Encanto's Handbook
2008-2009
Encanto School Pledge
I will act in such
A way that I will be
Proud of myself
And others will be
Proud of me too.
I came to school
To learn,
And I WILL learn.
I will have a good day!
School Hours
Supervision of students is provided on the playgrounds every morning starting at
7:30 a.m. Breakfast is available between 7:20 – 7:40 a.m. Students should not arrive on school grounds prior to this time. The first bell rings at 7:45 a.m. and signals all students to their class lines. A second bell rings at 7:50 a.m. when a school officially begins. Students not at their class lines by 7:50 a.m. are considered tardy. Students are expected to leave the campus immediately after dismissal at the end of each day.
Students may not bring these items to school, they will be confiscated: cell phones, CD players/walkmans, video games, trading cards, sunglasses, balls, bats, gloves, make-up, or toys. Absolutely NO guns, knives, scissors, or sharp objects of any kind should be brought to school.
Leaving During School Hours
In the event that you must take your child out of school during school hours, you must obtain a Permit to Leave Grounds During School Hours from the office. Teachers will not release students with a signed permit. Only adults listed on the registration card will be allowed to take out of class. Students will not be released to minors.
Valid photo identification is required of all persons taking a student out during school hours at the time of pick up.
Office Hours & Campus Security
School office hours are 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily. You are welcome to visit the school anytime. If you plan to visit a classroom for more than a few moments, or would like to speak with the principal, please call to schedule a time to meet. For security reasons, and in accordance with city ordinance, please sign in at the office to get a visitor’s badge before proceeding to any part of the campus. Any person on the campus without a badge will be directed to the office.
Modified Days
Board of Education policy and the teacher’s contract set forth the guidelines for modified days. Encanto has a modified day schedule on Thursday of each week. The school day has been extended the other four days of the week to make up the instructional minutes that are required by the State of California. Two Thursdays each month are set aside for teacher planning.
School Meals
Encanto School participates in the
Title I, Provision 2 lunch program. Students in Grades K-5 may receive breakfast and lunch at no cost. Additional meals may be purchased for $1.25. All food must be eaten in the lunch court area. Food may not be taken from the cafeteria area nor can it be shared with siblings or parents.
Prices as of June 2008:
Meal $1.25
Carton of Milk $ .25
Healthy Recess Snacks
We encourage staff and students to enjoy a healthy snack at recess time. Please help your child choose wisely from foods such as fruit, string cheese, crackers, juice, or half a sandwich. Please no Top Ramen or Hot Cheetos.
Parent Conferences
There are three student progress report periods each school year. The first ends in November, the second in March, and the third in June. While parents are welcome to discuss the progress of their children at any time during the school year, the school district requires that we declare specific dates around the first and second reporting periods to meet with parents to talk about student progress.
This year we will continue using the “Standards Based” report card. We have scheduled a full week for parent conferences in the fall so that every parent is provided ample time to be informed of their child’s progress.
We expect all parents to attend parent conferences in the fall and spring each year.
Report Card Grades
Standards based report cards report a student’s progress in meeting grade level standards as outlined by the State of California. Grades are given in all content areas based upon formal and informal assessments, student observations, and work samples.
Class Placements
Administration and staff work closely together each year to develop classes in the fall that best meet the needs of all students. Student academic and social needs, language levels, ethnicity and behavioral concerns are all taken into consideration when forming and balancing classes. We ask that parents take time at the start of school to write a letter to classroom teachers informing the teacher of your son or daughter’s strengths, special needs and interests to help the teacher connect with your child in a positive manner.
Due to this special balance, we do not encourage requests for classroom placements. If there are concerns, please take an opportunity to schedule a meeting with your child’s teacher.
Learning Contracts
It is our goal at Encanto to help every student meet or exceed grade level standards. Students who score below the 50th percentile on STAR testing or who are below grade level as identified by classroom assessments will be put on a learning contract. This contract outlines support and responsibilities of the school, parents, and child to assist the student in meeting state grade level standards.
Students on learning contracts will be provided additional literacy and math support as available and attend summer school. During parent conference meetings this information will be communicated and contracts will be developed and signed.
Parents will be notified if their child is at risk of not meeting grade level standards within the first ten weeks of school for Grades 1-5 and within the first twenty weeks of school for kindergarten students
Parent Concerns 
If a parent has a concern with a teacher, we ask that the parent schedule a meeting with the teacher to discuss the concern. If the concern is not resolved from the meeting, then it is appropriate to request a meeting with the administration.
Homework Policy
Homework will be assigned to all students Monday through Friday including nightly home reading and subject area assignments. Homework is based upon daily classroom instruction therefore, it is important that students complete work on time and in a thorough manner.
