Handbook

TIGER CREED

Expect excellence, achieve success,

In reading, math, and all the rest!

I promise to obey the rules

In my class and in our school.

I’ll respect myself and others, too.

I’ll expect the best in all I do.

I am here to learn all I can,

To try my best and be all I am!

I am a Ladonia Tiger,

Hear me ROAR!!

Ladonia students live by our behavior motto: R.O.A.R. This is our framework for identifying positive behaviors and teaching character education for each of the main settings of the school.

R.O.A.R. stands for “Responsible, Organized, Accountable, and Respectful.”

Classroom
R- Bring necessary materials and use them appropriately, try your best, and pay attention.
O- Keep desk organized, hang bookbags in a proper place, and keeps chairs pushed in when not in use.
A- Complete all class and homework assignments, be on time, and set goals for yourself.
R- Follow directions quickly, use manners, and take turns.

Restroom
R- Respect privacy, finish quickly, throw away trash, and take care of yourself.
O- Use time wisely, wait your turn, and only use necessary supplies.
A- Keep a clean space, use supplies responsibly, and use indoor voice.
R- Go, flush, wash. Use manners and take turns.

Bus
R- Report problems to the driver, use kind words, and listen to the bus driver.
O- Keep food stored, aisles clear, and bookbag closed.
A- Stay in your seat, practice safetly, and watch for your stop. 
R- Stay seated in your seat and use an inside voice. Keep your hands, feet, and property to yourself. 

Cafeteria
R- Throw away your trash. Clean up after yourself. Raise your hand for help. Follow the cone rule. 
O- Walk slowly, face forward, and stay in line. Sit correctly and use an inside voice. Only eat from your tray. Get all food and drink in the 
A- Leave a clean table, chair, and floor. Use an inside voice when on green. Keep quiet 
R- Follow directions, clean up after yourself, and stay in your own seat.

Hallways
R- Keep your hands, feet, and property to yourself. Stay in line and stay to the right. 
O- Walk slowly and face forward. Go straight to your destination. Keep all your items in your bookbag.
A- Remain quiet, keep to the right, and pick up any trash you see.
R- Stay out of other classrooms. Go straight to your destination. Keep your hands to yourself and your own property.

Playground / Gym
R- Keep your hands and feet to self. Take turns. Wait for instructions.
O- Listen and follow direction. Line up on the signal. Return equipment to proper location.
A- Use equipment appropriately. Protect and care for property and nature. Report problems. 
R- Show good sportsmanship. Use kind words and actions. Include everyone in play activity. 

PLEASE NOTE:  All LES policies listed below are based on RCSD Policies. Please take time to read the “RUSSELL COUNTY SCHOOLS STUDENT ACADEMIC PLAN & STUDENT RESPONSIBILITIES: A HANDBOOK FOR PARENTS ”. Each student will receive a copy of this handbook at the beginning of the school year. 

DRESS CODE

School is a learning environment and we ask that parents and students use reason, good judgment, and common courtesy in the choice of dress in the school setting.

All students should dress in good taste and in a non-offensive manner.  We require the following along with additional code in the RCSD Handbook:

• No hats, caps, bandanas, or visors in the school (except for certain days and ACAP hats).
• No football, baseball, soccer shoes with rubber/metal cleats or shoes with heelys. 
• Shorts, skirts, and dresses must be no more than two inches above the knee. (We ask that if skirts or dresses are worn, to please encourage your child to wear shorts, tights, or leggings underneath).
• No tights/leggings as pants unless worn as under shorts, skirts, or with dresses that are at or below fingertips or with a long top. 
• No spaghetti straps. Tank tops must be at least three fingertips wide at the shoulders. Appropriate undergarments should be worn and not visible.
• No offensive/suggestive material on clothing (ex: alcohol, drugs, racial).
• Pajamas must not be worn as outer clothing (except for Pajama Days).
• Shoes must be worn at ALL times. As a safety precaution, high heels, slippers, and flip flops are discouraged. For our new gym floor, rubber bottom shoes must be worn. 
• Pants/shorts must be worn at waist level.
• No Smart watches or wireless earbuds should be worn at any time. 
• We do ask that you dress your child according to the weather.  Classes often go outside, even if the weather is chilly!

 Violations of Dress Code: If the above conditions are not followed, staff members can issue a dress code violation slip for the first infraction. If the student commits subsequent violations, administration will give the student a “WARNING” slip. If the student commits subsequent violations, a discipline referral may be given. The school will contact a parent/ guardian regarding the infraction.  If warranted, a change of clothes will be requested.

*See the RCSD Student Handbook for a more detailed Dress Code Policy.
 

AWARDS

We believe that one of the most important things that we do at LES is promoting our students and their achievements. There are several ways that students can earn recognition.

• Citizen of the Month
  • Once each month all classroom teachers nominate a Citizen of the Month for their classroom. This student exhibits behaviors/achievements that make him/her stand out above the rest. They are a leader in their class and one that goes above and beyond what is expected. Citizens of the Month receive behavior points and a certificate along with having their picture displayed on our school presentation screen and on social media. 
•  “A” Honor Roll
  • A student will receive an “All As” award when he/she receives ALL As (90-100) for all subjects during a grading period. 
• “A-B” Honor Roll 
  • A student will receive an “All A-B” award when he/she receives all As and Bs for all subjects during a grading period. 
• Excellence in Positive Behavior Award
  • A positive behavior will be given to the top point earners from each homeroom at the end of the year. This student has gone above and beyond what is required of students and exemplifies the ABCs of Excellence as they achieve success and earn positive behavior points. These students will be recognized at the end of the school year.   
• Accelerated Reader Awards
  • Accelerated Reader (AR) awards are given for most total points earned, highest total points and best average in each homeroom.
• Perfect Attendance Award
  • Each quarter students that are present every day during that grading period will be awarded a perfect attendance pin for their lanyard. At the end of the year, students that have achieved perfect attendance will be recognized during the end of the year program. In addition, Mr. & Mrs. Gil Dyer, will present one boy and one girl, with perfect attendance and the highest GPA a $500 cash prize award. 

