5 - The Paradise Valley Unified School District

HANDBOOK
Grayhawk
Elementary
School
2011-12

GRAYHAWK ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
Parent Student Handbook
7525 East Grayhawk Drive
Scottsdale, Arizona 85255
www.pvschools.net/ghes
School Telephone Numbers
Office (602) 449-6600
Office Fax (602) 449-6605
Attendance Line (602) 449- 6601
HOURS
Office Hours
School Hours
Early Release
8:00 am - 4:00 pm
9:00 am - 3:00 pm
9:00 am - 12:30 pm
A.M. Playground Supervision
8:30 am - 9:00 am
Students may arrive on school grounds at 8:30 a.m. There is no supervision
before that time. Parents of students who arrive too early on a regular basis will
be contacted to resolve the situation.
Students are permitted in the building only after 9:00 am unless the school administrator
or classroom teacher has given permission.
Students need to be lined up at 8:55 a.m. so teachers may bring their classes in
at that time. Students arriving after 9:00 a.m. must check in through the school
office
All students and parents are to use designated pick-up and drop-off areas.
Please note the east Grayhawk parking lot is designated for parking only. There
is no student pick-up or drop-off in this parking lot.
STAFF
Mr. Norm Pratt
Mrs. Melissa Molzhon
Ms. Kim Adams
Mrs. Diane McDonough
Mrs. Lisa Van Paris
Principal
Assistant Principal
Administrative Assistant
Records Secretary
School Nurse

Paradise Valley Unified School District
Cultivating world-class thinkers
Grayhawk Elementary School
7525 East Grayhawk Drive
Scottsdale, Arizona 85255
2011-2012
Dear Parents and Students,
Welcome to the 2011-2012 school year. We hope you share our enthusiasm as we
embark on our journey together towards a rewarding and successful year of learning.
Grayhawk is synonymous with excellence and I feel fortunate to lead a school
culture that is focused on student learning, a commitment to high expectations,
character development and innovation and collaboration. I am absolutely thrilled
to be returning to Grayhawk in my new role and I truly look forward to working
alongside our teachers, staff members, students, and families to create a safe,
supportive, and inclusive educational environment. We hope you will accept our
challenge to be an active participant of the Grayhawk team. We promise to work
hard and continue to provide a top quality education program.
This handbook is issued to help you and your child become familiar with the
policies and rules of Grayhawk Elementary School. Please take time to discuss
this handbook together.
Again, I am so thrilled to be a part of the wonderful Grayhawk Elementary School
community. If you have any questions, comments, or concerns throughout the
year, please do not hesitate to contact me at 602-449-6600 or email me at npratt@
PVschools.net. On behalf of the amazing Grayhawk staff, I would like to wish all
of you a wonderful school year.
Respectfully,
Norm Pratt, M.Ed, Principal
Grayhawk Elementary School
npratt@PVschools.net
1

PARADISE VALLEY UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT
GRAYHAWK ELEMENTARY SCHOOL’S
LONG RANGE PLAN
Goals and Objectives
The purpose of our Goals and Objectives are to insure the
implementation of our Values, Vision and Mission Statements.
Goal I: To advance excellence in teaching and learning for everyone.
a. Increase the percentage of students who are achieving academically
by attending class, participating in appropriately challenging daily
activities, demonstrating proficiency on standards, and promotion.
b. Increase the variety, flexibility and quality of educational practices
and learning opportunities to meet the needs of all learners.
c. Increase the professional development opportunities that are based
on priority needs of students and relevancy to teaching and support
staff.
d. Create more opportunities for parental and community partnerships
to support, fund and enhance the learning environment.
Goal II: To ensure a positive and productive physical and cultural
environment.
a. Develop a comprehensive, responsible plan that addresses standards
and school needs so they are functional, efficient, aesthetically
pleasing, legally compliant, and safe.
b. Enhance the learning climate and culture by promoting and validating
student emotional and social well-being.
c. Acknowledge, address and support people with diverse backgrounds
and needs.
d. Develop a sense of responsibility in students, staff and community.
Goal III: To effectively enhance communication and apply the
collaborative process.
a. Make decisions collaboratively and implement them consistently
to achieve beneficial outcomes with respect to the entire school
community.
b. Encourage communication within the school community that is
respectful and considerate of diverse needs.
c. Plan for the systematic implementation and support of districtwide
technology to accelerate the achievement of school and district
goals.
2

VALUES
We, the stakeholders of the Grayhawk Elementary
School Community, value:
Student Centered Focus
Achievement
Respect
Responsibility
Partnership Collaboration/Communication
Pride
VISION
The Grayhawk Elementary School team of staff,
students, parents, and community dedicates itself
to the education of our children. The uniqueness
of each child is respected, shared, and valued.
Our aim is to instill within each student the love
of learning, with an enriched and integrated
core of basic knowledge. As a keystone of our
mission, we believe in the partnership of school,
family, and community. Together, we develop
responsible students who possess the skills to solve
problems, and adapt to the changes of the future.
When walking down the hallways of Grayhawk
Elementary School, one will sense the pride in our
school.
MISSION
The mission of the Grayhawk Elementary team
is to challenge our students and community to
achieve individual excellence.
3
L
O
N
G
R
A
N
G
E
P
L
A
N

