morello park elementary school elementary - Martinez Unified ...

MORELLO PARK
ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
1200 Morello Park Drive
Martinez, CA 94553
(925) 335-5840 5840 FAX (925) 228-2573
2573
Website:
www.martinez.k12.ca.us/schools/mpe/
FAMILY HANDBOOK
2011-2012
2012

MARTINEZ UNIFIED
SCHOOL DISTRICT
Mission Statement:
Together we will ensure diverse paths to
success and a quest for knowledge
SCHOOL BOARD MEMBERS:
Denise Elsken
John Fuller
Vicki Gordon
Bobbi Horack
Kathi McLaughlin
DISTRICT OFFICE
ADMINISTRATIVE STAFF:
Rami Muth, Superintendent
Rick Rubino, Asst. Superintendent, Personnel Services
CJ Cammack, Director of Student Services
Liz Robbins, Chief Business Official
Audrey Lee, Coordinator of Educational Services

Table of Contents
MUSD Board of Education Members................................................inside front cover
MUSD District Office Administration................................................inside front cover
Principal's Message....................................................................................................1
Important Notice Regarding Absences & Tardies....................................................2
School Site Council ………….....................................................................................3
Daily Schedule and Important Dates…………………................................................4
Medication Policy……………………...........................................................................5
Staff Roster..................................................................................................................6
Daily Instruction Minutes............................................................................................7
Student Expectations..............................................................................................8-10
Principal's Philosophy, Dress Code, Home Policy, & School Rules
Activities and Programs.......................................................................................11-12
Eagle Reading, Math Challenge, 600 Word Challenge, Buddy Day, Running
Club, Library, Technology, After-School Enrichment, Woodbridge Day Care,
Student Council
Policies and Procedures.......................................................................................13-16
Emergency Information, Classroom Assignments, Attendance, Early Release
from School, Home and Hospital Instruction, Student Records, School Lunches, Lost &
Found Items, Field Trips, Head Lice Policy, Classroom Interruptions, Animals at
School, Homework, Parent Involvement and School Volunteers
School Map................................................................................................................17

A Message from Jonathan Eagan, Principal
Welcome to the 2011 - 2012 school year! I’m excited for another year here at
Morello Park Elementary and am truly excited to see each of you after the summer
break as well as meet the new families joining our school community. Morello Park
staff has been working hard to prepare for the return of the Eagles from their
summer break and are excited about another year. As a staff we love working with
your children and appreciate and need your support and involvement.
As a new school year begins at Morello Park, I am impressed by the dedication to
student learning by all members of the community. I am confident the support
provided by parents/guardians will continue to help students reach their academic
potential. Every staff member is committed to providing an emotionally and
physically safe learning environment which allows students to achieve high levels
of academic success. We expect and need parents/guardians volunteering,
communicating with staff, and being involved in their children’s lives.
Our rigorous curriculum addresses district and state content standards in all
subject matter and grade levels. All teachers use the analysis of student work and
test scores to help guide instructional decisions. They also use a variety of
instructional techniques to create the greatest educational experience possible for
your student. We are committed to using technology to support and enhance
student learning, and are proud that all our classrooms have Smart Boards,
document cameras, and student computers.
Becoming aware of the academic, procedural, and behavioral expectations of
Morello Park is a key part to creating a positive learning environment. As the
principal of Morello Park I am committed to doing my part to maintain a safe and
positive environment for all students to grow and learn. I advocate communication
as a key to success, and encourage you to dialogue regularly with us.
I look forward to the upcoming school year and working with every member of the
learning community to ensure Morello Park is a place of academic, personal and
emotional growth. I welcome you to call, email, or stop by and always feel free to
communicate with me as I value your input, feedback, and comments.
Jonathan Eagan 1

IMPORTANT NOTICE TO PARENTS CONCERNING
ABSENCES and TARDIES
DO YOU HAVE AN ABSENCE TO REPORT?
PLEASE CALL:
335-5840, press #3
24 hour message recorder
Be sure to leave your name, your child’s name, the date of the absence
and the reason for the absence.
The compulsory education laws require that we track and account for each absence. Please call or send
a note stating the reason your child is out of school as soon as possible.
Children may be legally excused only for:
·personal illness
·quarantine
·medical, dental, optometric or chiropractic appointments
·participation in religious instruction or exercises in accordance with district policy
·attendance at funeral services for a member of the immediate family
Absences due to travel, visiting relatives, a holiday with a parent, lack of transportation to school,
illnesses of family members but not the child are unexcused absences. Please try to avoid family
vacations during the school year.
An Independent Study Contract is available for absences of five or more consecutive school days. It
must be completed before the absence begins. Please turn in your request for an Independent Study
Contract at least one week prior to your departure. This will allow our staff time to compile appropriate
work for your child before your trip. If the work is completed when your child returns to school, the
absence is excused & the school receives ADA funding for the days of the Independent Study contract.
More importantly, your child will keep up the learning that occurs during the absence.
TARDY POLICY:
Our instructional day begins at 8:15. A student not present at 8:15 is considered tardy. We
provide supervision beginning at 8:00. We ask parents to drop off students at 8:00. This allows
a ten minute recess prior to school beginning. We provide a variety of incentives to encourage
and reward students for getting to school on time. Students with perfect attendance and a
perfect tardy record are recognized each trimester. Please help us by having your child here no
later than 8:10 so they will be in class ready to learn at 8:15. You will be notified by your
child’s teacher and/or a letter from the principal if your child has excessive absences or is late to
school on numerous occasions.
2

