Southington Back To School Guide

The following information was provided as part of the back-to-school tips page on the Southington schools website. For more information on all your back to school needs, visit the site by clicking on the link provided.

NON-DISCRMINATION STATEMENT

Participation in all courses, programs, and activities sponsored by the Southington Public Schools is allowed without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, disability, or sexual orientation.

SOUTHINGTON PUBLIC SCHOOLS MISSION STATEMENT

Students engage in a range of educational experiences to become informed, adaptive problem solvers who effectively communicate, rise to challenges, and are committed to improve themselves and their communities.

SCHOOL LUNCH PROGRAM

The Southington Public Schools offers a full service hot lunch and breakfast program. Our Food Service Program will be following the implementation guidelines for the nutrition standards in the National School Lunch and Breakfast Program. (Full information, as well as monthly menus, can be found on the district website under the Parents and Students tab.) Children from families whose income is at or below the Federal guidelines are eligible for free or reduced price lunch or breakfast. A free milk program is available only for Kindergarten students if they are eligible. Applications are normally submitted in September. However, children who become eligible during the school year may make an application at that time. Additional information by be obtained from the building principal.

Prices for school lunch are as follows:

Elementary School Lunch: $2.50
Middle School Lunch: $2.75
High School Lunch: $3.00
Reduced Price Lunch: $0.40

Prices for breakfast are as follows:

Elementary School Breakfast: $1.75
Middle School Breakfast: $1.75
High School Breakfast: $2.00
Reduced Breakfast price: $0.30

ADMINISTRATION OF MEDICATION BY SCHOOL PROFESSIONAL

No medication may be administered without the written order of an authorized prescriber, the written authorization of the student’s parent or guardian, and the written permission of the parent/guardian for the exchange of information between the prescriber and the school nurse; this is necessary to ensure the safe administration of such medication has been received in writing on the appropriate Medication Administration Form. Forms are obtained from the School Nurse or online at: www.southingtonschools.org/page.cfm?p=4537

SOUTHINGTON’S TOWN-WIDE EFFORT TO PROMOTE SUCCESS (S.T.E.P.S.)

This Southington community initiative is aimed at developing healthy and successful youth. It is the hope that everyone in the community will join forces to help every child reach his or her greatest potential. By tapping into the abundance of resources in our community and providing the best opportunities for our children, children will be empowered to lead, serve, and be productive.

 STUDENT ACCIDENT HEALTH INSURANCE

Plans for accident/health reimbursement are available in the Southington Public Schools. These voluntary purchase insurance plans will be available for school time coverage. Explanatory literature is distributed in early September. Many parents have found these voluntary purchase plans to be helpful to them. The Board of Education is not the agent for the insurance company and only provides a method of contacting parents of school children desiring this voluntary coverage. If the voluntary coverage is not purchased, all claims must be forwarded to their health insurance carrier for review and payment. The Board of Education is not liable for any accident involving a student unless there is negligence on its part. For students who participate in team athletics, band, cheerleading, or majorette activities, claims not covered by the parent’s carrier will be processed through the Board of Education Purchasing Office for review and payment.

HUSKY MEDICAL INSURANCE PLAN

The State of Connecticut HUSKY Insurance Plan offers a comprehensive health care benefit package for Connecticut children up to age 19. Depending on your family’s income, there may be no cost to you. Call your school nurse or 1-877-CT-HUSKY for more information.

AIDS EDUCATION

The Southington Board of Education shall offer, during the regular school days, planned, ongoing, and systematic instruction on Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) taught by legally qualified teachers. The content of instruction shall be developmentally appropriate with objectives that are developed for specific grade levels. Any parent or guardian may, upon written request to the school principal, have his/her child exempted from Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) instruction permitted by law. Legal Reference: Public Act 88-112 the Study of Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome in the Public Schools.

STUDENT TRANSPORTATION

Board of Education Policy states that students in Kindergarten through Grade 3 are to walk up to one mile with the exception that all Kindergarteners will be provided transportation to or from school at mid-day. Students in Grades 4 through Grade 8 are to walk up to one and one-half miles. All students from Grade 9 through 12 living two miles or more from school will also receive transportation. Bus routes are available on the district website.

SCHOOL BUS SAFETY PROGRAM

A school bus safety program is conducted each year for all students. Emphasis is placed on student safety rules, emergency procedures, and common sense.

RULES AND REGULATIONS FOR BUS STUDENT CONDUCT

The primary objective of the bus transportation system is to provide safe bus transportation for the students of Southington schools. Courtesy and good manners are essential in achieving this objective. There is a “no eating” policy on school buses with exceptions made only to accommodate special needs under federal or similar law, or school district policy. Student behavior on the school bus shall conform to those standards maintained in the classroom, and line of responsibility between the bus driver and building principal shall be similar in nature to the relationship between the classroom teacher and principal.

