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GENERAL
SCHOOL INFORMATION |
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GENERAL
INFORMATION |
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MORNING ARRIVAL
Supervision is provided on the school grounds beginning at 7:35
a.m. Please do not send children to school prior to this time
due to lack of security and adult supervision. There are no
games or activities scheduled. Upon arrival to the school
grounds, pupils are to go directly to their classrooms. Children
are better prepared for class when the excitement and tension of
pre-school play are eliminated. Your cooperation in scheduling
your child’s arrival at school at the proper time is greatly
appreciated.
PHONE CALLS
Parents are
encouraged to call whenever they have questions. In order to
serve the community effectively, we appreciate appointments made
24 hours in advance if at all possible. Appointments with
administrators need to be made via school secretary. Office
hours are 7:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
PERSONAL TELEPHONE MESSAGES
If personal messages are necessary, please call 858.566.0510 and
dial the teacher’s extension directly and leave a voicemail
message. There are no monitors available to deliver messages to
teachers or students, and office personnel cannot leave to
deliver any message other than one of a truly critical nature.
SCHOOL NURSE
AND HEALTH
Presently, our school nurse is assigned to Sandburg every Thursday and
our health assistant is on site on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday
and Friday. Emergency first aid is
rendered when necessary. However, the school does not have
facilities to care for sick children, particularly those in the
beginning stages of a communicable disease. Parents should keep
ill children at home. Children who become ill suddenly at school
or who are injured at school will receive every care, service,
and consideration. Parents will be notified immediately. It is
the parents’ responsibility to have accurate phone numbers on
file at all times in the school’s office and to respond to
school calls.
DETENTION OF PUPILS
Occasionally it is necessary for a teacher to keep a pupil after
school to make up assignments or meet other obligations.
Teachers are authorized to keep pupils after school for 60
minutes. If a pupil is to be detained for longer than 30
minutes, the teacher will notify the parent 24 hours prior to
the detention. (District Policies & Procedures 6270)
SITE AND CLASS VISITATIONS
MANDATORY: ALL VISITORS MUST SIGN IN AT THE OFFICE TO OBTAIN A
PASS. Parents are welcome to visit their children’s classrooms
while they are in session. Sandburg urges all parents to take
advantage of this opportunity to become more familiar with the
teaching methods and materials used. District procedures require
that all visitors report to the main office before visiting a
classroom at times other than during Open House or pre-arranged
conferences. The teachers’ contract requires 24-hour notice
prior to visits, so please make appointments directly with the
teachers.
PARENT-TEACHER CONFERENCES
Five modified days will be scheduled this year for
Parent-Teacher Conferences. Additional conferences may be
scheduled at parents’ and teachers’ discretion. On conference
days, dismissal time for Grades K-5 is 12:00 p.m. Please check
the school calendar for specific dates.
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PARENT-TEACHER COMMUNICATION |
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PROFESSIONAL PROTOCOL
If a parent/guardian has a concern regarding a teacher’s
teaching and learning environment then they will be directed to
communicate with the teacher directly. If the issue doesn’t
reach mutual solution, then a meeting with the Vice Principal,
teacher and parent will be arranged. If not resolved, then a
meeting with the Principal, teacher and parent will be arranged.
PLAYGROUND SUPERVISION
The grounds are supervised before school and during recess and
lunch. A teacher is on duty at 7:35 a.m. CHILDREN SHOULD NOT
ARRIVE AT SCHOOL BEFORE 7:35 a.m. Children will not be permitted
to remain on campus after the dismissal bell at 2:05 p.m.
Teachers cannot supervise after school, as they need this time
to prepare for their classes.
ATTENDANCE
Students are required to be in regular attendance at school. All
children are to be in their classrooms at 7:45 a.m. A student is
considered tardy if he/she arrives after the bell rings. If a
child is habitually tardy, he/she will make up the same after
school. A student is considered truant if he/she is tardy more
than 30 minutes. Parent contacts are made for those students
with excessive unexcused absences and tardies.