SCHOOL BASED COORDINATED PROGRAM
SCHOOL SITE COUNCIL
The School-Based Coordinated Program (S.I.P.) is a state funded program designed
to aid schools in upgrading their educational program. Three-year grants are
competitively funded by the California State Board of Education to schools with a
demonstrated need and ability to administer the funds in prioritized academic areas.
The amount of money granted varies each year depending on the state budget. The
program is governed by a School Site Council at each school, which is made up of
50% staff members and 50% parent members. Members serve a two year term.
California law mandates that the Council develop and monitor an improvement plan,
called the “Single Plan for Student Achievement”. All funds received for this program
are to be spent on school improvements that have been outlined in the Single Plan for
Student Achievement.
Open meetings are held monthly at Morello Park. Any parent may contact a School
Site Council member to have an item placed on the agenda. Agendas and minutes of
all meetings are available in the school office.
If you are interested in joining the Morello Park School Site Council, please call
Jonathan Eagan at 335-5840.
3

MORELLO PARK ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
1200 Morello Park Drive
Martinez, CA 94553
Phone Number: 335-5840
DAILY SCHEDULE
Office Hours: 7:30 AM – 4:00 PM
Playground supervision begins at 8:00 AM
Kindergarten: Early Friends 8:10 -11:30
Late Friends 11:40 - 3:00
(ALL Wednesdays) 8:10-11:30
1 st - 5 th Grades: All students 8:15 - 2:35
Minimum Days 8:15 -12:00
(ALL Wednesdays) 8:15 – 1:30
Lunch Periods: First: 11:20 -12:00
Second &Third: 11:45 -12:25
Fourth & Fifth: 12:05 -12:45
2011 - 2012 SCHOOL CALENDAR
(Subject to Change)
August 23, 2011
First day of school
August 31, 2011
K-5 Back to School Night
September 1
Minimum Day for 1 st -5 th All kindergarten students = early friends
September 2
Non-Student day, no school
September 5
Labor Day, school holiday
September 21 Minimum Day for 1 st -5 th All kindergarten students = early friends
October 24-October 28 Minimum Day for 1 st -5 th All kindergarten students = early friends
(K-5 Parent Conferences)
November 11
Veteran’s Day, school holiday
November 21-25
Thanksgiving Break, no school
November 30 Minimum Day for 1 st -5 th All kindergarten students = early friends
December 16 Minimum Day for 1 st -5 th All kindergarten students = early friends
December 19 – January 2 Winter Break, No school (school resumes on January 3, 2012)
January 16
Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday, school holiday
January 23
K-5 Staff Development Day, no school
February 17
Lincoln Holiday, no school
February 20
President’s Holiday, no school
February 29 Minimum Day for 1 st -5 th All kindergarten students = early friends
April 5
K-5 Open House
April 6 Minimum Day for 1 st -5 th All kindergarten students = early friends
April 9-13
Spring Break, no school
May 28
Memorial Day Holiday, no school
June 8
Last Day of School—Minimum Day
4

MEDICATION POLICY
Section 49423 of the California Education Code provides that any student who is required to take
medication, a medical test, or medical treatment may be assisted by school personnel. Before a student
receives assistance with the administration of prescription or over-the-counter medication, medical
monitoring or medical test, an Authorization Medical Form must be completed. This form may be
obtained from the school office. Students may carry and self-administer prescription auto-injectable
epinephrine upon the school’s receipt of specified written confirmation and authorization from the
student’s physician and parent.
Containers for medicine and medical equipment must be labeled by a California pharmacist. The label
must indicate the student’s name, prescribing physician’s name, time of administration, the
circumstance in which the medication is to be administered, dosage, expiration date and the name and
telephone number of the pharmacy. Over-the-counter medications must be in the original container and
packaging. The parent or guardian should personally deliver the medication, medical equipment,
medical test, treatment equipment, and supplies to the school office or send the medication and supplies
with a designated adult.
At the conclusion of the school year a parent, guardian or designated adult shall take all remaining
medication home. All medication not returned home will be disposed of at the close of each school
year.
REQUIREMENTS:
· all medication requires a written plan on forms provided by the school district
· prescription medication requires doctor’s written instructions and a physician’s signature
· school medication forms for doctors and parents are available in the office.
· students may not transport or carry medications without school approval, whether over-thecounter
or prescription medicine
· parents must supply the needed medications to the school
· the prescription bottle MUST match the doctor’s orders
We will do whatever is necessary to ensure the health and safety of your child while at school. Our
district nurse, Sandy Waterman, is easily reached and is available for consultation when ever necessary.
She can be reached at (925) 313-0414 ext. 2119.
5

