fairland elementary school · the fairland parent-teacher association ... such as parent meetings,...
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FAIRLAND ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
14315 Fairdale Road bull Silver Spring Maryland 20905
Phone 240-740-0640 bull Fax 301-989-5769
August 2016
Dear Fairland Families
We are extremely excited to welcome you back to school in the a few short weeks Our
schoolrsquos leadership team has worked hard this summer to help put plans processes and
procedures in place that will lead us towards excellence Our goal is to continually improve
our ability to meet the needs of all students Although we have made some gains in our
studentsrsquo overall academic performance we will not be satisfied until every student in our
school meets high standards As with every year we see the possibilities for growth new
plans and ways to implement new ideas We are committed to ensuring our students
receive a high quality education We look forward to building more relationships with
families this upcoming year We canrsquot wait to see you at school wide events and in the
school building This letter provides you with information about the opening days of
school Montgomery County Public Schoolrsquos calendar some important policies and the
bus schedules Keep it handy as it will answer many of the questions you may have as the
school year begins
New We have new phone contact numbers for Fairland Elementary School this year In
addition to new office numbers families will be able to dial directly to the health room and
cafeteria Please post these numbers so that you may easily locate them when needed
Main School Number 2407400640 Health Room Number 2407400642
Cafeteria Number 2407400644
Falcon Staff Changes For The Upcoming Year
Falcons Joining the Nest We are excited to welcome several new and experienced staff
members who will join the Falconrsquos Nest
Dawn Traub ndash Heat Start Teacher
Jessica Scheerer ndash PEP Teacher (new class)
Catriona Sutton ndash First Grade Teacher
Kristen Rub ndash Third Grade Teacher
Ryan White ndash Third Grade Teacher
Megan Herman ndash Fourth Grade Teacher
Kimberly Barger ndash Fifth Grade Teacher
Erin Link ndash Academic InterventionPart Time - Math
Danielle Sullivan ndash ESOL Teacher
Nathan Berry ndash PE TeacherPart Time
Tedra Gray ndash Reading Specialist
Valerie Straus ndash Music Teacher
David Wolff ndash Art TeacherPart Time
Falcons Who Have Left the Nest We wish them the best for the upcoming school year
Jenny Smith ndash Second Grade Teacher at Fox Chapel Elementary School
Brittany Johnson - former Music Teacher and Drama Club Sponsor
Chelsea Massari ndash Second Grade Teacher in Chicago Illinois
Beth Mack ndash Reading Specialist at Sherwood Elementary School
Bonnie Louden ndash Retired Academic Intervention Teacher with 48 years of service
Falcons Who Have Changed Positions and Grade Levels Within the School
Brenton Skolaski ndash Second Grade Teacher and Team Leader
Patricia Ysern ndash Second Grade Teacher
Dawn Hester ndash Academic Intervention Teacher
Open House
Fairlandrsquos Open House will be held on Friday August 26th from 300 pm ndash 400 pm All
parents and students are invited to come meet their teacher and visit the classroom
Students must be accompanied by an adult Class Lists will be posted by noon in the front
window on Friday August 26th
Studentsrsquo First Day
The first day of school for students in Kindergarten through Grade 5 is Monday August
29th The instructional day for students begins at 925 am and ends at 350 pm Students arriving
after the 925 am bell are considered tardy and must be signed in by an adult at the front office
In the morning students are admitted to classrooms at 900 am Students should not be dropped
off at school before 900 am There will be no supervision for students before that time
Students in Grades 1 - 5 When students come to school on Monday August 29th they
should report to their new classroom for this year 2016-2017 There will be extra staff to
help direct students
Kindergarten Staff members will greet the children attending kindergarten in the hall
and take them to their rooms on the first day of school August 29th A tag for
Kindergarten students will be provided at the Kindergarten Back to School Night on
Thursday August 25th Remember to have your childrsquos tag pinned on for the first day of
school on Monday August 29th
Back To School Night
Back to School Night for families of students in Kindergarten is scheduled for
Thursday August 25 2016 from 600 pm to 715 pm in the Media Center Fairland
Families will also have the opportunity to meet members of the 2016-2017 PTA Board
and receive information about membership and upcoming events
Back-to-School Night for families of students in Grades 1-5 is scheduled for
Wednesday September 7 2016 from 700 pm - 900 pm Families will have an
opportunity to visit homeroom classrooms During this time staff members will be
introduced and a variety of school-based initiatives and data will be shared Fairland
Families will also have the opportunity to meet members of the 2016-2017 PTA Board
and receive information about membership and upcoming events
The Fairland Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) welcomes all Fairland families to join
us in supporting our students staff school and community The PTA sponsors events
such as parent meetings school dances book fairs fundraisers cultural arts assemblies
and staff appreciation and also supports the school with funds to help pay for field trips
and other needs We hope every Fairland family will join us to help with this important
work You can become a PTA member by signing up at the PTA table at Back-to-School
Night or at other Fairland events You can also become a PTA member by attending one
of our general membership meetings to be held at 700 pm at Fairland on the following
dates October 4 2016 December 6 2016 February 7 2017 April 4 2017 and May 2
2017
Thursday August 25 Kindergarten Back-to-School Night 600 pm -715 pm
Friday August 26 OPEN HOUSE Kindergarten ndash Grade 5 300 pm ndash 400 pm
Monday August 29 First Day of School for Students in Kindergarten - Grade 5
1st Marking Period Begins
Monday September 5 Schools amp Offices are CLOSED Labor Day Holiday
Tuesday September 6 First Day of School for PEP Students
Wednesday September 7 Back-to-School Night for Students in Grades 1 ndash 5 700 pm ndash 900 pm
Monday September 12 School is CLOSED for Students Teacher Professional Day
Saturday September 17 PTA Back-to-School PICNIC
Friday September 30 EARLY RELEASE DAY FOR ALL STUDENTS 115 PM
Monday October 3 School is CLOSED for Students amp Teachers Rosh Hoshanah
Tuesday October 4 PTA Board Meeting 630 pm General PTA Meeting at 700 pm
Monday October 10 OPEN HOUSE for Parents 930 am ndash 1115 am Columbus Day
Wednesday October 12 School is CLOSED for Students amp Teachers Yom Kippur
Friday November 4 1st Marking Period Ends
Monday November 7 School is CLOSED for Students Teacher Professional Day
Tuesday November 8 Schools amp Offices are CLOSED ELECTION DAY
Wednesday November 9 2nd Marking Period Begins
Thursday November 10 Early Release Day for Students in Grades K-5 115 pm for PARENT
CONFERENCES No School for Pre-K amp Head Start
Friday November 11 Early Release Day for Students in Grades K-5 115 pm for PARENT
CONFERENCES No School for Pre-K amp Head Start
In closing if you are new to Fairland Elementary School we welcome you and your family
to our community if you are returning we look forward to working with you and your
child again this year We pride ourselves on building positive relationships high quality
instruction and our commitment to continuous improvement We look forward to
establishing a partnership with your family Enjoy your last days of summer We will see
you at the Open House on Friday August 26th at 300 pm
Best Regards
Lakeisha Lashley Stephanie Spencer
Principal Assistant Principal
Fairland Parent Handbook 2016 - 2017
ATTENDANCEABSENCES The Maryland State Department of Education has
clarified that ALL school absences MUST be accounted for with a written note or else be
counted as unexcused Parents are requested to call the school in the morning if their
child is not going to attend school that day and follow up with a note when the student
returns to school Parents may leave messages about absent students on the schools
answering machine when the school office is closed When you call to report an absence
please leave your childs name hisher teacher and the reason for the absence
Students are not permitted in school with fevers of 100 or higher Students must be
fever-free and vomit-free for 24 hours before returning to school
Students will be permitted to the extent possible and at the discretion of the teacher to
make up work missed during the period of an excused absence
Attendance at school is extremely important Research shows that there is a significant
relationship between consistent attendance and academic achievement The Maryland
State Department of Education has established standards for school attendance including
both lawful and unlawful absences As part of the Maryland School Assessment Program
all schools in the state of Maryland are monitored and evaluated on their attendance
records Students are expected to attend school regularly and be punctual
Students will be recorded as am absent if they arrive at school more than two
hours late
Students will be recorded as pm absent if they leave school more than two
hours early
Students will be recorded as either am absent or pm absent if they are absent
from school for more than two hours but less than four hours during the school
day
Students will be recorded as full-day absent if they are present for less than two
hours of the school day
Students will be recorded as full-day present if they are present for more than
four hours of the school day
If your child is absent tardy or needs to be dismissed early please send a note explaining
the reason This information is necessary for attendance coding purposes Vacation trips
are not considered excused or ldquolawfulrdquo absences According to State regulations the
following is a listing of ldquolawfulrdquo absences for elementary students
Death in the immediate family