SPECIAL EDUCATION PROGRAMS & RELATED SERVICES

Southington Public Schools offer a continuum of special education services to meet the individual needs of identified special education students. In accordance with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), students receive their instruction in the Least Restrictive Environment (LRE), which is determined by a Planning and Placement Team (PPT)/Individual Education Plan (IEP) meeting.

MANDATED REPORTING

Pursuant to state law, when any school nurse, psychologist, physical therapist, teacher, administrator, guidance counselor, paraprofessional, social worker, coach of intramural or interscholastic athletics, or any other mandated reporter prescribed by law has reasonable cause to suspect or believe that children under the age of 18 has been abused or neglected or has been placed in imminent risk or serious harm, he/she shall as soon as practical but not later than twelve (12) hours make an oral report by telephone or in person to the Department of Children and Families (DCF), or law enforcement agency.

PRESCHOOL SCREENING

Southington Public Schools offers a free preschool screening for parents who have concerns regarding their child’s development, speech and language, and behavior. Our preschool speech/language pathologist and/or our preschool special education teacher will conduct the screening. Screening occurs on the first Friday of every month. Parents may request “screening request forms” from Hatton School. Please contact the Special Education Department at (860)628-3200 ext. 332 for more information.

STUDENT ATTENDANCE AREAS ~ ASSIGNMENT TO SCHOOLS

Students are assigned to the school of the district where their parent(s)/guardian(s) reside. Student participation in extracurricular activities must be at the attending school. Exceptions to this policy may be granted by the superintendent or his designee.

School Transfer Request and Approval Procedures:

1.  The parent/guardian is to submit a letter to the superintendent or designee requesting a school 
transfer and indicating the reason(s) for the request.

2.  In the case of a request for the ensuing school year, the superintendent or designee will notify the
parent/guardian that a decision on their request will be made by the end of August. In the 
meantime, the student must be registered at his/her assigned school.

3.  In order for a request to be approved, there must be room within the grade and/or school which 
the parent/guardian has requested, and the composition of the class will allow for the student’s placement.

4.  Parent(s)/Guardian(s) will be responsible for transportation. However, bus service, on an in- 
district basis, will be provided, as space is available, in the case of service to and from childcare providers.

5.  Any approved out-of-district placement will only be for the year in which the request is approved. Parent(s)/Guardian(s) must reapply for approval on an annual basis.

STUDENT TESTING PROGRAM

The Connecticut Mastery Test is administered in Grades 3-8. The Connecticut Academic Performance Test is administered in Grade 10. The tests are designed to determine the specific skill levels of students. The results of the tests are used in accessing the progress of individual students over time, and identifying the need for possible remedial assistance for specific students. A copy of the test results, for Grades 3-8 and Grade 10, are also sent home for your review.

PROMOTION AND RETENTION

Students shall be placed by the certified staff at the grade level best suited to them academically, socially, and emotionally. Students will normally progress annually from grade to grade or level to level. Exceptions may be made when in the judgment of certified staff; such exceptions are in the best educational interest of the students involved. Exception will always be made after prior notification and explanation to each student’s parents or guardians, but the final decision will rest with the school principal.

ELEMENTARY STUDENT RETENTION

The elementary school program provides for continuous progress of students from grade to grade with students normally spending one year in each grade. Retention in a grade for a second year may be considered when a student is performing significantly and consistently below grade level and there is a reasonable chance that retention will benefit the student. No retention will be made without careful study of the individual by the professional staff and early consultation with the parents or guardians. A final decision will be made by the building principal. There are rules, regulations, and guidelines that are followed by teachers and principals when recommending student retention.

ELEMENTARY PROGRESS REPORTS AND CONFERENCES

A progress report is made available to parents three times during the school year. Usually it is given to parents at parent-teacher conferences in November and March and sent home with the student in June. If the parent does not hold a conference with the teacher, the report is sent home at an identified time. The conference provides an opportunity for parents and teachers to discuss the child’s strengths and weaknesses in an effort to mutually understand each child. The intent of this experience is to benefit the child’s performance, behavior, and social adjustment, both in school and at home.

Teachers and principals recognize the occasional need for conferences other than those regularly scheduled. As this need arises, the school and parents should recognize the advantage of discussing a common strategy to approach a problem or a situation. Such conferences are always available upon request.

PARENT-TEACHER CONFERENCES MIDDLE/HIGH SCHOOL

There is a formal program of parent-teacher conferences in November each year, at the end of the first marking quarter. Parents of middle school students are scheduled to see individual teachers during one afternoon and one evening. Parents of high school students are invited to visit the school and see teachers on a scheduled basis one afternoon and one evening. Specific dates by school are in the calendar.

Conferences may be scheduled at other times, as the need arises, through the guidance counselors in any of the three schools.

