Learning Environment Goal 1: The Hudson School District (HSD) will provide safe and secure schools that support welcoming learning environments and foster continuous learning for students, staff, and the community
- Vibrant Learning Community Goal 1: Students in the Hudson School District are actively engaged in goal setting and accountability related to their learning.
These standards are based on district policy JICD Student Discipline and Due Process.
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