Illness of the student
Court summons
Hazardous weather conditions
Observance of a religious holiday
State emergency
Suspension
Lack of authorized transportation
Other emergencies
BICYCLES ETC Students may ride a bicycle to school if written permission letter is sent
to the office A lock is needed in order to properly secure the bike to our rack The school
cannot assume responsibility for damaged or stolen bicycles It is important that parents
review bicycle safety and etiquette Bicycles are to be walked on school property Please
remember that Montgomery County law requires that all children 18 years of age or
younger wear bicycle helmets At no time are skateboards or inline skates to be used on
school property
BIRTHDAYS Birthdays may be celebrated with a special snacktreat donated by
parents of the birthday child (See Food Policy) Parents may select one of two ways to
celebrate their childrsquos birthday 1) Parents may contact their childrsquos teacher directly to
arrange a birthday celebration for approximately 10-15 minutes at the end of the
instructional day or 2) Parents take responsibility for handing out birthday treats during
their childrsquos lunch period (Note Teachers will not be available during the childrsquos lunch
time due to team planning)
BUS SCHEDULE Please read the enclosed schedule to determine the best (safest)
stop for your child For the first few days it is wise to be prepared for minor delays as the
new routes are established If there is a safety question please call us Families living in
the Fairdale community will have students walking to the school The patrols will be there
to help students proceed safely to school
CELL PHONES Fairland Elementary school students are NOT permitted to possess or
use portable communication devices on school grounds during the instructional day Such
devices may include but are not limited to portable pagers hand-held radios and cellular
telephones
CHECK IN AT OFFICE All visitors to the school -
parents grandparents volunteers everyone - must check in at the main office using the
Visitor Management System (VMS) Visitors must bring a photo ID that will be scanned
into our electronic system The VMS will provide visitors with a sticker This is to be done
before going anywhere in the building and before leaving the building It is extremely
important that we know who is in the school building at all times During emergency
evacuation drillsactual emergencies we must account for everyone All visitors and
volunteers must wear identification stickers while in the school building Although some
visitor faces may be familiar to staff it is still of importance that you are signed-in through
the VMS and wear a sticker We want everyone to feel safe and welcomed as they enter
our school building We believe that Fairland ES is a happy place when there are
consistent safe practices for all
CLASS PARTIES Class parties are held twice during the school year for special
celebrations Halloween and Valentines Day Parents who do not wish for their child to
participate in these or other celebrations including birthday observances should notify
the classroom teacher of their preference
DISCIPLINE POLICY A Student Discipline Policy will be sent home with each child
Parents are asked to read and discuss this policy with their child so that students can
continue to work in a safe and comfortable learning environment
DROPPING STUDENTS OFF AT SCHOOL The parent drop-off area has been
provided just outside of the schools side entrance Parents who drop their child off at
school or pick their child up in the afternoon should do so in that area No cars are
allowed in the bus circle (directly in front of the school) for safety reasons We request
that all drivers remain with their vehicles unless parked in marked spaces and that no car
be left to block the free flow of traffic entering the parking and drop off area If a student
is late an adult must walk the student into the main office and sign him or her in
EARLY DISMISSALS School is occasionally dismissed early due to adverse weather
conditions or mechanical failure (electricity water) at the school Students should know
where they are to go without having to call home if school is dismissed early for any
reason Early dismissals are announced on local media stations Planned early release
days for professional meetings and conferences are listed in the school calendar
ENROLLING STUDENTS New students are enrolled at the school by having their
parents or guardian complete enrollment forms at the school office Immunization
information birth certificate and proof of residency for each student new to Fairland
must be on file at the school before the child can attend the school Strict enforcement of
all residency policies will be in effect at all times Any questions regarding residency in the
Fairland neighborhood will be investigated
EMERGENCY CLOSINGS School is occasionally closed all day due to unsafe weather
conditions or mechanical problems in the school Announcements are made over local
media stations during the mornings of unscheduled closings Parents are asked to listen
to the radio or TV for information about school closings Please do not call the school for
this information Emergency closings are also announced on the MCPS information line
at (301) 279-3673
EVACUATION PLANS In the event of an emergency where we must evacuate the
building leave school grounds and cannot return to the building our emergency
evacuation location will again be
Paint Branch High School (Cafeteria)
14121 Old Columbia Pike
Burtonsville MD 20866
301-989-5600
Banneker Middle School
14800 Perrywood Drive
Burtonsville MD 20866
301-989-5747
All students and staff would proceed to this location where they would wait for
transportation to deliver the students home MCPS personnel would assist us in having
all school buses pick-up the students from this location and help in safely dealing with
the emergency
FOOD POLICY It is the policy of the Montgomery County Public Schools Board of
Education that only store-bought pre-packaged food be brought into the classroom for
parties snacks etc While everyone loves the idea of home-baked goods there is no way
to control the quality or contents of the food unless it is store-bought with required
labeling Some children have allergies and are sensitive to even traces of allergens in food
Please avoid foods that contain nuts
HEALTH ROOM A health technician is on duty from 900 am to 330 pm each school
day It is important for us to have every childs emergency information on file so that we
may contact parents quickly if necessary If your home cell or work telephone number
changes please let us know Students who become ill at school may be picked up in the
Health Room and should be signed out in the Health Room Please feel free to contact
Ms Penn Fairlandrsquos Health Technician directly at 2407400642
ILLNESS - See student absences
LOST AND FOUND A lost and found area is located in the recess hallway by the
stairwell for items that have been misplaced by students
LUNCH LOANS The National School Lunch program does not permit the cafeteria
to loan money or extend credit to those without money for lunch All students are
encouraged to have sufficient money in their SNAP accounts to cover breakfastlunch
purchases desired or to bring the change needed for their purchases
LUNCH PRICES
elementary lunch = $255 breakfast = $130 milk = $60
reduced-price lunch = $40 reduced-price breakfast = $00
LUNCH PROGRAM Lunches may be brought or purchased at school beginning with
the first day A computerized cash register system is used in the cafeteria Each student is
assigned an account which is accessed by a Personalized Identification Number (PIN)
Students returning to our school will use their PIN from last year Students new to our
school will receive their new PINs on the first day of school This is a debit system in which
students may choose to make deposits into an account At mealtime the computer
records food purchases and deducts them from the account when the student enters
hisher PIN on the keypad Students who choose to not pay in advance still enter their
PINs and then pay by cash We strongly suggest that deposits be made in advance
Checks made out to Fairland School Cafeteria may be brought in throughout the year
Your childs name must be written on the check The use of this program will enhance
the speed and smoothness of the lunch process and should add to the time that students
have to eat their lunch When accounts become low a reminder letter will be sent home
so additional money can be deposited into the childs account for future use Please feel
free to contact Ms Golden Fairlandrsquos Food Service Manager directly at 2407400644
Under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act a student may be entitled to receive menu
substitutions of texture modifications under the school lunch program This entitlement
occurs when a doctor determines that a child has an impairment which substantially limits
one or more major life activities A signed statement from the students doctor must
verify the existence of the students handicapping condition and an indication that the
handicap restricts the students diet If the handicap prevents the student from eating the
regular school meals meal substitutions for that child will be made at no extra charge If
you believe your child needs substitutions please contact the school office
LUNCH AND RECESS Students have 30-minute lunch periods and 30-minute recess
periods each day except for early dismissal days Students will have recess outdoors
unless it is raining or the temperature is below 320 F They should dress accordingly on
days when the weather is windy or cold All students are expected to go outside on
outdoor recess days unless they have a note from their physician
Some students will have recess before they go to lunch Many Montgomery County
Schools are using this model and it has been successful for student behavior and
enjoyment By having recess before lunch students make better choices about what they
eat They eat more and always drink their fluids Itrsquos beneficial and helps students return
to the classrooms and ready to learn with a positive attitude
MEDICATIONS Parents are encouraged to administer medications to their children