GRAYHAWK ELEMENTARY SCHOOL 2011-2012 STAFF
Kindergarten Room#
Michelle Schaub................313
Emily Kapur......................314
Jeanine Rometty................ 408
Christy Atkinson................407
Paula Keefer.......................400
Grade One
Angie Boles....................... 400
Lauren Dickinson..............401
Erin Thompson.................. 250
Tracy Allen.........................251
Grade Two
Kimberley Marchisotto...... 451
Paige Berlin.......................455
Lisa Dracup....................... 456
Kim Fowler........................ 450
Grade Three
Tracey Foster..................... 606
Kristen Franklin................. 507
Cathy Hart......................... 506
Robin Speer....................... 607
Jennifer Alexander............. 402
Grade Four
Judi Cribbs......................... 501
Tina Kraus.........................500
Catherine Leshinski........... 601
Christa Quiroz....................600
Grade Five
Laura Geisler.....................651
Brooke Hughes..................550
Janelle Pijawka..................650
Brandi Dunlap................... 551
Grade Six
Room#
Rick Matheson................... 557
Jerry Mogalian................... 657
Andrea St. John..................556
...........................................656
iPad Lab 406
School Nurse
Lisa Van Paris....................104
Art
Donna Brown.....................200
Physical Education
Kim Kucharski................... 704
Vocal Music
Karen Dolezal....................312
Media/Technology
Jacqui Norris...................... 311
Debbie Brunson.............. Clerk
Karen Bonine............... Library
Instrumental Music
Del Stapley........................701
Strings
Anne Phelan....................... 701
Psychologist
Cathy Kuffler..................... 150
Honors
Jo Ellen Surridge..............652
Resource
Jeannie Karamigios...........452
Jody Lange, Resource Aide
Reading Specialist
Room#
Principal
Norm Pratt......................... 151
Assistant Principal
Melissa Molzhon............... 152
Support Personnel
Kim Adams..............................
..........Administrative Assistant
Diana McDonough..................
....................Records Secretary
Custodial Staff
Food Service
.........................................MPR
One on One Aides
Toni Burdette
Susi Atkinson
Janine Marsh
Bobbi Matossian
Duty Aides
Jessica Pile
Elaine Sheehy
James Sheehy
Kathy Statton
Tara Lauinger
Mary Bacon
Boys & Girls Club ~ After School Care
For general information regarding the Boys & Girls Club before- and after-school program,
please call (480) 538-9547.
4

2011-2012 CALENDAR
Fourth Quarter Third Quarter Second Quarter First Quarter
Paradise Valley Unified School District
District-wide Student Calendar for 2011-2012*
Fall Semester, 2011
August 11 Classes begin
23 Early release for teacher professional development
September 5 Labor Day recess
20 Early release for teacher professional development
29-30 K-12 recess
October 11 Early release for teacher professional development
14 Grading period ends
24 – 27 K-8 parent conference week
26 – 27 K-8 early dismissal for conferences
28 K-8 recess
November 11 Veterans Day fall recess
23 – 25 Thanksgiving recess
December 16 & 19 High school exams/HS early dismissal
20 9-12 recess
Semester ends
Winter Break Dec. 21 – Jan. 3
Spring Semester, 2012
January 4 Classes resume
10 Early release for teacher professional development
16 MLK/Civil Rights Day recess
23 – 27 K-8 parent conference week
26 – 27 K-8 early dismissal for conferences
February 7 Early release for teacher professional development
20 Presidents’ Day recess
March 9 Grading period ends
19 – 23 Spring break
April 3 Early release for teacher professional development
6 Spring recess
May 23 – 24 High school exams/HS early dismissal
24 Last day of classes
K-12 early dismissal
High school commencement
* Please contact individual schools for specific site-calendar dates
First Quarter Second Quarter Third Quarter Fourth Quarter
5

CAMPUS MAP
2011-
2012
PRINCIPAL
NORM PRATT
PSYCHOLOGIST
CATHY KUFFLER
CONFERENCE
P T O
701 BAND - 703
STAPLEY
STRINGS - PHELAN
702 704
P. E.-
KUCHARSKI
ASSISTANT PRINCIPAL
MELISSA MOLZHON
151
100
WORKROOM
ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
RECORDS SECRETARY
DIANA McDONOUGH
152
150
101
ADMINISTRATIVE
ASSISTANT
KIM ADAMS
102
GRAYHAWK
P. E.
KUCHARSKI
HEALTH CENTER
NURSE
VAN PARIS
104
A V
308
309
STORAGE
STORAGE
KITCHEN
CUSTODIAN
SANCHEZ
1
ALLEN
BROWN
310
356
GIRLS
RESTROOM
251
ART
DOLEZAL
6
BOYS
RESTROOM
307
200
LIBRARY
MEDIA CENTER
COMPUTER
ROOM
K
NORRIS MUSIC
R E V I S E D 8 / 1 0
STAFF
LOUNGE
MULTI-PURPOSE
ROOM
THOMPSON
1
SCHAUB
KAPUR
357
351
250
303
305
311
312
313 314
K K
DRACUP
BERLIN
GIRLS RESTROOM BOYS RESTROOM
MARCHI-
SOTTO
FOWLER
BOLES
DICKINSON
ALEXANDER
456 455
2
451 450
2
2
400 401
1
402
HART FRANKLIN
405 406
407 408
KRAUS CRIBBS
557 556
FACULTY
R R
551 550
5 5
500 501
4 4
GIRLS RESTROOM BOYS RESTROOM
SCHARTZ
iPAD LAB
ATKINSON
KEEFER
2
3 K K K
MATHESON
ST. JOHN
552
RESOURCE
KARAMIGIOS
DUNLAP
452
HUGHES
6
6
502
READING
FACULTY
R R
3
506 507
3
657 656 651 650 600 601
652 602
6 6
HONORS 5 5 4 4 SPEECH
MOGALIAN SMITH SURRIDGE GEISLER PIJAWKA QUIROZ LESHINSKI
CUSTODIAL
CUSTODIAL
OFFICE
FOSTER
SPEER
GIRLS
RESTROOM
BOYS
RESTROOM
606 607
3
3