BIRTHDAY CELEBRATIONS

In an effort to protect instruction time, we do not permit cupcakes, cake, or pastries to be brought in to celebrate birthdays.  Parents may choose to send goodie bags that will be sent home with students containing individually wrapped snacks, candy, or trinkets. Sodas are not allowed. Balloons, flowers, or other gifts MAY NOT be sent or brought to school for students. They are not allowed in the classroom or on the bus.

CELL PHONE POSSESSION/USAGE

Effective with the 2026–2027 school year, and in accordance with the Alabama FOCUS Act, students are prohibited from using or displaying personal wireless communication devices—including cell phones, smartwatches, wireless earbuds, gaming devices, or tablets—during the instructional day. All such devices must be powered off and securely stored (e.g., in a locker, car, or backpack) upon arrival on campus. Students may not carry these types of devices on their person (except when securely stored in a backpack or purse) or use them in hallways, classrooms, restrooms, or other common areas unless explicitly approved by a staff member for instructional use. The School is not responsible for the theft, loss, or damage to any wireless communication device brought onto campus by a student.

Exceptions will be made only under the following circumstances:

When required by a student’s IEP, 504 Plan, or documented medical condition.
When explicitly authorized by school personnel for instructional purposes.
In the event of an emergency that threatens the life or safety of the student or others.
Language translation
If a child brings a device to school, they are bringing it at their own risk. Therefore, we encourage your child to leave their device at home. If a device is collected, it will be the responsibility of the parent/guardian to pick up the device from the school’s main office. (Please see the RCSD’s district handbook for more information in regard to cell phone possession and usage at school ). 

Consequences of cell phones that are not stored away and/or powered off: (Because the FOCUS Act requires cell phones to be stored away and powered off, should a device be confiscated by a staff member, it will be the parent’s responsibility to come to the school to collect the device each time a device is collected.) In addition, because this is state law, this offense will be classified as a Class II offense. Repetitive offenses can constitute a Class II violation resulting in a referral to the RCSD’s tribunal panel for further disciplinary action. 

• First offense: Receive school consequences and/or loss of school privileges for a time designated by staff or administration: (i.e.- loss of recess, loss of STEM lab participation, silent lunch, and/or loss of participation in school events). 
• Second offense: Possible day(s) of in school suspension (ISS) issued and/or consequence determined by administration.
• Third offense: Possible day(s) of out school suspension (OSS) issued and/or consequence determined by administration.
• Fourth offense: Possible disciplinary referral to the RCSD’s tribunal panel for further disciplinary action.

CHILD NUTRITION PROGRAM

All Ladonia students will receive breakfast and lunch at NO COST during the 2026-2027 school year. Ala carte items may still be purchased with money brought in on a daily basis or with money deposited into their accounts. Money may be deposited using the school district website, www.myrcsd.org, for a nominal fee. The cost for a non-employee adult breakfast is $3.40 and lunch is $5.75.

COMMUNICATION OPTIONS

Communication is very important to ensure the success of our students at Ladonia Elementary. Please use the various ways to stay in contact with your child’s teacher(s) and school. 

• Email
  • All teachers and school personnel can be contacted through email. The email addresses for all faculty/staff can be found on the school website.
• Parent Square
  • We utilize a program called ParentSquare to send recorded phone messages, texts, and emails to the priority number listed on your student’s information sheet. There is an app that parents can download. 
• LES Facebook Page
  • On the LES Facebook page we post information about happenings at the school along with important announcements. You can “LIKE” our page and follow us at facebook.com/LadoniaElementary.
• LES Website
  • The school website is www.myrcsd.org/ladoniaelementary. On the website you can find calendar events, grade level information, teacher contact information and links to other schools and departments within the school district.

EMERGENCY PROCEDURES

Student safety is paramount to the purpose of Ladonia Elementary School. Whether it is through proactive, precautionary measures and/or through immediate responses to emergency situations, we work very hard to ensure that our staff and students are safe at all times. 

During severe weather, intruder/safety events, or a fire on campus, students and staff will follow the written procedures pertaining to each emergency event. Students and staff practice what to do for each of these events, and must follow the steps expected of them to ensure their safety. 

During certain emergency events, it may not be possible to access the school office and check students out (we encourage parents to stay off the roads and seek safe shelter during severe weather). Please do not call the school during emergency events, as keeping the telephone line clear will allow for emergency responders to communicate with school staff. The school follows a normal daily schedule under “Watch” conditions (ie. a Tornado Watch) during the day. However, after-school activities could be canceled when directed by the Superintendent.  During emergencies, buses may be delayed. 

The school must have a record of current telephone numbers for contact in case of an emergency.  If there are changes to phone numbers or addresses, please make sure to make the appropriate updates. The school will use a variety of communication resources (mass phone calls and texts, Facebook, news outlets, district website) when emergency events arise. 

EXTENDED DAY SERVICES

We realize that many parents work or have other pressing obligations in the afternoon which could interfere with the ability to pick up children from school or to be home when they arrive. Ladonia Elementary offers an Extended Day Program. 