STUDENT FIELD TRIPS

The Board of Education approves the concept of educational field trips or excursions for students. Such trips for educational or cultural purposes can have valuable educational outcomes. All trips are planned and supervised by authorized personnel and approved by the principal and the superintendent or his designee.

Trips may be planned which involve contributions from the students for part of the costs. No student is denied participation in a field trip solely because of inability to contribute.

The Board assumes responsibility only for school-sponsored trips, whether or not Board funds are used. The rules and regulations for implementing field trips have been written for Southington High School, the middle schools, and the elementary schools. These guidelines reflect the types of field trips taken at different ages, the amount and kinds of supervision required, and the role of the field trip in relation to the total school program. A copy of the Board of Education policy on field trips is available upon request from the building principal.

DRESS CODE

Each student in the Southington Public Schools has the responsibility of dressing in appropriate attire with respect to neatness, decency, modesty, health and safety. Through their dress, students will demonstrate respect for themselves, their fellow students, and for the educational process.

Clothing with “offensive” or “gang-related” language, messages, or illustrations is not allowed. The term “offensive” includes but is not limited to any wording or symbols that advertises or promotes the imagery of alcohol, tobacco, or other drugs, or which debase or negatively portray any individual or group through cultural, political, racial, religious, sexual or other innuendo.

Whenever dress does not conform to these regulations, the student will be counseled and more appropriate apparel will be required. The school principal or assistant principal will make the final determination as to whether this regulation has been violated.

The Board of Education has addressed the specific issue of hats in the schools:

1.  At the discretion of the principal, hats may be worn in the school setting but not in individual classrooms.

2.  Two exceptions to the classroom limitation are allowed:
A. When hats are required for curricular reasons;
B. When hats are worn to school as part of the special “hat day” event approved by the principal.

SUBSTANCE ABUSE

In accordance with Policy and Regulation 5131.6, students under the influence of drugs or alcohol, in possession of illicit drugs, alcohol, or drug paraphernalia, or caught distributing drugs or alcohol, will be suspended and/or expelled from school, and referred for a drug evaluation, and the police department will be notified. Such action will be taken whenever the situation occurs on school property, on a school bus, or during a school-sponsored activity.

EARLY CHILDHOOD COLLABORATIVE OF SOUTHINGTON (ECCS)

The purpose for which the Early Childhood Collaborative of Southington was formed was to enhance the quality of life of and ensure that all children in Southington enter school ready to learn. The ECCS has been working to develop a network to raise awareness about the importance of the early childhood experience and for high quality early child care. It has connected child care providers and educators so that the experience of transition into Kindergarten will be smooth and has educated parents so that the early child care community works in the best interest of Southington’s young children.

INCLEMENT WEATHER INFORMATION

Every effort is made to cancel school as early as possible on days of severe inclement weather. In most instances, the decision is made and broadcast by 6:00 a.m. The cancellation announcements will be aired by the following radio and television stations:

RADIO: WDRC 1360 AM,
WDRC 103 FM,
WTIC 1080 AM,
WZMX 93.7 FM, WRCH 910 AM and 100.5 FM

TELEVISION: WFSB-TV Channel 3, WVIT-TV Channel 30 and WTNH-TV Channel 8

Information is also posted on the school website at www.southingtonschools.org. Please refrain from calling the school.

CONFIDENTIALITY OF SCHOOL RECORDS

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) afford parents and students over 18 years of age (eligible students) certain rights with respect to the student’s educational records. They are:

The right to inspect and review the student’s education records within 45 days of the day the district receives a request for access. Parents or eligible students should submit to the school principal a written request that identifies the record(s) they wish to inspect. The principal will make arrangements for access and notify the parent or eligible student of the time and place where the records may be inspected.

The right to request the amendment of the student’s education records that the parent or eligible student believes is inaccurate or misleading. Parents or eligible students may ask the Southington Public Schools to amend a record that they believe is inaccurate or misleading. They should write to the school principal, clearly identify the part of the record that they want changed, and specify why it is inaccurate or misleading. If the district decides not to amend the record as requested by the parent or eligible student, the district will notify the parent or eligible student of the decision and advise them of their right to a hearing regarding the request for amendment. Additional information regarding the hearing procedures will be provided to the parent or eligible student when notified of the right to a hearing.

The right to consent to disclosures of personally identifiable information contained in the student’s education records, except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosures without consent. One exception which permits disclosure without consent is disclosure to school officials with legitimate educational interests. A school official is a person employed by the district as an administrator, supervisor, instructor, or support staff member (including health or medical staff and law enforcement unit personnel); a person serving on the Board of Education; a person or company with whom the district has contracted to perform a special task (such as an attorney, auditor, medical consultant, or therapist); or a parent or student serving on an official committee, such as a disciplinary or grievance committee, or assisting another official in performing his or her tasks. A school official has a legitimate educational interest if the official needs to review an education record in order to fulfill his or her professional responsibility. Upon request, the district discloses education records without consent to officials of another school district in which a student seeks or intends to enroll.