SECTION I
GENERAL POLICIES AND RULES
ACCIDENT INSURANCE
The school will send home information concerning the purchase of accident insurance. The school
is not acting as the agent, nor does it carry any accident insurance on students. Therefore, parents are
encouraged to evaluate this coverage. The cost is low and there are several options available.
ADMISSION TO SCHOOL
A child must reach age five prior to September 1 to be eligible for Kindergarten. Likewise, a child
must reach age six prior to September 1 to be eligible for first grade.
Children who have not received all of the required immunizations may be enrolled in school if the
required immunizations are obtained within 15 days of enrollment.
BICYCLES
For safety reasons, and Governing Board policy, students in kindergarten through second grade
MUST NOT ride bicycles to school.
Students who are eligible to ride bicycles to school must obey the following rules:
• Students must obey all traffic rules, coming and going to school.
• Bicycles must be parked in racks provided.
• Students must walk bicycles on campus and cross in the crosswalks.
• Bicycles must be locked when not in use.
• Bicycles are ridden to school at the owner’s risk.
• Bicycles must not be ridden on school grounds or parking lots BEFORE or AFTER school.
• Students should not loiter nor ride bicycles around the rack area.
• A bicycle rider should have received bicycle safety instruction.
• All bikers must ride single.
STUDENT BUS SERVICE
Bus service will be provided for kindergarten students who live beyond 1/2 mile and first - sixth
grade students who live beyond one mile from school. Buses will pickup/drop-off students at their
designated stops. You, as a parent, are encouraged to be waiting for your child at the stop. This is
particularly important for younger students during the first couple of weeks after your child begins
school. This will help both your child and the driver to become familiar with the correct stop. Tell
your child that if they are disoriented, scared, confused, etc. to let the driver know and to stay on the
bus. Teach your child how to safely walk to/from the bus stop and remind them to respect private
property at the bus stop.
If a child is to ride a different bus or get off at a stop that is different from their regular stop, they
need to have a note from their parents that is approved through the school. That note should be stamped
(if you have a school stamp) and signed by a representative of the school, and then presented to the
driver when the child gets on the bus. This will allow the driver to know that the child is to get off at
a different stop (or ride a different bus) and also that we don’t have a forgery. Bus drivers will issue
tickets to students not following the rules, which could lead to loss of bus privileges.
Don’t Lose Your Riding Privilege!!!
7

BUS RULES
All passengers are under the authority of the bus driver and shall observe the following
rules:
1. Obey the bus driver’s instructions and directions.
2. Bus aisles/emergency exits shall remain clear of all objects.
3. Stay properly seated with your back against the seat back, your legs facing forward and all parts
of your body out of the aisle.
4. Keep head, hands, feet, and objects to yourself and inside the bus.
5. Talk quietly, use respectful language - no profanity.
6. No eating or drinking on the bus (water in plastic bottles is acceptable)
7. Animals, insects, skateboards, glass containers, weapons/dangerous instruments, tobacco, alcohol,
or drugs are not permitted.
8. No student has the right to interfere with the safety, well being, or learning of others.
CHANGE OF ADDRESS OR PHONE NUMBER
So that our files can contain accurate information, students are requested to submit to the office any
change of address or telephone numbers. All parents must have some telephone number on file where
they may be reached during the school day.
CONFERENCES (PARENT-TEACHER)
Parent-teacher conferences are scheduled for parents of students, kindergarten through sixth grades,
at the close of the first and second quarter. At these conferences, the teachers will present the student’s
progress report and discuss these areas with the parent.
Conferences will be held during the weeks of October 24-27 and January 23-27.
A conference with a teacher or staff member may be requested at any time by a parent. Appointments
should be arranged between the teacher and parent. Parents are encouraged to confer with their child’s
teacher, counselor or principal at any time it seems necessary. For this type of conference, the parent
should contact the school secretary to arrange the appointment.
It is our hope that communication lines will be kept open all year and that neither parent nor teacher
wait until parent conference time if a problem arises.
Homework
The Governing Board strongly believes that homework is a valuable learning activity. Among its
many benefits are:
• Skill Development
• The development of self-discipline, responsibility, and wise use of time
• The opportunity for parents to become involved in and aware of what their children are learning.
• Homework is considered practice and will count for study skills assessment on report cards.
Assignment of appropriate homework is encouraged, and the Governing Board will support teachers’
efforts to ensure that students do not ignore their assignments.
Communication between teachers and parents regarding homework is considered essential. Parents
should refer to their own school’s handbook and consult with individual teachers as to the expectations
of the teachers and how parents may help in this effort.
Homework should be seen as an opportunity to improve skills. As such, every assignment need not
be used for grading purposes but every assignment turned in to the teacher should be acknowledged
and considered important.
8