When a child is absent because of illness or for any other
reason, parents/guardians are asked to inform the school by
written message or telephone (566-0510) the cause of the child’s
absence or send a note to the teacher the first day the child
returns to school. In the case of illness, the nature of the
illness must be stated. State law requires that we know the type
of illness. If you know in advance that your child/children will
be out of school for personal business, please contact the
school and make arrangements for an Independent Study Contract.
This enables students to keep up with their classmates and
prevents them from falling behind in their work while they are
out. It also provides uninterrupted funding for the site and
school district. The reason for verification is that the
district is penalized financially ($27.00) per day for each
student who is not physically present or on an Independent Study
Contract.
RELEASE OF CHILDREN
If you wish to have your child dismissed early, it will be
necessary to obtain office permission. Children cannot be
released by telephone message. This precaution is for your
child’s protection. Individuals picking up a child must have
proper identification and have his/her name listed on the
school’s data card.
Children are expected to remain on the school grounds during
school hours and at noon. Pupils are not to go home to an empty
house for lunch and they are not to arrange for a friend to
accompany them. When you wish to have your child excused from
school during the school day, please come to the office and
obtain a release. Parents picking up students should first come
to the school office. For your protection, children are only
released to the parents, guardian, or other authorized persons
whose names are listed on the registration card. Identification
is necessary and in the case of a person acting for a parent,
there must be a signed written request from parents.
LOST ARTICLES
Lost articles can usually be returned if they are marked with
the owner’s full name. Sack lunches, lunch boxes, and removable
garments are most often lost. Therefore, they should be labeled
with first and last names. Please urge children to report any
loss to the office immediately. Parents may help by checking to
see that belongings return home at the end of the school day.
Every year we are forced to give away numerous unclaimed
articles to charity.
BICYCLES
Bicycles may be ridden to school if students are in Grades 4 &
5. No third grade students are permitted to ride their bikes to
school, regardless of age. Bicycles are to be licensed and must
be securely locked in the bicycle racks. Students must wear
helmets to ride their bikes to school. The school assumes no
responsibility for bicycle security.
CAFETERIA
Please
follow this link for more information on
food services.
WHO MAY ATTEND SANDBURG?
Enrollment at Sandburg Elementary School is open to resident
students. Non-resident students may enroll on the basis of the
Choice Program as space permits.
BENEFITS FOR STUDENTS
• A sound instructional program focusing on critical thinking
skills in all areas of the curriculum.
• Development of positive attitudes toward all people and an
understanding of the contributions made by various racial and
ethnic groups.
• Increased enthusiasm for learning and higher motivation for
academic achievement via a uniquely diverse curriculum and high
expectations.
• Homework assignments that are meaningful reinforce learning
and provide practice opportunities.
• Warm and positive, yet firm and consistent discipline code.
• Opportunities to display creative works that will enhance the
development of self-esteem and school pride.
• A friendly, caring, and exciting environment.
HOMEWORK
The Board of Education has adopted a homework policy for the
School District which states: “All students at every grade level
will have homework assignments each night. The assignments will
range from a few minutes for primary grades to at least two
hours for high school students.” Teachers will explain the
homework policy to their students the first week of school.
Parent support will be essential for carrying out this plan.
SAN DIEGO PLAN FOR RACIAL INTEGRATION
All fourth and fifth grade students will be offered a one-week
integrated experience with students at their own grade level
from two or more companion schools. OCILE (Off-Campus Integrated
Learning Experiences) program will be as follows:
Grade 4 Old Town - please check calendar for dates
Grade 5 Balboa Park - please check calendar for dates
BACK PACK DAY
Each Wednesday will be backpack day. PTA Newsletters,
Principal’s Bulletins, etc. are sent home on Wednesdays. This
gives parents, teachers, and children a consistent plan for
taking home and reviewing materials.