The right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failures by the district to comply with the requirements of FERPA. The name and address of the office that administers FERPA is:

Family Policy Compliance Office U.S. Department of Education 600 Independence Avenue, SW Washington, D.C. 20202-4605

TITLE V OF THE CIVIL RIGHTS ACT OF 1964
TITLE IX OF THE EDUCATION AMENDMENTS OF 1972 SEXUAL HARASSMENT ACT SECTION 504 OF THE REHABILITATION ACT OF 1973

Any student, parent/guardian, staff member, or applicant to a program who feels that he/she has been discriminated against on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, or handicap shall contact the designated compliance coordinator within 30 days of the alleged occurrence to discuss the nature of this complaint. Copies of the complete Title V, Title IX, and Section 504 Acts can be obtained at each public school and the Administrative Offices located at 200 North Main Street.

U.S. DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION/OFFICE FOR CIVIL RIGHTS

The Office for Civil Rights enforces several federal civil rights laws that prohibit discrimination in programs or activities that receive federal financial assistance from the Department of Education. Discrimination on the basis of race, color, and national origin is prohibited by Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964; sex discrimination is prohibited by Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972; age discrimination is prohibited by the Age Discrimination Act of 1975. OCR enforces Boy Scouts of America Equal Access Act (Section 9525 of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965, as amended by the No Child Left Behind Act of 2001). Further information is found at their website, http://www.ed.gov/OCR

Their address is: U.S. Department of Education Office for Civil Rights 33 Arch Street, Suite 900

Boston, MA 02110-1491
Their phone is (617)289-0111. Please email any questions to: OCR.Boston@ed.gov

SOUTHINGTON PUBLC SCHOOLS GREEN CLEANING STATEMENT

Southington Public Schools, in compliance with the requirements of the State of Connecticut House Bill 6496 regarding green cleaning products in schools, is providing this information on the cleaning products used in our facilities. We have initiated a Green Cleaning Program which will be on-going. The intent of the green cleaning program is to reduce the exposure of the buildings’ occupants from potentially hazardous products, equipment or procedures which could adversely affect human health and the environment, indoors and outdoors. The components of our Green Cleaning Program as required by CT Bill 6496 include:

1.  A description and names of environmentally preferable cleaning products being used in the schools.

2.  The location and application of where cleaning products are used.

3.  The schedule or frequency of when such cleaning products are applied.

4.  We will work towards eliminating and monitoring cleaning products being brought in from 
outside unauthorized sources are required by CT Bill 6496 (“No parent, guardian, teacher or staff member may bring into the school facility any consumer product which is intended to clean, deodorize, sanitize or disinfect.”).

5.  The name of the designee who may be contacted for further information will be provided.

Description
Schools Dilution Control Systems for dispensing cleaning chemicals are placed in strategic and secured locations of each school. The systems are comprised of multiple dispensing options which allow flexibility, economy through accurate and consistent measurement of concentrated cleaners into RTU (Ready-To-Use) spray bottles, buckets, and/or cleaning equipment. Additionally, there are several stand- alone cleaners (Non-Dilution Control cleaners) used for specific cleaning needs.

PESTICIDE APPLICATION AT SCHOOLS AND DAY CARE

Effective July 1, 2000, the Southington Public Schools implemented an Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Plan. In general, we are using the model IPM plans developed by the State of Connecticut Department of Environmental Protection.

The management plans are on file in the main office of each building and are available for review during regular office hours. If deemed necessary, state licensed personnel apply pesticides on non-school days or during non-school hours. Each office has a registry for parents and staff requesting advance notification of pesticide use. Registry requests must be made annually. If you have any questions on the program, the designated contact person is Supervisor of Buildings and Grounds at (860)628-3392.

ASBESTOS IN PUBLIC SCHOOLS

Southington’s public schools have been inspected for asbestos-containing materials (ACM): management plans have been prepared in accordance with the Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act (AHERA) and accompanying regulations, 40 CR, Part 763 entitled: “Asbestos Containing Materials in Schools Final Rule.”

BULLYING PREVENTION AND INTERVENTION POLICY

The Southington Board of Education is committed to creating and maintaining an educational environment that is physically, emotionally, and intellectually safe and thus free from bullying, harassment, and discrimination. In accordance with state law and the Board’s Safe School Climate Plan, the Board expressly prohibits any form of bullying behavior on school grounds; at a school bus stop; on a school bus or other vehicle owned, leased, or used by a local or regional board of education; or through the use of an electronic devise or an electronic mobile device owned, leased, or used by Board of Education.