FOOD SERVICES
Each student will be issued a computerized debit lunch card. Money can be added to student lunch
accounts the first two days of each week. Checks should be made payable to PVUSD. Each lunch
costs $2.25, and separate milk or juice is $.25 (Please note: Prices are subject to change.) Breakfast is
served from 8:30 - 9:00, the price is $1.00.
LOST AND FOUND
The school cannot assume the responsibility for your losses: however, we will make every effort to
help locate lost articles when reported. Further, there is a lost and found cupboard in the Multi–purpose
Room that houses lost articles that have been turned in to us.
PROHIBITED ITEMS AT SCHOOL
The following items shall be left home: knives (and any sharp-pointed items), squirt guns, toys, radios,
matches, skates and skateboards, roller blades, roller blade shoes, motorized or non-motorized scooters,
walkmans, cell phones, pagers, iPods, MP3 players, tape recorders, various cards, or any other item that
would be a classroom disturbance. (We cannot possibly list all prohibited items, however, if it causes
disturbances it should NOT be at school.) These items will be confiscated if they are brought to school
and parents will need to pick up these items. Any exception is at the discretion of the principal.
CELL PHONES
Cell Phones: Parents & Visitors ~ The use of cell phones on campus is a distraction to the learning
environment and they often interrupt instruction.
PLEASE TURN OFF / SILENCE YOUR PHONE WHILE ON CAMPUS
Cell Phones: Students ~ Cell phones are to be turned off and put away between the hours of 8:30 am
and 3:30 pm, as well as during, before, and after school activities (i.e., Enrichment Classes, Homework
Club) and on the school bus at all times.
CELL PHONES BEING USED BY STUDENTS WILL BE CONFISCATED AND CAN BE PICKED
UP BY PARENTS FROM THE PRINCIPAL.
PUPIL PROGRESS REPORTS
Written grades and/or progress reports to parents of students in Kindergarten through grade six shall
be issued approximately every nine weeks. P.E., Art and Music and Computer reports shall be issued
at the close of each semester and conferences held with parent as scheduled or as needed. Procedures
for checking grades online are sent home yearly.
NEWSLETTERS
Our newsletters are valuable means of communication. They are published monthly and posted on
our website: ghes.pvschools.net. There will be no more Thursday Folders, all information can be found
online under Thursday Folders or http://cmweb.pvschools.net/ghesweb/thursdayfolders.html.
MEDICATION
Dispensing medication to children by school nurses is rigidly controlled by State Law. Paradise
Valley School District, in order to comply with the law, provides forms that must be completed prior to
dispensing any medication. A form for any medication must be signed by the parent before the medication
can be dispensed. All medication must be received in the original container. Prescription medication
must be in the pharmacy container, over the counter medications must be in the manufacturer’s
packaging. Physician samples can be accepted ONLY with an accompanying prescription. Over the
counter medications (Tylenol, aspirin, etc.) may be provided by the parent and dispensed with signed
permission on the approved form.
The purpose of this procedure is to insure that pupils who must have medication during the school
day receive the prescribed medication in the prescribed manner for the protection of the pupil and
school personnel.
Students are not allowed to carry medication or administer it to themselves. It is expected that
parents will transport all medications, including throat lozenges and cough drops to and from the
health office.
9

PHYSICAL EDUCATION EXCUSES
Physical education is required of all students unless excused by a physician for valid health reasons.
Temporary excuses will be issued by the school nurse upon written request from the parent for a period
of up to three days.
EMERGENCY CARDS
It is ESSENTIAL that all parents complete and return an Emergency Card for each student during the
first week of school. Please fill in all lines, including work numbers and names of people who will assume
responsibility for your child in the event of an emergency if you are not available.
If a home or work phone number changes, please notify the school immediately. Your child’s welfare
may depend on keeping the Emergency Card accurate.
EMERGENCY FIRST-AID — ILLNESS
When a student becomes ill or is injured at school, he/she will be evaluated and/or treated by the
school nurse. If it is necessary for the student to be sent home or to a doctor, the parents will be contacted
and requested to pick up the child. No child will be sent home alone or released without an authorized
adult to accompany them.
PROMOTION/RETENTION
Students will normally progress from grade to grade. When facts indicate that retention is in the best interest
of the student’s academic progress, there must be close cooperation between the parents and all school
personnel involved. Each child will have individual consideration and decisions will be made only after a
careful study of facts relating to all phases of the child’s growth and development.
In accordance with state law, teacher(s) make the decisions for promotion or retention of student.
The Governing Board shall require that, if a parent or legal guardian of a child chooses not to accept
the decision of a teacher that the child be promoted or retained in grade, the parent or legal guardian
execute a release of the teacher of all liability for actions done in good faith pertaining to the child’s
promotion or retention. Only the Paradise Valley Unified School District Governing Board may overturn
the teacher’s(s’) decision. Therefore, the parent may appeal any promotion or retention decision
to the Governing Board.
Should the Board overturn the teacher’s(s’) decision, the teacher is automatically released of all
liability for actions done in good faith relating to the child’s promotion or retention.
REF.: A.R.S. 15-341 (17), A.R.S. 15-342 (11)
RETENTION/PROMOTION APPEALS
1. Final decision for retention or promotion must be made prior to or no later than the last day of
school. Parents are to be notified of these decisions by the local school.
2. Parents disagreeing with the teacher’s(s’) decision must make arrangements to discuss their
concern with the teacher(s) involved in the decision.
3. Parents wishing to appeal the decision after the conference must sign ADE Form 40-201 releasing
the teacher of any liability for actions done in good faith pertaining to the child’s promotion or
retention. Signing of this form DOES NOT CHANGE the teacher’s decision.
4. The parent will then submit ADE Form 40-201 and a letter of appeal to the principal as soon as
possible, but no later than August 1, following the close of school. The principal will forward
the letter and ADE Form 40-201 to the Assistant Superintendent for Elementary Education or
Secondary Education for processing.
5. The letter of appeal must provide relevant background information, parent assessment of the
student’s progress during the term in question, and a clear statement as to why the Governing
Board should overturn the teacher’s(s’) decision. The appeal letter must also clarify how a reversal
of the original decision will benefit the child.
10