Description of the Program – The Extended Day Program is a program that allows students to stay in a safe environment rather than going home to an empty house. The program will offer snack time, homework time, tutoring, and entertaining activities to occupy the students while they wait to be picked up by parents. The program will run from 3:15 PM to 6:00 PM each school day.

• Costs to Parents 
  • There will be a $20.00 non-refundable registration fee per child that is due upon enrollment.
  • The cost will be $40.00 per week for each child. Payment will be required the first day services are provided; thereafter, payment will be due Thursday or Friday BEFORE the first day of each week the child will be attending.
  • Drop-in services are provided for $10.00 per day.

FIELD TRIPS

Participating in field trips is a privilege, not a right. In the event the teacher determines based on a student’s conduct, it is possible the student may not be permitted to attend the field trip. While according to Alabama law, Title I schools are prohibited from charging students to attend a field trip, without donations to cover the cost of transportation, the bus driver, and admittance, it would be nearly impossible for students to go on field trips. In the event that a trip is planned and enough funds to cover the cost of the trip for the number of students attending, it is possible the trip may have to be canceled. If a field trip is canceled due to lack of funding, any donations collected for the trip will be refunded. However, if a field trip donation is made and the student is unable to attend for any reason, the money will be considered as a donation to the school and will not be refunded. 

A signed permission slip will be required prior to each field trip. Telephone calls will not be allowed in lieu of permission slips. The permission slip must be returned to school no later than the day prior to the field trip.  Misbehavior on a field trip may result in denial of future participation in such activities; students may also receive an office referral.  Chaperones are selected at the homeroom teacher and/or principal’s discretion.  Chaperones who are not RCSD employees cannot ride the school bus. 

GRADING and PROGRESS REPORTS/ REPORT CARDS

Grades will be recorded and kept using PowerSchool, a state-wide student information system. Parents can have online access at all times to their student’s grades and attendance. To gain this access, please contact the school for login information. 

The dates for progress reports and report cards to be issued are set by the School District. Please refer to the district calendar for these dates. You can also see these dates on the Calendar in this handbook or on the District website.

Progress reports will be issued midway through each nine weeks.  Report cards are issued after every nine weeks grading period. Students will be responsible for delivering these documents to their parents/guardians. Report cards must be signed by a parent/guardian and returned promptly to the child’s teacher and will be kept on file. If you have questions about the progress report or report card, please contact the teacher to set up a conference.

HOMEWORK

Homework is an integral part of the instructional program and comprises 10% of a student’s grade average.  It may consist of such activities as make-up work, meaningful projects, collecting materials for classroom projects, listening to or viewing suggested radio and television programs or completing work begun in the classroom. Homework serves to stimulate independent study habits, develop responsibility and self-direction, and reinforce school learning.  It is the student’s responsibility to see that homework assignments are handed in or are ready to be checked at the time requested by the teacher.  It is not the responsibility of an individual teacher to provide parents and students with a list of missing assignments during or at the end of a grading period.  Homework is most often an immediate need which reinforces a skill learned that day or prepares students for the next day’s lesson.  In the event homework is not submitted in a timely manner, staff members reserve the right to utilize recess or elective times for the student to complete the work. 

NEWS/MEDIA RELEASE

It is often the case that our students and/or school are recognized for various positive reasons. If a parent(s)/legal guardian(s) does not want the student to be photographed for media publicity use, he/she must complete an objection form which is part of the online enrollment/registration process. If this form is not completed and returned to the school, it will be considered as an indication of permission to publicly recognize the student(s) in various media.

PARENT VISITS

In planning visits to the school, please remember our first responsibility is to educate your children. Following the policies below will allow us to successfully teach without disrupting the learning environment. 

• We require anyone visiting the school to abide by the school dress code. We need to set a good example for our students – no pajamas, house shoes, robes, etc. 
• Anyone visiting the school will need to provide a photo identification. A visitor sticker or temporary badge will be issued. The sticker must be worn at all times until the visitor leaves the campus. All temporary badges must be returned to the office upon departure.
• If you need to have a conference with your child’s teacher, please contact the school or the teacher at least 24 hours prior to the requested conference time.
• Teacher conferences can be held during the teacher’s planning time or before/after school.
• Volunteering is highly encouraged at Ladonia. If you are interested, please check with your child’s teacher, the front office or a PTO Officer. All volunteers will need to check in the front office and obtain a volunteer lanyard to wear during your stay.
• No photographs or videos of other children are permitted while on campus.
• Cell phones should be turned off during your visit. 
• To have lunch with your child, a 48 hour notice is required so that we can prepare for your arrival. Tables will be designated for parents to sit with their child. 

Verbal abuse or inappropriate conduct will not be tolerated. It is expected that all stakeholders will be a role model for children. If at any time visitors demonstrate unruly behavior, threats, and/or profanity, etc., he/she will be asked to leave the school grounds and may be escorted by law enforcement. The visitor may be banned from campus. 

Volunteer Opportunities

For the 2026-2027 school year, the following are some ways that you can volunteer your services. If you would like to volunteer, speak to the classroom teacher, media specialist, or secretary. 

• Assist the Media Specialist with shelving books and organizing the library. 
• School beautification projects such as: planting flowers, campus clean-up, or light housekeeping duties. 
• Assisting students with practicing basic skills such as math fact fluency and/or sight word fluency.
• Monitoring the lunchroom during teacher duty-free lunch days. 
• Assisting teachers with classroom related tasks which will be worked on in the media center. 
• Volunteering during or with school events.
• Assisting the events committee with community partnerships and donations. 

