Gompers Elementary School • 1502 Wyoming Way, Madison, WI ...

Gompers Elementary School
2008-09 Handbook and Calendar
http://gompersweb.madison.k12.wi.us
1502 Wyoming Way
Madison, WI 53704-1838
Telephone: (608) 204-4520
Safe Arrival: (608) 204-4522
Inside this handbook...
I. About Our School............................................................2
II. Introduction.....................................................................4
III. General Information.........................................................6
IV. Health, Safety and Security...........................................22
V. District Policy & Guidelines...........................................26

I. About Our School
School Mission and Overview
Dear Families,
WELCOME FROM THE PRINCIPAL
Welcome to the 2008-2009 school year! To our incoming Kindergartners, students entering Gompers for the first time and their families, we are
happy to have you join the Gompers community. To our returning families, welcome back!
Carlettra Stanford
Principal
204-4523
cstanford@madison.k12.wi.us
Telephone: (608) 204-4520
FAX: (608) 204-0413
Safe Arrival: (608) 204-4522
Other Important
School Numbers
and Contact
Information:
School Hours:
Monday:
8:30 a.m. - 1:45 p.m.
Tuesday - Friday:
8:30 a.m. - 3:17 p.m.
AFTER SCHOOL POLICY
• Teachers may keep children up to 30 minutes following class
dismissal for individual help or completion of school work.
Children will be allowed to call and notify parent(s).
• Children should go directly home after school. Parents need
to be punctual in picking up children. Expecting students to
remain safe on an unsupervised playground is not a safe risk
to take with your child.
• Students do not use school telephones to make alternate
after-school arrangements related to activities with friends.
Such arrangements need to be cleared with parents before
arriving at school. Invariably, student-initiated arrangements
lead to misunderstandings and concerns.
We would like to extend an open invitation for you to participate in your child’s learning experiences. We encourage you to visit our school, keep
in touch with your child’s teacher, provide praise and support for your child, attend scheduled conferences, call when you have questions and
participate in our special activities and events. There is no substitute for a positive home-school partnership and together we can work to provide
your child(ren) with the best learning experiences possible.
This handbook has been prepared to provide an overview of Madison Metropolitan School District and Gompers School policies and procedures.
Please read this handbook carefully, share with your child(ren) and be sure to keep it on hand as a ready reference throughout the school year. We
look forward to working in partnership with you and your child(ren) during the 2008-2009 school year! Together we can work to ensure success for
every student!
Sincerely,
Carlettra Stanford, Principal
GPTO - GOMPERS PARENT TEACHER ORGANIZATION
Gompers Parent Teacher Organization welcomes all parents and hopes you will join in making Gompers Elementary the best school your child will
experience. GPTO is reaching out to all parents to attend the four meetings during the school year. Your ideas and skills are important in creating
an environment which enhances student learning and promotes parent participation.
GPTO has sponsored Family Nights throughout the sçhool year which are filled with fun and games. Examples of events include a Fall Party in
October and a Winter Party in February as well as gatherings which offer opportunities to admire students’ works and accomplishments. Through
fund raising efforts GPTO has assisted in the purchase of computers, software, copy machines, camcorder, trade books (paperback books)
playground equipment and classroom materials. We also contribute funds for cultural arts programs, sponsor the year Safety Patrol trip, host a staff
appreciation brunch at the close of school and work with teaching and administrative staff to respond to parental concerns.
Volunteers are always needed for our Family Nights as well as the many other activities that occur during the school year. Your involvement is an
important part of an active and vigorous school program.
Again welcome and we look forward to meeting you.
VOLUNTEER PROGRAM
Volunteers are an integral part of Gompers Elementary. They work tutoring children, helping in the LMC, doing clerical tasks for teachers and in the
office. If you would like to help in any of these areas or in some other way just fill out the volunteer form at Open House or call the office to request
an application.
RSVP (Retired Senior Volunteer Program) have also been involved at Gompers. If you are at least 60 years of age and would like to help at our
school call RSVP at 238-7787.
2

Gompers Elementary School • 1502 Wyoming Way, Madison, WI 53704 • 608-204-4520
SEPTEMBER 2008
SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY
1
LABOR DAY
2
SCHOOLS
OPEN
Early Release (1 pm
or 1:45 pm)
1 st quarter and 1 st
semester begins
3
Early Release (1 pm
or 1:45 pm)
4 5 6
7 8 9 10 11 12 13
14 15 16
NO SCHOOL
K-12 Staff
Development
17 18 19 20
Gompers PTO
Mtg—6:30 PM
—AP Room
21 22 23 24 25 26 27
28 29 30
3

II. Introduction
Bo a r d o f Ed u c at i o n Me m b e r s, 2008-09
Maya Cole 1818 Keyes Ave (11) 239-1484
Ed Hughes 2226 Lakeland Ave. (04) 241-4854
Lucy Mathiak 716 Orton Court (03) 255-0939
Beth Moss 2 Highgate Circle (17) 833-8717
Marjorie Passman 3118 Todd Drive (13) 271-0645
Arlene Silveira, President 5760 Barbara Drive (11) 270-0435
Johnny Winston, Jr., Clerk 502 Traveler Lane (18) 332-8437
Sarah Maslin Student Representative 2121 Adams St. (11) 280-8676
Chelli Riddiough, Alternate Student
Representative
442-7146
Bo a r d o f Ed u c at i o n Mi s s i o n/Vision & Ap p r o a c h/Go a l s
OUR MISSION
The mission of the Madison Metropolitan School District is to assure that every student
has the knowledge and skills needed for academic achievement and a successful life.
OUR VISION
A district where…
• all students have the academic and interpersonal skills to become independent
learners capable of making informed decisions in our multi-cultural world.
• race, class, disability, sexual orientation, gender, or home language of origin other
than English, do not predict academic achievement.
• the learning environment is emotionally and physically safe and orderly, and the
contributions of all are valued and respected.
OUR APPROACH
In pursuit of this vision, we will…
• establish and maintain a culture that builds and values relationships, engages
everyone positively and creatively, and respects the contributions of all.
• provide a culturally relevant, rigorous curriculum that is anti-racist, anti-biased
and engages students in meaningful, real world learning through research-based
instructional practices that reflect district and state academic standards.
• employ and retain highly competent and diverse staff who are engaged in ongoing
professional development.
• use our resources efficiently and strategically.
GOALS
•
•
•
•
•
All Students will read at grade level by 3rd grade and continue at grade level in the
beginning of 8th grade.
All students will complete Algebra and Geometry by the end of 10th grade.
All students must meet or exceed the district’s achievement growth benchmark each year.
All students and all subgroups of students will have a 94% attendance rate.
All students entering 9th grade will achieve high school graduation or comparable
certification.
Di s t r i c t Ad m i n i s t r at i o n Co n ta c t In f o r m at i o n
545 West Dayton Street 53703
Superintendent - Daniel A. Nerad..........................................................................................663-1607
Chief of Staff – Steve Hartley.................................................................................................663-1671
Assistant Superintendents:.................................................................................................................
Elementary Schools – Sue Abplanalp.............................................................................663-1632
Secondary Schools – Pamela Nash................................................................................663-1633
Business Services - Erik Kass........................................................................................663-1634
Special Assistant to the Superintendent: Race & Equity – Lisa Black.......................663-1692
Affirmative Action – Amos Anderson.....................................................................................663-1530
Building Services Director - Douglas Pearson.....................................................................204-7909
Public Information Director – Ken Syke...............................................................................663-1903
Educational Services Director - Ann Yehle.......................................................................... 663-8429
(Special Education, English As a Second Language/Limited English Proficiency)
Food Services Director - Frank Kelly....................................................................................204-4000
GLBTQ Resource Teacher – Bonnie Augusta.......................................................................663-8449
Health Services – Freddi Adelson..........................................................................................663-8427
Human Resources Director - Robert Nadler.........................................................................663-1745
Legislative Liaison - Joe Quick..............................................................................................663-1902
School-Community Recreation Director (MSCR) - Lucy Chaffin.......................................................204-3015
PUBLIC INFORMATION
Gale MacWilliams................................................................................................................. 663-1879
Research & Evaluation, Student Registration, Info Services – Kurt Kiefer.......................663-4946
Safety and Security Coordinator – Luis Yudice....................................................................663-1904
School Building Use Permits - Debbie Korpela...................................................................204-3027
Student Services – Nancy Yoder...........................................................................................663-1671
(Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse, GLBTQ Resource Teacher, Psychologists, Social Workers)
Teaching and Learning Director – Lisa Wachtel...................................................................663-5217
Curriculum Coordinators
Transportation Services - Renee Bremer ............................................................................663-5287
We l c o m e Fr o m Su p e r i n te n d e n t July, 2008
Dear Parents and Guardians,
The start of each school year is always an exciting time for families and our school district. The upcoming school year is no exception.
Whether you are sending your first child to kindergarten or have a graduating senior, we hope you feel the same way too!
Several years ago, the district adopted the following mission statement:
“We assure that every student has the knowledge and skills needed for academic achievement and a successful life.”
Our mission supports important lifelong outcomes for your child. Every staff member in the district is critically important to these
successful outcomes. We are dedicated to working with you to ensure your child does well in school. We ask you to be an active
partner with us. By working together, we can help your child learn well and become a caring and contributing member of our
community.
What can you do to help
• Have high expectations. When we believe our children will accomplish a great deal, they will. Expect your child to do
well in school and to get involved in school activities.
• Support your child’s learning at home. Even with today’s hectic pace of family life, there remain many ways to
support your child as a learner. Ask your child what s/he learned in school and find ways to build upon these experiences. Also,
offer to help in any way you can with schoolwork.
• Get to know your child’s teachers. Introduce yourself to your child’s principal and teachers. Attend open houses,
parent-teacher conferences and school events. The more your child sees us working together, the more successful s/he will
be.
• Ensure that your child attends school regularly. Other than when your child is ill, s/he needs to attend school
regularly. When you can, please take vacations during scheduled school breaks and ensure your child arrives to school on
time.
We commit to working with you to ensure your child has a successful school experience. If you have questions about your child’s
education, contact your child’s teacher. If more help is needed, your child’s principal is available to assist you. Having great kids,
great families and a great staff will lead to another great school year in our district!
Sincerely, Daniel A. Nerad, Ed.D., Superintendent of Schools
4

Gompers Elementary School • 1502 Wyoming Way, Madison, WI 53704 • 608-204-4520
OCTOBER 2008
SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY
1 2 3 4
PICTURE
DAY
5 6 7 8 9 10 11
12 13 Early Release (1:00
PM or 1:45 PM) K-12
Staff Development
14 15 16 17 18
19 20 21 22 23 24 25
26 27 28 29
Gompers Family Fun
Night—6:30 PM—
Middle School Gym
& AP Room
30 NO SCHOOL 31 NO SCHOOL
WEAC Convention WEAC Convention
5

III. General Information
An im a l s at Sc h o o l
The presence of animals in schools provides
many opportunities for addressing academic
standards and supporting the social/emotional
growth of students. Animals are part of our natural
environment and can be used effectively as teaching
aids. The positive benefits of the human-animal
bond are well established.
The presence of animals in schools may also pose
a safety or health risk for some children when
they are exposed to allergens that activate allergy
and/or asthma symptoms. Other students may
be afraid of animals and feel emotionally unsafe
in their presence. The purpose of this policy is to
allow animals in the classroom while providing for
the health and safety of school staff, students,
and animals. Animals will be removed from the
classroom and/or the school when this cannot be
achieved.
ANIMALS ON SCHOOL PREMISES POLICY SUMMARY
School Board Policy 4615 adopted on August 7, 2006
(Refer to www.mmsd.org for the entire Board Policy)
The purpose of the Animals on School Premises policy is to
allow animals in the classroom while providing for the health
and safety of school staff, students and animals. The policy
identifies five (5) categories of animals and the procedures
to be followed in order to bring animals on school premises.
It specifies conditions under which animals must be removed
from school premises.
CATEGORY
Animals Used
in Educational
Presentations
(single event)
Cold Blooded
Animals Not
Handled by
Children
(for 1 semester,
renewable)
Classroom
Animals
(for 1 semester,
renewable)
Animals
Excluded from
School
or Classroom
Use
Animals Exempt
from Compliance
With Policy
PROCEDURES
1. Identify instructional purpose or social/emotional objective
2. Provide statement of animal health & temperament or verify that the animal is part of a presentation conducted by an
experienced animal handler who engages in demonstrations in a school setting on a regular basis
3. Obtain principal’s signature of approval to proceed to next steps
4. Notify parents of upcoming presentation (Parent consent not required; Appendix E given to parents upon enrollment)
5. Provide modifications for students who have animal fears or allergies
6. Obtain principal’s final approval
1. Identify instructional purpose or social/emotional objective
2. Provide statement of animal health & temperament or verify that animal is provided by a certified program or agency
3. Obtain principal’s signature of approval to proceed to next steps
4. Notify parents of proposed presence of animal (Parent consent not required; Appendix E given to parents upon
enrollment)
5. Provide modifications for students who have animal fears or allergies
6. Obtain principal’s final signature of approval
• Staff member follows procedures for cleaning and disinfecting sinks, cages and surfaces
1. Identify instructional purpose or social/emotional objective
2. Provide statement of animal health & temperament or verify that animal is provided by a certified program or agency
3. Obtain principal’s signature of approval to proceed to next steps
4. Send letter to parent and obtain parent consent (Appendix F)
5. Provide modifications for students who have animal fears or allergies
6. Obtain principal’s final approval
• Staff member follows procedures for cleaning and disinfecting sinks, cages, and surfaces
• Staff member provides instruction for students on proper care and handling of animal
• Poisonous, venomous animals
• Family pets unless all policy requirements are met
• Trained & certified service animals supporting individuals with disabilities
• Animals used in K-8 Science Curriculum
• Invertebrates used in Grades 9-12 Science Curriculum
At t e n d a n c e
There is a powerful link between attendance and academic success in school. To
give students the best opportunity to reach their potential both academically and
socially, they must attend regularly. When students are tardy or absent, they miss
out on valuable learning and social experiences that cannot be replaced.
Students are expected to attend school every day unless they are ill. Madison
Metropolitan School District’s Board of Education has established a priority goal
regarding student attendance: All students will attend school at or above 94% of
the days in the school year (i.e., less than 11 missed days).
A significant number of absences will require the school to initiate procedures
outlined by Wisconsin State Statutes and school district policy regarding
attendance. These procedures are outlined in this section.
The following attendance definitions and procedures apply to all Madison students,
unless otherwise specified.
Excused Absences
The following absences can be excused as per Board of Education Policy:
A. Physically and/or emotionally unable to attend:
A student may be legally excused from school if s/he is not physically or emotionally able to attend
school. This includes:
(1) A pupil who is ill to the extent that he/she is not in proper physical or mental condition to attend school.
(2) Absences related to dentist, doctor, chiropractor, psychologist and other medical appointments that
cannot be scheduled at any time other than school time. (Absences related to a student’s medical
appointments should be arranged to fit the student’s school schedule whenever possible).
(3) Serious illness or medical condition of a member of the immediate family, when the student is definitely
needed at home.
(4) Bereavement due to death in the immediate family.
(5) Inclement weather (Parent(s)/guardian(s) may choose to keep their children home during extreme
weather conditions, when a concern for safety is a factor).
(6) Religious instruction/religious holidays.
6

Gompers Elementary School • 1502 Wyoming Way, Madison, WI 53704 • 608-204-4520
NOVEMBER 2008
SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY
1
2 3 4 5 End of 1 st Qtr. 6 Start 2 nd Qtr. 7 8
PICTURE
RETAKE
DAY
9 10 11 12 13 NO SCHOOL 14 15
Gompers PTO
Mtg.—6:30 PM—AP
Room
Parent/Teacher Conf.
16 17 18 19 20 21 22
23 24 25 26
27 NO SCHOOL 28 NO SCHOOL 29
Thanksgiving Thanksgiving
30
7