The Board also prohibits any form of bullying behavior outside of the school setting if such bullying (i) creates a hostile environment at school for the student against whom such bullying was directed,(ii) infringes on the rights of the of the student against whom such bullying was directed at school, or (iii) substantially disrupts the education process or the orderly operation of a school. Discrimination and/or retaliation against an individual who reports or assists in the investigation of an act of bullying is likewise prohibited.

Students who engage in bullying behavior shall be subject to school discipline, up to and including expulsion, in accordance with the Board’s policies on student discipline, suspension, and expulsion, and consistent with state and federal law.

The full policy, including full definitions of “bullying” and “cyber-bullying,” as well as the full prevention and intervention policy may be obtained in full on the district website as well as in each school and Board offices.

CHANGE OF ADDRESS – PROOF OF RESIDENCY

If a student has been attending Southington Public Schools and has moved to a new address within Southington, the residency verification process must be followed. Address changes must be given to the school secretary even if the school district is not affected.

To verify residency, you will need to provide the district with the following information:

1. Homeowners must present one of the following: a current mortgage statement/bill, a copy of the Southington home property tax statement, or the title page of the current homeowner’s insurance policy. Renters must present a current rental or lease agreement.

2.  In addition, you must bring at least one current utility bill (electricity, gas, or phone).

3.  If the student and the parent/guardian are living in a dwelling that is rented or owned and occupied by 
another person, the person who owns or rents the dwelling must bring the documentation mentioned in numbers 1 and 2, present photo identification, and sign a Certificate of Residency form (available at the school).

HEALTH NEEDS

In order for your child’s health needs to be met in the school environment, please notify the nurse immediately of any illness or injury your child has, or any concern you have about your child’s health. Return all health forms as soon as possible and also include home and cell phone numbers. Update any address or telephone numbers as they change throughout the school year.

Notify the school if your child will be absent and indicate reason for absence. Certain communicable diseases may require a physician’s note to return to school. Prior to reentry, these pupils are to be referred to the nurse. Contact your school nurse when your child is absent with a communicable disease.

If your child sustains an injury and is seen by a physician, it is important that a note is obtained from the MD stating any restrictions (physical education, crutches, recess), length of restriction time, or any accommodation which might be necessary.

Annual Health Screenings:
The following annual health screenings are completed at each school through the office of the school nurse:
Vision: Grades K through 6 and Grade 9
Hearing: Grades K through 3, Grade 5 and Grade 8
Postural: Grade 5 through 9 except when completed during a physical within the same year Pediculosis: where needed during outbreaks
Referrals will be sent home for any results that require a physician evaluation
Please return referral forms to the school nurse as indicated

Allergies:
There are students in our school community who are allergic to many different foods, particularly nut products. Strict avoidance is the only way to prevent an allergic reaction. In an effort to provide a safe learning environment, do not send in foods containing these products if you are helping with class parties and special events.

NURSING SERVICES

The licensed nursing personnel of the Southington Public Schools is comprised of Professional Registered Nurses and Licensed Practical Nurses who promote and maintain the highest standards of quality nursing care for students and staff throughout the Southington public and private schools in which health care services are provided.

Our nursing role, as a liaison among students, family, healthcare providers, educators, and support staff fosters each student to achieve his/her highest level of academic success and enables each staff member to maintain an optimal level of wellness. Components of nursing services include prevention, assessment, intervention, consultation, and evaluation of outcome. This is achieved by utilizing the nursing process in health care promotion, instruction, counseling, screening, and referrals, and by implementing the procedural aspects of nursing care. We are committed to ensuring quality health services to meet the diverse and changing needs of our clients. We strive to excel in promoting and protecting the health and wellness of the individual, family, and community.

The Southington Public Schools Life-Threatening Food Allergy Plan can be found on our website at http://www.southingtonschools.org/page.cfm?p=4544.

ANNUAL SPORTS PHYSICAL – STUDENTS GRADES 6 TO 12

The Southington Board of Education policy states that every student trying out and participating on a school athletic team must submit the following to the school nurse each year:

1. The blue State of Connecticut Department Health Assessment Record form must be completed by a physician prior to participation. This is only valid for 13 months. If the physical expires during the participating season, a new physical is required to continue participation.

2. The Medical Emergency Form/Sports Participation Permission form must be completed by a parent prior to trying out and participating in sports. The student will not be able to participate with any athletic team until both forms are completed, and the nurse has issued a yellow card to the student to give to the coach, that will thus establish medical eligibility to participate in sports in Southington Public Schools.

These forms are available online at www.southingtonschools.org under athletics, student athlete handbook. You can also pick up forms from the school nurse or the Southington High School Athletic Department.