at home whenever possible No medication will be administered in school or during
school-sponsored activities without written authorization from the parentguardian and
a physicians written order Any prescribed medication that needs to be administered at
school must be in the original bottle and must be accompanied by MCPS form 525-13
(Authorization to Administer Prescribed Medication) All medications must be hand
delivered to the school by a parent Under no circumstances will school personnel
administer medications brought to school by a student Over-the-counter medications
must be accompanied by a physicians note to be administered by the health technician
Please do not send cough drops throat drops vitamins etc to school with your child
Please feel free to contact Ms Penn Fairlandrsquos Health Technician directly at 2407400642
OFFICE HOURS The school office is open from 830 am until 430 pm each school
day An answering machine will take messages during non-school hours
PARENT COMMUNICATIONS Regular communications from the school should
be expected to arrive home with the students These will include teachers notices and
announcements as appropriate A phone and email message will be sent to parents
weekly through our Connect Ed system
PICKING STUDENTS UP FROM SCHOOL Once students have arrived at school
they will be released only to their parents or legal guardians All students leaving school
before the end of the school day must be signed out from the main office by their parents
or legal guardian If parents want their child to be picked up at school at any time by
anyone else including siblings and grandparents the parents must send a note to the
school stating their wishes and the name of the person who will pick up the child The
person picking up the child must present picture identification to the school office In
order to maintain safety at the end of the instructional day students will not be
called out of class for dismissal after 310 pm
POSITIVE BEHAVIORAL INTERVENTIONS AND SUPPORTS (PBIS) Fairland will continue implementing the PBIS program this year PBIS is a behavior
intervention program that focuses on pre-teaching reinforcing and rewarding positive
student behaviors It is a school-wide systematic approach to setting high expectations
for student behavior For the 2016-2017 our School Expectations are I CAN BE SAFE I
CAN BE READY and I CAN BE RESPONSIBLE Our students will earn soar slips for their
good choices When students receive Soar Slips it will allow them to earn special
privileges and rewards We believe this program will allow students to be rewarded for
their positive acts
PTA MEETINGS PTA activities are scheduled periodically throughout the year and
provide opportunities for families to come together at the school for information
entertainment andor socialization For the 2016-2017 school year PTA Executive Board
Meetings will be held at 630 pm followed by PTA General Meetings at 700 pm The Fall
2016 dates for PTA Executive Board and General Meetings are October 4th and
December 6th All parents are invited to attend the PTA Board Meetings and we want to
see all Fairland Families at PTA General Meetings So mark your calendars for October 4th
at 630 pm and 700 pm for PTA right away
REPORT CARDS Report cards are sent home with students four times a year at the
end of each of the nine-week grading periods The dates for report card distribution will
be as follows
November 17 2016 April 19 2017
February 8 2017 June 27 2017 (mailed)
SCHOOL HOURS The instructional day for students begins at 925 am and ends at
350 pm Students arriving after the 925 am bell are considered tardy and must be signed
in by an adult at the front office In the morning students are admitted to classrooms at
900 am Students should not be dropped off at school before 900 am There will be no
supervision for students before that time
SCHOOL SUPPLIES Please refer to the attached student recommended supply list
for the 2016 - 2017 school year at Fairland Elementary School
TOYS We request that students NOT bring their personal toys balls stuffed animals
trading cards electronic games etc to school We cannot be responsible for these items
and they are not needed for the instructional program or recess
TRANSPORTATION Most of Fairlandrsquos students are bused to school Students are
picked up at designated bus stops no more than one mile from their home Parents are
responsible for maintaining discipline and safety at bus stops Inclement weather traffic
accidents and road construction can cause delays in the bus routes so the pick-up and
drop-off times of each bus may vary somewhat from day to day Questions about the
buses or bus routes should be directed to Sinisa Pavlovic MCPS Randolph Depot Manager
at the Transportation Office at (301) 929-6906 No child may ride a bus other than that
which is assigned Children wishing to ride a bus not regularly assigned to them must
have a note from their parent that is signed by office personnel Office personnel will
make a final decision based on space and student behaviors when allowing students to
ride a bus that is NOT assigned to them
VISITORS MCPS Policy requires that all visitors without exception must check in with
the Front Office staff before proceeding into the building This policy is enforced for the
safety of the students Visitors sign in and obtain a sticker from the visitor Management
System (VMS) Parents bringing items for their child (lunch band instruments homework
etc) will be asked to leave the items with front office personnel so that instructional time
remains uninterrupted We at Fairland have an open door policy We encourage families
to notify the teacher of your desire to visit in order to promote the smooth flow of the
instructional program
Montgomery County Public School Initiatives STRATEGIC PLANNING FRAMEWORK The Montgomery County Board of Education has adopted a new Strategic Planning
Framework that will guide the work of MCPS schools and offices in the years to come The
Framework Building Our Future Together Students Staff and Community incorporates
the three competencies that students need for success in the 21st centurymdashacademic
excellence creative problem solving and social emotional learningmdashas well as a
continued commitment to operational excellence The Framework describes what
students should know and be able to do in the three competency areas as well as specific
actions staff parents and community members should take to support students Parents
and staff will receive information about the Strategic Planning Framework at the
beginning of the school year but can learn more now by visiting the MCPS website at
wwwmontgomeryschoolsmdorgframework or search Strategic Planning Framework
Estructura de Planificacioacuten Estrateacutegica El Consejo de Educacioacuten (Board of Education) de Montgomery County ha adoptado una
nueva Estructura de Planificacioacuten Estrateacutegica que guiaraacute el trabajo de las escuelas y las
oficinas de MCPS en los proacuteximos antildeos La Estructura Construyendo Nuestro Futuro
Juntos Estudiantes Empleados y Comunidad incorpora las tres aacutereas de competencia
que los estudiantes necesitan para ser exitosos en el Siglo XXImdashexcelencia acadeacutemica
resolucioacuten creativa de problemas y aprendizaje social y emocionalmdashcomo asiacute un
compromiso continuo hacia la excelencia operativa La Estructura describe lo que los
estudiantes deberiacutean saber y ser capaces de hacer en las tres aacutereas de competencia asiacute
como tambieacuten acciones especiacuteficas que el personal los padres y los miembros de la
comunidad deben tomar para apoyar a los estudiantes Los padres y el personal recibiraacuten
informacioacuten sobre la Estructura de Planificacioacuten Estrateacutegica al comienzo del ciclo escolar
pero ya pueden aprender maacutes visitando la paacutegina de Internet de la Estructura de MCPS
en wwwmontgomeryschoolsmdorgframeworkes o busque Strategic Planning
Framework
Curriculum 20 All grade levels continue with implementation of Curriculum 20 This curriculum is shifting
the way in which we approach our instruction with an emphasis on depth of study versus
covering topics Please see attached for information from our superintendent Dr Starr
on the curriculum implementation and what you can expect on pages x and x of this letter
Online Library Search System Our library media center continues to use a centralized K-12 resource management tool
This tool helps our library media center work more efficiently while creating engaging and
collaborative learning environments promoting and supporting student achievement
The system is called Destiny Library Manager (Destiny) The implementation of Destiny
will enable a stronger library media program-classroom connection and support the
library media specialistrsquos role in helping students develop 21st century learning skills
Throughout the school year our library media staff members will guide students in using
the next-generation searching tool for todayrsquos digital natives Destiny contains powerful
tools to conduct research of print and digital resources
Report Card and Grading System Standards based grading and reporting will continue to be used in all schools this year
The goal of this grading format is to give families a clear understanding of your childrsquos
progress toward end of year grade level expectations The following chart below explains
the meaning of the grades
Grade Description Comment
ES Exceptional at the grade level standard Not used in
kindergarten
P Meets the grade level standard by demonstrating
proficiency of the content or processes for the
measurement topic
I In progress toward meeting the grade level standard
N Not yet making progress or making minimal progress
toward meeting the grade level standard
M Missing data-No grade recorded
NEP Not English Proficient may be used for level 1 or 2 ESOL
student for no more than two marking periods
IMPORTANT Please note these descriptions do not translate in to the old letter grades
(eg an ES is not equivalent to an ldquoOrdquo or ldquoArdquo) Any child that is working on grade level
indicators and making progress is likely to receive a report of ldquoPrdquo or ldquoIrdquo on the report card