General Information (continued)
B..Elected Officials:
The following reason for absence is also allowed under state
statute:
(1).Serving as an elected official/pollster (the student must have
at least a 3.0 GPA or equivalent).
C..Planned Absences:
Planned absences are absences in which any child shall
be excused in writing for up to 10 days by his/her parent or
guardian before the absence. A child excused pursuant to
this provision shall complete any course work that was missed
during the absence.
Please have your child(ren) in school every possible minute. Being
on time, so important directions and announcements are not missed,
is extremely important. Being absent is the one of the best ways
for a child to get behind in school, becoming frustrated and even
affecting his/her selfconcept.
Please schedule appointments, vacations, visits to relatives, etc.
during non school time.
Thank you.
SAFE ARRIVAL 204-4522
Call 204-4522 24 hours a day
PARENTS ARE REQUESTED TO CALL SCHOOL BY 8:30 EACH
DAY A CHILD IS ABSENT.
Please use the 204-4522 number for this
purpose. If the school has not been so
informed a call will be made to parents after
8:30. In the past parents were very diligent
about calling and your cooperation is much
appreciated.
A district goal is to have students attend
school at an attendance rate of 94% and
above. You will receive periodic updates on
your child’s attendance rate on his/her report
card.
Absence Procedure
For each day a student is absent for reasons listed above, except C
above, the following should occur:
1) The parent/guardian should call the school’s Attendance Line
by 7:45 a.m. to explain the absence, or
2) If no contact is made on the day of the absence, upon returning
to school, the student must bring a written excuse signed by
the parent/guardian to the appropriate school secretary. The
note must list the date(s) of the absence and explain the
reasons. Excuses that are submitted late and do not contain
exact dates, times and reasons for absence will not be honored
and the absence(s) will be unexcused.
3) The principal will determine if the reason for the absence
is excusable based on Board of Education Policy. The
determination of whether an absence from school is excused
or unexcused must be made on the day the student returns to
school so that the school can notify the parent(s)/guardian(s) if
the absence is unexcused.
4) The Principal is responsible for confirming and determining
whether the reasons for absences are valid. To that end, the
Principal and/or student services staff may ask the parent/
guardian of a child to obtain a written statement from a licensed
medical provider as sufficient proof of the child’s physical or
emotional condition. Except as otherwise provided by law and/
or Board Policy, if a parent/legal guardian fails to cooperate
with a school’s request to provide specific information about
an absence, and/or if the Principal believes the reason for
the absence is not valid, the absence may be recorded as
unexcused or changed from excused to unexcused. If a
request of a parent is denied, the parent should be advised by
the Principal of the probable consequence.
Planned Absences Procedure
For planned absences under C, parent(s)/guardian(s) should make
every effort to plan vacations, trips, medical appointments, dental
and orthodontist appointments, and campus visits, etc., outside of
the school calendar or outside of the school day. To do otherwise
has an adverse effect on the student’s opportunity to learn.
However, from time to time it is necessary for a student to be absent
for reasons other than those listed above. Planned absences should
occur only for special circumstances and only after the student or
parent has completed the procedure outlined below.
a. For all planned absences, a Parent Request for a Planned
Absence form must be completed and submitted to the
student’s principal before the scheduled absence. This
form can be obtained from the school’s office and requires
the signatures of parent(s)/guardian(s), teacher(s) and the
student’s principal.
b. The absence shall be included in the student’s permanent
record.
c. Up to 10 days per school year is the maximum time period for
which a parent/guardian can excuse a student from school
attendance by excusing the student in writing before the
absence.
d. Arrangements shall be made for the completion of schoolwork
missed over the course of the absence(s).
Unexcused Absences
In accordance with Board Policy, a student’s absence will be
recorded as unexcused when there is not good cause or recognized
legal grounds for the absence as described above. In deciding
whether to record an absence as excused or unexcused, the school
principal is responsible for confirming and determining in some
cases whether the reasons for absences are valid. To that end, the
principal and/or student services staff may ask for documentation.
Except as otherwise provided by law and/or Board Policy, if a
parent/legal guardian fails to cooperate with a school’s request to
provide specific information about an absence, and/or if the principal
believes the reason for the absence is not valid, the absence may be
recorded as unexcused or changed from excused to unexcused.
Habitual Truancy
When a student’s attendance meets the legal definition for habitual
truancy, MMSD is required to initiate interventions that can include
interviewing, conferencing, on-going monitoring of attendance,
contracting and/or referral to Dane County Municipal or Juvenile
Courts. These requirements are based on Wisconsin Statute
118.16 which defines an habitual truant as “a pupil who is
absent without an acceptable excuse under sub. (4) and s.
118.15 for part or all of 5 or more days on which school is held
during a school semester.”
In order to prevent students from becoming habitually truant, MMSD
has developed a comprehensive attendance improvement approach.
Students, and/or their parent(s)/guardian(s), are strongly encouraged
to contact the student’s principal or a member of the school’s
Student Services Team (Nurse, Social Worker, School Counselor,
or Psychologist) as soon as attendance becomes a problem,
and schedule a meeting to discuss the causes of the student’s
attendance problems, and work together to find solutions that
address these causes. When patterns of problematic attendance
become evident, contact with the student and family can also be
initiated by members of the school staff.
For those students that become identified as habitually truant, a
number of interventions will be attempted including interviewing,
reviewing attendance history and problem-solving. The parent/
guardian and the student will be invited to attend a Habitual
Truancy conference and a case coordinator will be assigned to
further examine the obstacles to attendance for the student. The
purpose of these interventions will be to identify the cause(s) of
the attendance problems, develop an appropriate attendance
improvement plan, and identify supports within the school and
community that can assist the student and family.
All students who are classified as being habitually truant are in
violation of Wisconsin law, and as such the student, and his/
her parent(s)/guardian(s), may be required to appear in court.
Depending upon the age of the student and circumstances related
to the absences, the court may levy sanctions, and require that the
parent/guardian cause the child to attend school. In addition, the
court may require that the student receive counseling and/or perform
community service.
Tardy
Students are expected to be on time for school at the start of the
school day and for their classes throughout the school day. In
addition to missed learning opportunities for the tardy student,
tardiness to class or to school causes disruption to the learning
environment for all students. For elementary school students, a halfday
absence is recorded when students miss more than one hour
of school but are in attendance for part of the day. Middle and high
schools use various formulas to calculate absences, depending upon
the length of the school’s class periods. Patterns of severe tardiness
call for intervention by the teacher, the principal, and/or the school’s
student services staff.
Questions about your school’s absence procedures can be directed to your school
administrator(s). Last Revised June, 2008
8

Gompers Elementary School • 1502 Wyoming Way, Madison, WI 53704 • 608-204-4520
DECEMBER 2008
SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY
1 2 3 4 5 6
7 8 9 10 11 12 13
Math Night 6:00 pm
14 15 16 17 18 19 20
21 22 23 24 25 26 27
--------------------------Winter Break – No School -------------------------------------
28 29 30 31
---------Winter Break – No School---------
9

General Information (continued)
CHILD CARE – Be f o r e a n d Af t e r Sc h o o l On-Si t e Pr o v i de r s
Program
Provider
East YMCA
MSCR
Playful Kids
Learning
Clubhouse
Red
Caboose
West YMCA
Wisconsin
Youth
Company
School/s Contact Services Provided
Elvehjem Elem.
Gompers Elem.
Kennedy Elem.
Sandburg Elem.
Schenk Elem.
Allied Dr. Learning Ctr+
Allis Elem.+
Emerson Elem.+
Falk Elem.**
Glendale Elem.**
Hawthorne*
Lake View Elem.**
Lapham Elem.+
Lincoln Elem.**
Lindbergh +
Lowell Elem. +
Marquette Elem +
Mendota Elem.+
Midvale Elem.**
Nuestro Mundo +
Crestwood Elem.
Muir Elem.
Lapham Elem.
Marquette Elem.
Huegel Elem.
Olson Elem.
Orchard Ridge Elem.
Chavez Elem.
Crestwood Elem.*
Franklin Elem*
Hawthorne Elem*
Leopold Elem.*
Lindbergh Elem.
Muir Elem.*
Randall Elem.*
Shorewood Elem.*
Stephens Elem.*
Thoreau Elem.
Van Hise Elem.
Updated for the 2008-09 School Year.
Sarah Jenny
711 Cottage
Grove Rd.
221-1571 x123
Jean Gascho
3802 Regent St.
or
Don Bennett
204-4583
Darlene Osborn
1650 Norman
Way
233-8855
Wendy Rakower
1045 E. Dayton
St.
256-1566
Lisa Strub
6011 Odana Rd.
276-6606 x246
Mary Lou
Grzadzielewski
1201 Mc Kenna
Blvd.
276-9782 X 15
before and after
school
** Safe Haven
& Com. Learn.
Center
* Com. Learn.
Center - only
+ Safe Haven
- only
all progs. - after
school only
after school only
after school only
before and after
school
before and after
school
* after school
only
Di re c t o ry In f o r m at i o n
Wisconsin law allows the District to disclose directory information
about students unless parents/legal guardians desire that all or any
part of this information not be released. If parents/legal guardians
wish to have information about their child(ren) withheld they must
complete the “Request to Withhold Directory Information” form for
each child. This form is available in all school offices.
Directory Data/Information means those pupil records which include
the pupil’s name, present address, telephone listing (unless the
number is unlisted), date and place of birth, major field of study
(e.g. 3rd grade elementary education at Leopold School), dates of
attendance, dates of attendance, participation in officially recognized
activities and sports, weights and heights of members of athletic
teams, student’s photograph, the most recent previous school
attended by the student, and degrees and awards received.
Census Verification
Parents/legal guardians are reminded of the importance of the Census
Verification which all students bring home at the beginning of each school
year. Information on this verification is very important, since it is the only way
for school personnel to locate a student’s parent/legal guardian or alternative
contact person in the case of illness or emergency.
Change Of Address/Phone
For your child’s safety, please inform the school whenever you have a
phone or address change or if your alternative emergency contacts change.
Please inform us if you will be temporarily out of town and your child will be
staying with someone else.
Instructions for Family Information
The Madison Metropolitan School District believes that it is
important for both parents/legal guardians to be informed about
a student’s progress. If your child does not live with both parents/
legal guardians, we strongly urge you to provide the names of all
persons with legal rights to information to the school so that we can
communicate with them.
Follow these instructions for the family information
section:
1. If parents/legal guardians live apart, fill out both sides of the
household form, indicating which household is the primary
household.
2. The primary household should be the household the student
declares as primary household for enrollment purposes.
3. In the space on the bottom of the census verification any
additional contact people should be added, if the student has
a secondary household that will print on separate sheet. If
someone other than the parent has rights to records it needs
to be indicated on this sheet as :
a. LEGAL CUSTODY OF THE STUDENT and/or
b. LEGAL ACCESS TO THE STUDENT’S RECORDS.
4. In addition to the people with legal custody or legal access to
records, you may include the names of other adults or other
student with whom the student lives. Please indicate the
relationship of each adult to the student.
FOR EXAMPLE, if each of the following applies in a family
situation:
• Parents/legal guardians are divorced; Parent filling out form
should include the other parent as a secondary address either
household or mailing.
• Student lives with mother and stepfather, mother would have to
sign rights to records for stepfather to have rights.
Student Records
All student records maintained by the Madison Metropolitan School District are
confidential, as required by federal and state law.
Parents/legal guardians should be sure to read the brochure on
student rights that children bring home during the first week of
school. This brochure explains the rights of parents/legal guardians
and eligible students to have access to student records.
Several types of educational records are maintained for MMSD
students. They are:
(1). "Behavioral records" means those pupil records which
include psychological tests, personality evaluations, records
of conversations, any written statement relating specifically
to an individual pupil's behavior, tests relating specifically to
achievement or measurement of ability, the pupil's physical
health records other than his or her immunization records or
any lead screening records required under s.254.162, law
enforcement officers' records obtained under s.48.396 (1) or
938.396 (1)(b)2 or (c)3 and any other pupil records that are not
progress records.
(2). "Progress records" means those pupil records which include
the pupil's grades, a statement of the courses the pupil has
taken, the pupil's attendance record, the pupil's immunization
records, any lead screening records required under s.254.162
and records of the pupil's school extracurricular activities.
(3). "Pupil physical health records" means those pupil records that
include basic health information about a pupil, including the
pupil's immunization records, an emergency medical card, a log
of first aid and medicine administered to the pupil, an athletic
permit card, a record concerning the pupil's ability to participate
in an education program, any lead screening records required
under s.254.162, the results of any routine screening test, such
as for hearing, vision or scoliosis, and any follow-up to such
test, and any other basic health information, as determined by
the state superintendent.
(4). "Pupil records" means all records relating to individual pupils
maintained by a school but does not include notes or records
maintained for personal use by a teacher or other person who is
required by the state superintendent under s.115.28 (7) to hold
a certificate, license or permit if such records and notes are not
available to others, records necessary for, and available only to
persons involved in, the psychological treatment of a pupil and
law enforcement unit records.
Requests by parents/legal guardians to review student records must
be submitted in writing to the building principal, who will help to
10

Gompers Elementary School • 1502 Wyoming Way, Madison, WI 53704 • 608-204-4520
JANUARY 2009
SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY
1 2 3
Winter Break – No School
4
5 SCHOOLS
REOPEN
6 7 8 9 10
11 12 13
Gompers PTO
Mtg.—6:30 PM—AP
Room
14 15 16 17
18
19 NO SCHOOL 20 21 22 23 Early Release
Martin Luther King
(10:45 or 11:30)
Jr. Day
End of 2 nd Qtr./1 st Sem
24
25 26 27 28 29 30 31
Start of 3 rd Qtr/2 nd Sem.
11

General Information (continued)
arrange a time when parents/legal guardians can review the records which they wish to see.
Questions or concerns about access to student records should be addressed to the building principal.
Fe e s
School Activity Fee Waiver
To encourage all students to participate in all school activities regardless of the student’s financial situation,
it is the policy of the Board of Education to waive the payment of part or all of student fees if the student
or the student’s parent/guardian demonstrates an inability to pay such fees, and to notify students and
parent/guardian of this fee waiver policy.
Student fees for the purpose of the waiver policy include fees for school day field trips and fees that are on
the yearly student fee schedule, except for library and textbook fines.
Fee Waiver/Reduction request forms are available at all schools, and may be completed by the parent/
guardian each school year in which a waiver or fee reduction is requested. If a fee waiver or reduction
is granted, it shall be for the entire school year unless the student or the student’s parent/guardian
subsequently demonstrates the ability to pay such fees.
Fi e l d Tr i p s
Teachers frequently plan field trips and excursions to provide students with educational experiences,
which are extensions of the classroom. These trips are essential to the educational
program, and all students are expected to participate.
Parents/legal guardians will receive written notification in advance about field trips
and should take care to sign all forms and send money to school if requested.
Scholarship money is available if payment of field trip fees creates a hardship for a
student's family. In such cases parents/legal guardians should contact their child's
teacher or the school office.
Medications which are normally given to students during the school day will be given
by school staff during field trips. No additional permission is required. If your child
needs medication on an overnight or extended day field trip which is NOT regularly
given at school, Board policy requires written parent permission and a written order
from the health care practitioner. This includes over the counter, non-prescription
medication. The medication permission forms are reviewed by the school nurse before the overnight or
extended day field trip. Some medications (such as inhalers) may be self-administered but a school staff
person will give most medications.
When riding a school bus as part of a field trip, students are expected to obey all rules governing school
bus transportation (see "Bus Transportation").
Fo o d Se rv i c e
BREAKFAST AND LUNCH PROGRAM AND SCHEDULES
Breakfast at Gompers starts at 8:15 in the 2008-09 school year. It ends at 8:30.
Children may eat lunch at school beginning the first day of school. Following is important information
regarding the program:
A prepack hot lunch will be available to elementary students.
Free lunches or reduced price lunches are available provided criteria are met. (See Parental Letter for
Lunch which is mailed with the “Gazette”)
Children may carry a sack lunch to school. Milk will be available for children to purchase.
Children who eat at school, either hot or sack lunch, will eat in the All Purpose room and will be
supervised.
Money will be collected the first day of school for the first month of school. Information as to the cost, etc
will be on the menu that is mailed with the first “Gazette”. Thereafter the menus will be sent home the
Friday prior to the collection date. Money is collected once a month.
What is the Eatery
The Eatery is the Food Service Program at your child’s school. Each Elementary, Middle & High School
offers meal service. The Elementary Schools offer USDA Breakfast and Lunch programs. The Middle
Schools offer USDA Breakfast and Lunch programs as well as an Ala Carte program. There are four Value
Meals offered each day, which qualify for the USDA lunch programs. Our High Schools offer Breakfast and
Food Courts at lunch. All Food Courts have Meal Deals that qualify as the USDA Breakfasts and USDA
Lunches, in addition to an Ala Carte Menu.
All of our menus in the USDA programs are designed to meet nutritional standards. Each menu is
analyzed weekly, evaluating it against 8 specific nutritional targets. We analyze for five different vitamins
and minerals, provide no more that 30% of calories from fat, no more than 10% of calories from saturated
fat, and meet specific caloric guidelines for both breakfasts and lunches for each age group (elementary,
middle and high school-aged children). Meeting these targets ensures that our meals provide students
with one third of their dietary requirements for lunch and one fourth for breakfast.
The MMSD Eatery believes that good nutrition is a key to learning.
Our food service operation is based upon the following beliefs:
• Serving students is our number one priority
• Our customers are served with dignity and respect
• Nutritionally balanced meals are offered daily
• Teamwork and communication skills are essential ingredients to our daily operational performance
• Maintaining fiscal integrity is vital
Food Safety
In order to ensure the safety of the food served at the Eatery, our Eatery Staff is trained and updated
regularly on food safety issues. Our employees are trained through the National Restaurant Association
ServSafe Course.
Lunch at the Eatery
Our USDA Lunch program is available at our Elementary, Middle, and
High Schools. We serve lunch daily at each of our locations. The USDA
lunch is designed to provide students with 1/3 of their daily nutritional
requirements.
Families may qualify for free or reduced-priced meals and pay according
to their financial situation. See the section on Free or Reduced-price
Applications.
All USDA meals include MILK.
Please note: USDA regulations require that we serve a complete meal. Individual items, such as milk, can
not be provided free to supplement an alternative meal brought from home.
12

Gompers Elementary School • 1502 Wyoming Way, Madison, WI 53704 • 608-204-4520
FEBRUARY 2009
SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY
1
2 3 4 5 6 7
8 9 10 11 12 13 14
Gompers Family Fun
Night—6:30 PM
15 16 17 18 19 20 21
22 23 24 25 26 27 NO SCHOOL 28
SWEIO Convention
13

General Information (continued)
Breakfast at the Eatery
All of the schools in our district participate in the USDA Breakfast Program. This program, as does the
USDA Lunch, meets USDA nutritional requirements. The USDA Breakfasts are designed to provide
students with 1/4 of their daily nutritional requirements.
Families may qualify for free or reduced-priced meals and pay according to their financial situation. See
the section on Free or Reduced-price Applications.
All USDA meals include milk.
Please note: USDA regulations require that we serve a complete meal. Individual items, such as milk, can
not be provided free to supplement an alternative meal brought from home.
For information on serving times please check with your child’s school.
At the Elementary Schools, the Breakfast menu is included with the Lunch menu that is sent home with
your child from their school.
Free or Reduced-price Applications
If you choose to apply for free or reduced-price meals, each year you must fill out a new application (only
one per family). The applications are approved based on a federal standard for household size and
household income. These applications are available at registration or through your school office. On the
backside of the application you will find the income guidelines used to determine if you qualify for school
meal benefits. If you need any assistance, please call your school office or the Food Service office at
204-4001. Our office hours are 8:00 am to 3:00 pm Monday through Friday.
Families that qualify for free or reduced-price meals may participate in both the USDA Lunch and
Breakfast Programs.
In accordance with Federal law and U.S. Department of Agriculture policy, this institution is prohibited
from discriminating on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age or disability.
To file a complaint of discrimination, write USDA, Director, Office of Civil Rights, Room 326-W, Whitten
Building, 1400 Independence Avenue, SW, Washington, D.C.20250-9410 or call (202)720-5964 (voice
and TDD), USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer
Payment Options
The Madison Metropolitan School District Eatery has implemented the online payment option called
MealPayPlus. This system is an Automated Online and Telephone based system which allows parents to
make school meal prepayments. Note: You will need your child’s MMSD student ID number in order to set
up a MealPayPlus account. If you do not know the account number for your child/children, please inquire
about your child’s ID number at your school office or by calling Food Services at 204-4001.
•
•
•
View account balances, payments entered via MealpayPlus, and account activity AT NO COST
Set up free email reminders to you know when your child’s account balance is getting low
Create settings to automatically replenish your student’s Eatery account
The Eatery at your child’s school has a computer based accounting system. Each child’s account is the
same, whether the child qualifies for the free or reduced-price meals, or if they pay full price. In order to
use their account, paying students must have funds on their Eatery account. Parents may utilize www.
MealpayPlus.com or send checks or cash to school with their student. Deposits are accepted on any
school day. Checks should be made payable to THE EATERY at your child’s school (example – East
Eatery). Your child’s positive (or negative) balance will carry over year to year. This balance will follow
your child within any MMSD school. ALL MEALS MUST BE PAID FOR IN ADVANCE.
The Eatery staff at your child’s school maintains the account information. Unless you use www.MealpayPlus.
com, the Eatery staff will enter money into the account as it is received. Envelopes are available through
the Eatery or the school office. Should you need to inquire about the specifics of your child’s account,
we have the capability of producing a detailed report indicating both payments received and the meals
charged to your child’s account.
If you visit school and would like to have lunch with your child, please let the school office know early that
morning so we can plan a meal for you. Parents and non school-age children will be charged the adult
price.
Gi f t s f o r Sta f f (Bo a r d Po l i c y 8254A)
In accordance with Board of Education policy 8254A, staff members are not permitted to "accept or solicit
for personal use a gift worth more than token value from a pupil or parent...[however,] the Superintendent
may make exceptions in extenuating circumstances such as cases of bereavement, illness or death.”
Because many children enjoy giving things to their teachers, the District suggests that gifts take the form of
a book, tape or game for the classroom or Library Media Center. In this way, all students can benefit from
gifts given to teachers and other staff members.
Gu e s t Sp e a k e r s
Occasionally, teachers invite guest speakers into their classrooms. Teachers planning to use outside
resource personnel must clear this with the principal prior to their “guest'’ appearance. Guest speakers
report to the main office upon arrival at school.
MEALPAY PLUS
• Convenient – pay anywhere, anytime 24/7, by phone or web
• Quick, easy and secure
• Easily access child’s school lunch balance
• No more handing out cash or checks to children
• Email notification when child’s balance is low
• Faster serving lines
• View purchase history of your students
• Create re-occurring payments – don’t think about lunch payments again!
Families will be receiving more information about www.MealpayPlus.com at registration.
Visit www.MealpayPlus.com today to:
• Make payments to your student’s meal accounts - (note: there is a transaction fee when entering
money on your student’s accounts – currently $2 per transaction).
14