E-LEARNING DAY EXPECTATIONS

For the 2026-2027 school year, there are three remote learning days built into the school calendar. The dates are as follows: October 12th, December 21st,  and May 20th. On these days, students at LES will bring home learning packets. Learning packets are meant to be extra practice opportunities for skills previously learning to reinforce those skills. Learning packets are expected to be submitted the first day your child returns back to school. If you would like for your child to bring home a Chromebook for additional learning opportunities, please make that request through your child’s teacher. 

TEXTBOOKS
Textbooks will be issued by your child’s teacher for the student to use. Students must take good care of these books. Lost or damaged textbooks are to be paid for by the parent/guardian. If a student loses a textbook, he/she must pay the full replacement cost of the lost book. Another textbook cannot be issued to the student until he/she has paid for the lost book. Some classes offer students the chance to place book orders. Individual student book orders are expected to be approved by parents prior to the order being placed.  Orders must be paid for BEFORE orders will be placed. Student selected reading material should be monitored by parents/guardians before being brought to school.

ATTENDANCE

It is critical that your child is in school every day and that he/she arrives on time each day. If your child does need to be absent or tardy, we ask that you follow the policies in this Attendance section. Please see the RCSD handbook for information pertaining to attendance.

School Hours

The school hours are from 8:30 AM-3:15 PM EST (Pre K will be 8:15 – 2:45). The 1st bell rings at 8:00 AM and students can enter the school and report to their classroom. A bell will ring at 8:25 AM to signify that students need to be in class. ALL STUDENTS are to be in their classrooms prior to 8:30 AM, when the tardy bell rings. Students eating breakfast should arrive at school no later than 8:15 AM to allow sufficient time to eat.
The tardy bell rings at 8:30 AM. After this time, a student will need to be accompanied by a parent or guardian into the front office to be checked in. These students will be counted TARDY. Tardiness detracts from a student's educational opportunities and is  disruptive to the class.
 

Tardiness

It is the responsibility of the student and parent/guardian to assure the student arrives at class on time each day. 
If a student arrives at school at 8:30 AM EST, he/she must enter the school through the office and be signed in by a parent/guardian.
Students will not be admitted to class without a signed tardy slip signed by personnel in the front office.
 

Check-Ins/Check-Outs

If a student is arriving at school after 8:30 AM, a parent/guardian will need to bring them into the office for check-in. Please do not drop your child/children off in the front of the school before 8:30 AM. Students arriving after 8:30 AM are tardy and need to be checked in by an adult.
Pre-K is tardy after 8:15 AM and must check in in the front office. 
We request that appointments for the doctor, dentist, etc. be made after school hours if possible. Appointments that must be made during school hours must be accompanied by a doctor/dentist excuse.
If a student needs to be checked-out, a parent/guardian or someone designated by the guardian will need to report to the office, show proof of identification and sign the student out. They will need to list a reason for the absence. A student information sheet will be sent home at the beginning of the year to list persons who are allowed to check your child out of school. Any changes will need to be made with the front office.
Students may not check out after 2:30 PM. After 2:30 PM students are gathering their belongings, receiving homework instructions and lining up for bus routes, car riders, etc. 
Your child will be called from the classroom to meet you in the office after you have checked them out. Please do not call the school and request your child to be called to the office prior to your arrival as this takes away from instructional time. 
 

Arriving at School

Students being transported by bus will be dropped off in the front parking lot by the office door. Students being transported to school as a car rider need to be dropped off on the south side of the school (Woodland Drive) by the gym. The earliest that students can be dropped off is 8:00 AM. From 8:00-8:30 AM, students will report to their classrooms. All car riders will be dropped off in the rear of the school until 8:30 AM. Remember after 8:30 AM students must be brought to the office to be checked-in by an adult!
Parents who need to visit the office must park in a parking space (not on the curb or by the office door). Parents should not park in the bus loading area to walk students up, nor should they put students in the bus lines that are unloading. 
 

School Dismissal

Bus Riders will be lined up in bus order and load number. Students will be escorted to the bus loading area to load and buses will begin to depart at 3:15 PM. 
Car Riders will be lined up by grade and escorted to the car rider lines on the south end of the school. Younger siblings will be waiting in line with their oldest sibling. Pre-K students will begin pickup at 2:45 PM, while students in grade K-5 will begin to load at 3:15 PM. Parents will need to line up in four lines parallel to Woodland Drive. They will be directed by school staff to pick up students beginning at 3:15 PM. All cars picking up students in the car rider line must have the proper Ladonia car rider sign to verify student(s) being picked up. Cars not displaying the proper sign will be asked to report to the office to present identification to pick students up.  

**NOTE:  Students MUST be picked up no later than 30 minutes (3:45 PM) after scheduled time of dismissal. Failure to comply may result in the RCSD or Russell County Sheriff’s Office being notified. A student may be sent to Extended Day until a parent or guardian can pick them up (at a possible cost to the parent).

Absences

If your child is absent from school for more than two (2) consecutive days, we ask that you notify the school office.  
Upon returning to school from any absence, an excuse stating the reason for the absence, the date of the absence and an official/parent signature must be sent to the homeroom teacher/office within three (3) days of the absence. Excuses can also be uploaded via formsite found on myrcsd.org. Alabama State law regulations require us to have this verification. 
Attendance data is kept on each child. You can access this information through the PowerSchool Parent Portal (contact the school office for access). 
Parent(s)/legal guardian(s) may submit written parent excuses when students are absent, but are limited to 10 total days over the course of the school year.  Parents may be required to submit an excuse for late check-ins and early check-outs.
Students who are absent from school will receive an automated phone call, email, and text message at 12:00 PM stating that your student is absent. You can upload an excuse to the link provided in the email/text message.
Upon the first unexcused absence, the parent/guardian will be notified that the student is truant via communication from the school principal or designee.
Upon the third unexcused absence, the parent/guardian will receive a courtesy letter as precursor to an invitation to early warning hearing with the District attorney.  
After the fifth unexcused absence, the parent/guardian is subject to the filing of a complaint and participation in the Early Warning Program provided by the Russell County Family Court system. 
Subsequent absences will result in the filing of a petition with the Court under the Code of Alabama law attendance requirements.
The truancy process can result in a student being placed in the CHINS program or additional supervision and services such as Youth Villages or other court-appointed mentorship programs. Parents of truant students may be charged with contributing to the delinquency of a minor, per Alabama code 93-672.