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ACADEMIC
INSTRUCTION PROGRAM |
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SCHOOL PHILOSOPHY
The Sandburg staff firmly believes all children can learn and
show academic gains every year of instruction. All children
benefit from a quality integrated learning experience. The
amount of instructional time spent by students on their work and
the extent of parent involvement can make a difference in
achievement. School experiences and education do make a
difference in the future lives of children. A high level of
instructional quality can be maintained even in an environment
of decreasing resources. Regular student attendance is vital if
optimum achievement is to occur.
CALIFORNIA STANDARDS BASED INSTRUCTION
Reading - Sandburg School implements the San Diego School
literacy framework which includes Read Aloud, Shared and Guided
Reading, Independent Reading and Writing. These new district
frameworks provide a literacy integrated approach to reading.
Literature and enrichment strands are available to the teachers
and students.
Oral/Written Language - Sandburg utilizes an integrated approach
to oral and written language. A strong emphasis on Writing as a
Process and expressive and receptive communication skills are
also included in the language program. Students are expected to
share their thinking and problem-solving steps throughout the
academic day. The ability to explain and think is the key to
understanding and mastery.
Mathematics - The Harcourt Brace Math Series is used in Grades
K-5. This program includes the use of manipulatives to teach
math concepts, and fosters the development of higher order
thinking skills. Students are expected to explain their answers
to mathematical problems via writing, pictures, graphs, etc.
Enrichment materials are available in each unit for advanced
students. Reteaching will occur in the classroom, as necessary.
Math journals, sharing, problem-solving process.
Science - Sandburg uses the FOSS Science Programs in Grades K-5.
Science kits and enrichment materials supplement the basic
program, and promote a hands-on approach to science.
Social Studies - Sandburg utilizes the McGraw-Hill Social
Studies program in Grades K-5. This program contains
supplementary materials to foster the development of location
skills, writing skills, and cooperative learning.
Music Program - The Sandburg staff developed a music program for
K-5 students that uses the McMillan Music Series. The program
includes a scope and sequence of music skills, use of
instruments, and presentations of music assemblies. The
district’s instrumental music teachers offer music instruction
for students in Grades 4 and 5.
Physical Education - Sandburg has a structured P.E.
instructional program. The program includes a K-5 scope and
sequence of physical education skills, and provides both large
and small group instruction for children at all grade levels.
Volunteers work with students in all grade levels of physical
education. They particularly address developing skills required
for the Physical Fitness Program.
Art - The Sandburg Art program provides the opportunity and
encouragement for students to develop artistic knowledge and
skills, and art appreciation while continuing a strong basic
skills instructional program. Students are exposed to a formal
art program, which includes the learning of many different art
mediums, and art history and appreciation.
Gifted And Talented Education (GATE) - GATE cluster classes are
offered to students in Grades 3 to 5. Differentiated instruction
which includes enrichment in Language, Math, and Science is the
focus in Grades 3 and 4, while Grade 5 focuses on Language,
Arts, and Social Studies. Students also engage in special
activities and events provided by district and site GATE funds.
Private testing for identifying students in the GATE Program is
no longer accepted. Testing dates at Sandburg will be announced
in future parent newsletters.
LIBRARY
Sandburg’s Library Center is the home of over 5,000 books and
non-print materials. The book collection includes easy picture
books, fiction, non-fiction, reference, and a professional
library for faculty and staff. A large assortment of non-print
materials including filmstrips, cassette/books sets, and
entertainment and instructional videos are all available for
student and teacher use. Students may check out books, with
parent permission, on a two-week time period.
LIBRARY MEDIA CENTER
The goal of the Library Media Center is to be an enjoyable place
to visit, and to encourage all students to become excited about
exploring the wonderful world of books.
In the Library Media Center, a number of varied activities are
offered throughout the year. A trained staff instructs students
in basic library skills, and plans a variety of activities such
as, storytelling, book talks, instructional videos, special
exhibits, and displays.