6. The principal will prepare the following packet of information for the hearing:
a. The student’s report card and a record of parent contacts during the year.
b. Relevant testing data.
c. Description or procedures used in determining promotions and retentions at the school.
d. The essential facts and concerns involved in making the decision in each case appealed.
7. At the directions of the Governing Board, the Superintendent or his designee will convene an Education
Subcommittee to hear each appeal and to make a recommendation to the Board.
a. Membership of the Subcommittee shall consist of:
1) A Board member
2) A K-8 principal (not involved in the appeal)
3) A K-8 teacher (not involved in the appeal)
b. The hearing shall be conducted by the Superintendent or his designee.
c. The hearing shall be conducted as follows:
1) Each subcommittee member shall receive a sealed copy of the parent’s letter of appeal, ADE
Form 40-201, & the principal’s packet one week prior to the hearing date. This information
is to be studied in advance while kept in the strictest confidence.
2) At the established hearing date, the parent and principal appear to answer questions of
the subcommittee. The principal is encouraged to have the teacher present during the
appeal hearing. The teacher has the right to be present.
3) The parent may make a short verbal presentation to the committee, approximately five
(5) minutes in length.
4) Following questions from the subcommittee, the parent and school personnel will be excused
while the committee deliberates and makes a recommendation to the Board.
5) The hearing will be audio taped. The tapes will be available for Governing Board
members. The committee’s written recommendation will be forwarded to the Board
for its formal decision at a subsequent meeting.
6) The decision of the Board will be final.
STUDENT ABSENCES AND EXCUSES
School attendance is ultimately the responsibility of the student and his/her family. Students should
remain out of school only when absolutely necessary, as much of the classroom activity cannot be
made up: the benefit of lectures, discussion and participation is lost forever to those who are absent. It
must be emphasized that regular attendance is the key to much of the success a student may gain from
his/her school program.
When a child is going to be absent from school, the parent/guardian should call the school office
([602] 449-6601) to report the absence before 8 am THE DAY OF THE ABSENCE. Failure to report
a child’s absence will constitute an unexcused absence. It is for the child’s protection that this policy is
in place and we appreciate parental cooperation and support. It is a matter of Governing Board Policy
that a student may be retained for excessive absences that affect his school academic progress.
Students that have 18 or more unexcused or excused absences may be considered for Retention due
to their absences.
STUDENT DRESS, CONDUCT, APPEARANCE
Student dress, personal appearance, or conduct shall not disrupt nor distract from instructional
procedures, school sanctioned social function, or the disciplinary control of the teachers. Wearing of
hats is prohibited inside all buildings for all students. Students need to wear socks with sandals and
other shoes for maximum protection from injury to feet. Athletic shoes and socks are to be worn for
physical education. The “sag” (gang) look is prohibited. Any garment allowing undergarments to
show is inappropriate.
11

For reasons of safety and modesty, please follow these guidelines:
• Shirts must cover waistline of shorts, slacks, and skirts with no midriff or back skin showing
at any time. Any attire that is sexually suggestive, or extremely brief or tight is prohibited.
• Tops or dresses with thin (spaghetti) straps are inappropriate unless worn over another T-shirt
or under a jacket.
• Tank top straps must be at least three fingers in width.
• Any garment allowing undergarments to show is inappropriate.
• Necklines may be no lower than the width of the hand when measured from bottom of the neck
or collarbone.
• Socks must be worn at all times.
• No flip-flop type shoes.
• Shorts and skirts must pass the “hand rule” which means they may be no shorter than where
the student’s longest finger touches the leg when the arm is hanging straight down.
• No baggy or oversized clothing (pants must be worn at waist level).
• Garments promoting alcohol, illegal substances, tobacco, sexual connotations and violence are
not permitted.
• Chains or spikes of any kind are not permitted.
• Hairstyles or hair colors which draw undue attention and cause disruption in the school are not
acceptable.
• No Make-up. The School Council, staff and administrator believe that make-up is inappropriate
during school hours and should be reserved for personal use outside of school.
• No shoes with wheels.
SUSPENSION AND EXPULSION
The Governing Board directs the Superintendent and the administration to develop and maintain
appropriate standards of student conduct and advise students and parents of those standards. Students
shall comply with those standards, pursue the required course of study and submit to the authority of
the staff of the district. While only the Governing Board may expel a student, the Superintendent, the
school principal or his designee are given the authority to suspend students for good cause. Due process
procedures shall be adhered to in all cases involving suspension and/or expulsion.
TELEPHONE
The school telephone is for business and is not to be used to make arrangements to go home with
a friend, etc. THESE ARRANGEMENTS SHOULD BE MADE AT HOME THE DAY BEFORE.
Emergency messages will be taken care of.
TEXTBOOKS
All textbooks are loaned to students free of charge. HOWEVER, STUDENTS ARE RESPONSIBLE
FOR LOST OR DAMAGED BOOKS AND WILL BE EXPECTED TO PAY FOR THEM. Students
are urged to take good care of books to avoid an assessment at the end of the year. This also includes
sheet music.
MEDIA CENTER
All materials must be checked out before being taken from the Media Center. Students may check out
three (3) books at a time. However, if many classes are dealing with similar subjects, students may be
limited to one (1) book per subject. Also, no books may be checked out by students with overdue books.
Students may check out encyclopedias for overnight use only. Students are responsible for any books
checked out in their name. Lost books must be found, replaced, or paid for before a student’s check
out privileges are restored. Every effort will be made, according to the district’s policy of collecting
for lost books, to remind students of their obligations to make restitution for the lost book.
12