Parents are asked to monitor nightly homework to verify that it is complete, neat and organized. Student planners in Grades 3-5 will outline daily homework assignments. Teachers will send home weekly progress reports to keep parents informed of student progress and missing assignments. Parents have the responsibility to review the progress reports and call or meet with teachers with any concerns. Homework grades are reflected on report cards and homework is a key factor in determining monthly student recognition awards.
English Language Instruction
Students who have been identified as English Language Learners are placed in classrooms with teachers who have been specially trained to teach them. All classes are conducted in English, however, specialized instruction is woven throughout the daily curriculum to foster English Language Development. Biliteracy instruction is provided for students whose parents attend the informational meeting and elect that their child be enrolled in a bilingual class. Students must meet qualifications of eligibility and waivers must receive administrator approval. Instruction is provided for a portion of the day in Spanish with a goal for all students to become fluent English speakers as quickly as possible.
Reading Lo g 
Every child at Encanto in expected to read at home a (20 minutes for Grades K-2 and 30 minutes for Grades 3-5) each day and record their reading on a log provided by the teacher. We ask that students read books from different authors and genres, including fiction, non-fiction, poetry, mysteries, biographies, etc. Children in kindergarten and first grade, who are learning to read, may have an adult read to them. We expect all students at Encanto to complete their nightly reading. We expect parents to monitor home reading, sign the student’s reading log, and help their children make sure logs are turned in on time every month.
Gifted & Talented 
Education (GATE)
Testing for gifted ability is conducted in the second and fourth grades at Encanto School. Clusters of students in grades three through five who qualify are placed with teachers specially trained to teach gifted students. Funding is provided to ensure that enrichment activities and qualitatively differentiated instruction are part of the daily curriculum. Students scoring in the 99th percentile may qualify for the seminar program and special classes on campus provide the instruction to meet the specific needs of the students.
The district provides opportunity for GATE retest at Grade 4 and for students newly enrolled from out of district. Please consult the GATE handbook for retest guidelines and qualifying factors.
Teachers will explain their GATE differentiation and yearly plan at Fall Curriculum Nights. A spring GATE meeting will be announced for any parents to attend who would like to learn more about the program and services offered. This is especially informative for parents of newly identified students.
Attendance
Prompt Attendance is expected and required. Funds to finance public schools come largely from the state based on the Average Daily Attendance (ADA) of students. Any absence results in a loss of funds. We ask that you do not schedule doctor’s appointments during school hours. More importantly, your child’s educational program will be fragmented. If your child is late, a “class admit slip” must be obtained from the office before he/she goes to class. If your child is ill we ask that you please call (619) 264-3191 to let the office know. Student tardies and absences will be reflected on report cards.
Child Should Stay Home For:
- High fever
- Vomiting
- Contagious illness
- Head lice
Child Should NOT Stay Home For:
- Rainy weather
- Oversleeping
- Transportation problems
- Doctor or dental appointment
- Help at home/Babysitting
Independent Study Contract
Students need to be in school everyday. It is the law to have students at school on a daily basis. Should it be necessary for your child to be out of school for a reason other than illness or a doctor’s appointment, a contract must be written and signed. When special circumstances arise and your child will be out of school for 5 days or more, we ask that you request an independent study contract. If contracts are not completed the absence will be recorded as unexcused on the student’s record.
Arrangements for independent study need to be made through the school office with principal’s approval at least 2 weeks in advance.
Bicycles
The San Diego Police Department limits bicycle riding to and from school to fourth and fifth graders at elementary schools. Bicycles must be licensed and locked in the bicycle racks and students under the age of eighteen must wear a safety helmet while riding a bicycle.
School-Wide Uniform Policy
Uniforms are required for all students who attend Encanto. Students can wear a white shirt, blue pants, skirt or jumper. Encanto polo shirts can be purchased in the school office. Parents will be contacted and asked to bring a change of clothing if students come to school out of uniform.
Keep in mind the following:
- Short-shorts, tight shorts, midrifts, spaghetti straps, halter tops, or see-through items are not allowed.
- Make-up is NOT to be worn by students.
- Clothing with slogans that endorse gangs, tobacco, drugs, and alcohol are not allowed.
- For safety reasons, students may not wear dangling jewelry.
- Shoes must be worn at all times. For safety reasons, please do not wear sandals, jelly shoes, slides, backless tennis shoes, roller skate shoes, or hiking boots.
- Hats, caps, and visors may be worn outside of the school buildings and are to be worn forward.
Remember to write your child’s name in jackets, sweaters, backpacks, raincoats, lunch boxes and other items that are used at school. All unclaimed items are donated to Goodwill three times a year.