HOMEWORK

Homework is an extension of clearly defined classroom activities and should be appropriate to the age, ability, and level of independence of students. Teachers should assign meaningful homework that is consistent with student goals and district improvement plans. In addition to assigned homework, students are encouraged to read independently throughout the week for the purpose of enhancing literacy skills. The purpose of homework is to:

Foster enrichment
Prepare for new knowledge
Strengthen and teach the application of basic skills
Review and practice skills that have been previously taught Develop initiative, responsibility, and self-direction
Build and implement independent study skills
Teach budgeting of study time
Build confidence by ensuring successful learning experiences Provide assessment for both teacher and student
Promote parent/guardian understanding of the curriculum.

Recommended minutes that students in the elementary and middle schools should work on daily homework assignments, including assigned independent reading time, are as follows:

REGISTRATION

The Southington Public Schools Registration Packet is available on our website.

Kindergarten:
All children in Southington who will be five (5) years old on or before January 1, 2013, are eligible to pre-register for kindergarten for the 2012-2013 school year. Parents should watch the local newspapers for the Kindergarten Information Sessions, Registration, and Orientation dates and times.

Kindergarten Information Sessions will take place in January.
Registration will take place at each elementary school during the month of February or March. Parents should report to the school based on the district in which they live.
Orientation will be held at each school in May.
The scheduled dates and times for Registration and Orientation are listed in the calendar by school. Parents should also watch the local newspapers for the district Kindergarten Information Session dates and times. Registration and Orientation dates and times will also be published in the local newspapers.

Grades 1-12: New students entering the district should download and complete the registration packet then contact the District Registrar’s office for an appointment.

SAFE SCHOOL CLIMATE PLAN

The Board is committed to creating and maintaining a physically, emotionally and intellectually safe educational environment free from bullying, harassment, and discrimination. In order to foster an atmosphere conducive to learning, the Board has developed a Safe School Climate Plan consistent with state law and Board Policy. This plan represents a comprehensive approach to addressing bullying and cyber-bullying and sets forth the Board’s expectations for creating a positive school climate and thus preventing, intervening, and responding to incidents of bullying.

The full policy, including full definitions of all terms related to bullying and the bullying policy as the development and review of Safe School Climate Plans, Procedures for Reporting and Investigating Complaints of Bullying, Responding to Verified Acts of Bullying, Documentation and Maintenance of Log, and Prevention and Intervention Strategies may be found on the district website as well as in every school and the district office.

SOUTHINGTON EDUCATION FOUNDATION

The mission of the Southington Education Foundation is to instill a love of learning in our children through innovative and creative initiatives that expand existing public school educational opportunities. The Foundation will reach out to the community to help secure and inspire excellence and overall achievement in our already outstanding public school system.

SCHOOL HOURS

Southington High School
Full Day—7:37 a.m. – 2:15 p.m.
Planned and Unplanned Shortened Days—7:37 a.m. – 12:15 p.m.

ALTA
Full Day—8: 05 a.m. – 1:35 p.m.
Unplanned Shortened Days—8:05 a.m. – 11: 45 a.m. Planned Shortened Days—8:05 a.m. – 12:15 p.m.

Middle Schools: DePaolo Middle School & Kennedy Middle School
Full Day—8:05 a.m. – 2:40 p.m.
Planned & Unplanned Shortened Days—8:05 a.m. – 12:45 p.m.

Early Elementary Schools: Flanders, Hatton, Plantsville, South End, Thalberg

Grades 1 – 5: Full Day—8:35 a.m. – 3:05 p.m.
Planned &Unplanned Shortened Days–8:35 a.m. – 1:10 p.m.

Kindergarten AM—Full Day—8:35 a.m. – 11:22 a.m.
Planned & Unplanned Shortened Days—8:35 a.m.–10:25 a.m.

If there is a delayed opening due to inclement weather, there is no AM kindergarten.


Kindergarten PM- Full Day—12:18 p.m. – 3:05 p.m.

Planned & Unplanned Shortened Days—11:20 a.m.–1:10 p.m.
If there is an early dismissal due to inclement weather, there will be no PM Kindergarten.

Late Elementary Schools: Derynoski, Kelley, Strong

Grades 1 – 5: Full Day—8:55 a.m. – 3:25 p.m.
Planned & Unplanned Shortened Days–8:55 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.

Kindergarten AM—Full Day—8:55 a.m. – 11:42 a.m.
Planned & Unplanned Shortened Days—8:55 a.m.–10:45 a.m.

If there is a delayed opening due to inclement weather, there is no AM kindergarten.


Kindergarten PM- Full Day—12:38 p.m. – 3:25 p.m.

Planned & Unplanned Shortened Days—11:40 a.m.–1:30 p.m.
If there is an early dismissal due to inclement weather, there will be no PM kindergarten.