Report cards are cumulative and will be used over the four marking periods as students
work toward end of year mastery Measurement topics are a group of related content
skills or processes in a subject For example foundational skills are a measurement topic
in the category of reading and geometry is a measurement topic in math
Learning skills will also be updated to include personal and social development skills and
thinking and academic success skills Personal and Social Development Skills are the
effort and behaviors that affect learning This section will provide information that
describes what your child is doing that helps or hinders hisher learning Thinking and
Academic Success Skills (TASS) permeate instruction in all content areas of the MCPS
PreK-5 Integrated Curriculum The chart below explains the meaning of the codes for
Personal and Social Development Skills and Thinking and Academic Success Skills
Code Description
DEM Demonstrating
PRG Progressing
N Not yet evident
Look for more information from your childrsquos teacher about the format for grading and
reporting throughout the coming year
MCPS GIVE BACKpacks Campaign Help MCPS make sure all students are ready for the new school year by donating to the
MCPS GIVE BACKpacks campaign The GIVE BACKpacks drive was created in response to
the growing need in Montgomery County to help families with the basic school supplies
students need at the start of the school year A backpack filled with school supplies costs
$10 and donors have the option to sponsor one student a classroom a grade level or an
entire school The backpacks will be distributed to students in need in schools at the
beginning of the school year Visit wwwmcpsgivebackpacksorg to learn more or to
donate
Campantildea GIVE BACKpacks de MCPS
Ayude a MCPS a asegurarse de que todos los estudiantes esteacuten listos para el nuevo ciclo
escolar donando a la Campantildea GIVE BACKpacks de MCPS La campantildea GIVE
BACKpacks fue creada en respuesta a la necesidad creciente en el condado de
Montgomery County de ayudar a familias con los uacutetiles escolares baacutesicos que los
estudiantes necesitan al principio del ciclo escolar Una mochila llena de uacutetiles escolares
cuesta $10 y los donantes tienen la opcioacuten de patrocinar a un estudiante individual a
toda una clase a un grado escolar o a toda una escuela Las mochilas se distribuiraacuten a
estudiantes necesitados al principio del ciclo escolar Para maacutes informacioacuten o para hacer
una donacioacuten visite wwwmcpsgivebackpacksorg
Falcon Staff Changes For The Upcoming Year
Falcons Joining the Nest We are excited to welcome several new and experienced staff
members who will join the Falconrsquos Nest
Dawn Traub ndash Heat Start Teacher
Jessica Scheerer ndash PEP Teacher (new class)
Catriona Sutton ndash First Grade Teacher
Kristen Rub ndash Third Grade Teacher
Ryan White ndash Third Grade Teacher
Megan Herman ndash Fourth Grade Teacher
Kimberly Barger ndash Fifth Grade Teacher
Erin Link ndash Academic InterventionPart Time - Math
Danielle Sullivan ndash ESOL Teacher
Nathan Berry ndash PE TeacherPart Time
Tedra Gray ndash Reading Specialist
Valerie Straus ndash Music Teacher
David Wolff ndash Art TeacherPart Time
Falcons Who Have Left the Nest We wish them the best for the upcoming school year
Jenny Smith ndash Second Grade Teacher at Fox Chapel Elementary School
Brittany Johnson - former Music Teacher and Drama Club Sponsor
Chelsea Massari ndash Second Grade Teacher in Chicago Illinois
Beth Mack ndash Reading Specialist at Sherwood Elementary School
Bonnie Louden ndash Retired Academic Intervention Teacher with 48 years of service
Falcons Who Have Changed Positions and Grade Levels Within the School
Brenton Skolaski ndash Second Grade Teacher and Team Leader
Patricia Ysern ndash Second Grade Teacher
Dawn Hester ndash Academic Intervention Teacher
Open House
Fairlandrsquos Open House will be held on Friday August 26th from 300 pm ndash 400 pm All
parents and students are invited to come meet their teacher and visit the classroom
Students must be accompanied by an adult Class Lists will be posted by noon in the front
window on Friday August 26th
Studentsrsquo First Day
The first day of school for students in Kindergarten through Grade 5 is Monday August
29th The instructional day for students begins at 925 am and ends at 350 pm Students arriving
after the 925 am bell are considered tardy and must be signed in by an adult at the front office
In the morning students are admitted to classrooms at 900 am Students should not be dropped
off at school before 900 am There will be no supervision for students before that time
Students in Grades 1 - 5 When students come to school on Monday August 29th they
should report to their new classroom for this year 2016-2017 There will be extra staff to
help direct students
Kindergarten Staff members will greet the children attending kindergarten in the hall
and take them to their rooms on the first day of school August 29th A tag for
Kindergarten students will be provided at the Kindergarten Back to School Night on
Thursday August 25th Remember to have your childrsquos tag pinned on for the first day of
school on Monday August 29th
Back To School Night
Back to School Night for families of students in Kindergarten is scheduled for
Thursday August 25 2016 from 600 pm to 715 pm in the Media Center Fairland
Families will also have the opportunity to meet members of the 2016-2017 PTA Board
and receive information about membership and upcoming events
Back-to-School Night for families of students in Grades 1-5 is scheduled for
Wednesday September 7 2016 from 700 pm - 900 pm Families will have an
opportunity to visit homeroom classrooms During this time staff members will be
introduced and a variety of school-based initiatives and data will be shared Fairland
Families will also have the opportunity to meet members of the 2016-2017 PTA Board
and receive information about membership and upcoming events
The Fairland Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) welcomes all Fairland families to join
us in supporting our students staff school and community The PTA sponsors events
such as parent meetings school dances book fairs fundraisers cultural arts assemblies
and staff appreciation and also supports the school with funds to help pay for field trips
and other needs We hope every Fairland family will join us to help with this important
work You can become a PTA member by signing up at the PTA table at Back-to-School
Night or at other Fairland events You can also become a PTA member by attending one
of our general membership meetings to be held at 700 pm at Fairland on the following
dates October 4 2016 December 6 2016 February 7 2017 April 4 2017 and May 2
2017
Thursday August 25 Kindergarten Back-to-School Night 600 pm -715 pm
Friday August 26 OPEN HOUSE Kindergarten ndash Grade 5 300 pm ndash 400 pm
Monday August 29 First Day of School for Students in Kindergarten - Grade 5
1st Marking Period Begins
Monday September 5 Schools amp Offices are CLOSED Labor Day Holiday
Tuesday September 6 First Day of School for PEP Students
Wednesday September 7 Back-to-School Night for Students in Grades 1 ndash 5 700 pm ndash 900 pm
Monday September 12 School is CLOSED for Students Teacher Professional Day
Saturday September 17 PTA Back-to-School PICNIC
Friday September 30 EARLY RELEASE DAY FOR ALL STUDENTS 115 PM
Monday October 3 School is CLOSED for Students amp Teachers Rosh Hoshanah
Tuesday October 4 PTA Board Meeting 630 pm General PTA Meeting at 700 pm
Monday October 10 OPEN HOUSE for Parents 930 am ndash 1115 am Columbus Day
Wednesday October 12 School is CLOSED for Students amp Teachers Yom Kippur
Friday November 4 1st Marking Period Ends
Monday November 7 School is CLOSED for Students Teacher Professional Day
Tuesday November 8 Schools amp Offices are CLOSED ELECTION DAY
Wednesday November 9 2nd Marking Period Begins
Thursday November 10 Early Release Day for Students in Grades K-5 115 pm for PARENT
CONFERENCES No School for Pre-K amp Head Start
Friday November 11 Early Release Day for Students in Grades K-5 115 pm for PARENT
CONFERENCES No School for Pre-K amp Head Start
In closing if you are new to Fairland Elementary School we welcome you and your family
to our community if you are returning we look forward to working with you and your
child again this year We pride ourselves on building positive relationships high quality
instruction and our commitment to continuous improvement We look forward to
establishing a partnership with your family Enjoy your last days of summer We will see
you at the Open House on Friday August 26th at 300 pm
Best Regards
Lakeisha Lashley Stephanie Spencer
Principal Assistant Principal
Fairland Parent Handbook 2016 - 2017
ATTENDANCEABSENCES The Maryland State Department of Education has
clarified that ALL school absences MUST be accounted for with a written note or else be
counted as unexcused Parents are requested to call the school in the morning if their
child is not going to attend school that day and follow up with a note when the student
returns to school Parents may leave messages about absent students on the schools
answering machine when the school office is closed When you call to report an absence
please leave your childs name hisher teacher and the reason for the absence
Students are not permitted in school with fevers of 100 or higher Students must be
fever-free and vomit-free for 24 hours before returning to school
Students will be permitted to the extent possible and at the discretion of the teacher to
make up work missed during the period of an excused absence
Attendance at school is extremely important Research shows that there is a significant
relationship between consistent attendance and academic achievement The Maryland
State Department of Education has established standards for school attendance including
both lawful and unlawful absences As part of the Maryland School Assessment Program
all schools in the state of Maryland are monitored and evaluated on their attendance
records Students are expected to attend school regularly and be punctual
Students will be recorded as am absent if they arrive at school more than two
hours late
Students will be recorded as pm absent if they leave school more than two
hours early