COMPUTERS
At Grayhawk Elementary School we believe that computers and their applications are important
educational links to the future. District and school Internet acceptable use policies are a guide for
students, parents, and staff to help insure positive educational experiences. These forms will be sent
home separately. Parent signatures are required for student access to the Internet.
VISITORS AT SCHOOL
Parents are always welcome to visit the schools. BEFORE VISITING A CLASSROOM, VISITORS
MUST CHECK THROUGH THE SCHOOL OFFICE. This is for the protection of your children and
is required by state law.
When possible, please schedule an appointment with a teacher prior to a visit to school. This will
aid in your being able to accomplish the purpose of your visit. This includes no wandering in the
hallways during school hours and please turn off all cell phones when in school.
VOLUNTEER PROGRAM
Grayhawk Elementary School is proud of its volunteer program and the help our students receive
from our volunteers. We need you!
Your participation in the volunteer program means more individualized instruction can be given to
each child. In addition, it provides an enriching and rewarding experience for you, the parent.
Our PTO organizes our parent volunteer program and would like to have you become a participant.
If you have not received a parent volunteer application from school, please call us.
STUDENT ARRANGEMENTS
So as not to interrupt the learning process in the classrooms - please make after school arrangements
BEFORE your child leaves for school in the morning. Any changes should have a
written note from parents.
STUDENT ARRIVALS AND DEPARTURES
Grayhawk Elementary School has playground supervision by teacher aides before and after school
each day. However, the supervision DOES NOT begin until twenty minutes before school starts.
Therefore, we ask that you have your child leave home so as to arrive at school NO EARLIER than
8:40 am EACH DAY. (We cannot babysit.) It is important that we insure the safety of each child at
Grayhawk Elementary School. As such, we require that when children leave school early for any
reason THEY MUST BE CHECKED OUT FROM THE OFFICE. No student will be allowed to wait
outside between 9:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. for someone to pick them up. Your cooperation will insure
the safety of each child.
HONOR ROLL
Grayhawk has the following two honor roll clubs for students in grades 4-6:
• one for students receiving all A’s as well as 4’s or better on the non-graded sections of the
report card (Lynx Club)
• one for the students receiving all A’s and B’s as well as 4’s or better on the non-graded
sections of the report card (Bounding Club)
(Non-graded sections include special area classes, Band and Strings classes and student behavior /
efforts.)
13

Dear Parents and Students,
Grayhawk Elementary School yearly undertakes the challenge to provide a high quality
education to all who attend. To maintain this objective it is necessary that all students
participate in good citizenship.
Citizenship is defined as “the character of an individual viewed as a member of society.”
Good citizenship on school grounds required that all of us (staff, parents and students)
show respect for the rights of others. Students are expected and required to treat staff, other
students and adults on campus with respect, dignity and kindness. They are to recognize
the value of each individual person and work toward respectful relationships. The driving
forces for our discipline procedures at Grayhawk Elementary School are both the School
Mission and the Paradise Valley School District Education Curriculum (see page 16). These
character traits will work in conjunction with our New Citizenship Program - “The Other 3
R’s” (page 17) Please take the time to review this section as it will be heavily implemented
at school.
It is essential that all of us work together to ensure that our students become positive,
productive citizens. Please help your children understand the rules within the following
discipline section. There are stated consequences for both obeying and disobeying school
citizenship rules. The staff at Grayhawk Elementary School pledges our commitment to
open communication between ourselves, parents and students should the need arise.
Respectfully,
Norm Pratt M.Ed. Principal
Grayhawk Elementary School
14

Paradise
Valley
Unified
School
District
No. 69
SEEK PEACEFUL
CITIZENSHIP RESPECT INTEGRITY CARE FOR RESOLUTIONS
OTHERS to conflict
Obey Laws OtherS hONesty Sharing aVOid Physical
and Verbal
aggression
Stay Informed Self Loyalty Kindness Decision
(Self-worth) making
Vote Natural Promise-Keeping Treat others as Know when to
Environment you want others Compromise and
tO TREAT YOU when to Confront
Protect Your Knowledge trust-
Neighbor wOrthiness
Pay your taxeS eLDers Stand Up for
your beliefs
Be charitable human Dignity Self-
Discipline
Community uSe of
Service aPPropriate
Language
Discrimination of authority
media
Differences
15
CHARACTER
EDUCATION

Citizenship
“the character of an individual viewed as a
member of society”
Definition of Citizenship, Page 14, Grayhawk Student Handbook
Good Citizenship requires us all (staff, parents,
students) to respect others’ rights. Our whole team
must work together to develop positive and productive
citizens. To ensure that children and staff work in a
Bully Free Zone, we need to learn “The Other 3 R’s”.
The Other 3 R’s
r
r
r
Respect Yourself
H Listen Attentively H DO NOT allow
H Exhibit Self Control others to bully you
H Follows Rule H Avoid peer pressure
Respect Others
H Do Not HARASS H Obey school and
H Work and Play homeroom rules
H Cooperatively H NO BULLYING
Responsibility for Your Actions
H Exhibit Self Control H Complete tasks on
H Assume time
Responsibility H Admit When Wrong
16