Gompers Elementary School • 1502 Wyoming Way, Madison, WI 53704 • 608-204-4520
MARCH 2009
SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY
1 2 3 4 5 6 7
2009-10 Districtwide
Kindergarten
Registration
8 9 10 11 12 13 14
Gompers PTO
Mtg—6:30 PM—AP
Room
15 16 17 18 19 20 21
Early Release (10:45 or
11:30) for K-12 Staff
Dev.
22 23 24 25 26 27 28
Early Release (10:45 or
11:30) Grade Reporting
End of 3 rd Qtr.
29 30 Start of 4 th Qtr. 31
15

General Information (continued)
He l p Wi t h a Co n c e r n
helpful if you would:
1. Mark all lunch boxes with the child’s first and last name and room number.
2. Mark all sack lunch bags with the child’s name and room number.
3. Mark all boots and outside clothing and the art smock in the same way.
4. Mark an extra change of seasonably-appropriate clothing and have it available for your child at
school. Many parents provide this in a large zip-lock bag.
5. Mark backpacks on the inside (not visible to others, as in strangers)
Pa r e n t/Le g a l Gu a r d i a n In v o lv e m e n t (Bo a r d Po l i c y 4500)
All elementary schools have committees and PTO/PTA groups that provide opportunities for parents/
legal guardians to participate actively in their children’s school. Through these activities parents/legal
guardians can become better informed about, and can influence and gather community support for local
school programs and policies.
Parent participation in the School Improvement Plan (SIP) process is encouraged. Through their
involvement in SIP, parents contribute to the identification of school goals and the action plans for
implementation.
Many parents/legal guardians share their talents and interests by assisting teachers with classroom
projects and activities. Other parents/legal guardians provide leadership for
enrichment programs to enhance the school's curriculum.
The Board of Education also forms occasional task forces and/or committees to
advise the District on specific issues. In recent years these groups have examined
such school-related issues as racial integration, family change and space
utilization. Citizens, parents/legal guardians and non-parents alike have shown
their support by becoming involved in the schools as part of these advisory groups.
Please contact 663-1659 for further information.
Ki n de r g a r t e n Sc r e e n i ng f o r Ea r ly En t r a n c e
Board of Education Policy states that a child who becomes five years of age between September
2 through December 31 may enroll in kindergarten only after satisfactory completion of preliminary
student assessments. A child being assessed for early entrance into kindergarten should have
superior intellectual growth and language skills and must demonstrate the social, emotional, physical
and mental maturity normally expected for successful participation in kindergarten. Parents who
have concerns about school readiness should contact the school psychologist. They will be asked to
complete a request form for placement on the early entrance evaluation schedule. If you need further
information on the early entrance procedure, please contact your school’s psychologist or see www.
mmsd.org. Children born after December 31 may not be screened for early entry. (Wis. Statute).
BOE Policy 4011
Lo s t a n d Fo u n d
Parents, your help is needed to prevent the problem of lost lunches and clothing. It would be extremely
Research has shown that children whose parents/legal guardians are involved
with the school are more likely to achieve and to feel good about their school
experiences. MMSD elementary schools encourage parents/legal guardians to become involved in their
children’s educational programs in whatever way is most comfortable and interesting for them. The
most important way for parents/legal guardians to be involved with their child's education is by
spending time each day with their child and by reading to them.
Visitations to School or Classrooms (Board Policy 4005)
We welcome and encourage parents/legal guardians to visit their children’s school. However, when you
come to school be sure to secure a visitor’s pass from the school office when you arrive. This allows us
to keep your children safe as unauthorized persons or visitations are prohibited. Should unauthorized
persons enter or remain on school premises, the principal or his/her representative may request
assistance from the appropriate police department to remove such unauthorized persons.
Pa r e n t/Te a c h e r Co m m u n i c at i o n s
Scheduled Parent/Teacher Conferences
Parents/legal guardians receive formal reports on their children’s progress four times during the school
year. All elementary schools schedule parent/teacher conferences at the end of the first quarter to give
parents/legal guardians and teachers an opportunity to share information about the child.
16

Gompers Elementary School • 1502 Wyoming Way, Madison, WI 53704 • 608-204-4520
APRIL 2009
SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY
1 2 3 4
5 6 7 8 9 10 11
--------------NO SCHOOL - Spring Break ---------------
12 13
NO SCHOOL
Spring Break
14 Schools
Reopen
15 16 17 18
19 20 21 22 23 24 25
Gompers Cultural
Events Night
26 27 28 29 30
17

General Information (continued)
Written reports are sent home at the end of the second quarter, third quarter, and at the end of the year.
When parents are divorced or separated both parents/legal guardians have the right to receive
information about their child’s school progress, unless the court has ruled otherwise. Please stop at the
school office to confirm if duplicate information is needed.
It is vital that parents/legal guardians and teachers be in communication with each other frequently so
that the child understands that everyone is working together. If you have any questions about your child’s
progress or educational program, do not hesitate to call your child’s teacher or the school principal.
Gompers Elementary School
Safe
Kind
Honest
Responsible
Respectful of others and property
ABOVE THE LINE
Positive behaviors that are
conducive to a sense of community
in a classroom and a school
Re t u r n f r o m Discipline
There are two forms of student discipline that involve an interruption of a student’s attendance at school;
the first being an out-of-school suspension and the second being an expulsion. The District’s procedure
for a student to return to school for each of those disciplinary interruptions includes a meeting involving
the Principal, parent/guardian, and student. During the meeting those attending discuss strategies
to enable the student to successfully re-engage with the school community. The specific procedures
regarding out-of-school suspensions can be found in Board of Education Policy 4043 and for Expulsion,
in Board of Education Policy 4045.
Positive Behavior Support Plans
All MMSD elementary schools aim to be positive places where students, staff, and families feel good
about school and where important learning occurs.
Each school has been working on developing a school-wide system that helps children understand
behavioral expectations, teaches social skills and creates a sense of belonging or community, and
provides positive recognitions and celebrations. The Positive Behavior Support Plans also provide more
consistent responses to misbehaviors and processes that aim to help students grow in responsibility for
their actions.
A critical aspect of this response is the communication with the home and the home’s support of the
school’s behavioral expectations. For this reason we have built home communication into our plan of
procedures that the school staff will follow.
Through our plan staff aim to communicate clear boundaries for behaviors and work in a coordinated way
to help students make good decisions.
Please take a moment and review the ideas of “above the line” behaviors (positive behaviors) as well
as “below the line” and “bottom line” behaviors with your child. This will be the common language used
across all elementary schools in the district. You will often see this common language posted in charts
around the school. Each classroom may further clarify these ideas and provide examples for students.
Working together, staff and families can partner to help all students experience school positively by
creating safe environments while supporting growth in responsibility.
If you have further questions about our school’s plan, please contact your child’s classroom teacher,
principal, or other staff.
BELOW THE LINE
Misbehaviors that detract from a
sense of community in a classroom
and a school
BOTTOM LINE
Serious misbehaviors that make
a school unsafe
Our school will work to help all of our students stay “above the line” through specific programs, engaging
learning experiences, and the relationships we foster each day.
When students “fall below the line” staff and/or the principal will work together with the student to address
issues through consequences or a “fix-it” plan. Depending on the severity, frequency, and other factors,
parent/guardians may be contacted.
When students fall to “bottom line” the principal will determine consequences according to the district’s
Code of Conduct. At this level of behavior, parent/guardians will be contacted.
Easy to remember guidelines include:
1. Is it safe
2. Is it kind
3. Is it honest
4. Does it show respect for others
5. Does it show respect for property
St u d e n t Se r v i c e s
Health Services
Each elementary school has a nurse and nurse’s assistant on staff who are available to perform a number
of health-related services including: administration of medication during the school day, hearing and vision
screening, reviewing immunization records, caring for sick or injured students, help with chronic illness
management and assistance in finding health care. Feel free to contact the school nurse about any health
concerns you may have about your child.
18

Gompers Elementary School • 1502 Wyoming Way, Madison, WI 53704 • 608-204-4520
MAY 2009
SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY
1 2
3 4 5 6 7 8 9
Gompers
Kindergarten
Visitation 2:00-2:45
10 11 12 13 14 15 16
Gompers PTO Mtg-
6:30 PM—AP Room
17 18 19 20 21 22 23
24 25 NO SCHOOL
Memorial Day
26 27 28 29 30
31
19

General Information (continued)
Psychology
Psychologists are available at all elementary schools. Psychologists provide: individual and group
support to help students solve problems, support for students concerned about grades or other issues,
assistance when a crisis occurs at school or home, mental health assistance referrals and information
about educational programs to meet the educational needs of students.
Social Work
Social work support is provided at all elementary schools. Social workers help students in crisis or in
conflict, give guidance in family/friend relationships, help students learn protective behaviors, keep track of
student attendance concerns and provide referrals to outside community services.
Te l e p h o n e Us a g e
Only under extenuating circumstances may a student have a cell phone in school, on the school grounds
or on the school bus. If, after discussing this with the principal and permission is granted, the phone is
not to be used during school hours. It needs to be in the students backpack, and remain there. School
board policy prohibits the use of pagers by students.
Tr a n s f e r s (Bo a r d Po l i c y 4023)
Internal Transfers
An internal transfer can be requested by parents to allow their student(s) to attend a MMSD school while
not living in that school’s attendance area. If granted the student may continue to attend the school to
which the transfer was granted and other MMSD schools in the normal progression without filing another
Internal Transfer Application Form. Completed transfer form should be turned into a school or enrollment
office. The transfer will be forwarded to transfer in, transfer out, and Asst. Superintendent for approval/
disapproval. Appeals of the decision of the Principal/Assistant Superintendent must be filed with the
Assistant Superintendent in writing within ten days of the denial. The superintendent shall make final
determination of an appeal within ten days of the receipt of the appeal. For all students attending school
on an internal transfer, the parents are responsible for transportation of the student.
By change of residence:
a. Upon a change of residence from one attendance area to another attendance area within the MMSD,
including homeless families who establish a permanent residence during the school year, a pupil may
enroll in his/her new school of residence immediately, or
b. The parent may complete an Application For Student Internal Transfer Form requesting that the pupil
remain at the school in which the pupil has been enrolled. Such requests shall automatically be
granted.
Internal transfer request by parents for the current school year:
a. Parents requesting a transfer to have their student attend a school outside of their current MMSD
attendance area. Each request will be considered on an individual basis.
b. In judging an internal transfer request, the enrollment office will use the following major criteria:
1. Whether granting the internal transfer will exceed the pupil-teacher ratio and/or school/program
capacity as defined and approved by the Board of Education for external transfers by using actual
enrollment numbers and actual staffing positions.
2. Options for special education students.
For criteria used for requesting a transfer on a priority basis, or criteria used for an Assistant Superintendent
to grant a transfer based on specific circumstances, refer to instructions for completing the Internal Transfer
Form or refer to board policy 4023.
Internal transfer request of parents for the next school year:
a. Parents requesting a transfer to have their student attend a school outside of their current MMSD
attendance area. Each request will be considered on an individual basis.
b. Annual application for an Internal Transfer will be accepted for the next year beginning on the 1st
Monday in February. Internal applications that are filed on or after the 1st Monday in February and
before 4:00 p.m. on the 3rd Friday in March shall be given preference over applications filed under the
Open Enrollment Policy.
c. In judging an internal transfer request, the Enrollment office will use the following major criteria:
1. Whether granting the internal transfer will exceed the pupil-teacher ratio and/or school/program
capacity as defined and approved by the Board of Education for external transfers by using
projected enrollment numbers and projected staffing positions.
2. Options for special education students.
For criteria used for requesting a transfer on a priority basis see the instructions for completing the Internal
Transfer Form or refer to board policy 4023. If after giving priority as set forth, there are more internal
transfer requests than the receiving school has space available, then a lottery will be held to determine
who gets selected. If a student is not selected, the parent will be given the option to notify the Enrollment
office to have their child added to the waiting list. Parents will be notified before the start of the school year
if space becomes available.
REVOCATION OF AN INTERNAL TRANSFER
A principal may revoke an internal transfer for reasons related to discipline, absenteeism, tardiness, and/
or academic performance of the student. If a transfer is revoked, the elementary student shall immediately
be enrolled in his/her school of residence. For middle and high school students, the revocation becomes
effective at the end of the term. If the transfer was granted under specific criteria by an Assistant
Superintendent then that Assistant Superintendent has the discretion to revoke the transfer.
Tr a n s p o r tat i o n
Bikes/Scooters
A pupil under the age of ten shall not ride a bicycle to school.
• The PRINCIPAL may make exception upon written request of a parent.
• The PRINCIPAL may forbid bicycles on school grounds.
BOE Policy 4233
Students should wear appropriate head gear. Bikes should be locked in the bike rack at school. They
may not be ridden on the school playgrounds. Bikes are brought to school at the owner’s risk.
Skateboards And In-line Skates
Students are not allowed to bring skateboards, in line skates, scooters or rollerblades to school.
Heeley Shoes
Heeley shoes are not allowed (shoes with wheels).
Bus Transportation
STUDENT RULES, RESPONSIBILITY AND DISCIPLINE
Bus transportation is provided free of charge for all elementary students who live
more than 1.5 miles away from their school or who are on a hazardous route, as
determined by the city and the county
The Board of Education views transportation to and from school as part of the school day. Parents and
students must assume that bus transportation is a privilege to the student, not a right. Pupils who do not
conform to the rules relating to safe transportation may have their riding privilege withdrawn by the bus
company.
The following actions have been identified by the Board of Education as justification for refusing a pupil
the privilege of riding a school bus:
1. Yelling, cursing, obscene language;
2. Throwing objects within the vehicle or out of the windows;
20

Gompers Elementary School • 1502 Wyoming Way, Madison, WI 53704 • 608-204-4520
JUNE 2009
SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY
1 2 3 4 5 6
7 8 9 10
All School Picnic
11
5 th Grade Promotion
Ceremony 2:00
12 LAST DAY
OF SCHOOL
Morning Early Release
(9:15/10:00)
Report Cards go
home.
13
14 15 16 17 18 19 20
21 22
SUMMER
SCHOOL
BEGINS
23 24 25 26 27
28 29 30
21

General Information (continued)
3. Extending head, arms or hands out of the windows;
4. Fighting, scuffling, smoking in the vehicle;
5. Moving about in the vehicle while it is in motion;
6. Damaging property;
7. Any other conduct which might jeopardize the health, safety,
welfare or rights of other people.
Drivers are responsible for the maintenance of order among children
being transported and are instructed to use every reasonable means
necessary to maintain order on the bus. The District supplies a threeply
"incident report" form to be used by school bus drivers in reporting
violations of established rider rules. It is the duty of the driver to
immediately report severe misconduct to the principal and to the bus
company office.
Guidelines for action to be taken in conjunction with the bus company
if a student violates the rules for safe bus riding are as follows:
1. First Incident--Discuss appropriate behavior with student and
forward a copy of incident report to parent/guardian;
IV. Health, Safety, Security
Em e r g e n c y Si t u at i o n s
Fire drills - - Tornado Drills -- Fire drills are conducted every
month, and a tornado drill is conducted in the Spring.
Lock Down -- Every school will conduct a lockdown drill each
semester. Drills are conducted to prepare staff and students in the
event of an emergency.
Safety Plans
Every classroom in all of our schools has an Emergency Procedures
pamphlet, which provides directions on responding to a variety of
emergencies that may be encountered at the school.
Safety and Security Committee -- Every school has a Safety
and Security Committee, which meets during the year to address
issues around safety and security. The committee is composed of
parents, staff, and administrators at the elementary schools and
students are also included at secondary schools.
Supervision of the Building and Grounds School grounds
are supervised by school personnel fifteen minutes before classes
begin in the morning and during the day when students are
participating in scheduled school activities until school is officially
dismissed. School personnel do not supervise playgrounds after
classes are dismissed in the afternoon.
In accordance with Board of Education policy, the following shall not
be allowed on school grounds:
1. Hardball or tackle football (except in approved areas and
under proper supervision);
2. Throwing of stones, snowballs or other missiles;
3. Tripping, shoving, unwanted touching, fighting or other
2. Second Incident--Confer with parent(s)legal guardian(s) and
student(s). Students may be refused transportation for one to
three days.
3. Third Incident--Student may be suspended from
transportation for a period of four to seven days. Parents/
legal guardians must be notified in writing of their right to a
hearing and/or appeal.
Severity of offense may dictate acceleration of progression outlined
above. Parents/legal guardians may appeal this decision to the
Assistant Superintendent for the area involved. However, students
whose bus riding privileges have been suspended are required to
attend school, and parents must assume responsibility for alternate
means of transportation. Continued refusal to abide by established
rules may result in suspension of bus riding privileges for the remainder
of the school year.
disturbances;
4. Thoughtless running or chasing through other activity areas;
5. Climbing on fences, buildings, ledges, fire escapes,
downspouts, swinging gates, etc.;
6. Making snow or ice slides on walks;
7. All powered vehicles, including go-karts, powered bikes, minibikes,
motorcycles, snowmobiles, etc.;
8. Dogs or other pets.
According to Board of Education policy, teachers are responsible for
supervision 15 minutes before classes convene MORNINGS ONLY.
Therefore, the following times indicate when staff will be supervising
at Gompers Elementary:
ALL GRADES: 8:15 - 3:17
IN ORDER TO PROVIDE FOR THE SAFETY OF ALL CHILDREN,
PARENTS ARE ADVISED TO SEND THEIR CHILDREN
TO SCHOOL SO THEY ARRIVE AFTER STAFF ARE ON
SUPERVISION DUTY - - IN OTHER WORDS, PLAN SO
STUDENTS ARRIVE AT SCHOOL AFTER 8:15 A.M. Students must
also leave the school and school grounds after school if not directly
involved in an activity. Elementary school doors are locked after the
start of the school day. If you are visiting or picking up a child, use
the main school entrance by the elementary office.
School Entrances/access
In order to ensure the security of our schools, entrance will be
restricted to one main door, as well as to a handicapped entrance.
Please check with your school for the appropriate designated
entrances.
If an adult supervisor from the School District is on the bus, a student
may be subject to discipline in accordance with the Student Conduct
and Discipline Plan.
The Madison Metropolitan School District is concerned about the health,
safety, welfare, and rights of your child. Please go over appropriate
school bus riding practices with your child. Student behavior on the
school bus and the driver's management of the behavior are two key
elements to a safe and enjoyable bus ride for all students. Your child's
bus may or may not be equipped with video monitoring equipment.
The video camera is an aid used to monitor bus discipline. It does not
replace the discipline policy, the driver's authority, or the responsibility
of the school officials. If you have any questions, including questions
regarding the use of video equipment on board buses, please call the
District's Transportation Office at 663-5288 or 663-5287.
Em e r g e n c y - We at h e r
When weather conditions appear dangerous, district staff members
review the situation beginning early in the morning. They talk with
the City Streets Department, Police Department, bus companies and
the National Weather Service to see if buses will be able to travel
safely to and from school. Building Services staff advises whether
all buildings are adequately heated and accessible for students.
The decision to close schools is made by 6:30 a.m. and radio and
television stations are given that information. If you have a question
about whether schools will be closed, please listen to local media
instead of calling the school office.
If a tornado or other storm threatens our area during the school day,
students will be kept at school in the safest area of the building until
the "all clear" message is sounded by Dane County emergency
government officials.
WILL SCHOOL BE CLOSED
In case of a severe snowstorm or other emergency making it
necessary to close school:
Announcements will be made on the radio by 6:30 a.m. If none is
made regarding Madison schools, the schools will be open.
Keep your radio on during suspected severe weather conditions. If
school is in session and the weather becomes severe, please do
not call the school for information. The school needs the lines open
during an emergency to place outgoing calls. If you have a question
about whether schools will be closed, please listen to local media or
check the district’s website at www.mmsd.org instead of calling the
school office.
22