Morello Park Elementary Staff
Assignment: Staff Member: Room: Voice Mail:
OFFICE STAFF
Mr. Jonathan Eagan
*3480
Mrs. Alison Haux & Mrs. Susan Bray
*3400
CUSTODIAL STAFF
KINDERGARTEN
STAFF
FIRST GRADE
STAFF
Mr. Rick Moore
Mr. Steve Cornell
Mrs. Cindy Dayton
Mrs. Catherine Alber
Mrs. Becky Gliatto
Mrs. Tammi Welch
Ms. Ashley Atkinson
Mrs. Beth Baker/Suzanne Renaghan
K-2 (AM)
K-1 (AM)
A-1 (PM)
J-1
A-3
J-3
*3454
*3451
*3401
*3446
*3403
*3431
SECOND GRADE
STAFF
THIRD GRADE
STAFF
Ms. Jan Sanderson
Mrs. Linda Machado
Mrs. Catherine Spinner
Mrs. Cindy Courtney
Mrs. Kristi Ellenwood
Mrs. Renee Travis
E-1
C-2
B-1
C-1
D-2
B-2
*3421
*3412
*3406
*3411
*3422
*3407
FOURTH GRADE
STAFF
Ms. Claire Reidenbach
Ms. Susan DeCesare
Mrs. Kelly Halstead
H-1
H-2
H-3
*3436
*3437
*3438
FIFTH GRADE
STAFF
Mrs. Mary Anne LaPointe
Mrs. Sheila Charboneau
Mrs. Kathy Anders
Ms. Susan DeCesare
D-1
G-1
F-1
H-2
*3416
*3417
*3426
*3437
MUSIC TEACHER Mr. Mark Gouveia G-2 *3432
P.E. TEACHER Mrs. Brooke Silva *3460
RESOURCE SPECIALIST Mrs. Erin Schroeder
F2 335-5848
Assistant: Maureen Rumbaugh
or *3427
SPEECH/LANG. TEACHER Francoise Contastin *3464
SITE SUPPORT STAFF
Library Media Specialist
Technology Specialist
Cafeteria Staff
Para Educators
Noon Supervisors
DISTRICT SUPPORT STAFF
School Psychologist
Bilingual Para Educator
Occupational Therapist
District Nurse
OTHER
Woodbridge Day Care
Lasting Impression Preschool
Mrs. Sharon Ruddell
Mrs. Treena Foss
Ms. Penny Busse & Ms. Kathy Enos
Ms. Linda Garrett, Ms. Diane Ferreira
Mrs. Janelle Poyadue, Mr. Gary Heasell
Mrs. Catherine DiMiceli
Ms. Lilian Sevilla
Ms. Cindy Andrews
Mrs. Sandy Watermen
Ms. Cynthia Harris
Ms. Pat Bayless
*3465
*3466
313-0756
*3471
*3461
313-0414 ext.
2119
228-4166
228-8715
6

INSTRUCTIONAL MINUTES
2011-2012
GRADE TIME RECESS LUNCH INSTRUCTIONAL
MINUTES
K am:8:10-11:30 0 0 200
pm: 11:40-3:00 0 0 200
TOTAL: 200
1st 8:15-9:40 85
9:45-10:00 15
10:00-11:35 95
11:20-12:00 40
12:20-1:35 75
1:35-1:45 10
1:45-2:35 50
TOTAL: 305
2nd & 3rd 8:15-9:40 85
9:45-10:00 15
10:00-12:05 125
11:45-12:25 40
12:50-1:35 45
1:35-1:45 10
1:45-2:35 50
TOTAL: 305
4th & 5th 8:15-10:45 150
10:15-10:30 15
11:05-12:30 85
12:05-12:45 40
1:15-2:35 80
TOTAL: 315
7

STUDENT SECTION
PRINCIPAL'S PHILOSOPHY
MORELLO PARK’S STANDARD OF BEHAVIOR
Follow directions
Be respectful of others
Be responsible
Be safe at all times
Be cooperative
Our school maintains high, reasonable, standards of behavior for all of our staff and students. Each
student has a right to learn in an environment that is safe, productive, and enjoyable. Our expectations
for student behavior are based on common sense, good manners, and respecting all adults and children
on campus. Close cooperation between the home and the school is vital to maintain the high standards
of behavior for our students. Working together we:
1. teach our students that may make mistakes and when they do, they must assume
responsibility for their own actions. This allows them to learn from their mistakes.
2. teach our students that choices they make about their behavior result in consequences.
3. develop students’ awareness of the impact of one’s actions on the rights of others.
4. develop students’ sense of respect for one’s self, other people, property, and the laws
which govern our society.
Specific rules for our behavior inside and outside of the classroom will be discussed by each teacher.
Discipline will be progressive, with increased consequences as the number of infractions increase.
The following general rules are expected of all students at all times:
• All students are courteous to others on campus. Good manners are to be used at all times.
• Personal items such as toys, knives, skateboards, trading cards, IPOD’s, and electronic
games, are not to be brought to school. If a cell phone is necessary for your child, prior
permission by the principal is required. Students are not to trade or sell any items.
• Gum and candy are not allowed at school.
• Make up is not to be worn or brought to school. Colored hair spray or hair dye is not allowed.
• Students are to walk in the halls and in the classrooms at all times.
• Students are to arrive to school on time. If you are tardy, you must first come to the office
and get a tardy pass. Students may not arrive before 8:00 AM, as we do not have supervision
prior to that time. All students must be on the playground by 8:10 AM.
• Restrooms are to be used properly and safely. Students must have a hall pass to use the
restrooms during instructional time. Unsafe or inappropriate use of the student restrooms may
result in a child being required to use only the office restroom.
• Students are expected to follow the directions of the adult in charge at all times. If a student
disagrees with the direction, he/she may discuss it with the teacher and/or the principal at a
mutually agreeable time.
CARE OF YOUR SCHOOL
Morello Park Elementary is your school. Take good care of it so that you can be proud of it. If you see
anyone treating it inappropriately, be sure to notify your teacher immediately. In order to allow everyone
to feel safe, and for learning to take place, there are rules that every student must follow. Learn all the
rules of fair conduct in our school so you can be fair with everyone.
CARE OF YOUR CLASSROOM
Your classroom is where you spend the most important part of your day while at school. Think about how
you would like it to look and feel, and try to maintain it this way. There may be some classes you like
better than others, but you will find that if you do your best in all of your classes, they will be more
interesting and you will learn more. Each class has its own rules which are there to help everyone learn
together. Never be in a classroom if there is not an adult present. The rules in your classroom will be
posted. Good things will happen to those students who choose to follow them!
PREPARING FOR SCHOOL
Use your good judgment when choosing appropriate clothes to wear to school. Remember how active
you are at recess and during P.E. time. The school district has a policy (5132) which states:
The Board of Education believes that appropriate dress and grooming contribute to a productive learning
environment. The Board expects students to give proper attention to personal cleanliness and to wear
clothes that are suitable for the school activities in which they participate. Students’ clothing must not
present a health or safety hazard or a distraction which would interfere with the educational process.
8

