The Thetford Elementary School Student Handbook for 2022-2023 provides a comprehensive guide to all aspects of school life, policies, and expectations for students and their families.
It covers everything from school hours, attendance, and academic programs to extracurricular activities, safety policies, and parent involvement.
Introduction
The handbook is designed to help families navigate the expectations and resources available at Thetford Elementary School. It outlines important information such as school hours, academic programs, special activities, transportation, and safety guidelines.
Parents are encouraged to familiarize themselves with these policies to ensure a smooth school experience for their children.
Thetford Board of School Directors and Mission
The board ensures the school runs smoothly by overseeing policies, school operations, and managing finances. The mission of Thetford Elementary School is to create a collaborative community that supports the growth and development of every child.
The school strives to provide a balanced education that promotes lifelong learning, creativity, and individual growth.
School Hours and Attendance
School starts at 8:15 a.m., with a recommended drop-off time between 8:00 and 8:15 a.m. Dismissal occurs at 2:45 p.m., with specific procedures for parent pickups and bus students.
Regular attendance is crucial, and absences must be reported promptly to avoid potential truancy issues.
Academic Program
The school follows Vermont’s Common Core State Standards and the Next Generation Science Standards, ensuring that students are challenged to achieve their best.
Teaching methods include project-based learning, responsive classrooms, and outdoor education, all designed to cater to different learning styles and encourage student engagement.
Extracurricular Activities and Special Programs
TES offers various extracurricular programs, including a concert band, after-school programs, and skiing lessons. The school also collaborates with local organizations to provide additional activities for students, helping to foster creativity and physical activity.
Food Service and Health Office
In the 2022-2023 school year, all students will receive free meals through the Universal School Meals Act. The school health office is available for medical care, and parents are asked to provide emergency contact information to ensure the safety of their children.
School Safety and Emergency Protocols
For student safety, school doors are locked during the day, and a buzzer system is used for visitor entry. Emergency drills, including fire drills and lockdown scenarios, are conducted regularly to prepare staff and students for any emergencies.
The school also maintains strict rules about visitor behavior to ensure a safe environment.
Sensitive and Controversial Curriculum
TES acknowledges that some curriculum topics may be sensitive for some families. Teachers will inform parents about upcoming lessons that may be controversial, and parents can request to withdraw their child from specific lessons if necessary.
Transportation and Visitor/Volunteer Policies
The school provides bus services, with clear guidelines for drop-off and pick-up. Visitors and volunteers are welcome, but they must sign in at the office and follow the school’s volunteer policies.
The TES Student Handbook ensures that both parents and students are informed about the rules, programs, and expectations that contribute to a successful academic year.
By working together, parents and the school can provide a positive and supportive learning environment for every student.