Health, Safety, Security (cont.)
If school is closed during the day we will utilize the information you have provided on the School Closing
Emergency Card. The school will NOT call parents but will abide by your direction on this card. If, for
some reason this directive regarding your child has changed be sure to notify the school. Please review
the information with your child so he/she knows the procedure.
If you feel your child will be endangered by going to school during bad weather, you may keep him/her
home. lf your child will not be attending school please call by 8:30 a.m. 204-4522 to report the absence.
Your continued cooperation is appreciated
He l p i n g Ha n d s
MMSD elementary schools participate with the Madison Police Depart ment in the Helping Hand program.
This program has been developed to help children travel safely on the streets to and from school. A child
in distress, whether she/he is lost, injured or needing protection from a threatening situation, can get help
from any home which displays a Helping Hand sign.
All Helping Hand providers are aware of the importance of reporting any question able incident to the
police. They serve as friends and protectors of all children.
Il l n e s s
Is Your Child Well Enough To Go To School
It is not always easy to decide if your child is sick enough to stay home or well
enough to be in school. Children who come to school are expected, with few
exceptions, to participate fully in school activities.
Here are some guidelines that might help in a parent’s decision-making:
1. Fever: A fever of 100 or more signals an illness that is probably going to
make a student uncomfortable and unable to function well in class. Your child
should stay home until he/she is feeling better.
2. Vomiting, Diarrhea or Severe Nausea: These are symptoms that require a student to remain at
home until a normal diet is tolerated the night before and the morning of school.
3. Infectious Diseases: Diseases such as impetigo, pink eye with thick drainage, and strep throat
require a doctor’s examination and prescription for medication. Contacting the doctor and using the
medicine as directed for the full recommended length of time are necessary. Once medication has
been started and the child is feeling well, he/she may return to school.
4. Students with chicken pox may return to school when all the scabs are completely dried and no new
lesions are developing (usually 5-7 days).
5. Rashes: Rashes or patches of broken, itchy skin need to be examined by a doctor if they appear to
be spreading or not improving.
6. Injuries: If a student has an injury that causes continuous discomfort, the student should not
attend school until the condition is checked by a doctor or it improves. Injuries that interfere with
class participation need a medical evaluation. If participation in physical education classes is not
recommended, a doctor’s excuse is required.
Me d i c at i o n
Medication Policy
1. Students who take daily or as needed medication at school must have the following in place with the
school nurse before any medication can be given:
Written order from the practitioner indicating the name and dosage of the drug and time to be given.
The Parent/Guardian Medication/Procedure Consent Form
Container with the medication in it and labeled with the
1. student’s full name, 3. time to be given, and
2. name and dosage of the drug, 4. practitioner’s name
2. Student will take the medication at the designated time supervised by authorized school personnel.
3. Only limited quantities of any medication should be kept at school.
4. All medication administered at school will be stored in a locked cubicle, drawer, or other safe place.
5. Parents/legal guardians must notify the school when the drug is discontinued and/or the dosage or
time is changed. If the medication is changed, a new order must be received from the practitioner.
6. No aspirin or other over-the-counter medication will be administered to students unless the above
process has been completed.
7. New written permission from the practitioner and parent/legal guardian must be received each year
for pupils who take medication on a long-term basis.
8. It is the responsibility of the student, not school personnel, to get his/her medication at the designated
time.
The practitioner Order for Medication Administration and the Parent/Guardian Medication/Procedure are
both available on the district website:
Expanded Health Services
healthweb.madison.k12.wi.us
All school health offices can provide emergency treatment (in addition to calling 911) for serious asthma
problems and serious allergic reactions. These expanded services are only available when the school nurse
is in the building. The primary goals for the expanded services are to respond to situations in which:
serious allergies to foods or insects have not been previously diagnosed and
students with a known asthma diagnosis experience a sudden asthma problem.
Treatment is initiated by the school nurse and 911 is contacted.
In many schools two over-the-counter medications (acetaminophen/Tylenol® and ibuprofen/Advil®
or Motrin®) are available for nurses to administer when students have occasional headaches, minor
discomfort or menstrual pain. Written parental permission is required and the services are only available
when the school nurse is in the building. If your child needs regular pain medication, please follow the
procedure described above in 1-8.
Look for more information in your child’s school newsletter or talk with the school nurse. Information and
the consent form are also available on the school district’s website:
Medical Insurance
healthweb.madison.k12.wi.us
The Madison Metropolitan School District does not carry student medical insurance. Parents/legal
guardians are, therefore, responsible for medical expenses for pupils injured on school premises.
Even with the best safety precautions, there is an element of risk to children during normal
school activities such as recess and physical education. Parents/legal guardians are encouraged
to consider the adequacy of their medical insurance.
23

Health, Safety, Security (cont.)
Immunization Law
For the health and safety of all students, Wisconsin law requires
that students in grades kindergarten through 12 have at least
minimum protection against certain communicable diseases. The
requirements include:
• 4 doses of diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis vaccine (DTaP, DT,
Td),
• 4 doses of polio vaccine,
• 2 doses of measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine,
• 3 doses of Hepatitis B vaccine, and
• varicella vaccine or a history of having chicken pox
disease.
Recent changes to Wisconsin immunization law are effective with
the start of the 2008-09 school year. The first change is the addition
of a required, second dose of varicella vaccine for all students. This
does not affect students who had chicken pox disease. The second
change is the requirement for a dose of tetanus-diphtheria-acellular
pertussis (Tdap) vaccine for students in grades 6-12. The new
requirements will be phased in for specific grades over subsequent
school years.
After the 30th school day, the district is required to exclude
elementary and middle school students who do not meet the
minimum requirements as established by the State of Wisconsin.
If your child receives vaccinations, please inform the school health
office. You can submit immunization dates electronically by going to
the MMSD website: healthweb/madison.k12.wi.us
The vaccine doses required by state law are minimum requirements.
Additional vaccines may be recommended for your child. Please
check with your clinic or the public health department for complete
recommendations. For assistance with immunizations, contact your
child’s school nurse.
(Revised June 2008)
Re l e a s i n g Ch i l d re n f r o m a Sc h o o l
Du r i ng t h e Day
If it is necessary for you or someone authorized by you to take your
child out of school during the instructional day (after school has
started and before the end of the day), we ask that you follow the
procedures below:
1. You or the authorized adult must sign the logbook in the
office and record the reason for requesting the release of
your child.
2. The adult must have the authority to pick up the child,
either
• he or she is the legal guardian or parent
• he/she is verified as the emergency contact listed on
the official registration form or
• your child has brought a note signed by a legal
guardian or parent to the office saying that this adult
has authority to pick up your child.
3. If the office staff does not know the adult, then
• identification matching the parent’s note must be
secured or
• the child’s parents or someone listed on the official
enrollment form must be called to verify the person’s
identity and their authority to pick up the child.
Your child will not be released if appropriate identification or
verification of authority cannot be obtained.
4. Your child’s teacher will be notified by the office to send
your child to the office.
To ensure the safety of your child, we will ask that any authorized
adult (including parents) picking up a child will do so in the school
office under the supervision of an office staff person.
Once school is in session, no non-school staff (including parents) will
be allowed to go to a classroom unaccompanied and pick up a child.
Tr a f f i c Sa f e t y
School Safety Patrols
All elementary schools with students enrolled in grades 3-5 have
safety patrol programs, wherein fifth graders assist younger students
at street crossings. Patrols are stationed before and after school
at street intersections and at school building doors in order to help
students get to and from school safely. Some schools use safety
patrollers as “helpers on the playground” during lunch recesses, or for
hallway safety throughout the day.”
Parents/legal guardians are encouraged to urge their children to
cooperate with school safety patrols to promote:
•Acceptance of responsibility
•Being valuable members of a team
•Being responsible citizens
•Volunteering and helping fellow students
•Becoming leaders and pathfinders.
City Crossing Guards
Adult crossing guards are on duty at the intersections
of Delaware Boulevard-Esch Lane and Wheeler Road-
Comanche Way each school day at the following times:
Mondays
7:00 - 8:35
1:35 - 3:20
Tuesdays - Fridays
7:00 - 8:35
2:35 - 4:00
Children should cross Wyoming Way and Delaware Boulevard
ONLY WHERE ADULT CROSSING GUARD IS STATIONED.
Student Drop-Offs and Parking
Safety of children continues to be of great importance to the
Gompers staff. A major concern continues to be automobile
and pedestrian traffic. Below you will find a map indicating
where you may stop your vehicle legally to discharge/
pick up passengers. The Madison Police Department will
be issuing tickets for picking up or dropping off children
in the NO Stopping, Standing, or Parking Zones. Violators
will receive citations at the scene or by mail. Please
remember this is for YOUR child’s safety. The few minutes
it takes to stop in a safe and legal zone are very worthwhile
if they prevent even one accident from happening.
24

Health, Safety & Security (cont.)
Wellness Policy On Physical Activity And Nutrition
(Refer to www.mmsd.org for complete Boe Policy 4610)
Children and adolescents need access to healthful foods and opportunities to be physically active in order to grow, learn, and thrive. Good health fosters student
attendance and education.
The Madison Metropolitan School District (MMSD) is committed to providing school environments that promote and protect the health and well-being of all
students by supporting healthy eating and physical activity which are important for their ability to learn. It is the policy of the Madison Metropolitan School District
Board of Education that
• Schools shall provide nutrition education and physical education to foster lifelong habits of healthy eating and physical activity, and shall establish
linkages between health education and school meal programs, and other activities that occur within the school day.
• All students in grades K-12 shall have opportunities and encouragement to be physically active on a regular basis.
• Foods and beverages sold or served at school during the school day, at school sponsored events and in MSCR programs for students shall meet the
nutrition recommendations of the U.S. Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 2005.
• To the maximum extent practicable, all schools in the MMSD shall participate in available federal school meal programs.
Wellness Policy
The "Wellness Policy on Physical Activity and Nutrition" has been approved by the BOE. (For detailed information see BOE Policy 4610.)
The purpose of the policy is to ensure that all students have "access to healthful foods and opportunities to be physically active in order to grow, learn and
thrive." The intent of this document is to provide highlights within each of the five areas covered by the policy.
I. School Nutrition Education Goals
Elementary Schools Nutrition competencies will be integrated into existing curriculum/programs. Grades 1 and 3 are targeted for implementation.
Teaching and Learning will develop and pilot nutrition activities/curriculum during the 2006-07 school year with full
implementation expected in 2007-2008.
II. Physical Activity Goals
K-12 Increased emphasis in the curriculum on physical fitness and life time sports skills.
Elementary Schools Classes meet for 30 minutes three times a week all year.
III. Establishing Nutrition Standards for all foods available on School Campus during the day
Nutrition goals
Limit foods with minimal nutritional value; restrict fat and added sugar; increase fruit, vegetable and whole grain offerings.
A la carte Decrease to no more than 30% of total calories from fat by 9/1/2008.
Vending
Elementary/Middle
No vending permitted.
Beverage Portion Size
(Other than milk and water)
Elementary:
Up to 8 oz.
Snacks
Elementary:
List of suggested snacks will be developed annually. (List follows)
Candy
Cannot be given or sold to students during the school day. After 9/1/2008, candy cannot be used as item for school fundraising.
Candy/Food as Reward Cannot be used as a reward or manipulative.
Food Allergies
Elementary:
No peanuts or peanut products provided by MMSD Food Services. Classroom projects should not contain peanuts, tree nuts or
edible seeds.
All schools:
Food containing peanuts or tree nuts should not be prepared at home or at school and served to students. General info on food
allergens (milk, eggs, fish, shellfish, wheat, soy) should be included with food prepared at home and served to others at school.
Meal Times
Breakfast: 10 minutes. Lunch: At least 30 minute break. Eat in a clean healthy environment.
Where Food Eaten
Staff is encouraged to limit consumption of food in classrooms. Food can be eaten in classrooms as long as eaten on table or at
a desk. Students are responsible for cleaning up after eating in classroom.
Food at MSCR After When MMSD provides food to students outside of Food Services program during the school day, during an after
School Programs, MSCR school or summer program or at school sponsored event, the food must adhere to nutritional standards listed
Summer Programs, MMSD above.
Field Trips or MMSD
School Sponsored Events
Pot Lucks
Sponsors of any events that are open to the public must contact the local health department to get appropriate
permit; state law exempts parent teacher organizations from obtaining permits for pot lucks--other groups may
need permits and should consult with the local health department before scheduling an event.
Class parties or
Are allowed. Principals are encouraged to limit the number of parties and celebrations that involve food and to
celebrations
promote non-food based parties and celebrations.
Classroom Food
Classes can prepare and eat food during class when it is directly related to the curriculum; no peanuts or nuts,
preparation
and adhere to safe food handling practices.
Food safety
Prepare food in accordance with School Potluck Food Safety Guidelines.
Sustainable food practices Are to be strongly encouraged.
Nutrition Education Education and marketing regarding nutrition and physical activity that supports students making healthful
choices for food and beverage items.
MMSD Wellness Committee Recommended Snack List
for Classroom or Program Snacks
Snacks containing peanuts or other nuts may not be served at school. This
includes snacks with almonds, Brazil nuts, cashews, hazelnuts, macadamias,
pecans, pine nuts, pistachios, and walnuts Items on this list have been selected
because, at this time, they do not contain peanuts or nuts products and the
fat content meets the standard set by the Board of Education Policy for the
2006-2007 school year. The intention of this list is to provide guidance to
parents about snacks that are peanut and nut free. Parents whose children
have peanut or nut allergies should check product labels every time to be sure
that the products are peanut and nut free, free from cross contamination during
processing and safe for their child to eat.
Food prepared at home to be served at school should be accompanied by a
general list of ingredients or should be sent with a checklist indicating whether
any of the following ingredients are included: milk, eggs, fish, shellfish, wheat,
soy. Along with peanuts and tree nuts, these ingredients are responsible for
90% of all food allergy reactions in children.
Cookies, cakes, chips, ice cream should be saved for occasional treats.
Fruits/Vegetables
• Any fresh fruit, including oranges, apples, bananas, grapes, pears, plums,
tangerines that has been thoroughly washed
• Applesauce cups
• Raisins and other dried fruits – prepackaged (except Eileen’s brand)
• Fruit cups (canned)
• Any pre-packaged fresh vegetables (e.g. baby carrots) and low fat dips
Juices
• 100% fruit or vegetable juices
Dairy
• Yogurt in individual cups or tubes
• Pudding in individual cups, cans or tubes
• String cheese or other individually packaged cheeses (1 oz)
• Frozen yogurt bars
Crackers/Snack items
Nabisco/Kraft brand:
• Crackers (Wheat Thins, Triscuits or Vegetable Thins)
• Red Oval Farms Stoned Wheat Thins
• Honey Maid Graham crackers or sticks (honey, cinnamon or chocolate
flavor)
• Ritz crackers (original flavor or wheat), dinosaurs or sticks (EXCEPT Ritz
bits)
• Cheese Nips or Better Cheddars
• Teddy Grahams or Teddy Graham character brands
• Barnum’s Animal Crackers
Keebler brand:
• Wheatables (wheat or honey flavors)
• Club Crackers
• Town House Crackers
• Scooby Doo Graham Cracker Sticks
• Grahams
• Sunshine Cheez-Its
• Saltines and Oyster Crackers (any)
• Pepperidge Farm Goldfish Crackers (any EXCEPT Sandwich Snackers)
• Breton brand crackers
Cereals
• Cheerios (EXCEPT Honey Nut or Frosted Cheerios)
• Raisin bran
• Grape Nuts
• Frosted Mini-Wheats
• Wheaties
• Rice Chex, Corn Chex, Wheat Chex or Multibran Chex
• Honey Maid Soft Baked Bars
• Kellogg’s Apple Jacks or Mini Wheats
• Cracklin’ Oat Bran
• Corn Bran
Cereal Bars
• Kellogg’s Nutrigrain Bars
• Quaker Fruit and Oatmeal Bites
Other
• Small bagels (Lenders and Thomas brand) with cream cheese(no nut
types)
• Popcorn (no or low fat)
• Baked Tortilla chips and salsa (Tostitos brand)
• Frozen treats such as 100% fruit/juice pops
• Jello snacks (individual cups)
• Popcorn (POP-Secret brand)
• New York bagel chips
• Handi Snacks with cheese and red sticks
• Pretzels – Rold Gold and most other brands are peanut free
• Quaker Crispins
Please read labels carefully to make sure products are nut free. As of May
2007, some manufacturers have discontinued labeling products that may have
nuts or are produced on equipment also used for products with nuts.
25