Students will be recorded as either am absent or pm absent if they are absent
from school for more than two hours but less than four hours during the school
day
Students will be recorded as full-day absent if they are present for less than two
hours of the school day
Students will be recorded as full-day present if they are present for more than
four hours of the school day
If your child is absent tardy or needs to be dismissed early please send a note explaining
the reason This information is necessary for attendance coding purposes Vacation trips
are not considered excused or ldquolawfulrdquo absences According to State regulations the
following is a listing of ldquolawfulrdquo absences for elementary students
Death in the immediate family
Illness of the student
Court summons
Hazardous weather conditions
Observance of a religious holiday
State emergency
Suspension
Lack of authorized transportation
Other emergencies
BICYCLES ETC Students may ride a bicycle to school if written permission letter is sent
to the office A lock is needed in order to properly secure the bike to our rack The school
cannot assume responsibility for damaged or stolen bicycles It is important that parents
review bicycle safety and etiquette Bicycles are to be walked on school property Please
remember that Montgomery County law requires that all children 18 years of age or
younger wear bicycle helmets At no time are skateboards or inline skates to be used on
school property
BIRTHDAYS Birthdays may be celebrated with a special snacktreat donated by
parents of the birthday child (See Food Policy) Parents may select one of two ways to
celebrate their childrsquos birthday 1) Parents may contact their childrsquos teacher directly to
arrange a birthday celebration for approximately 10-15 minutes at the end of the
instructional day or 2) Parents take responsibility for handing out birthday treats during
their childrsquos lunch period (Note Teachers will not be available during the childrsquos lunch
time due to team planning)
BUS SCHEDULE Please read the enclosed schedule to determine the best (safest)
stop for your child For the first few days it is wise to be prepared for minor delays as the
new routes are established If there is a safety question please call us Families living in
the Fairdale community will have students walking to the school The patrols will be there
to help students proceed safely to school
CELL PHONES Fairland Elementary school students are NOT permitted to possess or
use portable communication devices on school grounds during the instructional day Such
devices may include but are not limited to portable pagers hand-held radios and cellular
telephones
CHECK IN AT OFFICE All visitors to the school -
parents grandparents volunteers everyone - must check in at the main office using the
Visitor Management System (VMS) Visitors must bring a photo ID that will be scanned
into our electronic system The VMS will provide visitors with a sticker This is to be done
before going anywhere in the building and before leaving the building It is extremely
important that we know who is in the school building at all times During emergency
evacuation drillsactual emergencies we must account for everyone All visitors and
volunteers must wear identification stickers while in the school building Although some
visitor faces may be familiar to staff it is still of importance that you are signed-in through
the VMS and wear a sticker We want everyone to feel safe and welcomed as they enter
our school building We believe that Fairland ES is a happy place when there are
consistent safe practices for all
CLASS PARTIES Class parties are held twice during the school year for special
celebrations Halloween and Valentines Day Parents who do not wish for their child to
participate in these or other celebrations including birthday observances should notify
the classroom teacher of their preference
DISCIPLINE POLICY A Student Discipline Policy will be sent home with each child
Parents are asked to read and discuss this policy with their child so that students can
continue to work in a safe and comfortable learning environment
DROPPING STUDENTS OFF AT SCHOOL The parent drop-off area has been
provided just outside of the schools side entrance Parents who drop their child off at
school or pick their child up in the afternoon should do so in that area No cars are
allowed in the bus circle (directly in front of the school) for safety reasons We request
that all drivers remain with their vehicles unless parked in marked spaces and that no car
be left to block the free flow of traffic entering the parking and drop off area If a student
is late an adult must walk the student into the main office and sign him or her in
EARLY DISMISSALS School is occasionally dismissed early due to adverse weather
conditions or mechanical failure (electricity water) at the school Students should know
where they are to go without having to call home if school is dismissed early for any
reason Early dismissals are announced on local media stations Planned early release
days for professional meetings and conferences are listed in the school calendar
ENROLLING STUDENTS New students are enrolled at the school by having their
parents or guardian complete enrollment forms at the school office Immunization
information birth certificate and proof of residency for each student new to Fairland
must be on file at the school before the child can attend the school Strict enforcement of
all residency policies will be in effect at all times Any questions regarding residency in the
Fairland neighborhood will be investigated
EMERGENCY CLOSINGS School is occasionally closed all day due to unsafe weather
conditions or mechanical problems in the school Announcements are made over local
media stations during the mornings of unscheduled closings Parents are asked to listen
to the radio or TV for information about school closings Please do not call the school for
this information Emergency closings are also announced on the MCPS information line
at (301) 279-3673
EVACUATION PLANS In the event of an emergency where we must evacuate the
building leave school grounds and cannot return to the building our emergency
evacuation location will again be
Paint Branch High School (Cafeteria)
14121 Old Columbia Pike
Burtonsville MD 20866
301-989-5600
Banneker Middle School
14800 Perrywood Drive
Burtonsville MD 20866
301-989-5747
All students and staff would proceed to this location where they would wait for
transportation to deliver the students home MCPS personnel would assist us in having
all school buses pick-up the students from this location and help in safely dealing with
the emergency
FOOD POLICY It is the policy of the Montgomery County Public Schools Board of
Education that only store-bought pre-packaged food be brought into the classroom for
parties snacks etc While everyone loves the idea of home-baked goods there is no way
to control the quality or contents of the food unless it is store-bought with required
labeling Some children have allergies and are sensitive to even traces of allergens in food
Please avoid foods that contain nuts
HEALTH ROOM A health technician is on duty from 900 am to 330 pm each school
day It is important for us to have every childs emergency information on file so that we
may contact parents quickly if necessary If your home cell or work telephone number
changes please let us know Students who become ill at school may be picked up in the
Health Room and should be signed out in the Health Room Please feel free to contact
Ms Penn Fairlandrsquos Health Technician directly at 2407400642
ILLNESS - See student absences
LOST AND FOUND A lost and found area is located in the recess hallway by the
stairwell for items that have been misplaced by students
LUNCH LOANS The National School Lunch program does not permit the cafeteria
to loan money or extend credit to those without money for lunch All students are
encouraged to have sufficient money in their SNAP accounts to cover breakfastlunch
purchases desired or to bring the change needed for their purchases
LUNCH PRICES
elementary lunch = $255 breakfast = $130 milk = $60
reduced-price lunch = $40 reduced-price breakfast = $00
LUNCH PROGRAM Lunches may be brought or purchased at school beginning with
the first day A computerized cash register system is used in the cafeteria Each student is
assigned an account which is accessed by a Personalized Identification Number (PIN)
Students returning to our school will use their PIN from last year Students new to our
school will receive their new PINs on the first day of school This is a debit system in which
students may choose to make deposits into an account At mealtime the computer
records food purchases and deducts them from the account when the student enters
hisher PIN on the keypad Students who choose to not pay in advance still enter their
PINs and then pay by cash We strongly suggest that deposits be made in advance
Checks made out to Fairland School Cafeteria may be brought in throughout the year
Your childs name must be written on the check The use of this program will enhance
the speed and smoothness of the lunch process and should add to the time that students
have to eat their lunch When accounts become low a reminder letter will be sent home
so additional money can be deposited into the childs account for future use Please feel
free to contact Ms Golden Fairlandrsquos Food Service Manager directly at 2407400644
Under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act a student may be entitled to receive menu
substitutions of texture modifications under the school lunch program This entitlement
occurs when a doctor determines that a child has an impairment which substantially limits
one or more major life activities A signed statement from the students doctor must
verify the existence of the students handicapping condition and an indication that the
handicap restricts the students diet If the handicap prevents the student from eating the
regular school meals meal substitutions for that child will be made at no extra charge If
you believe your child needs substitutions please contact the school office
LUNCH AND RECESS Students have 30-minute lunch periods and 30-minute recess