In other words, at Morello Park Elementary your clothes must be:
1. safe for you and other students around you.
Therefore, shoes should not have heels or wheels, and must be safe for running. Flipflops, sandals,
party shoes, platform shoes, and shoes without a heel strap are not safe. Tennis shoes are the preferred
shoe to wear to school. Pants that drag on the ground or are baggy may not be worn. Fake fingernails
are not allowed at school.
2. such that it is not disruptive of the learning that takes place in school.
Therefore, your clothes should be considered in good taste and appropriate for learning. Clothing which
displays gang symbols, profanity or products or slogans which promote tobacco, alcohol, drugs, or other
inappropriate behavior for elementary students, is not appropriate. T-shirts or other clothing with
disrespectful, rude, suggestive, violent or hostile statements are not allowed. If the statement on your
shirt is something that would not be appropriate to say at school, then it is most likely not appropriate to
wear on your shirt. Beach wear such as halter tops, bare midriffs, strapless shirts, see-through clothing,
spaghetti straps, or off-the-shoulder blouses, and short skirts/shorts are not appropriate for school. Shirt
straps should be a minimum of two fingers wide and shorts and skirts should be as long as one’s
fingertips when the arms are on the thighs. No underwear of any kind may be visible (bra straps, boxer
shorts, etc.). Hats and hoods can make it hard for others to see in class as well as difficult for the
teacher to see you. It can also be a distractive nuisance; therefore no hats are to be worn inside.
3. neat and clean, and acceptable in repair and appearance.
Therefore, no bandanas, long belts, or chains are allowed at school. Take time in the morning to make
sure your clothes are clean, and your hair is brushed. Hair may not be sprayed any color or contain
glitter, temporary color, etc. Staying clean will also help you stay healthy!
GOING TO AND FROM SCHOOL
Walking:
Go directly to and from school. If you are walking to school, you must obey all traffic rules. Be sure it is
safe before crossing streets. Respect other people's property, stay on sidewalks and don't take short
cuts across lawns. Remember you are responsible to follow school rules while coming to and from
school. There are crosswalks in the parking lot. Whenever possible walk with friends or stay near
others who are also walking. Don't go within an arm's reach of any stranger or their car. If something
happens that makes you afraid, run to the nearest house and ask for help. If you do not feel safe, get
away fast and remember that you do not have to follow the rules of being polite when you are in danger.
Bicycles:
Bicycles can be fun and also very dangerous. You must be very careful any time you ride your bike. If
you ride your bike on the street you must obey the same rules as cars. Stop at traffic lights and stop
signs, and give pedestrians the right of way. A bike contract must be on file in the office and may be
revoked by the principal at any time. Always wear your helmet. Riding your bike is not allowed in the
parking lot or on campus. Park and lock your bike. Be careful not to touch any one else's bike, you do
not want to be blamed for anything you are not responsible for. Leave the bike rack promptly. The
school is not responsible for lost or damaged bicycles.
Getting dropped off or picked up by an adult:
Arrange a pick up place with your parents. Stay in that designated area until you are picked up. Do not
walk through the parking lot at drop off or pick up time. Stay in the designated cross walks. You must be
picked up promptly at dismissal time. We do not have after school supervision. If you have not been
picked up immediately after school is dismissed, come to the school office and our staff will call your
parent. Students must wait in the school office if not picked up promptly at dismissal time.
WHILE AT SCHOOL
You are expected to treat everyone at school with respect. You are to use good manners and
appropriate language at all times. Do not pass out party invitations at school for a party you are having.
Students not receiving an invitation may feel badly and have their feelings hurt. In order to stay safe, you
need to walk at all times, unless you are on the playground. You are required to keep your hands and
feet to yourself and to play safely. If you choose not to do these things, or if you break a school or
classroom rule, you may get a recess detention, a referral, or even be required to go home (suspended).
If you choose to obey the school rules, you will get many rewards for your good behavior.
HOMEWORK
If you want to be good at anything, you have to practice. That’s what homework is for. The adults at
school will help you learn responsibility skills too by giving you work to practice each day for homework.
Fourth and fifth graders are expected to use their planners every day and have them signed by an adult.
If you leave your materials at school for homework, call the school and come back and get them. If the
office is closed, call a classmate and get the assignment. You should also do the following:
1. Work in a place where nothing will distract you (TV, computers, radios, noise, etc.)
2. Try to keep your mind and attention on the assignment that you are doing
3. Ask for help from an older sister or brother or an adult when you need it
4. Tell your teacher if you do not understand the homework or if it’s too hard. If homework is taking
too long or it is too hard, tell your teacher and she will help you. 9