Health, Safety, Security (cont.)
Wi n te r Sa f e t y
We know you share, with the Gompers staff, concerns about your child’s health and safety. When cold weather is upon us there
is even more reason to be concerned about children’s welfare.
Please make sure your child is dressed warmly. We ask your help making sure they are bundled up and that all clothing,
including boots, a labeled clearly with the child’s first and last name.
Winter play activities are another item for consideration. We want to students to have fun in the snow but we also want them to
play in a safe manner. Snowballing is prohibited and sliding will take place only in designated areas.
A final winter concern is the bitter weather, including wind chill and frostbites. To help you in monitoring these winter conditions,
we’ve reproduced and included in the handbook a chart showing the danger zone for frostbite. At school this chart, along with
staff judgment, is used to determine if students should come into the building early in the morning or if they should go outside for
recess. Generally if the wind chill is in the “little danger” range students will be outside as usual. Exceptions are made, however,
if conditions seem to indicate that, in their best interests, children should be inside the building.
COLD AND RECESS
Winter is the season of the year that we see a lot of colds and other upper respiratory infections.
Although there is some controversy regarding the common cold and how we get one, scientists and doctors do seem to agree
we don’t get colds from cold weather.
If students dress properly, being outside and getting a little exercise can do more to help improve our health than harm it. Please
don’t ask to have your child stay in from recess because of a cold. If your doctor wishes to have your child remain inside please
have him/her write an excuse. You can be sure that if the wind chill factor is too low we will keep all children inside. See the windchill
factor chart included in this handbook.
V. District Policies & Guidelines
Al c o h o l & Ot h e r Dr u g Po l i c y (Bo a r d
Po l i c y 4235)
Board Policy 4235 provides that no student shall possess, consume,
sell, give away or be under the influence of and dependency on
alcohol and other drugs. No student shall possess, consume, sell,
give away or be under the influence of alcohol and/or other drugs in
the school, on school grounds, in motor vehicles used by the school,
or at school-sponsored events or activities on or off school grounds.
The Madison Metropolitan School District shares with the community
the responsibility to provide an optimal school environment for the
intellectual, emotional, and physical development of its students
and recognizes that alcohol and other drug use/abuse seriously
affects that school environment. The Madison Metropolitan School
District will join family and community efforts in providing necessary
information, skills, role models, incentives, and experiences, which
discourage alcohol and other drug abuse and dependency as well
as discourage enabling behaviors in its schools, and will strive
to make the school environment supportive to students who are
experiencing problems related to alcohol and other drugs.
ADA/504
Regarding Madison Metropolitan School District's
Responsibilities Under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation
Act of 1973 and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)
Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the ADA are
Federal legislation and regulations which prohibit discrimination
against persons with a disability in any MMSD program.
A person with a disability is someone who:
1. has a mental or physical impairment which substantially limits
one or more major life activit(ies) (e.g., caring for one's self,
performing manual tasks, walking, seeing, hearing, speaking,
breathing, learning, and working); or
2. has a record of such an impairment; or
3. is regarded as having such an impairment.
In order to fulfill its obligations under these laws, the Madison
Metropolitan School District Board of Education and the Madison
Metropolitan School District recognize a responsibility to avoid
discrimination in policies and practices regarding its personnel and
students. No discrimination against any person with a disability will
knowingly be permitted in any of the programs and practices in the
Madison Metropolitan School District.
If the parent or legal guardian disagrees with the determination made
by the professional staff of the Madison Metropolitan School District,
she/he has the right to file a complaint with the State of Wisconsin
Department of Workforce Development, the City of Madison Equal
Opportunity Department, or the United States Equal Employment
Opportunity Commission.
If there are any questions, please contact:
Freddi Adelson
MMSD
545 West Dayton Street
Madison, WI 53703-1995
608/663-8427
FAX: 608/442-2183
email: fadelson@madison.k12.wi.us
To file a complaint, contact: Affirmative Action Officer
Amos Anderson
MMSD
545 West Dayton Street
Madison, WI 53703-1995
608/663-1530
Fax: 608/204-0343 TTY: 608/204-0344
Email: acanderson@madison.k12.wi.us
26

District Policies & Guidelines (cont.)
Co n t r o v e r s i a l Is s u e s (Bo a r d Po l i c y 3170)
Board Policy states that the study of and teaching of controversial issues shall be in an academic
atmosphere as free as possible from bias and prejudice. In the teaching of controversial issues, a
teacher must, among other things, respect and withhold the expression of his/her personal opinions
unless asked by a direct question, develop a classroom atmosphere in which pupils feel free to express
opinions and to challenge ideas; and choose suitable instructional materials presenting data on varying
points of view on issues being discussed.
A citizen of the school community may register a protest with the Principal and request that he/she
change the way in which a controversial issue is being handled.
Dr e s s Co d e (Bo a r d Po l i c y 4211, 4600)
0/4/04 (Revised 2/7/05)
The Board of Education has the following policy regarding student behavior, dress and
grooming:
1. Reasonable rules of conduct shall prohibit behavior which disrupts, hinders, or interferes with the
education of other pupils and conduct which endangers the health, safety, or welfare of students,
faculty, and staff.
2. The BOARD will support the action of any teacher, custodian, supervisor, or administrator which
is necessary to prevent disruption of any function of the school system.
Pupils found to be guilty of such conduct shall be suspended by the PRINCIPAL and may be expelled by
the BOARD. (See Student Code of Conduct – Suspension Code 107)
El e c t r o n i c De v i c e s (Bo a r d Po l i c y 4403)
Possession of a Personal Electronic Device
1. Pupils are permitted to possess a cellular phone, personal digital assistant, personal music/video/
gaming device, camera, or other personal electronic device with communications functions or the
capability to capture/record voice or image information, (collectively within this Policy, “Device” or
“Devices”), provided that the Device remains stored, powered off, and unused (1) throughout the
entirety of the educational day that has been established for the applicable school, (2) in a school
bathroom, locker room, or other dressing area at any time, and (3) at such other times as have been
identified in advance by a school-issued policy, rule or directive. Such a Device shall be considered
stored if it is outside of view and reasonably secured in a locker, backpack/purse, or pocket. Any
headphone, ear piece, or similar equipment associated with a Device shall also be stored and not
worn.
permission in advance from the pupil’s school PRINCIPAL or his/her designee to possess
and use a Device for a medical, educational, or other legitimate purpose that the PRINCIPAL/
designee determines is necessary for the pupil’s education. This shall include one-time
permissions that are granted by a staff member with authority from the PRINCIPAL/designee to
an individual pupil to make a specific telephone call or other specific communication.
c. For an educational or other legitimate purpose, a PRINCIPAL or his/her designee may
authorize in advance the limited use of a Device by pupils during the school’s educational day
in a manner that is otherwise be prohibited under Paragraph 1 of this Policy, with the following
limitations:
i. No exception to Paragraph 1 may be authorized under Sub-paragraph 4.c as applied to
the use of any Device’s communications functions during the school’s educational day.
ii.
No exception to Paragraph 1 may be authorized under Sub-paragraph 4.b or under Subparagraph
4.c with respect to the possession or use of any Device in a school bathroom,
locker room, or other dressing area.
d. The PRINCIPAL or his/her designee shall determine whether the possession and use of a
Device is within the scope of any advance authorization.
e. The school PRINCIPAL, an ASSISTANT SUPERINTENDENT, or the SUPERINTENDENT
shall have discretion to prospectively revoke any prior authorization that operated as a limited
exception to Paragraph 1 and Paragraph 2 of this Policy.
5. Pupils shall annually be provided with a copy of the rules that govern the possession and use of
the Devices covered by this Policy.
6. Nothing within this Policy shall be construed to limit a pupil’s ability to use a Device in
a manner that functions as assistive technology necessary for a pupil’s education and
that is required under an Individualized Education Plan or a Section 504 agreement.
6/2/2008
2. Any pupil who possesses or uses a Device and/or associated equipment that is not stored, that is
not powered off, or in a manner that violates this Board Policy or any other policy or school rule shall
be subject to consequences, including but not necessarily limited to disciplinary action, required
surrender of the Device, and/or potentially having his/her right to possess a Device at school further
restricted by the school PRINCIPAL or his/her designee. In any case where a Device is confiscated
by a school, the Device shall be returned to the pupil or to a parent/guardian at an appropriate time.
3. Pupils who possess a Device do so at their own risk to possible loss, damage or liability.
4. The following situations represent limited exceptions to Paragraphs 1 and 2 of this Policy:
a. If a school PRINCIPAL or his/her designee determines that a Device was used appropriately by
a pupil in an emergency situation, the school shall not discipline the pupil for such possession/
use.
b. An individual pupil, or parent or guardian on behalf of an individual pupil, may request
27

District Policies & Guidelines (cont.)
St u d e n t Co m p u t e r & In t e r n e t Us e: Po l i c y, Pr o c e d u r e s &
Ru l e s
It is the policy of the Board to mandate and expect that students will use the Internet in a responsible
manner. Accordingly, the Board has established a policy and procedures for the use of the Internet along
with rules governing the behavior of students who access the Internet. Students who do not comply with
the standards of behavior outlined in the student conduct and discipline plan or with the Internet rules
below may lose their privilege to use the Internet and/or be subject to other disciplinary action.
PROCEDURES:
1. The The District will allow every student access to the Internet provided parents or legal
guardians of students do not object in writing to a student’s having such access. If a parent/
guardian objects, s/he shall fill out the objection form, sign it and have it placed on file at the
school the student attends.
2. Each year, prior to use, each student shall receive and discuss information from his/her teacher
regarding:
. .A. Internet safety and security, including:
•
•
the importance of understanding what materials are inappropriate to minors
safe use of electronic mail, chat rooms and other direct forms of electronic communication
including the importance of understanding that one should never provide personal
information to a site on the Internet without the supervision of an adult; such personal
information includes full name, address, phone number, credit card number, and Social
Security number
. B. Responsible use of the Internet, including:
. C. Measures the District has taken to restrict access to materials harmful to minors, including:
•
•
RULES:
implementing Internet filtering
requiring adult supervision during student use of the Internet
1. Students shall:
• adhere to same standard of conduct expected and required in a classroom
•
•
•
follow school rules for applying for password and e-mail accounts
follow school rules for using resources, time limits and printing instructions
log off the system as soon as finished to provide others with the opportunity to access the
system
• report violations of these rules
2. Students shall not:
• lend any logins or passwords to anyone else
•
•
•
•
•
•
create a computer virus and place it on the network
send a message that is inconsistent with the school’s code of conduct, written or implied
send messages that are inappropriate, obscene, sexist, contain obscenities, or contain
inflammatory or abusive language
send a message with someone else’s name on it
read mail or files without the owner’s permission
interfere with the ability of other users to make effective use of school district computing and
network resources
(Se e Bo a r d Po l i c y 3721)
•
•
abiding by copyright laws
understanding that unethical and unlawful activities include unauthorized access to
any data or communications equipment without the owner’s permission, “hacking,” or
unauthorized disclosure, use, or dissemination of anyone’s personal information
28

Elementary
Handbook
A Policy Guide for
Families and Students of
Madison Metropolitan
School District
Elementary Schools
2008-09

Table of Contents
Automated External Defibrillators (AED’s) .........................3
Attendance Area Chart........................................................4
Discrimination/Harassment Complaint Procedures
(Board Policy 8012)............................................................5
Electronic Devices (Board Policy 4403) .............................8
ESL/Bilingual Education .....................................................9
Human Growth and Development .......................................9
Promotion from 4 th Grade .................................................10
Special Education .............................................................11
Student Rights and Responsibilities/Student Code of
Conduct and Discipline Plan (Board Policy 4502) .............13
Introduction........................................................................................................................ 13
THE RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF STUDENTS AND PARENTS............................................ 14
STUDENT CONDUCT AND DISCIPLINE PLAN ............................................................................ 16
MMSD SUSPENSION CODES.................................................................................................. 21
“Aggravating factors” that will Lead to Expulsion from School .................................................... 29
Student Teachers..............................................................31
Talented and Gifted Program (TAG)..................................31
Telephone Usage ..............................................................31
Tutor and Mentor Programs..............................................32
2008-09 Elementary Student/Parent Handbook 2

Automated External Defibrillators (AED’s)
In cooperation with community partners, MMSD increased public access to
automated external defibrillators (AEDs) in 2005 by installing AEDs in all of our district
schools and buildings. This decision reflects the desire to make our schools safe for our
students, staff, visitors and community groups using our buildings. The number of people
suffering a sudden cardiac event is very small but increasing. Each year, more than 350,000
people die from sudden cardiac arrest most of them outside hospitals. Young athletes may be
at increased risk when participating in athletic activities especially if they suffer a direct
blow to the chest.
The AEDs are stored in cabinets which sound an alarm when opened. The alarm alerts
everyone of a possible emergency. The AEDS are safe and easy to use. We expect that
students will not tamper with the cabinets or AEDs.
Selected staff have been trained to perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and use an
AED during regular school hours. After school hours, there may NOT be a school staff person
to assist. We encourage individuals who are certified in CPR/AED use to call 9-911 from a
school building, start CPR and access and use the AED if needed.
The district Health Services Coordinator should be notified anytime an AED is used outside of
school hours.
2008-09 Elementary Student/Parent Handbook 3

Attendance Area Chart
2008-09 Elementary Student/Parent Handbook 4

Discrimination/Harassment Complaint Procedures (Board Policy 8012)
1. With respect to employment and personnel operations, the Madison Metropolitan School District
does not discriminate on the basis of religion, race, color, national origin, ancestry, age, sex,
physical appearance, marital status, handicap, disability, arrest or conviction record, political
beliefs, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, less than honorable discharge,
source of income, association with a person with a disability or the fact that an individual is a
student. Employees shall function in a harassment-free work atmosphere and enjoy working
conditions free from physical, verbal, or psychological harassment.
Title VII; s 111.36; Mad. Ord. 3.23
[NOTE: The City of Madison defines gender expression in Madison City Ordinance Sec.
3.23 (2)(t) as follows:
Gender Identity is the actual or perceived condition, status or acts of 1) identifying
emotionally or psychologically with the sex other than one’s biological or legal sex at
birth, whether or not there has been a physical change of the organs of sex; 2)
presenting and/or holding oneself out to the public as a member of the biological sex
that was not one’s biological or legal sex at birth;
This means that gender identity refers to an individual’s fundamental sense of themselves as
being male or female, masculine or feminine. Gender identity does not always correspond to
biological sex.
The City of Madison’s Ordinance Sec. 3.23 (2)(t) continues its definition of gender identity with
an explanation of what is referred to as gender expression.
3) lawfully displaying physical characteristics and/or behavioral characteristics and/or
expressions which are widely perceived as being more appropriate to the biological or
legal sex that was not one’s biological or legal sex at birth, as when a male is perceived
as feminine or a female is perceived as masculine; and/or 4) being physically and/or
behaviorally androgynous.
This means that gender expression refers to the things like clothing and behavior that manifest
a person’s fundamental sense of themselves as masculine or feminine, and male or female.
This can include but not be limited to dress, posture, hairstyle, jewelry, and vocal inflection.
2. a. With respect to educational programs, no person shall be denied admission to any District
school, or be denied participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be discriminated against in
any curricular, extracurricular, pupil services, recreational or other program or activity because
of the person's sex, race, national origin, ancestry, religion, creed, pregnancy, marital or
parental status, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression or disability including
her or his physical, mental, emotional, or learning disability.
s. 118.13
[NOTE: The City of Madison defines gender expression in Madison City Ordinance Sec.
3.23 (2)(t) as follows:
Gender Identity is the actual or perceived condition, status or acts of 1) identifying
emotionally or psychologically with the sex other than one’s biological or legal sex at
birth, whether or not there has been a physical change of the organs of sex; 2)
2008-09 Elementary Student/Parent Handbook 5

presenting and/or holding oneself out to the public as a member of the biological sex
that was not one’s biological or legal sex at birth;
This means that gender identity refers to an individual’s fundamental sense of themselves as
being male or female, masculine or feminine. Gender identity does not always correspond to
biological sex.
The City of Madison’s Ordinance Sec. 3.23 (2)(t) continues its definition of gender identity with
an explanation of what is referred to as gender expression.
3) lawfully displaying physical characteristics and/or behavioral characteristics and/or
expressions which are widely perceived as being more appropriate to the biological or
legal sex that was not one’s biological or legal sex at birth, as when a male is perceived
as feminine or a female is perceived as masculine; and/or 4) being physically and/or
behaviorally androgynous.
This means that gender expression refers to the things like clothing and behavior that manifest
a person’s fundamental sense of themselves as masculine or feminine, and male or female.
This can include but not be limited to dress, posture, hairstyle, jewelry, and vocal inflection.]
b. This POLICY also prohibits discrimination under related federal statutes, including Title VI
of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (race and national origin), Title IX of the Education
Amendments of 1972 (sex), and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (handicap).
3. The POLICY statements in paragraphs 2.a. and 2.b. above include, but are not limited to, the
following areas:
a. Admission or enrollment into any school, class, courses, program or activity; (This does not
prohibit placing a pupil in a school, class, program, or activity based on objective standards
of individual performance or need.)
b. Interactions in the classroom, counseling, as well as with other support staff;
c. Standards and rules of behavior, including pupil harassment;
d. Disciplinary actions, including suspensions and expulsions;
e. Acceptance and administration of gifts, bequests, scholarships, other forms of recognition,
such as aids, benefits, awards, or services to pupils from private agencies, organizations or
persons;
f. Instructional and library media materials selection policy;
g. Methods, practices, materials, attitudes, and interpretations used for testing, assessment,
evaluating, and counseling pupils; (This does not prohibit the use of special testing or
counseling materials or techniques to meet the individual needs of pupils.)
h. Facilities;
i. Opportunity for participation in athletic programs or activities;
j. School-sponsored food service programs;
k. Graduation requirements.
Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964
s. 111.36, s 118.13
Madison Ordinance 3.23
2008-09 Elementary Student/Parent Handbook 6