MEDIA AND AUDIO VISUAL
Classrooms have access to VCR players, televisions, and CD
players/recorders. Many teachers set up listening centers in
their rooms, or choose to show an instructional video that
relates to a particular subject or lesson. CDs, tapes and videos
are available for checkout in the Library Media Center.
THE MEDIA LAB
The Library Media Lab contains three iBook mobile computer labs
to provide students and staff with media production tools. The
library media staff offers laminating services to teachers as
well. Teachers may sign up to use the mobile labs for special
classroom or school-wide projects.
LIBRARY MEDIA CENTER RULES
1. Checking out books. Students must have a signed, parent
permission slip on file in the library to check out books.
2. Time limit for books. Library books may be checked out for a
two-week time period. Books may be renewed if they have not been
reserved in advance.
3. Overdue books. When a student has an overdue book, he/she may
not check out another book until the book is returned or
replacement money is paid.
4. Lost books. If a book is not returned after 4 weeks, it will
be considered lost, and the parent will be expected to pay for a
library bound replacement.
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STUDENT
ORGANIZATIONS |
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STUDENT COUNCIL
The Sandburg Student Council is a student organization that
provides opportunities for 3rd, 4th and 5th graders to
actively participate in student government. Officers are elected
by the students. The following positions are held by student
body members.
• 3rd Grade: Assistant Fire Marshall; one representative, one
alternate for each room
• 4th Grade: Vice President and Fire Marshal; one
representative, one alternate for each room.
• 4th Grade: Vice President, one representative and one
alternate for each classroom.
• 5th Grade: President, Secretary, treasurer; one representative
and one alternate from each classroom.
The Student Council conducts a variety of events and activities
throughout the school year. With input from all Sandburg
students and staff, the Student Council sets a yearly agenda of
activities that promote school spirit, charitable work, and
positive recognition. Fundraisers are conducted to earn monies
to pay for student activities and to support classroom learning.
SCHOOL BAND AND ORCHESTRA
Instrumental music is offered as an elective academic subject to
students in the fourth and fifth grades. Students are taught to
play an instrument, to read music, and to understand basic music
theory. Instruction is offered on flute, clarinet, saxophone,
trumpet, trombone, violin, viola and cello.
It is the responsibility of the families to acquire an
instrument. Students receive two group lessons per week
throughout the year. The
students also meet as a full band or orchestra once a week and present
winter concert, spring concert, and culminating the year with
a “Concert on the Green.”
Some of Sandburg
music students audition, get accepted and participate in honor
bands. Sandburg has the best music program in the school
district.
SCHOOL SAFETY PATROL
The Sandburg Safety Patrol provides our students safe crossing
of Avenida Del Gato from 7:30 a.m. to 7:45 a.m. while they are
coming to school and from 1:50 to 2:05 p.m. as they go home from
school. The selected students show an honest effort in school,
and are positive role models for other students. They are
selected on the basis of academic performance, citizenship, and
maturity. They demonstrate the willingness to take
responsibilities and give our children the safety they need.
The San Diego Police Department provides incentives for all
patrol members by scheduling monthly outings which are either
provided at no cost or greatly reduced prices. These outings
include trips to Wild Rivers, Sea World, the movies, ice
skating, sporting events, etc. During the summer recess,
graduating members of the school patrol are treated to a
four-day camp at Palomar Mountain Camp at no cost.
PEACE PATROL
These teams of fourth and fifth graders are trained to help
primary students solve problems on the playground using conflict
resolution techniques.
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COMPUTER
EDUCATION PROGRAM |
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PROGRAM GOALS
The Sandburg Computer Educational Program consists of goals and
objectives which support the school district’s computer
educational plan. Computer education activities occur in
individual classrooms utilizing the iBook mobile computer labs.
The major goals of the program are:
Computer Literacy - All students will demonstrate an
understanding of the operation, capabilities, and implications
of computer technology. Students will have
experience using databases, word processing programs, and
computer illustrations.