periods each day except for early dismissal days Students will have recess outdoors
unless it is raining or the temperature is below 320 F They should dress accordingly on
days when the weather is windy or cold All students are expected to go outside on
outdoor recess days unless they have a note from their physician
Some students will have recess before they go to lunch Many Montgomery County
Schools are using this model and it has been successful for student behavior and
enjoyment By having recess before lunch students make better choices about what they
eat They eat more and always drink their fluids Itrsquos beneficial and helps students return
to the classrooms and ready to learn with a positive attitude
MEDICATIONS Parents are encouraged to administer medications to their children
at home whenever possible No medication will be administered in school or during
school-sponsored activities without written authorization from the parentguardian and
a physicians written order Any prescribed medication that needs to be administered at
school must be in the original bottle and must be accompanied by MCPS form 525-13
(Authorization to Administer Prescribed Medication) All medications must be hand
delivered to the school by a parent Under no circumstances will school personnel
administer medications brought to school by a student Over-the-counter medications
must be accompanied by a physicians note to be administered by the health technician
Please do not send cough drops throat drops vitamins etc to school with your child
Please feel free to contact Ms Penn Fairlandrsquos Health Technician directly at 2407400642
OFFICE HOURS The school office is open from 830 am until 430 pm each school
day An answering machine will take messages during non-school hours
PARENT COMMUNICATIONS Regular communications from the school should
be expected to arrive home with the students These will include teachers notices and
announcements as appropriate A phone and email message will be sent to parents
weekly through our Connect Ed system
PICKING STUDENTS UP FROM SCHOOL Once students have arrived at school
they will be released only to their parents or legal guardians All students leaving school
before the end of the school day must be signed out from the main office by their parents
or legal guardian If parents want their child to be picked up at school at any time by
anyone else including siblings and grandparents the parents must send a note to the
school stating their wishes and the name of the person who will pick up the child The
person picking up the child must present picture identification to the school office In
order to maintain safety at the end of the instructional day students will not be
called out of class for dismissal after 310 pm
POSITIVE BEHAVIORAL INTERVENTIONS AND SUPPORTS (PBIS) Fairland will continue implementing the PBIS program this year PBIS is a behavior
intervention program that focuses on pre-teaching reinforcing and rewarding positive
student behaviors It is a school-wide systematic approach to setting high expectations
for student behavior For the 2016-2017 our School Expectations are I CAN BE SAFE I
CAN BE READY and I CAN BE RESPONSIBLE Our students will earn soar slips for their
good choices When students receive Soar Slips it will allow them to earn special
privileges and rewards We believe this program will allow students to be rewarded for
their positive acts
PTA MEETINGS PTA activities are scheduled periodically throughout the year and
provide opportunities for families to come together at the school for information
entertainment andor socialization For the 2016-2017 school year PTA Executive Board
Meetings will be held at 630 pm followed by PTA General Meetings at 700 pm The Fall
2016 dates for PTA Executive Board and General Meetings are October 4th and
December 6th All parents are invited to attend the PTA Board Meetings and we want to
see all Fairland Families at PTA General Meetings So mark your calendars for October 4th
at 630 pm and 700 pm for PTA right away
REPORT CARDS Report cards are sent home with students four times a year at the
end of each of the nine-week grading periods The dates for report card distribution will
be as follows
November 17 2016 April 19 2017
February 8 2017 June 27 2017 (mailed)
SCHOOL HOURS The instructional day for students begins at 925 am and ends at
350 pm Students arriving after the 925 am bell are considered tardy and must be signed
in by an adult at the front office In the morning students are admitted to classrooms at
900 am Students should not be dropped off at school before 900 am There will be no
supervision for students before that time
SCHOOL SUPPLIES Please refer to the attached student recommended supply list
for the 2016 - 2017 school year at Fairland Elementary School
TOYS We request that students NOT bring their personal toys balls stuffed animals
trading cards electronic games etc to school We cannot be responsible for these items
and they are not needed for the instructional program or recess
TRANSPORTATION Most of Fairlandrsquos students are bused to school Students are
picked up at designated bus stops no more than one mile from their home Parents are
responsible for maintaining discipline and safety at bus stops Inclement weather traffic
accidents and road construction can cause delays in the bus routes so the pick-up and
drop-off times of each bus may vary somewhat from day to day Questions about the
buses or bus routes should be directed to Sinisa Pavlovic MCPS Randolph Depot Manager
at the Transportation Office at (301) 929-6906 No child may ride a bus other than that
which is assigned Children wishing to ride a bus not regularly assigned to them must
have a note from their parent that is signed by office personnel Office personnel will
make a final decision based on space and student behaviors when allowing students to
ride a bus that is NOT assigned to them
VISITORS MCPS Policy requires that all visitors without exception must check in with
the Front Office staff before proceeding into the building This policy is enforced for the
safety of the students Visitors sign in and obtain a sticker from the visitor Management
System (VMS) Parents bringing items for their child (lunch band instruments homework
etc) will be asked to leave the items with front office personnel so that instructional time
remains uninterrupted We at Fairland have an open door policy We encourage families
to notify the teacher of your desire to visit in order to promote the smooth flow of the
instructional program
Montgomery County Public School Initiatives STRATEGIC PLANNING FRAMEWORK The Montgomery County Board of Education has adopted a new Strategic Planning
Framework that will guide the work of MCPS schools and offices in the years to come The
Framework Building Our Future Together Students Staff and Community incorporates
the three competencies that students need for success in the 21st centurymdashacademic
excellence creative problem solving and social emotional learningmdashas well as a
continued commitment to operational excellence The Framework describes what
students should know and be able to do in the three competency areas as well as specific
actions staff parents and community members should take to support students Parents
and staff will receive information about the Strategic Planning Framework at the
beginning of the school year but can learn more now by visiting the MCPS website at
wwwmontgomeryschoolsmdorgframework or search Strategic Planning Framework
Estructura de Planificacioacuten Estrateacutegica El Consejo de Educacioacuten (Board of Education) de Montgomery County ha adoptado una
nueva Estructura de Planificacioacuten Estrateacutegica que guiaraacute el trabajo de las escuelas y las
oficinas de MCPS en los proacuteximos antildeos La Estructura Construyendo Nuestro Futuro
Juntos Estudiantes Empleados y Comunidad incorpora las tres aacutereas de competencia
que los estudiantes necesitan para ser exitosos en el Siglo XXImdashexcelencia acadeacutemica
resolucioacuten creativa de problemas y aprendizaje social y emocionalmdashcomo asiacute un
compromiso continuo hacia la excelencia operativa La Estructura describe lo que los
estudiantes deberiacutean saber y ser capaces de hacer en las tres aacutereas de competencia asiacute
como tambieacuten acciones especiacuteficas que el personal los padres y los miembros de la
comunidad deben tomar para apoyar a los estudiantes Los padres y el personal recibiraacuten
informacioacuten sobre la Estructura de Planificacioacuten Estrateacutegica al comienzo del ciclo escolar
pero ya pueden aprender maacutes visitando la paacutegina de Internet de la Estructura de MCPS
en wwwmontgomeryschoolsmdorgframeworkes o busque Strategic Planning
Framework
Curriculum 20 All grade levels continue with implementation of Curriculum 20 This curriculum is shifting
the way in which we approach our instruction with an emphasis on depth of study versus
covering topics Please see attached for information from our superintendent Dr Starr
on the curriculum implementation and what you can expect on pages x and x of this letter
Online Library Search System Our library media center continues to use a centralized K-12 resource management tool
This tool helps our library media center work more efficiently while creating engaging and
collaborative learning environments promoting and supporting student achievement
The system is called Destiny Library Manager (Destiny) The implementation of Destiny
will enable a stronger library media program-classroom connection and support the
library media specialistrsquos role in helping students develop 21st century learning skills
Throughout the school year our library media staff members will guide students in using
the next-generation searching tool for todayrsquos digital natives Destiny contains powerful
tools to conduct research of print and digital resources
Report Card and Grading System Standards based grading and reporting will continue to be used in all schools this year
The goal of this grading format is to give families a clear understanding of your childrsquos
progress toward end of year grade level expectations The following chart below explains
the meaning of the grades
Grade Description Comment
ES Exceptional at the grade level standard Not used in