TARDIES AND ABSENCES
It is important for you to be at school on time each day. If you have to be late, have your parent write a
note explaining why you are late. Go to the office before you go to class and tell the Office Manager you
are late and not absent. If you are sick, you should stay home and get well. Bring a note from home
when you return to school explaining why you were not at school or have your parent call the absence
line (335-5840, press #3). If you miss time in the morning for being late, you may be required to make up
the time at recess.
TELEPHONE USE
Cell phones are generally not necessary on campus. Every room has a telephone that is available in
case of emergency. Cell phones are only allowed on campus if special circumstances require it and prior
principal’s permission is required. You may only use the telephone in the office if you have an office pass
and permission to use the phone from your teacher.
CARE OF SCHOOL PROPERTY
All students are expected to take good care of school materials and school buildings. The Board of
Education considers vandalism a very serious matter. Vandalism includes the negligent, willful, or
unlawful damaging or theft or any district-owned real or personal property, including the writing of graffiti.
Any student who commits an act of vandalism shall be subject to disciplinary action by the district and
also may be prosecuted through other legal means. If you intentionally damage something, you or your
parents may be required to pay for it. If you see anyone not treating our school properly, be sure to tell
an adult right away. Our school textbooks cost approximately $50.00 each. If you damage one, you will
be required to purchase a replacement textbook.
ZERO TOLERANCE FOR WEAPONS AND DANGEROUS OBJECTS
No weapons of any kind are tolerated on campus. This includes toy guns, play weapons, knives of any
size, or any item with blades. No explosives, fireworks, firecrackers, matches, lighters or any item which
throws off a spark are allowed. No laser lights or pointers are allowed. Any item that may be considered
a safety hazard is not permitted at school and may be confiscated by the principal. Progressive
disciplinary consequences will be administered and include suspension and possible expulsion.
DRUGS, ALCOHOL AND TOBACCO
No drugs, alcohol, or tobacco of any kind are allowed on campus. The Board of Education intends to
keep Martinez School District free of tobacco, alcohol, and other drugs. Progressive disciplinary
consequences will be administered and include suspension and possible expulsion.
DISCRIMINATION & HARASSMENT POLICY
A federal law (Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964) makes it illegal to discriminate against others. This
law states that you may not discriminate on the basis of one’s race, color, religion, gender, national origin,
disability or age. What this means at school is, you may not tease, make fun of, call names, make jokes,
or behave in a manner that is offensive to another because of their ancestry, birthplace, culture,
ethnicity, religion, gender, age, or disability.
This discrimination is considered harassment when it does not stop when asked, when it is unwelcome,
and when it is disrespectful or offensive to another student. This law also states that teasing someone
about their body, their body parts, or making sexual comments may be considered sexual harassment.
This too is against the law. Touching another person against their wishes is also not allowed. This
includes grabbing, pushing, pinching, poking, hitting, tripping, shoving, kissing, hugging, etc. Behavior
that is inappropriate will be handled by the principal and will not be tolerated. Progressive disciplinary
consequences will be administered. Students must report any incidents of discrimination or harassment
to a staff member immediately. The Martinez School Board is committed to maintaining an educational
environment tha is free from harassment. The Board prohibits sexual harassment of students by other
students or other persons at school. The Board also prohibits retaliatory behavior or action against
persons who complain, or assist in the complaint process. Any student who feels that he/she is being
harassed must immediately contact his/her teacher. The complaint will be immediately investigated.
Prompt action will be taken to end the harassment. Disciplinary action may include suspension (BP
5145.7).
BULLYING POLICY
Bullying is not tolerated at Morello Park. Bullying is negative behavior directed on purpose toward
another student. It may be negative physical or verbal actions. Bullying is when this action is done with a
hostile intent, when it causes distress to another student, is repeated over time, and when it involves
power and aggression. Bullying is a form of aggression and is not accidental; it is intended to harm. It
may be done face-to-face, behind someone’s back, or even over the internet. Bullying must be reported
to a staff member and it will be dealt with by the principal. Progressive disciplinary consequences will be
administered. You may be given a referral, be suspended, or lose your school privileges.
10

ACTIVITIES AND PROGRAMS
EAGLE READING PROGRAM
Eagle Reading is a school-wide reading incentive program. It is coordinated by parent volunteers and
sponsored by the PTA. Students and their parents keep track of the amount of time they read at home
and record it on a monthly calendar. Every grade level is expected to read at least four nights a week as
a regular part of the daily homework. When the monthly calendars are turned in at the end of the month,
students are recognized and they earn free books. Reading is the most important homework students do
and we expect each child to read or to be read to by a parent, at least 20 minutes a night.
MATH CHALLENGE PROGRAM
Math Challenge is a school-wide math enrichment program. There are six levels that students progress
through as they learn how to add, subtract, multiply and divide numbers. It is intended that students
master all six levels by the time they exit Morello Park in fifth grade. All six levels in the program are tied
to California mathematics content standards for each grade level. Each level has an animal name and
consists of four tests with corresponding time limits. Teachers administer the tests every two weeks and
parent volunteers correct and track student progress. Students must achieve 100% in order to move on
to the next test. There are practice tests on our school website
(http://www.martinez.k12.ca.us/schools/mpe/). When a student passes all four tests in a level, they
receive a certificate and move on to the next animal level. The final test in the Math Challenge is the
Eagle. It is a comprehensive test that includes several problems from each level. Students who pass the
Eagle test will be rewarded for their achievement in math with a commemorative Morello Park eagle!
600 WORD CHALLENGE PROGRAM
This program is intended to help students learn sight words and vocabulary words from our Language
Arts program. The goal of the 600 word challenge program is to reward your child’s success in the area
of reading. Students must memorize the 600 words, 100 at a time. They are given a list of 100 words to
study and memorize. When ready, they are tested by their teacher on the list they are working on.
Memorizing these words will improve your child’s speed, accuracy and comprehension in all areas of
reading. We believe all students can master the 600 words by the time they have completed the fifth
grade. The list of words can be found on our school website
(http://www.martinez.k12.ca.us/schools/mpe/) and are available to download for practice at home.
BUDDY DAY PROGRAM
This program addresses many of the social barriers that exist because of grade-level grouping. Students
typically have few opportunities to interact and develop caring friendships with older or younger children.
When they do interact, older children are not always kind and helpful to those who are younger and
smaller. Our Buddy program helps older children feel that it’s not only respectful but “cool” to be kind and
caring rather than tough and bossy to younger children.
Students are given a buddy partner in a different grade level. Several times throughout the year classes
“buddy up” and activities are planned for buddy partners to do together. The program lets children know
they are capable of showing care and building relationships with their buddy partner. It provides the
motivation for the students to create similar relationships with other children, family members, and adults
throughout the school community.
RUNNING CLUB
This is a PTA sponsored program designed to promote health and wellness in our students. Parent
volunteers supervise the grass field during the lunch period. Students are encouraged to walk or run laps
during lunch recess. They earn sticks each time they complete a lap and these are transferred into
miles. They earn plastic feet to put on a key chain as incentives to accumulate miles.
11