Application of computer technology to all curriculum areas
- All
students will learn to apply computer technology and existing
software to supplement instruction in such curriculum areas as
language arts, mathematics, social studies, and science.
SCHOOL TECHNOLOGY
Vision - We envision Sandburg as a school where technology is
used as a tool to prepare students to become outstanding members
in a technology literate society. We believe in the utilization
of technology to motivate and excite students about learning in
a setting that connects the classroom to the real world.
Furthermore, all children should have equal access to a quality
education that includes technology-based tools to provide
successful experiences that meet their physical, emotional,
social and academic needs. We envision teachers using technology
to enrich the curriculum, educating all students to a high
standard.
The Hardware
- Each building at Sandburg is equipped with Apple
Power Macintosh computers and printers with email and internet
access. All classrooms have access to these power Macintosh
computers. Sandburg has three iBook Mobile Labs, each housing
ten laptops and an airport.
Program Emphasis
- Sandburg maintains a collection of commercial
and public domain software that is available for teacher
checkout. Teachers are able to select software that reinforce
and supplement the basic instructional program. The classroom
computers will be used to support the Computer Education program
goals listed above through the following activities.
1. Use of word processing software to complete activities and
assignments related to written language.
2. Use a variety of software programs to support basic skill
instruction in reading, math, language arts, and curriculum
areas.
3. Use of software to support instruction of critical thinking
skills.
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HOMEWORK
POLICY |
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KINDS OF HOMEWORK ACTIVITIES
Homework is designed to help students with a wide range of
subjects and to develop many different skills. Homework
assignments take many different forms.
• CONTINUATION-Working on assignments begun in class.
• READING-Using textbooks, library materials, supplementary
readers, and reference works.
• WRITING-Creative writing projects, preparing reports, and
other compositions.
• EXPERIMENTATION-Working to uncover further findings on an
experiment in the classroom.
• RESEARCH-Working on long-term projects.
• MEMORIZATION-Committing to memory such material as poems,
speeches, plays, words and their definitions, mathematical
formulas, and theorems.
• DRILL-Practicing the fundamental skills of any subject.
• OBSERVATION-Purposeful seeking of ideas and information
through such activities such as viewing videotapes, plays, and
television programs.
• INTERVIEWS-Gathering information from authoritative sources
through personal contacts.
• EXHIBITS-Collecting and preparing materials for others to view
and examine.
• MAKE-UP-Completing essential or appropriate work missed due to
absence.
SUPPLEMENTARY READING PROGRAM
On February 8, 1993, the Board of Education decided each student
enrolled in San Diego Unified School District should read and report on a
minimum of one book per month (25 books annually), with most of
the reading being done outside of class. At Sandburg, teachers
monitor student reading to ensure compliance with the district
requirements.
PARENTS ARE ASKED TO ENCOURAGE STUDENTS TO READ AT HOME.
SUGGESTIONS FOR PARENTS
The eagerness and energy with which a student approaches his or
her homework are often determined by the encouragement and
support given by the parents.
Provide favorable conditions for study. Find a special study
place with a minimum of distractions and interruptions. Include
basic study materials, such as paper, pencil, a ruler, a
dictionary, etc.
Make homework a regular family routine. A well-established study
time will build good study habits.
Encourage responsibility. Students must accept responsibility
for completing and returning homework daily.
Encourage quality work. Make students feel that the quality of
the work is important, and that you appreciate their efforts to
do careful, neat, conscientious work.
Praise success. Show your satisfaction if students are moving
from dependence to independence. Praise them when they succeed;
encourage them when problems develop. Constantly assure them
that you are supporting them and taking pride in their
accomplishments.
Praise the individual success of each child.
A child’s progress should never be compared
to that of other family members or friends.
Support the efforts of the teacher. Assist the teacher by
supporting the need to complete assignments. The assignment of
homework is designed to help students.
Communicate with school officials. Confer with teachers or the
district counselor for suggestions on students’ progress and how
to develop good study habits.