Southington Board of Education Central Office
200 N. Main St.
Southington, Connecticut 06489
Main Telephone: (860) 628-3200
Deborah Albaitis, Executive Assistant to the Superintendent of Schools: (860) 628-3202.
Michelle Passamano, Administrative Assistant to the Assistant Superintendent of Schools and District Registrar: (860) 628-3204.
Linda Blanchard, Administrative Assistant to the Business Manager: (860) 628-3200, extension 212.

Southington High School (SHS)
720 Pleasant St.

Southington, Connecticut 06489
Main Telephone: (860) 628-3229, Main Fax: (860) 628-3397.
Martin Semmel, Ed.D, Principal Andrew Bayer, Assistant Principal Richard Terino, Assistant Principal Helen Crowley, Assistant Principal Brian Stranieri, Assistant Principal.

ALTA at the Pyne Center (ALTA)
242 Main St.

Southington, Connecticut
06489
Main Telephone: (860) 628-3379, Main Fax: (860) 628-3458
Martin Semmel, Ed.D, Principal Jess Levin, Director

Joseph A. DePaolo Middle School (JAD)
385 Pleasant St.

Southington, Connecticut 06489
Main Telephone: (860) 628-3260, Main Fax: (860) 628-3403

Frank Pepe, Principal
Christopher Palmieri, Assistant Principal

John F. Kennedy Middle School (JFK)
1071 S. Main St.

Plantsville. Connecticut 06479
Main Telephone: (860) 628-3275, Main Fax: (860) 628-3404
Steven Madancy, Principal, Pamela Aldi, Assistant Principal

Flanders Elementary School (FES)
100 Victoria Drive

Southington, Connecticut 06489
Main Telephone: (860)628-3372, Main Fax: (860) 628-3253
Patricia Mazzarella, Principal

South End Elementary School (SEES)
10 Maxwell Noble Drive

Plantsville, Connecticut 06479
Main Telephone: (860) 628-3320, Main Fax: (860) 620-1667
James Quinn, Principal

Plantsville Elementary School (PES)
70 Church St.

Plantsville, Connecticut 06479
Main Telephone: (860) 628-3450, Main Fax: (860)620-1620
Patricia Corvello, Principal

Reuben E. Thalberg Elementary School (TES)
145 Dunham Road

Southington, Connecticut 06489
Main Telephone: (860) 628-3370, Main Fax: (860) 628-3308
Megan Bennett, Principal

Urbin T. Kelley Elementary School (KES)
501 Ridgewood Road

Southington, Connecticut 06489
Main Telephone: (860) 628-3310, Main Fax: (860) 628-3335
Elizabeth V. Lutz, Principal

Walter A. Derynoski Elementary School (DES)
240 Main St.
Southington, Connecticut 06489
Main Telephone: (860) 628-3290, Main Fax: (860) 628-3381

Jan Verderame, Principal, Marilyn Kahl, Assistant Principal

William H. Hatton Elementary School (HES)
50 Spring Lake Road

Southington, Connecticut 06489
Main Telephone: (860) 628-3377, Main Fax: (860) 628-3210
Sally Kamerbeek, Principal

William M. Strong Elementary School (SES)
820 Marion Ave.

Plantsville, Connecticut 06479
Main Telephone: (860) 628-3314, Main Fax: (860) 628-3322
Linda M. Lackner, Principal

PTO EXECUTIVE BOARDS – TELEPHONE & EMAIL
DERYNOSKI ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
President: Stephanie Leavitt (860) 406-1438, stephanieleavittpro@gmail.com
Vice-President: Lisa Martin (860) 628-7195
Treasurer: Tania Eaton (860) 276-1229, taniaeaton@cox.net
Co-Secretaries: Angela Heidgerd (860) 276-1926, rohngela@cox.net, & Tracie Stanton (860) 621-9751, tracie_stanton@cox.net
Events Coordinator: Tracie Schneider, (860) 261-4772, traci_schneider05@yahoo.com
Fundraising Coordinators: Ann Micacci-Flynn (860) 628-6612, ann.micacci@cox.net & Tiffany Gillis (860) 628-5217, tjg1012@hotmail.com
Cultural Arts Coordinators: Casie Messina (860) 628-7061, casie.messina@cox.net, & Kim Ferreira (860) 426-0763, schimmie78@yahoo.com
Public Relations Coordinator: Audra Sullivan (860) 328-1467, audrasullivan@yahoo.com
Book Fair Coordinators: Laura McKnerney (860) 621-7015, mcknerney@yahoo.com, & Stacey Hinckley
(203) 687-5108, Stacey_hinckley@calcagni.com

FLANDERS ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
Co-Presidents: Jennifer Semmel (860) 378-0187, jensemmel@cox.net, & Vickie Bell (860) 426-0110, vickiebell@yahoo.com
Vice-President: Sue Whitehead
(860) 426-0869, suewhitehead2010@gmail.com
Treasurer: Alixe Seebauer (860) 620-0677 daseebauer@gmail.com
Recording Secretary: Jennifer Lanci
(860) 621-2831, jenniferlanci2011@gmail.com
Coresponding Secretary: Tricia Angelo (860) 276-0354, trangelo@cox.net