LIBRARY PROGRAM
Students go to the library each month to hear a story read to them and to learn how to use a library.
They are able to check out books to take home and use for their evening reading homework. Basic
reference skills and literature appreciation are taught by our Library Media Specialist, Mrs. Sharon
Ruddell. Her position is funded through the school district, Morello Park’s PTA, and the School Site
Council. The current library collection is approximately 13,000 copies of books with approximately
12,000 different titles. This is a student to book ratio of 1:26. The library receives additional funding for
materials by the PTA and the “Read for Life” annual fundraiser.
TECHNOLOGY PROGRAM
The Martinez Unified School District’s Technology Plan states:
The use of technology is a means to enhance and expand the curriculum rather than an end in
itself. Technology must be part of a continual practice that allows students and staff to carry out
the process of education in a powerful and effective manner. When used appropriately it can
provide students and teachers with tools for dynamic exploration and representation of data and
information; experimentation and problem solving; social and global awareness; independence
and expertness; effective communication and collaboration; confidence, and a positive
orientation to the future.
Students at Morello Park use computers in the classrooms and in the computer lab. Beginning in the
second semester of kindergarten, students begin learning keyboarding skills, graphic art programs, and
practice reading and math skills using educational software. Keyboarding skills are taught throughout the
grades and students are recognized for their progress as they move through levels of keyboarding
mastery. The use of electronic and internet sources have been embedded in research projects in our
upper grade classroom activities. Teachers use video streaming, brain pop, and other curriculum tools to
support the curriculum. Our school website has many educational links for both students and parents to
use to support the learning process.
AFTER SCHOOL ENRICHMENT CLASSES
These classes are sponsored by the PTA and offer students fun and educational classes after school on
our campus. Information is sent home to parents and enrollment is on a first come, first served basis.
Examples of courses typically offered are chess, pottery, drawing, drama, science, and Spanish.
WOODBRIDGE DAY CARE CENTER
Woodbridge Day Care Center is located on the Morello Park campus. It is an independent Child Care
and Enrichment Activities Center for children in elementary school. Woodbridge operates independently
and is not affiliated with the Martinez Unified School District. It provides before and after school day care.
It is designed to meet the needs of working parents and school-aged children. Vacation breaks, early
dismissal days, and full-time day care is available. For more information please contact the Site Director,
Cynthia Harris at 228-4166.
STUDENT COUNCIL
Student Council is an opportunity for 4 th -5 th grade students to participate in school government and
decision making. The Council selects community service projects, spirit day events, and they facilitate
the school post office mail delivery system. There is a fall and spring Council, each elected by the
student body. 4 th and 5 th grade students are allowed to hold one of the Officer positions. Elections are
held, campaign speeches are written and presented at an assembly and an election is held. Students
are held to high responsibility and behavioral expectations to participate in the Student Council. Meetings
are held once a month during the school day. Parent and teacher permission is required for participation.
12

POLICIES AND PROCEDURES
EMERGENCY INFORMATION
Emergency information is required for each child enrolled in school. If a child becomes ill, or is injured,
the office must have the names, and telephone numbers of at least two persons to contact in the event
that the parent cannot be contacted. Please keep this information current by notifying the office of any
changes in your employment, address, telephone numbers, and persons that you authorize your child to
be released to. Students may only be released to the persons designated on the Emergency Card.
If your child has a medical condition, or if there is any other information that the school should know
about your child in the event of an emergency (regarding medical treatment, allergies, medication taken,
etc.), it is essential that you inform the school.
CLASSROOM ASSIGNMENTS
Assigning students to their classes each year is done carefully by the teachers and principal. Achieving
an optimum blend of personalities within each room to create a learning environment beneficial to both
the students and the teacher, while at the same time, balancing classes and matching teaching styles
with students' learning needs requires consideration of many factors. Each year our teachers participate
directly in the process of setting up next year's classes. Teachers meet in the spring to make class
configurations for the grade level that their students will be entering in the fall. They make sure the
classes are balanced among the grade level. There must be an even distribution of the following:
• boy/girl distribution
• academic abilities
• social & behavioral concerns
• english language abilities
• ethnic & cultural backgrounds
• special needs (learning disabilities, gifted, etc.)
In addition to the considerations listed above, the following information is also used in the class
configuration process:
• teacher recommendations (separation of students, etc.)
• student information sheets (available to parents in April/May each year)
Parent input is a factor considered in class placement. Parents who have a concern about the special
needs of their children are encouraged to relay that information to the principal by completing a Student
Information Form in April/May (dates are published each year in the principal’s newsletter). The final
decision of the placement of students rests with the school principal. There will not be any class changes
made during the first month of the school year. After that time period if a parent feels that a class change
is essential for their student's learning, the following procedure will be implemented:
1. A parent and/or teacher will submit in writing the reason for the request, i.e. Why is this
necessary and the best decision for the student?
2. The principal will conference with the parent, teacher, and/or student about the reason for the
request, and whether or not a placement change is an option, i.e. Are the other classes at the
contractual limit of students, are they full? How might changing this student's placement offset
the balance of the other classes?
3. The principal will meet with the exiting teacher and the possible new teacher. There must be
consensus among these three educators that this change is in the best interest of the child.
4. If all parties support the placement change, the principal will make a change of placement.
It is also possible that a situation could arise that requires the principal to make an administrative
decision to change the placement of a student.
13