4. Harassment
Admin. Code PI 9
a. The District is committed to the provision of a professional, harassment-free environment
for employees, job applicants, students of the District, and to all persons who seek or
receive services from the District or its contractors. The Board considers all forms of
harassment, including hazing, to be unacceptable behavior because it undermines
productivity in the work and academic environments, degrades, intimidates, isolates and is
discriminatory. Harassment infringes upon the rights of all and creates a hostile
environment for learning and working.
To ensure that all employees and students work and study in an environment free of all
forms of harassment, the Board expressly prohibits harassment based on race, creed, color,
national origin, sex, marital status, disabilities, handicap, religion, age, ancestry, sexual
orientation, arrest/conviction record, source of income, association with a person with a
disability, physical appearance, student status, political beliefs, less than honorable
discharge, gender identity and gender expression as defined above, and will take all the
necessary steps to prevent such harassment from occurring. Any employee or student who
engages in harassment will be disciplined by the appropriate authorities.
b. Harassment is defined as: Unwanted, deliberate or repeated unsolicited comments (oral or
written), gestures, graphic material, physical contacts, verbal/nonverbal or physical conduct
directed to an individual because of his/her membership in a protected class constitute
harassment when this conduct:
1) Has the purpose or effect of creating an intimidating, hostile or offensive working or
educational environment; or
2) Has the purpose or effect of unreasonably or substantially interfering with an
individual’s work or student’s performance in school, including his/her performance
in curricular, extracurricular, and nonacademic activities; or
3) Otherwise adversely affects an individual’s employment or a student’s opportunities
in curriculum, extracurricular, and nonacademic activities; or
4) Submission to the conduct is made either explicitly or implicitly, a term or condition
of an individual’s employment; or a student’s opportunity to obtain an education; or
5) Submission to or rejection of the conduct by an individual is used as the basis for
employment decisions affecting the individual or as a factor in decisions affecting the
student’s education; or
6) Is sufficiently severe, persistent or pervasive that it adversely affects (1) a student’s
ability to participate in or benefit from an educational program or activity or (2) an
individual’s ability to work.
c. Examples of harassment may include but not limited to:
1) Unwanted physical contact including touching, pinching and/or brushing the body.
2) Indecent exposure, including lewd and lascivious behaviors.
3) Persistent requests for social/sexual encounters and favors.
4) Making inappropriate statements or jokes about students or staff because of their
protected status, (e.g., gender, disability, sexual preference, race, religion, etc.).
5) Basing a personnel decision on someone providing sexual favors, or someone
protected status (e.g., ancestry, age, political beliefs, physical appearance, religion,
etc).
2008-09 Elementary Student/Parent Handbook 7

6) Displaying graphic, sexually explicit objects, posters or pictures that show
adolescents, women, racial minorities, people who have disabilities or students in a
degrading or humiliating manner.
7) Obscene gestures, nonverbal suggestive behavior (leering) or insulting sounds
(whistling).
d. Any person who believes that he/she has been harassed may file a complaint with the
Affirmative Action Officer of the District in accordance with the complaint procedure
outlined below.
e. Notification procedures of the Board’s policy against illegal harassment are set forth
below.
10/4/04
Electronic Devices (Board Policy 4403)
Possession of a Personal Electronic Device
1. Pupils are permitted to possess a cellular phone, personal digital assistant, personal
music/video/gaming device, camera, or other personal electronic device with communications
functions or the capability to capture/record voice or image information, (collectively within
this Policy, “Device” or “Devices”), provided that the Device remains stored, powered off, and
unused (1) throughout the entirety of the educational day that has been established for the
applicable school, (2) in a school bathroom, locker room, or other dressing area at any time,
and (3) at such other times as have been identified in advance by a school-issued policy, rule
or directive. Such a Device shall be considered stored if it is outside of view and reasonably
secured in a locker, backpack/purse, or pocket. Any headphone, ear piece, or similar
equipment associated with a Device shall also be stored and not worn.
2. Any pupil who possesses or uses a Device and/or associated equipment that is not stored,
that is not powered off, or in a manner that violates this Board Policy or any other policy or
school rule shall be subject to consequences, including but not necessarily limited to
disciplinary action, required surrender of the Device, and/or potentially having his/her right
to possess a Device at school further restricted by the school PRINCIPAL or his/her designee.
In any case where a Device is confiscated by a school, the Device shall be returned to the
pupil or to a parent/guardian at an appropriate time.
3. Pupils who possess a Device do so at their own risk to possible loss, damage or liability.
4. The following situations represent limited exceptions to Paragraphs 1 and 2 of this Policy:
a. If a school PRINCIPAL or his/her designee determines that a Device was used
appropriately by a pupil in an emergency situation, the school shall not discipline the
pupil for such possession/use.
b. An individual pupil, or parent or guardian on behalf of an individual pupil, may request
permission in advance from the pupil’s school PRINCIPAL or his/her designee to possess
and use a Device for a medical, educational, or other legitimate purpose that the
PRINCIPAL/designee determines is necessary for the pupil’s education. This shall include
one-time permissions that are granted by a staff member with authority from the
PRINCIPAL/designee to an individual pupil to make a specific telephone call or other
specific communication.
c. For an educational or other legitimate purpose, a PRINCIPAL or his/her designee may
authorize in advance the limited use of a Device by pupils during the school’s educational
day in a manner that is otherwise be prohibited under Paragraph 1 of this Policy, with the
following limitations:
2008-09 Elementary Student/Parent Handbook 8

i. No exception to Paragraph 1 may be authorized under Sub-paragraph 4.c as applied
to the use of any Device’s communications functions during the school’s educational
day.
ii.
No exception to Paragraph 1 may be authorized under Sub-paragraph 4.b or under
Sub-paragraph 4.c with respect to the possession or use of any Device in a school
bathroom, locker room, or other dressing area.
d. The PRINCIPAL or his/her designee shall determine whether the possession and use of a
Device is within the scope of any advance authorization.
e. The school PRINCIPAL, an ASSISTANT SUPERINTENDENT, or the SUPERINTENDENT shall
have discretion to prospectively revoke any prior authorization that operated as a limited
exception to Paragraph 1 and Paragraph 2 of this Policy.
5. Pupils shall annually be provided with a copy of the rules that govern the possession and use of
the Devices covered by this Policy.
6. Nothing within this Policy shall be construed to limit a pupil’s ability to use a Device in a
manner that functions as assistive technology necessary for a pupil’s education and that
is required under an Individualized Education Plan or a Section 504 agreement.
6/2/2008
ESL/Bilingual Education
Bilingual Education
The goals of Bilingual education are for students to acquire academic skills and content
knowledge at grade level through the use of primary language while developing English
proficiency. Students’ primary language skills and cultures are utilized to enhance learning and
promote academic achievement in all content areas.
Bilingual Services are provided in a variety of settings such as bilingual classrooms, bilingual
classes, and through support from Bilingual Resource Teachers (BRT) and Bilingual Resource
Specialists (BRS). Staff work collaboratively with general education teachers to meet bilingual
students’ needs. Students in bilingual classrooms participate in instruction in both English and
Spanish appropriate to their age, grade, and English proficiency level. Support services from
Bilingual Resource Specialists also are available in Albanian, Chinese, Hmong, Khmer, Korean,
Lao and Tibetan.
ESL Programs
English as a Second Language services are provided to foster both English language
development and academic progress for students who are not yet fully proficient in English.
These services are provided through close cooperation between ESL and general education
staff, and are based on grade level standards and curriculum as well as English Language
Proficiency Standards. The development of students’ content knowledge and linguistic skills are
fostered through a variety of methods based on the individual student needs and grade level.
ESL services are provided at most MMSD schools as well as targeted alternative programs for
students from over 66 different linguistic backgrounds.
Human Growth and Development
The Madison Metropolitan School District (MMSD) has been committed to Human Growth and
Development (HG&D) instruction for several decades. The District’s Human Growth and
Development Advisory Committee, composed of parents/legal guardians, teachers, school
administrators, pupils, health care professionals, members of the clergy and other residents of
the District, reviews the District’s HG&D program. The HG&D curriculum is based on relevant
2008-09 Elementary Student/Parent Handbook 9

portions of the Wisconsin Model Academic Standards for health education and provides current
and accurate HG&D information to meet the present needs of students. A special note is made
of the emphasis placed on the role of parents and family in establishing individual and family
values and their impact on decision making.
During this school year your daughter/son will be receiving instruction in Human Growth and
Development (Human Sexuality) which is developmentally appropriate for each grade level. The
objectives of the instruction by grade levels are:
The student will:
• accept that all living things reproduce
Grades K-1
• describe family similarities and differences and how family structures change
• recognize that there are physical sex similarities and differences between boys and girls
• recognize that physical sex similarities need not dictate role expectations
• use correct vocabulary for body parts and functions
Grades 2-3
The student will:
• recognize that everyone needs to have a sense of belonging
• recognize the role of family in having and nurturing children accept that friendships can grow,
change and end
• identify ways in which people grow physically, emotionally and mentally
• recognize that each person is unique and deserves respect
• recognize the nature of reproduction in plants, animals and humans
Grades 4-5
The student will:
• cite how sex role behavior is influenced by social and cultural values
• identify and accept the physical, emotional and social changes which occur as puberty is reached
• identify the basic physiology and function of male and female reproductive systems
• recognize the importance of personal and family values to decision making
Parents/legal guardians who desire additional information on the HG&D program and would like
to view the curriculum and other instructional materials prior to instruction may do so by
contacting the building principal. Parents/legal guardians may exempt their child from all or
part of this unit of instruction by filing a written request for exemption with the principal or
classroom teacher. Appropriate alternative learning experiences will be provided.
Promotion from 4 th Grade
Promotion criteria are determined by state law and MMSD policy. To be promoted from 4th
grade to 5th grade a student must meet the Report Card Criteria or the Wisconsin Knowledge
and Concepts Exam Criteria or pass a district approved summer school program.
1. Report Card Criteria: By the end of 4th grade a student must have a report card grade of
“2” or higher in language arts, mathematics, science, and social studies in order to be
promoted to 5th grade.
2. Wisconsin Knowledge and Concepts Exam Criteria: If the 4 th grade student has a “1” in
any one of the four core content areas (language arts, mathematics, science, and social
2008-09 Elementary Student/Parent Handbook 10

studies), the student will need a score of “basic” or above on the Wisconsin Knowledge and
Concepts Examination (WKCE) in that content area in order to be promoted to 5 th grade.
3. Summer School Option: Students who do not meet the Report Card or WKCE promotion
criteria must pass a district approved summer school program in order to be promoted to 5th
grade. Passing the MMSD summer school math course meets the math criteria. Passing the
MMSD summer school language arts course meets criteria for language arts, science, and
social studies.
4. Students with Disabilities: The Individualized Education Program (IEP) team for a student
with a disability determines whether the student’s promotion is governed by MMSD
promotion criteria or the student’s IEP in the four core content areas.
5. English Language Learners: English Language Learners who are at English Proficiency
Levels 1 or 2 will be promoted to 5th grade. English Language Learners who are at English
Proficiency Levels 3, 4, or 5 at the beginning of their 4th grade year must meet promotion
criteria in math only to be promoted to 5th grade. They do not have to meet criteria in
language arts, science, or social studies.
Retained 4th Grade Options
Students who do not meet promotion criteria will remain in 4th grade until they satisfy district
requirements.
A retained 4th grade student who meets the District’s requirement(s), based on teacher and
principal recommendations, shall be promoted as soon as practicable. Students will not be
retained for two consecutive years.
Appeal Process
Parent/guardian may appeal a retention decision to the Assistant Superintendent for Elementary
Schools.
Procedures
1. For 4th grade students entering the district with missing or incomplete information, a teacher
and principal may recommend promotion based on mastery of content areas. The
recommendation must be approved by the Assistant Superintendent of Elementary schools.
2. All 4th grade students entering the school district during the 4 th quarter will be promoted.
3. GPAs and report cards from other school districts may be used in meeting promotion criteria.
4. There is not a single test students can take instead of the WKCE to show proficiency in
English/language arts, math, science, or social studies.
5. Students attending summer school to meet promotion criteria will be integrated into the
regular 4 th grade summer school classes.
If you have questions about the promotion criteria, please contact your student’s principal.
October 3, 2005
Special Education
The Madison Metropolitan School District's Division of Special Education works closely with
elementary schools in the identification and programming of students with disabilities who
require special education and related services. These services are provided in accordance with
the Individuals With Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), a federal law reauthorized in 2004 that
guarantees that all students with a disability receive a free, appropriate, public education in the
least restrictive environment (LRE).
2008-09 Elementary Student/Parent Handbook 11

The special education needs of students are met through a coordinated effort between general
education and special education staff. Every attempt is made to provide these services in the
student's school of residence and in the general education classroom. Each student has the
opportunity for educational experiences appropriate to his/her academic, social-emotional, and
behavioral strengths and areas of challenge. The Madison Metropolitan School District's schools
have been recognized for creating inclusive learning environments where students with
disabilities are valued members of the learning community. Thus included in the general
education curriculum and general education setting to the maximum extend appropriate.
Finally, support staff such as psychologist, social workers, nurses, occupational therapists, and
physical therapists provide related serves as needed to our students with Individual Education
Plans (IEP).
For more information related to MMSD’s Division of Special Education, please visit the following
website http://specialedweb.madison.k12.wi.us/ or contact the Department of Educational
Services at (608) 663-8442.
(Revised June 2008)
2008-09 Elementary Student/Parent Handbook 12

Student Rights and Responsibilities/Student Code of Conduct and
Discipline Plan (Board Policy 4502)
Introduction
Before sustained, effective learning can occur, an educational
environment that is safe, respectful and culturally sensitive must
be in place.
Because that positive environment is partially created through the
conduct of the students and partially by the teacher and other
adults, student self-discipline and a sense of responsibility for that
environment should be desired goals in every classroom and
throughout the school.
Should discipline be necessary, the first response lies with the
classroom teacher under the supervision, guidance or assistance
of the building administration. Experience indicates that an
immediate, positive, educational approach to discipline is most
effective in changing student behavior. Early intervention to
improve a student’s behavior is a must and should include
communication and involvement with the family and a variety of
interventions that are designed to assist the student to identify
and use appropriate behavior at all times.
Should additional intervention be necessary the following Student
Code of Conduct has been adopted by the MMSD Board of
Education which has the authority and the obligation to establish
and enforce reasonable standards of behavior so that the rights of
all students to feel safe and to learn without disruption are
maintained.
2008-09 Elementary Student/Parent Handbook 13

MADISON METROPOLITAN SCHOOL DISTRICT
II. STUDENT CONDUCT AND DISCIPLINE PLAN
THE RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF STUDENTS AND PARENTS
Students and parents have rights that schools must observe, but they must also understand
that personal responsibilities accompany individual rights. Furthermore, the rights of students
must be viewed in relationship to the safety and welfare of the majority of students in the
schools. Above all, schools must maintain adequate discipline to conduct a quality educational
program.
STUDENT AND PARENT RIGHTS
1. The Right to an Education: Every citizen in the State of Wisconsin has a right to a free,
public education, regardless of race, creed, color, sex, or national origin.
2. The Right to Due Process of Law: A student has the right to due process whenever
disciplinary actions that deny the right to an education are imposed. These disciplinary
actions are suspension or expulsion. Due process in a suspension case includes notice to
the student of the reason for the suspension and the opportunity for the student to
respond. Written notice to the parent or guardian of the suspension and the reason
therefor will follow. Procedural due process, in cases of expulsion, includes a notice of
charges, a hearing, and an opportunity to challenge or otherwise explain conduct.
3. The Right to Free Speech and Expression: All citizens are guaranteed self-expression by the
First and Fourteenth Amendments of the United States Constitution.
4. The Right to Privacy - Property of Students: Students shall have privacy of personal
possessions unless appropriate school personnel have reasonable cause to believe a
student possesses any object or material which is or could be disruptive or are prohibited
by law or school policy. Guarantees of freedom from search and seizure of property are not
unlimited, but must be balanced by the responsibility of the school to protect the safety
and welfare of students. Lockers are the property of the school system on temporary loan
and the principal may inspect student lockers per Board of Education policy 4132.
5. The Right Not to be Discriminated Against: Students shall have the right not to be
discriminated against on the basis of the students’ sex, race, religion, origin, creed,
pregnancy, marital or parental status, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender
expression or physical, mental, or learning disability. If a student or his/her parents feel
that the student has been treated in a discriminatory manner, the student or his/her
parents can contact the District’s Affirmative Action Officer to file a complaint or take other
action.
[NOTE: The City of Madison defines gender expression in Madison City Ordinance Sec. 3.23 (2)(t)
as follows:
Gender Identity is the actual or perceived condition, status or acts of 1) identifying
emotionally or psychologically with the sex other than one’s biological or legal sex at
birth, whether or not there has been a physical change of the organs of sex; 2)
presenting and/or holding oneself out to the
2008-09 Elementary Student/Parent Handbook 14

public as a member of the biological sex that was not one’s biological or legal sex at
birth;
This means that gender identity refers to an individual’s fundamental sense of themselves
as being male or female, masculine or feminine. Gender identity does not always
correspond to biological sex.
The City of Madison’s Ordinance Sec. 3.23 (2)(t) continues its definition of gender identity
with an explanation of what is referred to as gender expression.
3) lawfully displaying physical characteristics and/or behavioral characteristics and/or
expressions which are widely perceived as being more appropriate to the biological
or legal sex that was not one’s biological or legal sex at birth, as when a male is
perceived as feminine or a female is perceived as masculine; and/or 4) being
physically and/or behaviorally androgynous.
This means that gender expression refers to the things like clothing and behavior
that manifest a person’s fundamental sense of themselves as masculine or
feminine, and male or female. This can include but not be limited to dress,
posture, hairstyle, jewelry, and vocal inflection.]
It should be noted that, depending upon the nature of the offense, the police may be involved.
An example of certain offenses for which the police may be involved include possession of a
firearm, physical attacks, sexual assaults, bomb threats, arson, etc.
STUDENT RESPONSIBILITIES
Students also have certain responsibilities, both as citizens and as members of the school
community. These responsibilities are present, for example, when the student is on school
property, at a school-sponsored activity, under supervision by a school authority, or traveling to
or from school via transportation provided by the school system. In order to guarantee these
rights, each person must assume responsibility for his or her own behavior and refrain from
infringing upon the rights of others.
1. Active Participation: Students have the responsibility of actively engaging in the serious
business of learning. For example, they must attend school regularly and be on time. They
must remain in class until excused, pay attention to instructions, complete assignments to
the best of their ability, and exert every effort to achieve mastery of the lessons.
2. Obedience to Laws and Rules: The laws of society and school rules have been created to
guarantee every person's rights. Students must assume personal responsibility for
obedience to these laws and rules.
3. Responsible Exercise of Free Speech and Expression: While students have rights according
to the First Amendment to express themselves they should express opinions in a manner
which is not offensive, illegal, obscene, or inconsistent with the rules or the educational
goals of the school. The rights of others should be respected, and there can be no
disruption to the educational process.
4. Avoidance of Illegal or Dangerous Items: Students must not bring materials or objects to
school or to school-sponsored or school-supervised activities that are or could be disruptive
or that are prohibited by law or school policy.
2008-09 Elementary Student/Parent Handbook 15