HATTON ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
Co-Presidents: Todd Breutzmann (860) 628-8770, hattonpto.@aol.com & Mabeline Silv (860) 628-9822, my3guys@sbcglobal.net
Vice-Prseident: Adam Tarfano (860) 426-0663, tarfano@gmail..com
Secretary: Regina Slowik
(860) 276-9036, regina.slowik466@gmail.com
Treasurer: Terry Watson (860) 628-6938, tlwatsoncht@sbcglobal.net

KELLEY ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
President: Cheryl Hilton-Campbell (860) 798-4142, cdhilton1@gmail.com
Co-Vice-Presidents: John Mulrooney (860) 426-0947, jmmulrooney@cox.net & Mary Mulligan
(860) 621-4697 anesthesiamary@hotmail.com
Treasurer: Rand Mange (860) 919-1273, randmange@cox.net
Secretary: Kristen Hallett (860) 620-7031, englishclass@cox.net

PLANTSVILLE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
Co-Presidents: Beth DeLuco (860) 621-6525, bethdeluco@sbcglobal.net & Emily Datillo (860) 621-4152, adattiolojr@snet.net
Vice-President: Mary Beth Insogna (860) 426-1053, mb.insogna@gmail.com
Cooresponding Secretary: Shari Riedinger (860) 628-3151, sriedinger@cox.net
Recording Secretary: Tina Nadeau (860) 202-3802, tinanadeau123@gmail.com
Co-Treasurers: Elizabeth Czarkosky (860) 620-0056, czarkosky@att.net & Heather Gottlieb (860) 426-1971, heathergottlieb3@yahoo.com

SOUTH END ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
Co-Presidents: Kim Dandelski (860) 302-5302 lemanskik@aetna.com & Jacki Blancato (860) 426-0239 jackie1073@cox.net
Vice-President: Kathy Fortier (860) 276-1054, kforrn@aol.com
Treasurer: Carmela Avery (860) 621-5828, cavery44@cox.net
Corresponding Secretary: Sharon Nivison (860) 378-0056, simivison@yahoo.com
Recording Secretary: Jessica Wanner (860) 621-0525, jlw72305@gmail.com

STRONG ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
President: Ewa Ciaffaglione (860) 276-8381, deanewa@cox.net
Secretary: Mary Ellen McPhee 860-621-6530, mary.ellen.mcphee@pw.utc.com
Treasurer: Carol Cox
(860) 628-7698, morriscox13@hotmail.com
Vice-President of Club Events & Services: Monica Ticino, mlmt1128@gmail.com

THALBERG ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
Co-Presidents:
Joelle Calandra
(860) 620-0817 (H)/(203) 217-0398 (C), jcalandra@snet.net, & Barbara Cofrancesco (860) 276-0557 (H)/(860) 919-5430 (C), joecoe33@cox.net
Co-1st Vice-Presidents: Dawn & Paul Dickau, (860) 479-9079, dawndickau@yahoo.com, paulmdickau@yahoo.com
Co-2nd Vice Presidents: Jennifer Root
(860) 479-9073 (H)/(860) 637-2270 (C), jwah729@yahoo.com, & Judi Roy
(860) 793-8461 (H)/(860) 620-4693 (C), jcrr1977@att.net
Treasurer: Rachael Gonzalez
(860) 628-8276 (H)/(860) 919-9856 (C), rachaelg53@cox.net
Recording Secretary: Amy Hoffman
(860) 621-6547 (H)/(860) 888-4629 (C), stampinwithamy@att.net
Communications Secretary: Diana Drechsler
(860) 793-2409 (H)/(860) 877-0639 (C), drechsler0717@cox.net

DEPAOLO MIDDLE SCHOOL
Co-Presidents: Todd Breutzmann (860) 628-8770, jadpto@aol.com & Lisa Stevens (860) 329-7143, lisastevens1@cox.net
Vice-President: Elizabeth Francis (860) 621-6966, e.francis@cox.net
Secretary: Elizabeth Cichon (860) 628-0140, lizcichon@sbcglobal.net
Treasurer: Janique Simard (860) 628-9604, jsimard@cox.net

KENNEDY MIDDLE SCHOOL
President: Spencer Richards (860) 426-1885, tvspence@cox.net
Vice-President: Lisa Martin (860) 628-7195
Secretary: Marc Dynder, mdynder@gmail.com
Treasurer: Betsey Sarris, bsarris11@att.net

SOUTHINGTON HIGH SCHOOL
President: Dina DeGumbia, (860) 793-8286, ddegumbia@cox.net