kindergarten
P Meets the grade level standard by demonstrating
proficiency of the content or processes for the
measurement topic
I In progress toward meeting the grade level standard
N Not yet making progress or making minimal progress
toward meeting the grade level standard
M Missing data-No grade recorded
NEP Not English Proficient may be used for level 1 or 2 ESOL
student for no more than two marking periods
IMPORTANT Please note these descriptions do not translate in to the old letter grades
(eg an ES is not equivalent to an ldquoOrdquo or ldquoArdquo) Any child that is working on grade level
indicators and making progress is likely to receive a report of ldquoPrdquo or ldquoIrdquo on the report card
Report cards are cumulative and will be used over the four marking periods as students
work toward end of year mastery Measurement topics are a group of related content
skills or processes in a subject For example foundational skills are a measurement topic
in the category of reading and geometry is a measurement topic in math
Learning skills will also be updated to include personal and social development skills and
thinking and academic success skills Personal and Social Development Skills are the
effort and behaviors that affect learning This section will provide information that
describes what your child is doing that helps or hinders hisher learning Thinking and
Academic Success Skills (TASS) permeate instruction in all content areas of the MCPS
PreK-5 Integrated Curriculum The chart below explains the meaning of the codes for
Personal and Social Development Skills and Thinking and Academic Success Skills
Code Description
DEM Demonstrating
PRG Progressing
N Not yet evident
Look for more information from your childrsquos teacher about the format for grading and
reporting throughout the coming year
MCPS GIVE BACKpacks Campaign Help MCPS make sure all students are ready for the new school year by donating to the
MCPS GIVE BACKpacks campaign The GIVE BACKpacks drive was created in response to
the growing need in Montgomery County to help families with the basic school supplies
students need at the start of the school year A backpack filled with school supplies costs
$10 and donors have the option to sponsor one student a classroom a grade level or an
entire school The backpacks will be distributed to students in need in schools at the
beginning of the school year Visit wwwmcpsgivebackpacksorg to learn more or to
donate
Campantildea GIVE BACKpacks de MCPS
Ayude a MCPS a asegurarse de que todos los estudiantes esteacuten listos para el nuevo ciclo
escolar donando a la Campantildea GIVE BACKpacks de MCPS La campantildea GIVE
BACKpacks fue creada en respuesta a la necesidad creciente en el condado de
Montgomery County de ayudar a familias con los uacutetiles escolares baacutesicos que los
estudiantes necesitan al principio del ciclo escolar Una mochila llena de uacutetiles escolares
cuesta $10 y los donantes tienen la opcioacuten de patrocinar a un estudiante individual a
toda una clase a un grado escolar o a toda una escuela Las mochilas se distribuiraacuten a
estudiantes necesitados al principio del ciclo escolar Para maacutes informacioacuten o para hacer
una donacioacuten visite wwwmcpsgivebackpacksorg
Open House
Fairlandrsquos Open House will be held on Friday August 26th from 300 pm ndash 400 pm All
parents and students are invited to come meet their teacher and visit the classroom
Students must be accompanied by an adult Class Lists will be posted by noon in the front
window on Friday August 26th
Studentsrsquo First Day
The first day of school for students in Kindergarten through Grade 5 is Monday August
29th The instructional day for students begins at 925 am and ends at 350 pm Students arriving
after the 925 am bell are considered tardy and must be signed in by an adult at the front office
In the morning students are admitted to classrooms at 900 am Students should not be dropped
off at school before 900 am There will be no supervision for students before that time
Students in Grades 1 - 5 When students come to school on Monday August 29th they
should report to their new classroom for this year 2016-2017 There will be extra staff to
help direct students
Kindergarten Staff members will greet the children attending kindergarten in the hall
and take them to their rooms on the first day of school August 29th A tag for
Kindergarten students will be provided at the Kindergarten Back to School Night on
Thursday August 25th Remember to have your childrsquos tag pinned on for the first day of
school on Monday August 29th
Back To School Night
Back to School Night for families of students in Kindergarten is scheduled for
Thursday August 25 2016 from 600 pm to 715 pm in the Media Center Fairland
Families will also have the opportunity to meet members of the 2016-2017 PTA Board
and receive information about membership and upcoming events
Back-to-School Night for families of students in Grades 1-5 is scheduled for
Wednesday September 7 2016 from 700 pm - 900 pm Families will have an
opportunity to visit homeroom classrooms During this time staff members will be
introduced and a variety of school-based initiatives and data will be shared Fairland
Families will also have the opportunity to meet members of the 2016-2017 PTA Board
and receive information about membership and upcoming events
The Fairland Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) welcomes all Fairland families to join
us in supporting our students staff school and community The PTA sponsors events
such as parent meetings school dances book fairs fundraisers cultural arts assemblies
and staff appreciation and also supports the school with funds to help pay for field trips
and other needs We hope every Fairland family will join us to help with this important
work You can become a PTA member by signing up at the PTA table at Back-to-School
Night or at other Fairland events You can also become a PTA member by attending one
of our general membership meetings to be held at 700 pm at Fairland on the following
dates October 4 2016 December 6 2016 February 7 2017 April 4 2017 and May 2
2017
Thursday August 25 Kindergarten Back-to-School Night 600 pm -715 pm
Friday August 26 OPEN HOUSE Kindergarten ndash Grade 5 300 pm ndash 400 pm
Monday August 29 First Day of School for Students in Kindergarten - Grade 5
1st Marking Period Begins
Monday September 5 Schools amp Offices are CLOSED Labor Day Holiday
Tuesday September 6 First Day of School for PEP Students
Wednesday September 7 Back-to-School Night for Students in Grades 1 ndash 5 700 pm ndash 900 pm
Monday September 12 School is CLOSED for Students Teacher Professional Day
Saturday September 17 PTA Back-to-School PICNIC
Friday September 30 EARLY RELEASE DAY FOR ALL STUDENTS 115 PM
Monday October 3 School is CLOSED for Students amp Teachers Rosh Hoshanah
Tuesday October 4 PTA Board Meeting 630 pm General PTA Meeting at 700 pm
Monday October 10 OPEN HOUSE for Parents 930 am ndash 1115 am Columbus Day
Wednesday October 12 School is CLOSED for Students amp Teachers Yom Kippur
Friday November 4 1st Marking Period Ends
Monday November 7 School is CLOSED for Students Teacher Professional Day
Tuesday November 8 Schools amp Offices are CLOSED ELECTION DAY
Wednesday November 9 2nd Marking Period Begins
Thursday November 10 Early Release Day for Students in Grades K-5 115 pm for PARENT
CONFERENCES No School for Pre-K amp Head Start
Friday November 11 Early Release Day for Students in Grades K-5 115 pm for PARENT
CONFERENCES No School for Pre-K amp Head Start
In closing if you are new to Fairland Elementary School we welcome you and your family
to our community if you are returning we look forward to working with you and your
child again this year We pride ourselves on building positive relationships high quality
instruction and our commitment to continuous improvement We look forward to
establishing a partnership with your family Enjoy your last days of summer We will see
you at the Open House on Friday August 26th at 300 pm
Best Regards
Lakeisha Lashley Stephanie Spencer
Principal Assistant Principal
Fairland Parent Handbook 2016 - 2017
ATTENDANCEABSENCES The Maryland State Department of Education has
clarified that ALL school absences MUST be accounted for with a written note or else be
counted as unexcused Parents are requested to call the school in the morning if their
child is not going to attend school that day and follow up with a note when the student
returns to school Parents may leave messages about absent students on the schools
answering machine when the school office is closed When you call to report an absence
please leave your childs name hisher teacher and the reason for the absence
Students are not permitted in school with fevers of 100 or higher Students must be
fever-free and vomit-free for 24 hours before returning to school
Students will be permitted to the extent possible and at the discretion of the teacher to
make up work missed during the period of an excused absence
Attendance at school is extremely important Research shows that there is a significant
relationship between consistent attendance and academic achievement The Maryland
State Department of Education has established standards for school attendance including
both lawful and unlawful absences As part of the Maryland School Assessment Program
all schools in the state of Maryland are monitored and evaluated on their attendance
records Students are expected to attend school regularly and be punctual
Students will be recorded as am absent if they arrive at school more than two
hours late
Students will be recorded as pm absent if they leave school more than two
hours early
Students will be recorded as either am absent or pm absent if they are absent
from school for more than two hours but less than four hours during the school
day
Students will be recorded as full-day absent if they are present for less than two
hours of the school day
Students will be recorded as full-day present if they are present for more than
four hours of the school day
If your child is absent tardy or needs to be dismissed early please send a note explaining
the reason This information is necessary for attendance coding purposes Vacation trips