SECTION II
DISCIPLINE PROCEDURES
POSITIVE REINFORCEMENT APPROACH
At Grayhawk Elementary School we emphasize good citizenship and positive student behavior.
Our “Paw Prints” program allows staff to reward students for behavior that is polite, courteous, and
thoughtful. Staff, (including, principal, teachers, secretaries, aides, nurse, cooks and custodians) are
asked to recognize these behaviors and reward students, on the spot, by presenting them with a “Paw
Prints”.
These cards are to be completed and deposited in the school office, into appropriate grade level boxes.
Every two weeks a drawing will be held and recognition given to that student whose card is chosen.
From time to time specific courtesy acts will be announced and “Paw Prints” will be dispersed for
good citizenship acts. Specific courtesy acts will include good manners on the playground, cafeteria
or school walkways, etc.
RULES AND REGULATIONS
To complement our positive reinforcement approach, it should also be understood that rules and
regulations are required to be followed by all students. Classrooms, bus stops, bicycle riding, parking
area, playground, travel to and from school, and the cafeteria are areas that all have behavior procedures
which must be observed at all times.
CLASSROOM AND SCHOOL RULES AND REGULATIONS
While a student attends Grayhawk Elementary School, all District as well as Grayhawk rules and
codes shall be followed and will be enforced. An example but certainly not the only one, which we
will directly enforce is the Weapons Use or Threat Policy. Although we do not address this directly
in our handbook, it is defined in the District Handbook. We will use the District’s definition of the
“WEAPONS USE or THREAT - Using or threatening to use a weapon or “look-a-like” weapon of
any kind, anytime.”
Teachers will explain to their students classroom and school rules and regulations, all of which
will be consistently enforced. These rules will be posted in all classrooms throughout the school year.
Classroom and school rules and regulations will be discussed at Parent Orientation in the fall.
I. Verbal - Students will use appropriate language. These rules work in conjunction with the studentto-student
Harassment Section of the Grayhawk and Paradise Valley District Handbook.
II.
Examples (not inclusive):
• no yelling at others
• no abusive language
• no teasing
• no harassing
Physical - Students’ physical behavior must demonstrate proper consideration for others and work
in conjunction with the student-to-student Harassment Section of the Grayhawk and Paradise
Valley District Handbook.
Examples (not inclusive):
• no fighting
• no hitting, kicking, biting or spitting
• no throwing of objects
III. Equipment - Students will use all equipment in the manner for which it was designed. Examples
(not inclusive):
• students will share equipment with others
• footballs, playground balls, soccer balls, etc. will only be used in designated areas.
• no standing on slide, swings, soccer goals, etc.
• no jumping from swings
17

IV.
• no tearing up or defacing equipment
• no twisting of swings
Movement - Student will not run, push or skip when going from place to place on campus.
V. Respect - Students will show proper respect to all people on campus (staff and/or volunteers)
Examples:
• students will follow all reasonable requests of adult leaders
• students will not argue with adults
If a student does not comply with the classroom and school Rules and Regulations, teachers have the
authority to discipline according to the following procedures:*
Step 1 - Teacher/Student Individual Conference
The purpose being to discuss what changes in his/her behavior will need to be made.
Step 2 - Teacher/Student Individual Conference
A second conference to discuss the inappropriate behavior and to determine consequences if the
behavior does not change. Principal’s attendance is optional.
Step 3 - Teachers Phone Call to Parent
Parent(s) are contacted to discuss the inappropriate behavior, as well as, developing strategies to
change the situation and create a positive behavior pattern.
Step 4 - Parent/Teacher Conference
A face-to-face meeting is held to inform parent(s) of the continuing behavioral situation. The
following points will be made during this conference:
• this is a very serious situation
• change is necessary
• consequences are needed and will be implemented
Step 5 - Student and/or Parent(s)/Teacher/Principal Conference
All will meet face-to-face and will establish and implement a plan of action.
Step 6 - Suspension/Expulsion
Behavior at this step is of such severity or frequency that it is necessary to suspend or expel the
student. (Suspension may take the form of at-home or in-school. The District guidelines will be
followed.)
*These steps are to be followed sequentially whenever appropriate. However, specific misbehavior
may result in skipping steps.
DISCIPLINE REFERRAL
Discipline Referral forms will be used to communicate to parent(s) when a situation occurs in the
following areas:
Bus Stop
• The District bus discipline format will be followed.
Bicycle
• Walk bicycles on sidewalks
• Walk bicycles through crosswalks
• Do not ride or walk bicycles through school parking lot or on fire lanes
• You must be in Third grade or higher to ride your bicycle to school
Cafeteria
• Each classroom will assign two (2) cafeteria monitors.
• Classroom teachers will walk students into the cafeteria to set proper behavior tone.
18