Encourage students to seek assistance. When assignments are not
well understood, students should ask for clarification and
additional assistance.
Review assignments and encourage pacing. When assignments are
completed on time, better homework assignments and projects
result.
Makeup work is the responsibility of the student. Remind
students that they are responsible for asking their teacher for
makeup work and completing it.
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PARENT
AND COMMUNITY RESOURCES |
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SCHOOL SITE COUNCIL
The School Site Council is comprised of five to seven active parent leaders and
five to seven staff members. The staff members serve as
representatives of the administration, faculty and classified
employees. Together, the team is responsible for the Single Plan
for Student Achievement (SPSA) and corresponding plan which
requires members to be knowledgeable of the school’s
instructional and support programs. The SSC plans school goals
and objectives, reviews and approves program modifications,
monitors progress and evaluates outcomes. The Council is charged
with the legal responsibility to insure services that meet the
needs of special student populations. The SSC is also
responsible for the categorical funding. Meetings are held on
the 4th Tuesdays of the month at 7:15 am in the Staff Lounge.
SITE GOVERNANCE TEAM
The Site Governance Team discusses and plans for all aspects
regarding teaching and learning. They design and implement
effective strategies for the continuous improvement of all
students' achievements through quality teaching and learning
experiences at school. SGT is a site-based, decision-making
group created through a local agreement between San Diego
Unified School District (SDUSD) and the San Diego Education Association (SDEA).
SGT is comprised of SDEA members, parent/community members, and
others, which include California School Employees Association (CSEA)
representatives. Meetings are held on the 4th Tuesdays of the
month at 7:15 am in the Staff Lounge.
PARENT TEACHER ASSOCIATION
All parents are strongly urged to join the
Sandburg
Parent Teacher Association. This group lends support to many
activities. They have purchased books and materials
for our school. They have assisted in funding the copy machine
and purchasing materials for the Tech Centers. The PTA assists
with school fundraisers, assemblies, and other events. The PTA
is a great way for parents and other community members to make
positive contributions to Sandburg and to stay informed of all
programs and events.
For more information about PTA, please visit the following
websites:
Sandburg PTA www.sandi.net/sandburg/pta
California State PTA www.capta.org
National PTA www.pta.org
COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIP
Sandburg is fortunate to have the MALS-11 Marine Unit from the
United States Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, Whoo’s Smart
Educational Supplies, and Callahan's Restaurant as their Partners in Education.
The MALS-11 Marines focus on individual student success by
tutoring and mentoring to support student achievement and social
adjustment. This meaningful and loyal service to Sandburg
students is provided on Friday of each school week.
Our partners assist in special programs, field trips, and
assemblies. Students enjoy making birthday and get well cards,
posters, and projects for Whoo's Smart and the Marines of
MALS-11.
COMMUNITY SUPPORT
Parents and community members are often invited by teachers to
speak to students in the classroom or at an assembly. These
speakers are a valuable resource, as they bring the opportunity
for students to listen to an in-depth presentation about a
particular topic they have been studying. Community speakers
bring a wide variety of knowledge and experiences to the school
setting. Additional community support has been in the form of
donations from parents in the community. Hungry Howie's has
donated pizzas to reward students for special accomplishments.
Boomers, Godfather’s Pizza, 7-Eleven, Rubio's, Mimi's Cafe, Pat and Oscars, Subway,
Applebee's,
Wendy’s and In and Out Burger, have given students awards and
incentives. Harmonium Counseling Center works with the school to
plan and organize meetings for parents who have children with
attention difficulties.
SANDBURG FOUNDATION
The Sandburg Foundation is a non-profit foundation dedicated to
providing additional financial support and programs to Sandburg
Elementary School. Their mission is to enable greatness in each
student by providing private funding and support to enable a
world-class learning experience for all Sandburg students.
For more information, visit Sandburg Foundation website at
http://www.sandburgfoundation.org.
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