Counseling Services
A district counselor is assigned to our school five days per week. This professional is available to meet with students individually and in groups. The primary responsibilities include:
- Instructional Study Team/Small Group Team Facilitator
- 504 Coordinator
- Classroom Guidance/Small Group/Individual Counseling
- Attendance/SART
- Referral/Site Discipline
- Referral to Community Resources
Health Services
A nurse is assigned to our school five days per week. She maintains the health records of students and verifies that immunization and first grade physical examinations are complete. Vision and hearing screening are part of the duties of the school health office.
Students who become ill during the day will be offered the opportunity to rest in the health office until parents can arrive to take them home. If your child needs to take medication during school hours for an acute illness, a request/permission note must accompany the medication brought to school. Your note should request the school nurse to give the medication (short-term medications less than two weeks can only be given by the site nurse). Please refer to the Short-Term Medication form sent home in the first day packet.
Instruction Study Team
The Instruction Study Team (IST) is comprised of professionals including classroom teachers, resource specialist, school psychologist, nurse, speech and language therapist, district counselor, administrator, and parent. When a student is having difficulty achieving academically, physically, or socially the team convenes a meeting with the parent to discuss concerns. The team problem solves strategies to help the student be successful in school.
At times the team may recommend that a special evaluation be completed to identify possible learning disabilities or special needs. If special education services are necessary, then an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) is developed with the parent to meet the needs of the student.
Related Services
If assessments identify additional services necessary to meet the individual needs of students, these may be provided as determined by the IEP team.
- APE—Adapted Physical Education
- OT—Occupational Therapy
- PT—Physical Therapy
- LSH—Language, Speech & Hearing
- DHH—Deaf & Hard of Hearing
Physical Education
Students will be in engaged in vigorous physical activity during their athletics class. Therefore, it is important that they wear clothes that allow them free movement. For modesty purposes we suggest that young ladies wear shorts underneath skirts and jumpers. For safety purposes, we insist that students were sturdy sports shoes (i.e., sneakers, tennis schools, etc.) during physical education classes and recess. No platforms, slides, or roller shoes are permitted.
Please inform the school office of any health condition you child may have that could hinder school activities. If your child needs to be excused from physical education instruction for any length of time, please send a note to the classroom teacher. Typically, students excused from physical education class will also be excused from playground activities at recess.
Six to Six Program
Before and after school child care is available through our 6-to-6 Program. Families must meet certain eligibility requirements in order to participate in the program. Applications are available in the school office and must be completed annually. In addition, the Six to Six Program is available to students who attend summer school however, an additional application is required. For additional information, please call 858-565-4148.
Recognition Assemblies
Grades K-5
Encanto School strongly supports recognizing student achievement in the areas of academics, leadership and individuality. Special recognition assemblies are held three times during the school year, at the end of each reporting period. Letters will go home with students who are receiving an award to notify parents of date and time. Parents and families are encouraged to attend these assemblies. Refreshments will follow in the lunch court.
Superstar Awards
Students who demonstrate exemplary behavior and complete a minimum of 95% of all class assignments along with homework assignments, complete monthly reading log, and are in uniform daily will receive special recognition.
Perfect Attendance
Students who are in attendance every day and on time for class will be recognized monthly. Early out, late arrivals and tardies will result in loss of Perfect Attendance recognition.
President’s Award ForEducational Excellence
This award is presented at the end of the school year and recognizes 5th graders who have maintained Honor Roll Status all three reporting periods.
School Service Awards
At the end of the school year students who participated in school service projects will receive recognition. These services include cafeteria helpers, flag crew and equipment monitors.
Honor Roll
Fourth and fifth grade students who meet or exceed proficiency in all content areas, who demonstrate good behavior both inside and outside of the classroom, and who are in uniform daily will be recognized on the Principal’s Honor Roll each reporting period.
Eagle Excellence
Students will be awarded for their unique contributions to the school in academic, social and leadership settings. Awards will be announced triannually at award ceremonies.
Community Partnerships
Naval Pacific Meteorology and Oceanography Command
USS McCampbell
Anthony Robbins Foundation
San Diego State University
San Diego Gas & Electric
Riding A School Bus
We expect all students riding the bus to demonstrate safe behaviors at all times. If a student has a problem while on the bus, we expect the student to talk to the driver about the concern, prior to bringing it to the attention of the school.
For concerns regarding child’s bus schedule, please call the Transportation Department at (858) 496-8460
Committee Roles/Responsibilities
Encanto parents and community members are welcome to participate in the various decision making and advisory committees. Nominations and elections are held in the fall to fill vacant seats for district required committees.