PARENT RESPONSIBILITIES
1. Support school officials in their efforts to develop and maintain well-disciplined schools.
2. Teach the child socially acceptable standards of behavior.
3. Teach the child to have respect for law, authority, and the rights and property of others.
4. Teach the child to be accountable for his/her own actions and help the child to grow and
develop into a self-controlled, self-disciplined citizen.
5. Share the responsibility for student conduct with the school.
6. Maintain an active interest in the student's school work and activities.
7. Advocate for quality education for the child.
8. Require prompt and regular attendance at school.
BOE Revised: 5/19/2008
STUDENT CONDUCT AND DISCIPLINE PLAN
Schools must be places where effective learning can occur. Schools must maintain standards of
conduct and discipline because students and school personnel have a right to a safe and orderly
learning environment. Therefore, students are prohibited from engaging in behaviors which are
illegal, life or health threatening, or which impede the orderly operation of the classroom or
school. Prompt and effective disciplinary action must be taken to correct these behaviors.
Fairness requires that all students be treated in a consistent, objective, and non-discriminatory
manner. However, the student's grade, maturity, performance in school, and his/her contrition,
as well as the gravity of the offense, prior infractions, deterrence, protection of the school
community, effectiveness of prior disciplinary intervention strategies, etc., may be factors that
are considered that could warrant the use of a certain option including the penalty for a
particular offense. Depending upon the above referenced factors and other factors, the
minimum penalties for certain offenses set forth in this plan may be exceeded.
Disciplinary actions which may be used by local schools to correct misbehavior include, but are
not limited to: verbal reprimand, special assignments (constructive), notifying parent by phone
or letter of student's misbehavior, student mediation, contracts, detention, conference with
student and/or parents, loss of class or school privileges, restitution and merits/demerits.
The following are examples of disciplinary options which may be used when other
classroom interventions have been unsuccessful:
1. Time Out - Including Detention: (Temporary removal of the student from the classroom
to another supervised setting within the school.)
2. In-School Suspension: (Reassignment of the student from the classroom to in-house
suspension.)
3. Program Adjustment: ( a) Reduction/revision of schedule; b) Assignment of a student to
another school or program; c) Homebound instruction; etc.)
2008-09 Elementary Student/Parent Handbook 16

4. Out-of-School Suspension: (Removal of a student from school for a period of up to five
days, except that if an expulsion hearing has been scheduled, the suspension may be
extended up to an additional 10 days. While the student is suspended from school,
homework assignments may be completed for credit.)
5. Expulsion: (Removal of a student from school for a period of one day up to a permanent
expulsion. Generally, an expulsion results in loss of educational services for the period of
expulsion.)
The Student Conduct and Discipline Plan defines four levels of behaviors with
potential consequences to the student:
I. Level One Misconduct. (Disciplinary options 1, 2, 3 and potentially 4 listed above).
II. Level Two Misconduct. (Disciplinary options 1, 2, 3 and potentially 4 listed above).
III. Level Three Misconduct. (Primarily disciplinary option 4, and potentially 5 listed above,
with variations among elementary, middle and high school levels and with other options
and interventions secondary).
IV. Level Four Misconduct. (Primarily disciplinary options 4 and 5, listed above, with variations
among elementary, middle and high school levels and with other options and interventions
secondary).
OFFENSES IN CATEGORY I AND II: For violations of rules set forth in Level One or Level Two,
alternatives to suspension, including various classroom-level and in-school interventions, may
be used when appropriate.
STATUTORY JURISDICTION FOR SUSPENSION:
A pupil may be suspended from school for any of the following reasons: (1)
Noncompliance with established school rules, including School Board rules; (2) Knowingly
conveying any threat or false information concerning an attempt or alleged attempt being
made or to be made to destroy any school property by means of explosives; (3) Conduct
by the pupil while at school or while under the supervision of a school authority that
endangers the property, health or safety of others—including the making of a threat to the
health or safety of a person or the making a threat to damage property; or (4) Conduct
while not at school or while not under the supervision of a school authority that endangers
the property, health or safety of others at school or under the supervision of a school
authority or endangers the property, health or safety of any employee or school board
member of the school district in which the pupil is enrolled—including the making of a
threat to the health or safety of a person or the making a threat to damage property.
STATUTORY JURISDICTION FOR EXPULSION:
1. The SCHOOL BOARD may expel a pupil from school whenever it finds the pupil guilty of
repeated refusal or neglect to obey the rules, or finds that a pupil knowingly conveyed or
caused to be conveyed any threat or false information concerning an attempt or alleged
attempt being made or to be made to destroy any school property by means of explosives,
or finds that the pupil engaged in conduct while at school or while under the supervision of
a school authority which endangered the property, health or safety of others, or finds that
a pupil while not at school or while not under the supervision of a school authority engaged
in conduct which endangered the property, health or safety of others at school, or under
the supervision of a school authority or endangered the property, health or safety of any
employee or school board member of the school district in which the pupil is enrolled, and
is satisfied that the interest of the school demands the pupil's expulsion.
2008-09 Elementary Student/Parent Handbook 17

2. In addition to the grounds set forth in paragraph 1 above, and for any other reason
provided by law, the school board may expel from school a pupil who is at least 16 years
old if the school board finds that the pupil repeatedly engaged in conduct while at school or
while under the supervision of a school authority that disrupted the ability of school
authorities to maintain order or an educational atmosphere at school or at an activity
supervised by a school authority and that such conduct does not constitute grounds for
expulsion under paragraph 1, and is satisfied that the interest of the school demands the
pupil’s expulsion.
APPLICATION OF THE PLAN: This Plan applies to all schools, alternative educational programs
and alternative school sites in the District and shall be published and made available to parents
and students. Individual schools may develop and publish rules governing conduct that is not
otherwise covered by the Student Conduct and Discipline Plan, and such additional schoolbased
rules shall be considered “Level One” conduct rules.
Nothing in the Student Conduct and Discipline Plan shall be construed to require an expulsion
recommendation and/or an expulsion hearing when a specific incident involves a student with a
disability and where it is determined, through either a formal manifestation determination or
formal administrative process, that the interest of the school do not demand expulsion because
(1) the conduct in question was caused by, or had a direct and substantial relationship to, the
student’s disability; or (2) the conduct was a direct result of the school’s failure to implement
the IEP. In such circumstances, consistent with the IDEA and state law, there shall be
appropriate and timely follow-up to review the student’s IEP and/or Behavior Intervention Plan
in response to the incident.
SURRENDER FOR SAFETY:
A pupil who possesses a knife or other cutting instrument, weapon or object that may be used
as a weapon, or other inappropriate item/material, and surrenders it to a school staff member,
before being discovered in possession of said object may or may not be subject to discipline.
An investigation will occur into the circumstances involving the possession and surrender of the
knife or other cutting instrument, weapon or object that may be used as a weapon, or other
inappropriate item/material, and a decision will be made whether to discipline the pupil, or not,
after a consultation between the Principal and the appropriate Assistant Superintendent.
DEFINITIONS: As used in the Student Conduct and Discipline Plan, the following terms or
phrases shall be defined as follows:
1. Under all Rules specified within “Level Four” that involve the “intentional use of force”
against a staff member or other non-staff adult (i.e., Rules 403, 431, and 432):
a. These Rules cover the “intentional use of force” in situations where a student
deliberately initiates the use of force (1) directly against a staff member or nonstaff
member adult for any reason; or (2) against another person or property
where it can be reasonably anticipated that the use of force may affect a staff
member or non-staff member adult. For example, striking a staff member while
intentionally attempting to strike another student who is being restrained by that
staff member constitutes a violation of these Rules.
b. These Rules shall not be applied by an Asst. Principal, Principal, Asst.
Superintendent, or Superintendent who determines after an investigation that a
student’s use of force was inappropriately provoked by actions of the staff
member or non-staff member adult that were unreasonable under the
circumstances and that would be reasonably likely to incite a response that
includes the type of intentional use of force that is at issue.
2008-09 Elementary Student/Parent Handbook 18

2. The phrase “party to the prohibited behavior(s)” means a student who willfully (i.e.,
not under compelling duress or coercion) participates in or otherwise actively plans or
facilitates any of the behaviors prohibited by the Student Conduct and Discipline Plan. A
student who is a “party to prohibited behavior(s)” may be charged with any of the
prohibited behaviors that occur in connection with the student’s participation, planning
or facilitation. For example, if a student acts as a “lookout” for two other students who
violate Rule 401.c and who are recommended for expulsion, the “lookout” may also be
charged with a violation of Rule 401.c and recommended for expulsion as a party to the
prohibited behaviors, even if the “lookout” did not specifically know that others involved
in the conduct were going to threaten a separate student with a weapon.
3. The phrase “possession of a weapon” for purposes of applying Rule 401.a and Rule
411, shall not be construed to include the possession of a knife, cutting instrument, or
other similar object that has been authorized by and/or provided to students by the
school for a legitimate educational purpose (e.g., cutting instruments used for science
labs or art projects) provided that the student uses the object solely for its limited and
authorized purpose(s).
4. The term “property damage” shall mean the destruction, defacement or damaging of
school property or equipment; staff property or equipment; student property or
equipment; or the property or equipment of others who are on the premises of the
school or who have left their property or equipment on school premises. The term
“property damage” shall not be applied to accidental property damage so long as the
property damage was not a reasonably foreseeable consequence of a student’s reckless
conduct or intentional misconduct. For purposes of the Rules prohibiting property
damage, the value of property that is damaged may be measured at its repair or
replacement costs.
5. The phrase “protected status” means sex, race, national origin, ancestry,
creed/religion, pregnancy, marital or parental status, sexual orientation, gender identity,
gender expression, or physical, mental, emotional or learning disability and also includes
any other protected status expressly defined in any state, federal or local law, regulation
or ordinance as may be applicable under the specific circumstances. A “protected
status” may apply to other students, staff, school visitors or other persons.
6. Whenever a student is recommended for expulsion, in addition to imposing a
suspension, solely for a violation of Rule 401.a.i, the decision to recommend expulsion
shall be based on an assessment of at least the following factors:
a. the nature and type of the weapon;
b. the circumstances under which the weapon was discovered;
c. the extent to which there is evidence that the possession was (or was not)
inadvertent;
d. the extent to which there is evidence that the student held a sincere and goodfaith
belief that the object was possessed for some legitimate purpose, even
where that belief is incorrect; and
e. the degree of the threat to the health and safety of persons within the MMSD’s
jurisdiction under all of the facts and circumstances.
In the event that a Principal recommends expulsion solely for a violation of Rule 401.a.i,
the Principal’s report shall include an assessment of each of the factors above, and the
Assistant Superintendent for Middle Schools and High Schools (or, in his/her absence,
another central-office administrator designated by the Superintendent), shall review the
report and approve the recommendation.
7. The term “school” when used as a noun to denote a place or property, shall be inclusive
of all MMSD properties and other places or properties legitimately within the MMSD’s
disciplinary jurisdiction.
8. The term “staff”, whenever used in the Student Conduct and Discipline Plan, shall be
2008-09 Elementary Student/Parent Handbook 19

interpreted to encompass, among others, all MMSD employees and the members of the
School Board.
9. The term “weapon,” means a device, instrument, material, or substance, animate or
inanimate, that is used for, or is readily capable of, causing death or serious bodily
injury. (e.g. pistols, rifles, shotguns, regardless of whether exploding powder or air is
used to propel its ammunition; bow and arrows; BB guns; paint-ball guns; pellet guns;
brass knuckles; knife (“knife” refers to knives of all types, without regard to blade
length); and cutting instrument (“cutting instrument” refers to all objects that have as
their primary intended purpose being an object utilized to cut something (e.g. box
cutter, carpet cutter, razor blades, straight razor, is an illustrative but not exhaustive
list))).
NOTE: Where sequential numbers are skipped in the list of “MMSD Suspension Codes” (the
Level I through Level IV conduct rules specified below), the gaps reflect changes to rules that
have occurred over time. Rules are not always renumbered in order to help with comparison of
year-to-year data.
BOE Revised: 5/19/2008
2008-09 Elementary Student/Parent Handbook 20

MMSD SUSPENSION CODES
I. LEVEL ONE MISCONDUCT: A student who engages in any of the behaviors listed below may
be subject to discipline, including possible suspension for up to one day.
Behaviors which can be addressed by school regulations include, but are not limited to, the
following:
105. Littering-Throwing of paper, trash, or other materials on the floor inside school buildings
or grounds.
106. Profanity-Swearing, cursing, or making obscene gestures, excluding profanity directed
toward a staff member or other adult.
107. Dress Code - Dressing or grooming in a manner which disrupts or may disrupt teaching
or learning or which poses a risk to security, health or safety.
Examples include, but are not limited to, the following: Wearing items such as heavy
chains, items with studs, or other items with similar characteristics. Unless otherwise
approved by the principal, hats, other articles worn on the head, and coats must be kept
in lockers during school hours.
108. Possessing any tobacco product, or igniter (e.g., cigarette lighter).
109. Tardiness-Arriving at school or class after the designated time.
110. Verbal insults or verbal put-downs of others.
112. Disruption-Acting in a disorderly manner that disrupts the school or any schoolsponsored
or school-supervised activity.
113. Intentionally throwing or otherwise releasing any non-authorized object (including a
snowball) that is reasonably capable of causing a disturbance, injury, or property
damage, but without intent to cause and without actually causing a disturbance, injury
or property damage.
114. Participation in any gang activities, or activities of any anti-social group of two or more
persons that disrupt, or that reasonably may disrupt, the school environment (e.g.,
using symbols or signals, flashing signs, wearing gang colors or apparel, etc.).
116. Possession of any legal but non-essential (1) cellular phone, personal digital assistant,
personal music/video/gaming device, camera, or other personal electronic device with
communications functions or the capability to capture/record voice or image information,
including any related equipment for such devices, that is not stored, powered off, and
unused as provided by Board Policy 4403; or (2) item or object that a student brings to
school, that is not directly covered by any more-specific code section, and that either
causes an actual disruption within the school, could reasonably be expected to cause a
disruption, or has been prohibited by any school rule, order or other directive. The
term “non-essential” shall be interpreted to exclude any item, device, object, or material
that the school determines is needed to enable the student to benefit from his/her
education.
BOE Revised: 5/19/2008
2008-09 Elementary Student/Parent Handbook 21

II. LEVEL TWO MISCONDUCT: A student who engages in any of the behaviors listed below, or
who the school has brought forward as a party to the prohibited behavior(s), may be
suspended from school for up to three days.
201. Use of tobacco.
202. Non-physical acts of bullying/extortion/coercion by any individual – Examples include (1)
limiting another person’s freedom of movement; (2) intimidating another person; (3)
verbally abusing another person; (4) obtaining or attempting to obtain money or
property from an unwilling person; or (5) forcing or attempting to force an unwilling
individual to act .
203. Trespassing-Being in a school building or on school grounds without permission or
refusing to comply with a request to leave school premises.
204. Insubordination-Knowingly refusing to comply with school rules or with instructions of
school authorities.
205. Profanity/verbal abuse/obscene gestures - profane or obscene language, written or
verbal, or obscene gestures, directed toward school personnel or any other adult
member of the school community.
206. Verbal, written and non-verbal threats to a student, staff member, or other individual
who is present or acting within the school’s jurisdiction where there is no imminent
danger or reasonable apprehension of bodily harm.
207. Harassment of another person, including harassment that is based on a person’s
protected status (as “protected status” is defined in the definitions section), that may be
written, verbal, non-verbal or physical.
209. Hitting, slapping, pushing, tripping, shoving, kicking, spitting or other inappropriate
physical acts of aggression/ bullying/intimidation/extortion/coercion by one student
directed at another student (and not part of gang activity or an activity of a group of two
or more persons).
210. Possession of a toy weapon other than a toy or imitation gun/firearm, where the toy
weapon is not used to threaten, intimidate, harm or cause a disruption.
213. Theft - Stealing the money or property of another that is valued at no more than $200.
214. Pornography – Possessing pornographic material or observing pornographic material.
215. Engaging in or participating in any way in a non-violent and non-physical act of bullying,
intimidation, coercion, or extortion, as part of gang activity or as part of a group of two
or more persons.
216. Indecent Exposure (i.e., publicly displaying one’s private parts).
217. Inappropriate use of the School District’s Computerized Communication System
(System) includes, but is not limited to: sending or attempting to send a message that
threatens to harm any person or any person’s property; sending or attempting to send
an annoying, abusive, frightening, threatening, defamatory, intimidating, offensive,
harassing, etc., message or a discriminatory message based upon a protected status
(e.g., race, gender, sexual orientation); sending or attempting to send a message that
contains obscene, lewd, vulgar, profane language, etc.; sending a message
anonymously or using someone else’s name to send a message; using the System to
2008-09 Elementary Student/Parent Handbook 22

plagiarize by downloading information and submitting, claiming or using it as one’s own
work; using the System to engage in unauthorized non-school related correspondence or
activities; accessing, reviewing, uploading, downloading, storing, printing, posting,
distributing, or attempting to distribute sexually explicit, lewd, obscene material, etc.;
using the System for political or commercial purposes; sending a message in which the
student falsely indicates that he/she is representing an individual school or the School
District. This section covers the inappropriate use of non-District computer resources
where the inappropriate use invokes the disciplinary jurisdiction of the District.
218. Cheating - Using, submitting, obtaining or attempting to obtain data, questions, or
answers dishonestly, by deceit, or by means other than those authorized by the teacher.
Submitting the work of others as your own and plagiarism are forms of cheating.
219. Forgery-Writing the name of another person to be represented as a writing or original
signature of that other person or altering without authority any written record or
document (such as times, dates, grades, passes or permits).
220. Gambling-Playing any game of chance or skill for money or items of value.
221. Taunting, baiting, inciting and/or encouraging a fight, a disruption, or other violation of
school rules.
222. Property Damage: Property damage where the total value of the property affected is no
more than $200.
223. Throwing or otherwise intentionally releasing any non-authorized object as defined in
Rule 113, and the object makes or causes contact with any person.
224. Making or distributing any recording that has not been approved by or authorized by the
school (excluding any secret or hidden recording) of the voice or image of any other
student, staff member or other person in any non-emergency situation and without the
consent of the person(s) so recorded.
BOE Revised: 5/19/2008
III. LEVEL THREE MISCONDUCT: A student who engages in any of the behaviors listed below, or
who the school has brought forward as a party to the prohibited behavior(s), may be
suspended from school for up to five days and may be recommended for expulsion. If a
recommendation for expulsion occurs, the pupil shall be suspended for five days; and if notice
of expulsion proceedings has been issued, the pupil may be suspended for longer than five
days:
301. Volatile Acts – Disorderly, violent, or threatening conduct of a serious nature that
disrupts school, a school-sponsored activity, or a school-supervised activity held off
school premises.
303. Non-Consensual Sexual Contact / Sexual Assault – Intentionally and with the specific
purpose of (1) touching, either directly or through clothing, the intimate parts of another
person by the use of any body part or object; (2) forcing a person to touch the intimate
parts of another person, either directly or through clothing; or (3) initiating other nonconsensual
physical contact that is done for the purpose of sexually degrading the other
person, or sexually arousing or satisfying the pupil initiating the physical contact.
304. Arson – Setting fire, or attempting to set fire.
2008-09 Elementary Student/Parent Handbook 23