• Students will form single-file lines for distribution of lunches. Fifth and Sixth grade monitors
will assist Food Service Personnel as needed.
• Students will sit in the order they are in line beginning at the end of the table
• There is to be no seat saving or sitting at a different table. All students are to sit at their
classroom table.
• Students are to eat in an orderly and courteous manner. Students will sit while eating.
• All food (including milk and cookies) is to be eaten at the table.
• No food is to be taken from the cafeteria.
• Students will maintain a low-level voice.
• No throwing of food or silverware will be allowed.
• Any student that spills food or drink will be responsible for getting paper towels and cleaning
up. (A cafeteria aide may need to seek the help of a custodian.)
• Students will not get up to throw trash away until they are completely finished and ready to
leave.
• Monitors duties include washing tables with sponges and remaining in cafeteria until entire
class has left for recess.
• Students will be dismissed by a Cafeteria Aide only when the students are quiet and each
student space is clean.
THE OTHER THREE R’s CITIZENSHIP PROGRAM
The Other Three R’s will be used in the cafeteria, on the playground and in hallways. Staff
members are encouraged to issue the Other Three R’s when violations of school and classroom rules
and regulations are observed.
After a student has been instructed of appropriate behavior and has been made aware of all Rules
and Regulations, if he/she misbehaves, a verbal warning will be issued, or is of a severe nature a Three
R’s form will be completed. If the behavior persists, an Other Three R’s will be completed.
PLAYGROUND AND SIDEWALK RULES AND REGULATIONS
• Swings are to be used properly. No standing on or twisting of chain, no side-to-side swings,
only one student per swing and no jumping off.
• Slide is to be used in a feet-first forward sitting position only.
• No rock, sand or grass throwing.
• Students will travel to and from the restroom in pairs.
• No sitting on top of, or jumping off bars, self-contained play areas or swings.
• No tackle football, piggyback, chicken fights, etc.
• No games that might cause bodily injury.
• Students must stay within assigned playground boundaries.
• Restrooms are to be used solely for the purpose they were intended.
• Students are to walk (not run, skip, jump) on sidewalk areas.
PROFANITY POLICY
Students that use profanity will be disciplined in the following manner:
First Offense - A Discipline ticket is sent to parent(s)
Second Offense - Student will call their parent(s) from the Principal’s office and inform them of
what he/she said. Consequence will be loss of recess for one week.
Third Offense - A one-to three-day suspension will be enforced and a parent conference held
for readmission.
19

STUDENT–TO–STUDENT HARASSMENT OR MISCONDUCT
1. POLICY STATEMENT:
The students of Grayhawk Elementary School shall have the right to attend school without fear
of harm threat, intimidation or harassment – and THAT RIGHT SHALL BE PROTECTED.
2. DEFlNlTIONS:
HARM: Students of Grayhawk Elementary School shall not hit, kick, strike or otherwise be
physically abusive to any other person during school time or while on school property.
THREAT: Students of Grayhawk Elementary School shall not threaten to harm any person
for any reason during school time or while on school property. This includes direct or indirect
suggestion of harm for any reason.
EXTORTION: will not be tolerated at school. Extortion is defined as demanding something
of value in exchange for protection from harm.
INTIMIDATION: Students of Grayhawk Elementary School shall not engage in any activity
that frightens another student or makes that student unhappy or uncomfortable in the school
setting.
HARASSMENT: Students of Grayhawk Elementary School shall not annoy, antagonize, or bother
another person physically, verbally, or visually. This includes the use of offensive language,
symbols, gestures, touching, unfounded rumors, etc., or any unwanted sexual advances.
CONSEQUENCES: The consequences of the aforementioned activities will be consistent with
existing consequences present in the School Discipline Policy. In cases of sexual misconduct,
a referral shall be forwarded to the school nurse to determine if counseling or related services
are indicated. If so determined, appropriate services will be recommended for parent consideration.
3. PROCEDURES:
Any student who feels he has been a victim of any of the above should immediately contact
the Principal, a Teacher, Nurse, Counselor, or other trusted adult.
4. COMMUNICATION OF POLICY:
This policy will be communicated to staff, students, and parents annually as part of the School
Discipline Plan.
MEANS OF COMMUNICATION:
Staff meetings, School Handbook, Parent/Student Handbook, Newsletter, PTA meetings, student
assemblies.
INSERVICE: Shall be planned and conducted for staff by team consisting of Principal, School
Nurse, School Psychologist, Counselor (if available), and any other designated staff members.
General guidelines will be presented and questions answered.
NON-DISCRIMINATION
No person connected with the Paradise Valley Schools, whether a student, employee, or volunteer
shall, on the basis of sex, creed, or color, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of,
or be subjected to discrimination under any educational program or activity.
20

IMPORTANT!!
Paradise Valley Unified School District No. 69
Grayhawk Elementary School
Parent-Student Handbook Awareness Sheet
The information in the handbook is intended to inform both students
and parents of the Grayhawk expectations for behavior, attendance,
communication, and academics. Both your child’s signature and your
signature below indicate that you have received this information. it is
expected that you will read and discuss the the information with your
child. This proactive communication helps your child be successful in the
school environment. We thank you for the time you devote to reading
the information contained in the handbook.
By signing below, our family acknowledges that we have read, understand,
and will abide by the school wide expectations, procedures, and guidelines
presented within this Grayhawk Parent/Student handbook
Student Name
(please sign)
Parent Name
(please sign)
Date
Date
Email Address
My child’s teacher is

•
GOVERNING BOARD
Nancy Case_____________________ President
Julie Bacon______________________Member
Anne Greenberg__________________Member
Mark Lane_______________________Member
Sue Skidmore____________________Member
James P. Lee, Ed.D., Superintendent
Printed By
• P A R A D I S E
V A L L E Y
U N I F I E D
S C H O O L
D I S T R I C T
Print Shop