ATTENDANCE
State law has changed attendance procedures and the system of school funding in California. Districts
no longer can count excused absences for funding purposes. Funding will be based solely on actual
school attendance; days the student is present. Regular attendance is necessary for learning and
academic success. All absences are detrimental to students’ learning. Students miss important learning
opportunities when they are absent. Not only is instruction lost, but important group discussion and class
activities that cannot be duplicated are lost. Some absences are necessary. Students should not attend
school if they are sick or have compelling reasons for not attending school. Please elicit cooperation
from your child’s doctors, dentists, and other health professionals in scheduling appointments after
school hours. When an unavoidable absence is known in advance, and the absence will be for five
consecutive days or more, please request an independent study contract from the school to provide class
work during your child’s absence. When your child is absence, please contact the school attendance line
to report the absence. The office is required to account for the reason for every absence. When
absences are excused, students may make up work that was missed. Under California state law and
MUSD Board Policy, reasons for excusing a student absence include:
1. Illness or injury of the student, or serious illness of a family member
2. Student attendance at a medical, dental, optometry, or chiropractic appointment.
3. Student attendance at the funeral service of an immediate family member.
4. A quarantine imposed by a city or county health official.
5. Up to five days to obtain required immunizations.
6. Exclusion from school due to head lice, lack of immunization, or physical examination.
7. Appearance in court.
8. Observance of a holiday or ceremony of his/her religion.
Parents need to contact the school staff within a 72 hour period following the student’s return to school.
EARLY RELEASE FROM SCHOOL
In order to provide maximum protection to each child, students must have a note from their parent or
guardian giving the date, time, and reason. Parents picking up their child before the close of the regular
school day must come to the office and sign out their child. Students are not released from the
classroom until the parent is on campus. Students will be released to persons designated on the
Emergency Card only. For your child's protection you will be notified if anyone other than the parent or
guardian attempts to have your child released from school.
HOME AND HOSPITAL INSTRUCTION
The Martinez Unified School District provides a home or hospital instructional service for students who
have a medical condition, verified by a physician, which requires an absence of three or more weeks.
Parents may apply for home/hospital instruction the first day their child is absent from school. There is
no waiting period before home and hospital instruction may start. Each student is provided with five
hours of individual instruction per week during the prolonged absence. For more information please
inquire at the school office.
STUDENT RECORDS
Information contained in each student's cumulative record is confidential. The only persons with access
to these records are school personnel and the student's parents or legal guardians. Release of school
records to any other person requires an authorization formed signed by the parent or guardian.
SCHOOL LUNCHES
Morello Park offers a hot lunch program for students. All students have a lunch card, whether they bring
lunch from home or purchase a lunch at school. Students can buy a complete lunch or just milk or water.
If your child leaves his/her lunch at home, bring it to the school office and it will be delivered to the lunch
room for your child. If your child is planning on buying lunch on a regular basis, please pay for lunches
on a weekly, monthly, or annual basis. This can be done at the school office or on the school’s website.
A user name and password is selected to set up a new online account for payment. You will need to
contact the school office to get your child’s permanent ID number the first time you use this feature. The
credit is good for any day during the school year. It also transfers to the following year or to another
school in the Martinez Unified School District. Checks should be made payable to the Martinez Unified
School District. Free or reduced price lunches are available to qualifying families. An application for free
or reduced lunch may be picked up in the school office.
14

LOST AND FOUND ITEMS
Many articles become lost or are left unclaimed during the course of the year. It helps if personal
belongings are marked with your child's name, so that they can be easily identified. Lost and Found
items are located in the multi-use room. Valuable articles such as money, keys and jewelry are kept
in the office. Articles left for more than one month are given to a charity organization.
FIELD TRIPS
The Martinez Unified School District Board of Education recognized that school-sponsored trips are
important components of a student’s development. They supplement and enrich classroom learning
experiences; such trips encourage new interests among students, make them more aware of community
resources, and help them relate their school experiences to the outside world (BP 6153). Many teachers
supplement their curriculum by arranging field trips for their class. Students must have written
permission from their parent or guardian to attend the trip. The school will provide an alternative
educational experience for students whose parents do not wish them to participate in a trip. Financial
assistance is available for families experiencing financial difficulties. Parent drivers and chaperones are
needed for field trips to occur. The ratio of adults to students on school-sponsored trips shall be at least
one to ten, which is mandated by School Board Policy. If you would like to chaperone on a field trip, you
must complete a Parent Chaperone Contract. Siblings are not allowed on school field trips. Drivers must
complete a Transportation and Waiver Form. A copy of the insurance policy carried on the car must be
supplied to the school. Minimum insurance coverage is listed on the form. The car must be in safe
driving condition and the driver must possess a valid California driver’s license. Chaperones must be
fingerprinted with the district to be eligible to drive and be alone with students.
HEAD LICE POLICY
Having head lice is a horrible nuisance for any family to have to deal with. It is usually more of an
emotional issue than a hygienic problem. Head lice create a non-critical, communicable infection. When
a Morello Park student is found with head lice, all of that child’s siblings are also checked for head lice.
Parents of the child are notified, and the child is excluded from school until treatment is complete. In
most cases, absence from school need not be longer than one day. Frequently more time is missed
from school due to a lack of understanding of what should be done to correct the problem. The office
staff and school nurse will help families by providing treatment recommendations. If we have reports of
numerous cases in a single classroom, we will often check all of the students in the classroom or those
with the same day care provider. Children can reduce the chances of getting head lice by avoiding
personal contact with others or their clothing, or by not using personal articles (combs, brushes, etc.) of
others.
CLASSROOM INTERRUPTIONS
Student instructional time is the most valuable resource offered by the school district. The Board of
Education recognizes its obligation to minimize the number of classroom interruptions in order that
students and teachers may fully take advantage of all opportunities for learning and personal enrichment
in the classroom setting. The Board recognized that such a policy must make the necessary allowances
for interruptions caused by emergencies and other urgent situations. The delivery of routine messages
should be limited to designated periods during the day (BP 6116). Therefore at Morello Park we will not
interrupt teaching for telephone calls to teachers or deliver messages to students during instructional
time. Staff members check their mailboxes periodically throughout the day and at that time they will get
their messages. Classrooms will only be interrupted for urgent and/or emergency situations.
ANIMALS AT SCHOOL
The Board of Education recognized that animals can be an effective teaching aid. In addition, instruction
related to the care and treatment of animals teaches students a sense of responsibility and promotes the
humane treatment of living creatures (BP 6163.2). Animals may be brought to school for educational
purposes only. Seeing-eye dogs and service dogs are the only dogs allowed on campus without
permission from the teacher and/or principal. All animals must be in safe and suitable cages, on a leash,
or in an otherwise appropriate container.
15