305. False Alarms – Activating the school’s fire and/or other alarm systems, reporting a fire
when no fire exists, or making a false alarm call to 911.
306. Possession of fireworks, munitions, tear gas, a smoke bomb, pepper gas, other
dangerous substance, or any illegal device, illegal product or illegal material that is not
specifically covered elsewhere within the Student Conduct and Discipline Plan.
307. Physical attack against a student or other person(s), other than a staff member or nonstaff
member adult who is legitimately exercising supervisory authority at school or
during any school activity.
308. Engaging in or participating in any way in any physical or violent act of bullying,
intimidation, coercion, or extortion, as part of gang activity or as part of a group of two
or more persons.
309. Fighting.
310. Serious threats to a student, staff member, or other individual who is present or acting
within the school’s jurisdiction. Serious threats include intentionally engaging in conduct
that places another person in reasonable apprehension of bodily harm, and such threats
may involve verbal or written statements and may or may not involve physical contact.
311. Repeatedly engaging in conduct by a student at least 16 years old who disrupts the
ability of school administrators to maintain order or an educational atmosphere (per
state law).
312. Repeated refusal or neglect to obey school rules (i.e., more than one violation of any
single rule or combination of rules set forth in categories I, II, III, or IV of this Plan.)
313. “Major Property Damage” – Property damage where the total value of the property
affected is more than $200;
or
property damage, regardless of value, where either (1) the property that is damaged is
selected in whole or in part based on the actor’s belief or perception regarding the race,
religion, color, disability, sexual orientation, national origin, or ancestry of the owner of
the property; or (2) the manner in which the property is damaged is selected in whole or
in part with intent to demean, intimidate, or communicate animosity toward any person
or group of persons based upon the actor’s belief or perception regarding the person(s)
race, religion, color, disability, sexual orientation, national origin, or ancestry.
314. Possession of an imitation controlled substance.
315. Possession of any toy or imitation gun/firearm that is not otherwise defined as a
“weapon” within the Student Conduct and Discipline Plan, or possession of any toy
weapon that is used to threaten, intimidate, harm or cause a disruption.
316. Any other inappropriate or illegal act which directly or indirectly jeopardizes the health,
safety or property of a school, the school district, school personnel, other students, one’s
self, or other individuals who are present or acting within the school’s jurisdiction.
317. Possession of alcohol or being under the influence of any alcoholic beverage.
318. Possession of drugs, other than alcohol, possession of drug paraphernalia, or being
under the influence of any narcotic, controlled substance or other mind-altering drug or
chemical, unless legally possessed or used while under the supervision of a licensed
health care provider who prescribed the substance.
2008-09 Elementary Student/Parent Handbook 24

319. “Major Theft” – Stealing the money or property of another that is valued at more than
$200.
320. Making a bomb threat, or threatening to set off an explosive device when the pupil does
not actually have a bomb or explosive device, and where there was no significant safety
risk or loss of instructional time.
321. Consensual Sexual Activity – Participation in consensual sexual conduct, or other
inappropriate consensual sexual contact.
322. Using an object to threaten to cause harm to another, intending to use an object to
cause harm to another, attempting to use an object in an effort to cause harm to
another, or using an object to cause harm to another.
323. Serious misuse of the District’s Computerized Communication System (System) includes,
but is not limited to: disrupting or attempting to disrupt the operation of the System;
interfering or attempting to interfere with the ability of other users to effectively use the
System; damaging, destroying, modifying or attempting to damage, destroy or modify
computer data or programs, including the hardware and software components of a
computer or computer system, etc.; accessing and/or posting or attempting to access
and/or post restricted confidential information such as a person’s social security number,
student records, passwords, data, messages, etc.; disclosing or attempting to disclose
restricted access codes or other restricted access information to unauthorized persons;
placing a virus or keylogging software application on the System; hacking or attempting
to hack, into the System to, for example, change a student’s grade, an employee’s
salary, etc.; using or attempting to use the System to engage in any illegal conduct.
This section also covers the serious misuse of non-District computer resources where the
use invokes the disciplinary jurisdiction of the District.
324. Making or distributing any secret or hidden recording of the voice or image of any other
student, staff member or other person in any non-emergency situation.
BOE Revised: 5/19/2008
IV. LEVEL FOUR MISCONDUCT:
A. MIDDLE AND HIGH SCHOOLS: Except as noted, a student who engages in any of the
behaviors listed below, or who the school has brought forward as a party to the
prohibited behavior(s), shall be suspended for five days; and, with the exception of
401.a.i., the student shall be recommended for expulsion from the Madison Metropolitan
School District. If notice of expulsion proceedings has been issued, the pupil may be
suspended for longer than five days.
401. Weapon Violations
a. i. A middle or high school student who is determined to be in
possession of a weapon, except a firearm, pellet gun, or BB gun, where
there was no intent to cause harm to another with the weapon, and who
has not threatened to cause harm to another with the weapon, and who
has not attempted to or caused harm to another with the weapon, and
whose weapon, that he/she possessed, has not been transferred or made
available to another person per Section 401.e, shall be suspended for five
days and may be recommended for expulsion.
2008-09 Elementary Student/Parent Handbook 25

ii. 2 nd or Subsequent Offenses: The pupil shall be recommended for
expulsion.
b. Possession of a BB gun or pellet gun; recommend for expulsion.
c. Possession of a weapon, coupled with a student’s intent to use, threat to use,
attempt to use, or actual use of the weapon to cause harm to another,
recommend for expulsion.
d. Possession or use of a firearm; recommend for expulsion.
e. Possession of a weapon by a student who knowingly transfers or intentionally
provides access to the weapon to another person and that other person
intends to use the weapon to harm another person, threatens to use the
weapon to harm another person, attempts to use the weapon to harm
another person, or actually harms another person with the weapon;
recommend for expulsion.
402. Sharing or transferring possession of alcohol, any illegal drug, or any controlled
substance between/among two or more people; or possessing any controlled
substance, or illegal drug, with evidence of intent to transfer the substance or
drug to another person or to participate in a drug transaction.
403. Intentional use of force directly against or affecting a staff member of MMSD or
any non-staff member adult who is legitimately exercising supervisory authority
at school or during any school activity.
405. Possession of a bomb or explosive device, making a bomb threat, or threatening
to set off an explosive device, while in actual possession of a bomb, or other
explosive device; or attempting to, or actually detonating a bomb or other
explosive device; or making a bomb threat which causes significant safety risk or
loss of instructional time even if student is not in possession of such device.
406. Participating in a transaction involving an illegal drug or other controlled
substance, whether as the seller, purchaser, or intermediary facilitating the
transaction.
407. Serious sexual assault, e.g., by use of a weapon, force, threat, or coercion.
BOE Revised: 5/19/2008
B. ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS: Elementary school students who violate this Section are
subject to the disciplinary action that has been set forth below:
1) WEAPONS
411. Student in possession of a knife, or other cutting instrument, or other weapon,
except a firearm, and the student neither uses or threatens to use such knife,
or other cutting instrument, or other weapon to cause harm to another:
1. 1 st Offense:
a) Preschool-2 nd grade: Principal will take the item from the student,
call parent/guardian and issue a written warning to the
parent/guardian and a warning to the student;
b) 3 rd -5 th grade: Principal will take the item from the student, call
2008-09 Elementary Student/Parent Handbook 26

parent/guardian and the student may be suspended for up to three
days.
2. 2 nd Offense: Principal shall take the item from the student and the student
shall be suspended for three days.
3. 3 rd & Subsequent Offenses: Principal shall take the item from the student
and the student shall be suspended for at least three to five days,
and may be recommended for expulsion. If there is a
recommendation for expulsion, the student shall be suspended for
five days.
412. Student possesses a knife, or other cutting instrument, or-a weapon, other than
a firearm, and intends to cause harm to another, threatens to cause harm to
another, or attempts to cause harm to another with the knife, or other cutting
instrument, or weapon, other than a firearm:
1. 1 st Offense:
a) Pre-school-2 nd Grade: Principal will take the knife or other cutting
instrument, weapon, other than a firearm, call the parent/guardian.
The student shall be suspended for up to three days, after
consultation with the Assistant Superintendent for Elementary
Schools.
b) 3 rd -5 th Grade: Principal will take the knife or other cutting
instrument, weapon, other than a firearm, and call the
parent/guardian; and the student shall be suspended for three days.
2. 2 nd and Subsequent Offenses: Regardless of the grade level, the student
shall be suspended for five days and shall be recommended for expulsion.
413. Student at any elementary grade level possesses a firearm, the student shall be
suspended for five days and shall be recommended for expulsion, regardless of
whether there was a threat to use, attempt to use, or actual use of the firearm.
414. Student possesses a knife or other cutting instrument, a weapon, other than a
firearm, and actually causes harm to another with the knife, or other cutting
instrument, weapon, other than a firearm:
1. 1 st Offense:
a) Pre-school-2nd Grade: Principal will take the item and consult with
the Assistant Superintendent for Elementary Schools and the
student shall be suspended for up to five days and may be
recommended for expulsion. If there is a recommendation for
expulsion, the student shall be suspended for five days.
b) 3 rd -5 th Grade: Principal will take the item and consult with the
Assistant Superintendent for Elementary Schools; and the student
shall be suspended for five days and may be recommended for
expulsion.
2. 2 nd & Subsequent Offenses:
a) Pre-school-2 nd Grade: Principal will take the item and consult with
the Assistant Superintendent for Elementary Schools; and the
student shall be suspended for five days and may be recommended
for expulsion.
b) 3 rd -5 th Grade: Principal will take the item and consult with the
Assistant Superintendent for Elementary Schools; and the student
shall be suspended for five days and shall be recommended for
expulsion.
2008-09 Elementary Student/Parent Handbook 27

2) ALCOHOL AND DRUGS:
420. Sharing or transferring possession of alcohol, any illegal drug, or any controlled
substance between/among two or more people; or possessing any controlled
substance, or illegal drug, with evidence of intent to transfer the substance or
drug to another person or to participate in a drug transaction: The student
shall be suspended for five days and may be recommended for expulsion.
3) INTENTIONAL USE OF FORCE DIRECTLY AGAINST OR AFFECTING A STAFF MEMBER
OF MMSD OR A NON-STAFF MEMBER ADULT WHO IS LEGITIMATELY EXERCISING
SUPERVISORY AUTHORITY AT SCHOOL OR DURING ANY SCHOOL ACTIVITY:
431. Preschool-2nd Grade: Discretion of the Principal shall be used for the first
offense in which the Principal may have a parent conference, suspend the
student, provide counseling to the student, etc. For 2nd and subsequent
offenses, the Principal may suspend the student and may recommend
expulsion. If there is a recommendation for expulsion, the student shall be
suspended for five days.
432. Third-5th Grade: Automatic suspension up to three (3) days. The Principal
may recommend expulsion for 2nd and subsequent offenses. If there is a
recommendation for expulsion, the student shall be suspended for five days.
4) BOMB THREAT/EXPLOSIVE DEVICE:
441. Making a bomb threat, or threatening to set off an explosive device, when the
pupil does not actually have a bomb or explosive device, and where there was
no significant safety risk or loss of instructional time. Student may be subject
to a suspension for up to five days.
442. Possession of a bomb or explosive device, making a bomb threat, or
threatening to set off an explosive device, while in actual possession of a bomb,
or other explosive device; or attempting to, or actually detonating a bomb or
other explosive device; or making a bomb threat which causes significant safety
risk or loss of instructional time even if student is not in possession of such
device. Student shall be suspended for five days and recommended for
expulsion.
BOE Revised: 07/14/2008
2008-09 Elementary Student/Parent Handbook 28

“Aggravating factors” that will Lead to Expulsion from School
Under the Student Conduct and Discipline Plan, the School Board has stated that a Principal may recommend the
expulsion of a student for any violation of a “Level III” rule.
Students should be aware that middle school and high school Principals will be make recommendations for
expulsion for any violation of a “Level III” rule where any of the following “aggravating factors” are determined to be
present:
1. Bodily Injury: The issue is whether significant bodily injury was sustained by anyone as a
consequence of the student misconduct. By “significant” we mean bodily injury that: (1)
requires a referral for medical care that is beyond the care that is normally provided by staff at a
school health office, or (2) the injured person subsequently secures treatment from a health care
provider, within Forty-eight (48) hours of the incident, for a serious bodily injury that resulted
from the student misconduct. “Serious injuries include, but are not limited to: a fracture,
dislocation, traumatic brain injury, internal organ damage, spinal injury, and dental injury.
Examples of non-serious bodily injuries, subsequently treated, include but are not limited to:
sprains or strains, bruises, minor cuts.”
2. Property Damage or Loss: The issue is whether a significant damage to or loss of property
occurred. By “significant” we mean the damage to or loss of property had a value in excess of
$1,000.00 (measured at repair or replacement costs).
3. Loss of Instructional Time: The issue is whether students experienced a significant loss of
instructional time. By “significant” we mean that the aggregate amount of loss instructional time
for all students affected equals or exceeds 50 hours (i.e., a school with 200 students enrolled
experiences a bomb threat and the building is evacuated and all 200 students are outside of the
school and no instruction occurs for a total of 15 minutes for each student - the aggregate
amount of loss instructional time is 50 hours).
4. Criminal Conduct: If at the conclusion of a police investigation into pupil misconduct the police
determine that charges should be referred to the District Attorney’s Office for a crime classified
as a Class A Misdemeanor or greater, then said behavior satisfies the definition of “criminal
conduct” for purposes of an aggravating factor.
5. Misconduct that Endangers the Health, Safety or Property of a School, the School District
or Students or Staff Not Covered by Factors One Through Four Above: The issue is
whether the pupil’s behavior is egregious, and of a nature not covered by any of the “aggravating
factors” numbered one through four above. If the answer is yes, the Principal will utilize this
“aggravating factor” as the basis to recommend the pupil for expulsion.
The five “aggravating factors” listed above are also used to determine the recommendation that the school will
make for the length of an expulsion. The more serious the conduct, the longer the period that the student can
expect to serve under his/her expulsion.
Repeated Violations of School Rules can Lead to Expulsion
Students who break multiple rules over the course of a school year may also be recommended for expulsion
under Rule 312, even when there were no “aggravating factors” associated with the individual incidents. All
students should be aware that they are risking possible expulsion from school any time their record shows
repeated violations of “Level III” and/or “Level IV” rules.
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In the middle schools and high schools, any student who commits three or more separate violations of any
Level III and/or Level IV rules during any school year will be recommended for expulsion at the school
level.
NOTE: Violations of Rule 401.a.i for which a student has not separately been recommended for expulsion will
not “count” in determining the total number of Level III/IV rules violations that the student has committed.
2008-09 Elementary Student/Parent Handbook 30

Student Teachers
The Madison Metropolitan School District welcomes student teachers from area colleges and
universities. Helping to train future teachers is part of the District’s responsibility to the
educational community. Teachers and other staff members work closely with student teachers
in order to provide appropriate supervision and to ensure that the best instructional procedures
and practices are maintained. Student teachers, in return, bring new ideas, enthusiasm and
vitality to our schools.
Talented and Gifted Program (TAG)
The mission of the Madison Metropolitan School District is to assure that every student has the
knowledge and skills needed for academic achievement and a successful life. Among the beliefs
underlying this mission is the belief that every child has the right to realize his/her full
potential.
The goal of Talented and Gifted (TAG) programming is to make certain that K-12 students can
consistently access learning opportunities that are challenging, systematic and continuous
based on learning profile, readiness and student interest.
There is no such thing as a “typical” gifted child. Student learning experiences, therefore, must
include a broad range of opportunities that provide students with the Next Level of Challenge
(NLC) and allow them to develop their talents. TAG programming that provides the NLC should
occur in the classroom through curricular differentiation. TAG programming options may also
be available in other settings.
TAG programming is determined by ongoing evaluation and assessment of individual student
needs. Classroom differentiation is documented using a Classroom Action Summary (CAS)
which examines whether the learning needs of the student are being met. Each school has TAG
resource support for consultation. This support includes professional development to
implement differentiated practices in the classroom and facilitation of the Individualized Student
Educational Plan (InSTEP) process. For further information, contact the TAG Resource Teacher
for your school.
Telephone Usage
Students are permitted to use the telephone in the school office ONLY for school-related needs.
In case of an emergency, a staff member will call a parent/legal guardian.
Because MMSD’s elementary schools do not have public telephones, parents/legal guardians are
urged to help their children make arrangements in advance for after-school activities.
Emergency or last-minute messages to students should be called in to the school office at least
one half hour before school is dismissed.
Teachers will not be called to the phone during class time unless an emergency exists. They can
be contacted during the day by leaving your number during the half hour after school is
dismissed, or using their voice mail, which is part of the new telephone system.
2008-09 Elementary Student/Parent Handbook 31

Tutor and Mentor Programs
The Madison School District works together with local volunteer centers and community groups
to provide tutor and mentor programs for students in all grade levels who could benefit from
assistance in coursework and/or from additional time with a supportive adult. Volunteers are
recruited throughout the year, and training sessions are offered regularly by MMSD staff and
other area experts. All school volunteers must successfully pass the District’s criminal
background check (“Disclosure Statement”). These are conducted through the MMSD
Human Resources office, and forms are available online at the MMSD website.
Tutor and mentor options and resources vary depending on the individual school, and services
may be offered both during the school day and after school. In some cases, the district
provides after-school programs in neighborhood centers as well. Students or families who would
like information should talk to a classroom teacher and contact the local school volunteer
coordinator (or the principal in schools without coordinators).
2008-09 Elementary Student/Parent Handbook 32