PLEASE NOTE!  

Act 93-672 of the State Code of Alabama states that parents who fail to require their children to attend school regularly, or fail to require that their children properly conduct themselves as students, shall be guilty of a misdemeanor. A parent may receive a fine of not more than $100.00 or 90 days in jail for such a misdemeanor. The Act states that school officials who intentionally fail to report suspected violations to the district attorney shall be guilty of a Class C misdemeanor.

Make-Up Work 

Make-up work, which includes tests and assessments, will be given to students upon returning from an absence. 
The student should be prepared to take missed tests and turn in assignments within three days after returning to school unless otherwise approved by the principal. 
It is the student’s responsibility to turn in all assignments and take any missed tests within the designated length of time. 
Students who have been suspended are allowed to make up missed assignments or tests for the period of suspension. Students will also be responsible for their missed assignments during their suspension. Failure to make up assignments in a timely manner can result in receiving a failing grade for the assignment(s) missed. 
In the event that make-up work is not completed in a timely manner, staff members reserve the right to utilize recess or elective times for the student to complete the work. 

SCHOOL-WIDE ANTI-BULLYING RULES: 

1. No teasing
2. No hitting
3. No exclusion
4. No threats
5. No name-calling
6. No cyber-bullying

Clearly defined acts of bullying, when repeatedly continued:

Teasing – Name calling, insulting, or other behavior that would hurt others feelings or make them feel bad about themselves. 
Exclusion – Starting rumors, telling others not to be friends with someone, or other actions that would cause someone to be without friends.
Hitting – Pushing, hitting, or grabbing.
Severe hitting - Punching, kicking, and similar behavior that may injure others.
Threats of serious violence and/or harassment – Racial, ethnic, sexual, or gender name calling or other severe harassment.
Cyber-Bullying – Any intimidation by electronic means on school property or at school functions.

BULLYING PROGRESSION

TEASING OR EXCLUSION

• First Occurrence

  • Teacher conference (in-class, separately)

• Second Occurrence

  • Counselor conference

  • Parent contact

  • Character Building Assignment

  • Individual/Group Counseling

• Third Occurrence

  • School service activity within the school

  • Parent Conference

• Beyond Four
  • Principal Visit
  • Suspension Principal’s Discretion
  • Parent Conference
  • Individual/Group Counseling

HITTING

• First Occurrence

  • Teacher conference

  • Parent contact in writing (Planner or Calendar)

• Second Occurrence

  • Counselor conference

  • Parent contact

  • Referral to Principal if needed

  • Individual/Group Counseling

• Third Occurrence

  • Principal conference with possible suspension

  • Parent conference

  • Individual/ Group Counseling

• Beyond Four
  • Individual Behavior Plan
  • More severe actions at the principal’s discretion

SEVERE HITTING, HARASSMENT, OR THREATS OF VIOLENCE

• First Occurrence

  • Counselor and Principal conference and suspension at principal’s discretion.

  • Mandatory Parent Conference

  • Individual/ Group Counseling

• Second Occurrence

  • (3-5 days) Suspension

  • Mandatory Parent Conference

• Third Occurrence

  • Possible Class 3 Hearing or Juvenile petition

***THE GOALS OF THESE CONSEQUENCES ARE TO ELIMINATE BULLYING BEHAVIORS AND TO ENCOURAGE MORE SOCIALLY APPROPRIATE BEHAVIORS IN ALL STUDENTS.

Russell County School District - Bullying Report Form

In an effort to minimize antisocial behaviors in the school environment, the RCBOE has created a process whereby a student, parent, guardian, or bystander may report instances of bullying to the school administrator for further review and investigation. To report bullying, complete this form and it will be reported to the school. All reported incidents of bullying may be investigated, and when necessary, school administrators apply appropriate disciplinary consequences.

It is important to distinguish bullying from other unkind, mean and harmful behavior. Calling someone a name or pushing someone once, being rude or having an argument with someone is not bullying. Of course, these behaviors should be addressed but may have different consequences and interventions, which is why the distinction is critical. To be defined as bullying, all three components must be present: (1) repeated actions or threats, (2) a power imbalance and (3) intention to cause harm. If bullying is identified correctly, there are various ways to address it.

Intimidation is a threat or other action that is intended to cause fear or apprehension in a student, especially for the purpose of coercing or deterring the student from participating in or taking advantage of any school program, benefit, activity or opportunity for which the student is or would be eligible.

Bullying is a continuous pattern of intentional behavior that takes place on school property, on a school bus, or at a school-sponsored function including, but not limited to, cyberbullying or written, electronic, verbal, or physical actions that are reasonably perceived as being motivated by any characteristic of a student, or by the association of a student with an individual who has a particular characteristic. 