HOMEWORK
The Board of Education recognizes that homework contributes toward building responsibility, selfdiscipline
and life-long learning habits, and that time spent on homework directly influences students’
ability to meet the district’s academic standards. The Board expects students, parents and staff to view
homework as a routine and important part of students’ daily lives. When students repeatedly fail to do
their homework, parents shall be notified and asked to contact the teacher. Students who miss school
work because of an excused absence shall be given the opportunity to complete all assignments and
tests that can be reasonably provided (BP 6154). The Administrative Regulations for homework in the
Martinez Unified School District are:
· Homework assignments should not exceed one half hour at the primary level, and one hour
at the intermediate level (4 th & 5 th )
· Kindergarten homework assignments should stimulate students to talk often with their
parents, and encourage parents to read to their children
· Homework assignments in grades 1-3 should promote the development of skills. They
should also encourage family participation.
· In grades 4 & 5 homework should continue to reinforce skill development and encourage
family participation. Assignments should help develop good personal study habits, and may
include occasional special projects.
In helping with homework, parents should:
· Show interest in the student’s work
· Encourage the student and offer counsel, but insist that the student do his/her own work.
· Provide a suitable place for study, free from distraction and, if possible, reserved for that
student alone.
· Check to see that the homework assignments are completed
· Assist in balancing school work with other activities.
· Talk with teachers if assignments seem to be causing students continuing problems.
· Share thoughts and ideas with children on many topics of interest to the student and the
parent.
· Keep in touch with the school program through calls, visits, e-mails and participation on
school committees. (AR 6154)
PARENT INVOLVEMENT AND SCHOOL VOLUNTEERS
Parent participation is an integral part of the instructional program at Morello Park. The Martinez Unified
School District Board Policy “encourages parents/guardians to serve as volunteers in the schools, attend
student performances and school meetings, and participate in site councils, advisory councils and other
activities in which they may undertake governance, advisory and advocacy roles” (BP 6020). Volunteers
are encouraged and welcomed at every grade level for the purpose of improvement of school facilities
and school programs, including providing assistance in the classroom. Classroom volunteers are under
the supervision of the teacher and must be approved by the teacher (Education Code 51101). To
ensure that your participation as a volunteer will be a positive experience for you, the staff, and the other
students:
· Sign in at the office each day and wear a volunteer name tag.
· Encourage children in a positive manner. Praise their efforts.
· Leave the disciplining to the teacher. Alert him/her if there is an issue that needs assistance.
· Situations that occur in the classroom should be dealt with in the classroom and not
discussed away from the classroom setting. It is never OK to share information about a
student’s performance with another parent as this is a serious breach of confidentiality.
· Offer to help students if you see they are having trouble. Observe the teacher to learn the
approach she/he uses with the students and try to use similar techniques.
· If correcting papers or recording grades, this information is strictly confidential and may not
be shared with any one other than the classroom teacher or principal.
· Do not approach students to discuss matters that are not school-related.
· If your child is involved in a conflict with other students, do not address the other students in
an attempt to solve the matter. It is not permissible to question a child other than you own.
· Bring all concerns to the attention of the classroom teacher or the principal.
A parent has the right to observe instruction and other school activities that involve his or her child upon
written request to the principal. An observation will be arranged within a reasonable timeframe in
accordance with district procedures. Observations must ensure the safety of students and staff, prevent
undue interference with instruction or harassment of school staff, and provide reasonable
accommodation to parents (Education Code 49091.10). Any volunteer working with or
accompanying students alone must be fingerprinted with the district.
16

Reidenbach DeCesare
4 th /5 th
1 st
Baker/Regh.
Halstead
4 th 4 th
Courtney
3 rd
Machado
2 nd
Charboneau 5 th LaPointe 5 th
Ellenwood
3 rd
5 th
Gouveia
Music
Sanderson
2 nd
Silva
PE
Computer
Lab
Welch
1 st
Spinner
2 nd
Travis
3 rd
Anders
Schroeder
RS
Atkinson
1 st Gliatto
K
Science
Lab
Alber
K
Dayton
K