Hawthorne Student Parent Handbook 2016-2017 | Page 17

Hawthorne School Parent-Student Handbook 2016-2017 FAMILY INVOLVEMENT Research has shown that family involvement is the most important factor in a student‘s success. Families are encouraged to be involved in their child‘s education. If you would like to talk to your child‘s teacher, please send in a note or call the voice mail system at (201) 8621200 or the school office at (201) 833-5540. Teachers also communicate with families through electronic bulletin boards, called eBoards. The Hawthorne School eBoards can be accessed by clicking the eBoards tab on the District‘s home page: www.teaneckschools.org. The Parent Teacher Association encourages families to attend its meetings and to become an active member of this organization which supports our school. TRANSPORTATION Children who live more than 1.3 miles from school are entitled to bus transportation pursuant to Board of Education policy. Children who are walkers may not ride the buses (for insurance reasons). Children must have prior written parent consent to alter their dismissal routine. If we do not have written permission, children will be directed to their regular routine. All buses have seat belts. Please tell your child that wearing the seat belt is required - it could save his/her life! Please check your monthly calendar for 12:30 early dismissals to assure your child will be met at the bus stop. HEALTH SERVICES A two-sided emergency form is sent home on the first day of school. Parents or guardians are required to fill out both sides and sign the form. Please return the card promptly and update the information throughout the year. The school staff uses this information to call parents/guardians in an emergency. The staff must be able to reach you, or the person you designate, during the school day. PHYSICAL EXAMINATIONS The NJ Department of Education and the NJ Department of Health and Senior Services requires notification to parents/guardians of the importance of obtaining physical examinations at least once during each of your child‘s developmental stages. For the Hawthorne School population, this means that it is recommended for your child to have at least one physical between first and fourth grade. However, yearly physicals are beneficial in teaching your child the importance of regular screening and early detection of any health issue that may arise in his/her future. A yearly physical examination is strongly encouraged. 17