SCHOOL COUNSELING SERVICES

Counseling services are available to every student in the school. The students attend classes biweekly to discuss various topics with the counselor in a whole group setting. The counselor is also available to meet with individuals or small groups to discuss in confidence any problem or feelings that are personally important to a student(s). During counseling, these concerns may be talked through and examined, alternatives explored, and decisions made about future action. If a student needs attention or additional help, the counselor will assist in finding such help. 

• Parents are encouraged to talk to the counselor about any area of concern (i.e. separation or divorce, students who are grieving, students with a deployed parent, individual counseling, parent/teacher consultation, and coordination of services for students).

More information can be found on the the Counselor’s Corner page.

LIBRARY MEDIA CENTER

The mission of the Ladonia Elementary Library Media Center is to ensure that students are effective users of ideas and information and to promote a love of reading in a warm, welcoming environment. Our library media program utilizes a combination of fixed and flexible scheduling.  All students visit the library with their class on a regular schedule.  Students are allowed to visit the library independently to check out books and to utilize print and online resources.  

EXPECTATIONS - It is important for all students to remember proper behavior in the library.  It is a quiet place for all students and staff to use.  Our library behavior expectations have been discussed with all of our students:

• Be respectful
• Be responsible
• Follow directions
• Take care of our materials

BOOK CHECK-OUT PROCEDURES

• Kindergarten & 1st grade students may check out one book. It is at the discretion of the  classroom teacher if library books are taken home. 
• 2nd-5th grade students may check out up to two books.
• All books are checked out for two weeks.  Students may recheck a book if the book has not been reserved for another student or teacher.
• Reference materials and magazines are not available for check-out and must be used within the confines of the media center unless special permission is given.
• Use shelf markers when pulling books.
• Use a whispering voice when checking out books.

OVERDUE MATERIALS – Students who have overdue materials may not check out materials until the overdue materials are returned.  There are no exceptions to this policy.

LOST/DAMAGED BOOKS – All lost or damaged books must be paid for in full.  The cost for each book varies.  A copy of the information for the book can be obtained in the library.  Fees are to be paid in the office before the student is allowed to check out another book.

More information can be found on the the Media Center page.

PHYSICAL EDUCATION (P.E.)

We are very pleased to have your child participating in our Physical Education classes. P.E. is a vital part of the school’s curriculum. Please note that P.E. and recess are two different events. P.E. is supervised by our certified Coach and recess is a movement break offered by the classroom teacher. Our program presents a variety of activities that teach fitness, basic skills, rhythms and dance, and sports that are appropriate for each grade level. We know that a well-balanced P.E. program will result not only in greater physical fitness, but also in a more positive self-image, more appropriate social behavior, and the joy of feeling healthy.  Your child will also realize the positive impact of a healthy life.

ALL students must have a completed STUDENT IDENTIFICATION & MEDICAL EVALUATION on file in the P.E. department – Please sign this form in the back of the handbook and return to the school. If your child has any condition that could interfere with regular activity participation such as asthma, allergies, diabetes, sickle cell, heart condition, seizures, allergies, etc., please notify the P.E. department in writing.
CLOTHING: Students should wear clothes and shoes appropriate for physical activity. Students must wear “SAFE SHOES” to PE every day! With the installation of the new wooden gym floor, to participate in P.E a student must wear shoes with a rubber bottom. Otherwise an alternate activity will be provided during P.E. time. 
WEATHER: Please make sure that your child dresses appropriately for the weather. P.E. classes could go outside any day that the weather permits. Students will not go outside when the temperatures are unbearably hot or cold. 
MEDICAL EXCUSES: If a child has been sick due to minor illness and does not need to participate, parents must write a note. The note will excuse the student for up to two days only. After two days the student must have a doctor’s excuse. The doctor’s excuse must state the physical limitations and the number of days the student is to be excused. Please send this note to the PE teacher. He/she may be given alternative assignments during the P.E. class.
By following the safety standards, expectations, and class rules found below, your child will have an enjoyable P.E. experience. 

Physical Education Rules:

Take care of all equipment.

I will listen to the teacher.

Good sportsmanship at all times.

Eyes and ears looking and listening.

Respect others.

Stop on the whistle.

Ladonia employs a full time nurse, Ms. Becky O’Neal. If your child becomes sick during school hours, he/she will be given a pass to come to see Nurse Becky. She will determine if there is a need to call home. All student visits to the nurses’ office will be documented. Please remember that students must have a record of immunization on file at the school, or the appropriate waiver in its place. For questions and information regarding COVID-19, please refer to the RCSD plan online. LES student health forms can be downloaded from the school’s website. 

Illnesses
Sick students should not be at school. If your child complains of feeling sick before school, please check to see if he/she has a fever or some other problem. Some of the reasons are listed below for why students should remain at home:

• Has a fever of 100.1 degrees or higher with other symptoms
• Has been vomiting with other symptoms within the last 24 hours 
• Diarrhea with other symptoms within the last 24 hours
• Pink eye infection
• Chicken pox
• Strep throat with a fever within the last 24 hours
• Flu or COVID-19 like symptoms within the last 24 hours  

First Aid
In spite of all precautions and supervision, accidents will occur. Band-Aids, when available, will be provided for small scratches or cuts. First-aid will be given if necessary. In the case of a serious accident, the parent will be notified when possible, and action will be at the direction of the parent if he/she can be contacted.

Medication
If students need medication, please adhere to the following rules:

• Medication with the child's name in the original container from the pharmacist.
• Written instructions as to dosage and directions of the administration of the medication on a medical card.
• Provide measuring utensils if needed.
• The doctor and parent’s signatures are required on the student’s medical card.
• A parent or guardian should deliver all controlled substances to the school.
• If your child is to take ½ a tablet, the tablet must be cut prior to leaving it in the office.
• The first dose of all medications or the first dose after a change in the dosage of medication should be administered at home.