SSC
Encanto School invites parents, community and staff members to our monthly School Site Council (SSC) meetings, which are held one Wednesday of the month at 4 p.m. in the Teacher Resource Room. This group discusses and makes decisions regarding instructional programs, categorical funding, curriculum, staffing, and student services.
ELAC
The English Learners Advisory Committee (ELAC) meetings are held one Friday at 8:00 a.m. each month.
Encanto Foundation
In addition, our Encanto Foundation involves parents on many committees that make a difference in the education of our students. Commitment to education through fund raising and volunteering are hallmarks of this group. Monthly Encanto Foundation meetings are held on Tuesday evenings at 6:00 p.m. in the auditorium. The Encanto Foundation offers a fun way to get involved in school events, meeting many parents, students and staff members and make a difference in our school. We hope that you will join the Encanto Foundation.
Encanto School invites parents, community and staff members to our monthly School Site Council (SSC) meetings, which are held one Wednesday of the month at 4 p.m. in the Teacher Resource Room. This group discusses and makes decisions regarding instructional programs, categorical funding, curriculum, staffing, and student services.
Encanto Discipline Policy
It takes all of us to teach children how to successfully interact in a complex society. In coordination with the students, teachers will create classroom expectations at the beginning of the year that are consistent with district and school rules. Teachers will provide supervision before school, at recess, and after school to ensure the safety of all students.
- Be on time, prepared to work and learn with a positive attitude.
- Show respect for all people, school property and the property of others.
- Follow the school dress code.
- Take responsibility for your actions and use your words to solve problems.
- All Students are expected to walk on campus, and keep their hands, feet and objects to themselves.
- Choose first to use positive, respectful words to problem solve, then seek adult assistance if needed.
The policy of the Board of Education states that all employees are responsible for the control of students who are legally under the supervision of the school. District-wide policies relating to student behavior say that:
- Students have a right to an environment that promotes learning and success.
- Students have a right to due process.
- Students have rights of privacy.
- Students have a right to equal treatment.
- Students have a right to a safe and clean school.
The State Education Code says that parents shall be held responsible for the willful misconduct of their children.
Student Conduct
Teachers will review school rules and post in classrooms, alerting students to the consequences of their behavior. Class policies will be communicated in writing to parents and reviewed at Curriculum Nights. Staff will consistently model and encourage positive choices throughout the school day. Student recognition assemblies and courtyard ceremonies will highlight student’s academic, athletic and personal accomplishments.
When students demonstrate difficulty following school rules, teachers will meet with them to problem solve. If the problematic behavior continues parents will be notified and requested to attend a meeting with the teacher. The district counselor will be contacted if problems persist or escalate and interventions discussed. With continuing misbehavior, a referral to the site administrator is made.
Consequences for inappropriate behavior could include:
- Classroom consequence/ student problem solving
- Loss of a privilege
- Teacher calls parent
- Parent conference (if problem persists)/team problem solving
- Behavior contract developed
- Parent requested to shadow student in class
- Referral to school counselor
- In school suspension
- Formal suspension
Teachers’ contract stipulates the right to suspend a student from class for the remainder of the day of the infraction and the following day. Prior to this action the teacher will have demonstrated that a progressive discipline plan with the student has not been effective, or that the infraction was serious enough in nature to require immediate removal. Parent and principal notification is required when a student is removed from the classroom under these circumstances and referral paperwork is documented. Teachers will assign class work to be completed by the student in the Student Center should this situation occur.
Suspension from School
Students will be suspended from school and a police report will be filed for any of the following offenses:
- Threatening, attempting, or causing physical injury to another person
- Causing serious injury to another person*
- Possessing or selling weapons (firearm, knife, explosive, or other dangerous objects)*
- Selling, furnishing, possessing, or under the influence of alcohol or other controlled substances*
- Committing robbery or extortion*
- Causing or attempting to cause damage to school property
- Stealing or attempting to steal school or private property
- Major property damage
- Vandalism or graffiti
- Possessing or using tobacco
- Engaging in habitual profanity, an obscene act or vulgarity
- Unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia
- Disruption of classrooms or defiance of the authority of school personnel
- Knowingly receiving stolen school or private property
- Sexual harassment
* Principal must recommend expulsion pursuant Administrative Procedure 6295.
The Star Spangled Banner
September 20, 1814
By Francis Scott Key
Oh, say can you see, by the dawn's early light,
What so proudly we hailed at the twilight's last gleaming?
Whose broad stripes and bright stars, through the perilous fight,
O'er the ramparts we watched, were so gallantly streaming?
And the rockets' red glare, the bombs bursting in air,
Gave proof through the night that our flag was still there.
O say, does that star-spangled banner yet wave