***STUDENTS SHOULD NOT BRING CONTROLLED SUBSTANCES TO SCHOOL.
This information and the medication should be brought to the office by a parent when your child arrives at school in the morning.  No medication is allowed in the classroom.  It is your child’s responsibility to come to the office and request medication.  No over-the-counter drugs (such aspirin, Tylenol, cough syrup, etc.) or prescription drugs will be given to your child unless the medicine is sent from home along with the appropriate forms completed. 

Lice
Head lice can be a particular problem among school-aged children who have close direct contact with other children, play together, hug, have sleepovers, and share articles of clothing or personal items, such as combs, brushes, hats, coats, clothing, pillows, upholstered seats, etc. We urge all parents to check through their child’s hair every week as a preventive measure throughout the school year. For more information on treating head lice, please contact the school nurse. 
 

In addition to tests given in individual classrooms, all students will be assessed three times a year utilizing iReady to determine reading proficiency.

 iReady is also utilized as an assessment to screen for Dyslexia characteristics (however, this screener does not constitute a formal diagnosis of dyslexia).

Students not reaching grade level benchmark status will receive a Student Reading Improvement Plan (SRIP).

For students receiving a SRIP, we will work closely with the classroom teacher to monitor their progress, work to provide intensive intervention, offer participation during Summer Learning Camps, and continue to communicate growth with parents. 

In addition to tests given in individual classrooms, we have several grade- or school-wide tests that are given throughout the school year. Please make efforts to have your child present on testing dates. It is very important for them to take part in these assessments. They need to be on time on those days, rested and ready to participate. 

• ACAP - Students in the state of Alabama will in grades 2-5 will take the Alabama Comprehensive  Assessment Program (ACAP). This assessment will be computer-based. Dates occur annually in April.
• iReady - All K-5 students will take this assessment which includes diagnostics for progress monitoring, standards mastery, dyslexia screening, and oral reading fluency. It also incorporates tools for individual learning paths.
• STAR - All 1st-5th students take the Standardized Test for the Assessment of Reading (STAR). These are computer-based assessments that cover both reading and math.  Students take STAR throughout the year to determine grade level achievement and to help teachers determine individual needs in the classroom.

Changing Modes of Transportation
Any changes that need to be made to modes of transportation should be communicated to the office by 1:00 PM if it is to occur on that day. Otherwise, please communicate with the teacher via electronically or written communication of changes in transportation at least 24 hours ahead of time to ensure proper planning. 

Bus Riders
Bus transportation to and from school is a PRIVILEGE.  It is the responsibility of the students to conduct themselves appropriately at all times while riding school buses. Kindergarten students riding the bus must have a parent, guardian, or person of legal age present when boarding the bus in the morning and be present to receive the child in the afternoon. If no one is present at home to receive the Kindergarten student, they will be brought back to the school and a parent or guardian must come and pick them up. Continual violations of this policy may result in a revocation of bus riding privileges. 

Rules of conduct for Bus Riders established by the School Board are:

• Students may only enter and exit their bus at their assigned stop. 
• Obey and cooperate with the bus driver (at all times)
• After boarding the bus, take your seat immediately.
• Do not talk to or disturb the bus driver (except in emergencies).
• Do not harass other students.
• Do not fight. (45 days suspension unless otherwise determined)
• Do not argue or yell.
• Do not use profanity.
• Sit upright with your feet on the floor and keep your belongings out of the aisle.
• Keep your hands, head, and objects inside of the bus.
• Do not eat, drink, or chew gum on the bus.
• Do not smoke or strike matches/cigarette lighters on the bus.
• Do not bring fireworks, weapons, or anything that may endanger the lives of others on the bus.
• Do not commit careless or willful acts which may cause injury to the bus (may result in a monetary charge)
• Keep the bus clean by picking up any trash that is dropped.
• Do not commit careless or willful acts which may cause damage to the bus (may result in a monetary charge).
• Acceptable use of cell phone: music and games (photo, video, calling, and texting prohibited)
•  NOTE:  Bus Drivers are authorized to ASSIGN seats!! 

Parents/Guardians or unauthorized individuals are never to board the bus!

Misconduct on the bus can result in the student losing bus privileges.  Principals are authorized to suspend bus privileges depending on the severity of the student’s misbehavior.  When students lose bus privileges, the parents assume the responsibility for transportation to and from school.  

Bus Passes – Parents/guardians may request a temporary bus pass from the principal/designee at least 24 hours in advance. The principal/designee must coordinate temporary bus passes with the Transportation Department. Except in the case of emergency and approved by the principal/designee, there will be no temporary bus passes granted unless parents are PRESENT to complete the bus pass form. School employees are NOT allowed to fill the form out over the phone for parent(s)/legal guardians. Therefore, same day passes will not be granted. 

Responsibilities of Transported Pupils

• Only occupy the seat assigned by the driver. 
• Refrain from moving around while the bus is in motion.
• Observe appropriate conduct.
• Cooperate at all times with school staff who monitor the buses. 
• Warn the driver of approaching danger if there is reason to believe the driver is not aware of danger.
• Be in the designated place to board the bus at the time scheduled.  

Personal Safety

• Stay off the roadway at all times while waiting for the bus.
• Wait until the bus has come to a complete stop before attempting to get on or off.
• Enter or leave the bus only at the front door, except in the case of an emergency.
• Do not attempt to pick up items from the ground underneath or beside the bus. 
• After exiting the bus, if a student must cross a road, follow these guidelines:
• Make certain that the bus is stationary.
• Upon leaving the bus, stand at the side of the road and wait for proper signals from the driver to cross the road.
• Upon signal from the driver, look both right and left and proceed across the road in front of the bu

Car Riders

• Parents must remain inside their vehicle when dropping off or picking up car riders. 
• Students that are car riders must know how to buckle themselves.
• All persons picking up students from the car rider line MUST have a school-issued sign visible in the passenger side of the windshield stating the name of the child. Anyone who does not have the sign at the time of pick-up must report to the front office to pick up their students.
• Parents must drive through the appropriate lanes as detailed on the following page when arriving for afternoon pick-up. 

Communicating with staff members is very important. However, in an effort to keep the car rider line operating smoothly, if you need to have a conversation with your child’s teacher, please pull over to the left in one of the parking spaces. A team member will assist you with navigating in the parking space and getting out as well. 

How to Line up for Car Rider Lines/Afternoon Pickup:

• The car rider lines will form in the parking lot adjacent to the football field.
• There will be four car rider lines.
• Lanes 1 and 2 are for students in Kindergarten through 2nd grade and lanes 3 and 4 are for students in 3rd grade through 5th grade.
• Students with siblings in a higher grade will be picked up with those older siblings. 

Ladonia Elementary School: A Schoolwide Title I Program

What is Title I?
It’s a federal program to help students in our nation’s schools.  Title I is about giving all children a chance. Some children may not have all the advantages that other students have. That’s where Title I comes in. Its goal is to help all children get a good education. Schools with 40% or more of children from low-income families qualify for schoolwide Title I programs. A good schoolwide program can lead to a better school. The program is designed to help all students reach the standards, challenge students to be the best they can be, and prepare students for the complex world of today and tomorrow.

The benefits of a Title I Program include:
Improved Programs

• Schoolwide Title I Programs allow schools to offer more:
  • Services to help students in the classroom, such as counseling or tutors
  • Teachers and other school staff
  • Resources, such as computers and workbooks
  • Variety in learning – problem solving, group activities, and skills workshops

Parent Involvement

• Schoolwide programs count on parent support.  All parents are invited to help plan and take part in their school’s program. Parents may also benefit from some of the special services and programs the school may provide.

A Sense of Excitement

• Improved school programs can boost school spirit.  Students become more excited about learning and that helps teachers and other school staff with their jobs.

Equal Treatment

• It is not necessary to pull students from class to receive Title I services, although students may be pulled on an as needed basis.  They are less likely to feel singled out because the whole school is receiving the services.

More Ways to Use Resources

• A schoolwide program has more freedom in how it can use resources.  For example, Title I money may be combined with other sources of money to help pay for new programs.

Attention to Thinking Skills

• In addition to working on basic skills, schoolwide programs help students:
  • Find ways to use those skills in real-life situations
  • Learn through hands-on projects and experiments

The Title I Program needs you to help:

• Determine program goals
• Plan and carry out programs
• Evaluate programs
• Work with your child at home and even in school, as a volunteer

The annual Title I meeting is the place to start and you’re invited! It’s the perfect time to:

• Learn more about Title I
• Learn more about your rights and responsibilities as a Title I parent
• Learn more about parenting skills workshops
• Meet other parents and teachers
   

Dear Parents: 

We are pleased to notify you that in accordance with the Every Student Succeeds Act of 2015, you have the right to request information regarding the professional qualifications of your child’s teacher. Specifically, you may request the following:

Whether the teacher has met State qualification and licensing criteria for the grade levels and subject areas in which the teacher provides instruction.

Whether the teacher is teaching under emergency or other provisional status through which State qualification or licensing criteria has been waived.

The baccalaureate degree major of the teacher or any other graduate certification or degree held by the teacher, and the field of discipline of the certification or degree. 

Whether the child is provided services by paraprofessionals and, if so, their qualifications. 

If you would like to receive this information, please complete the top portion of the enclosed form, and return the form to your child’s school. Should you have any questions, feel free to contact Mrs. Sarah Kimmel at (334) 468-5805, and she will be happy to assist you. 

Sincerely,

Sherry Huckaby
Principal

PARENTS RIGHT-TO-KNOW

(Teacher Qualifications • Not-Highly-Qualified Status)

Title I   Section 1111 (h)(6)

(6) PARENTS RIGHT-TO-KNOW-

(A)  QUALIFICATIONS- At the beginning of each school year, a local educational agency that receives funds under this part shall notify the parents of each student attending any school receiving funds under this part that the parents may request, and the agency will provide the parents on request (and in a timely manner), information regarding the professional qualifications of the student's classroom teachers, including, at a minimum, the following:

(i) Whether the teacher has met State qualification and licensing criteria for the grade levels and subject areas in which the teacher provides instruction.

(ii) Whether the teacher is teaching under emergency or other provisional status through which State qualification or licensing criteria have been waived.

(iii) The baccalaureate degree major of the teacher and any other graduate certification or degree held by the teacher, and the field of discipline of the certification or degree.

(iv) Whether the child is provided services by paraprofessionals and, if so, their qualifications.

(B)  ADDITIONAL INFORMATION- In addition to the information that parents may request under subparagraph (A), a school that receives funds under this part shall provide to each individual parent—

(i)  information on the level of achievement of the parent's child in each of the State academic assessments as required under this part; and

(ii) timely notice that the parent's child has been assigned, or has been taught for four or more consecutive weeks by a teacher who is not highly qualified.

(C)  FORMAT- The notice and information provided to parents under this paragraph shall be in an understandable and uniform format and, to the extent practicable, provided in a language that the parents can understand.