are not considered excused or ldquolawfulrdquo absences According to State regulations the
following is a listing of ldquolawfulrdquo absences for elementary students
Death in the immediate family
Illness of the student
Court summons
Hazardous weather conditions
Observance of a religious holiday
State emergency
Suspension
Lack of authorized transportation
Other emergencies
BICYCLES ETC Students may ride a bicycle to school if written permission letter is sent
to the office A lock is needed in order to properly secure the bike to our rack The school
cannot assume responsibility for damaged or stolen bicycles It is important that parents
review bicycle safety and etiquette Bicycles are to be walked on school property Please
remember that Montgomery County law requires that all children 18 years of age or
younger wear bicycle helmets At no time are skateboards or inline skates to be used on
school property
BIRTHDAYS Birthdays may be celebrated with a special snacktreat donated by
parents of the birthday child (See Food Policy) Parents may select one of two ways to
celebrate their childrsquos birthday 1) Parents may contact their childrsquos teacher directly to
arrange a birthday celebration for approximately 10-15 minutes at the end of the
instructional day or 2) Parents take responsibility for handing out birthday treats during
their childrsquos lunch period (Note Teachers will not be available during the childrsquos lunch
time due to team planning)
BUS SCHEDULE Please read the enclosed schedule to determine the best (safest)
stop for your child For the first few days it is wise to be prepared for minor delays as the
new routes are established If there is a safety question please call us Families living in
the Fairdale community will have students walking to the school The patrols will be there
to help students proceed safely to school
CELL PHONES Fairland Elementary school students are NOT permitted to possess or
use portable communication devices on school grounds during the instructional day Such
devices may include but are not limited to portable pagers hand-held radios and cellular
telephones
CHECK IN AT OFFICE All visitors to the school -
parents grandparents volunteers everyone - must check in at the main office using the
Visitor Management System (VMS) Visitors must bring a photo ID that will be scanned
into our electronic system The VMS will provide visitors with a sticker This is to be done
before going anywhere in the building and before leaving the building It is extremely
important that we know who is in the school building at all times During emergency
evacuation drillsactual emergencies we must account for everyone All visitors and
volunteers must wear identification stickers while in the school building Although some
visitor faces may be familiar to staff it is still of importance that you are signed-in through
the VMS and wear a sticker We want everyone to feel safe and welcomed as they enter
our school building We believe that Fairland ES is a happy place when there are
consistent safe practices for all
CLASS PARTIES Class parties are held twice during the school year for special
celebrations Halloween and Valentines Day Parents who do not wish for their child to
participate in these or other celebrations including birthday observances should notify
the classroom teacher of their preference
DISCIPLINE POLICY A Student Discipline Policy will be sent home with each child
Parents are asked to read and discuss this policy with their child so that students can
continue to work in a safe and comfortable learning environment
DROPPING STUDENTS OFF AT SCHOOL The parent drop-off area has been
provided just outside of the schools side entrance Parents who drop their child off at
school or pick their child up in the afternoon should do so in that area No cars are
allowed in the bus circle (directly in front of the school) for safety reasons We request
that all drivers remain with their vehicles unless parked in marked spaces and that no car
be left to block the free flow of traffic entering the parking and drop off area If a student
is late an adult must walk the student into the main office and sign him or her in
EARLY DISMISSALS School is occasionally dismissed early due to adverse weather
conditions or mechanical failure (electricity water) at the school Students should know
where they are to go without having to call home if school is dismissed early for any
reason Early dismissals are announced on local media stations Planned early release
days for professional meetings and conferences are listed in the school calendar
ENROLLING STUDENTS New students are enrolled at the school by having their
parents or guardian complete enrollment forms at the school office Immunization
information birth certificate and proof of residency for each student new to Fairland
must be on file at the school before the child can attend the school Strict enforcement of
all residency policies will be in effect at all times Any questions regarding residency in the
Fairland neighborhood will be investigated
EMERGENCY CLOSINGS School is occasionally closed all day due to unsafe weather
conditions or mechanical problems in the school Announcements are made over local
media stations during the mornings of unscheduled closings Parents are asked to listen
to the radio or TV for information about school closings Please do not call the school for
this information Emergency closings are also announced on the MCPS information line
at (301) 279-3673
EVACUATION PLANS In the event of an emergency where we must evacuate the
building leave school grounds and cannot return to the building our emergency
evacuation location will again be
Paint Branch High School (Cafeteria)
14121 Old Columbia Pike
Burtonsville MD 20866
301-989-5600
Banneker Middle School
14800 Perrywood Drive
Burtonsville MD 20866
301-989-5747
All students and staff would proceed to this location where they would wait for
transportation to deliver the students home MCPS personnel would assist us in having
all school buses pick-up the students from this location and help in safely dealing with
the emergency
FOOD POLICY It is the policy of the Montgomery County Public Schools Board of
Education that only store-bought pre-packaged food be brought into the classroom for
parties snacks etc While everyone loves the idea of home-baked goods there is no way
to control the quality or contents of the food unless it is store-bought with required
labeling Some children have allergies and are sensitive to even traces of allergens in food
Please avoid foods that contain nuts
HEALTH ROOM A health technician is on duty from 900 am to 330 pm each school
day It is important for us to have every childs emergency information on file so that we
may contact parents quickly if necessary If your home cell or work telephone number
changes please let us know Students who become ill at school may be picked up in the
Health Room and should be signed out in the Health Room Please feel free to contact
Ms Penn Fairlandrsquos Health Technician directly at 2407400642
ILLNESS - See student absences
LOST AND FOUND A lost and found area is located in the recess hallway by the
stairwell for items that have been misplaced by students
LUNCH LOANS The National School Lunch program does not permit the cafeteria
to loan money or extend credit to those without money for lunch All students are
encouraged to have sufficient money in their SNAP accounts to cover breakfastlunch
purchases desired or to bring the change needed for their purchases
LUNCH PRICES
elementary lunch = $255 breakfast = $130 milk = $60
reduced-price lunch = $40 reduced-price breakfast = $00
LUNCH PROGRAM Lunches may be brought or purchased at school beginning with
the first day A computerized cash register system is used in the cafeteria Each student is
assigned an account which is accessed by a Personalized Identification Number (PIN)
Students returning to our school will use their PIN from last year Students new to our
school will receive their new PINs on the first day of school This is a debit system in which
students may choose to make deposits into an account At mealtime the computer
records food purchases and deducts them from the account when the student enters
hisher PIN on the keypad Students who choose to not pay in advance still enter their
PINs and then pay by cash We strongly suggest that deposits be made in advance
Checks made out to Fairland School Cafeteria may be brought in throughout the year
Your childs name must be written on the check The use of this program will enhance
the speed and smoothness of the lunch process and should add to the time that students
have to eat their lunch When accounts become low a reminder letter will be sent home
so additional money can be deposited into the childs account for future use Please feel
free to contact Ms Golden Fairlandrsquos Food Service Manager directly at 2407400644
Under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act a student may be entitled to receive menu
substitutions of texture modifications under the school lunch program This entitlement
occurs when a doctor determines that a child has an impairment which substantially limits
one or more major life activities A signed statement from the students doctor must
verify the existence of the students handicapping condition and an indication that the
handicap restricts the students diet If the handicap prevents the student from eating the
regular school meals meal substitutions for that child will be made at no extra charge If
you believe your child needs substitutions please contact the school office
LUNCH AND RECESS Students have 30-minute lunch periods and 30-minute recess
periods each day except for early dismissal days Students will have recess outdoors
unless it is raining or the temperature is below 320 F They should dress accordingly on
days when the weather is windy or cold All students are expected to go outside on
outdoor recess days unless they have a note from their physician
Some students will have recess before they go to lunch Many Montgomery County
Schools are using this model and it has been successful for student behavior and
enjoyment By having recess before lunch students make better choices about what they
eat They eat more and always drink their fluids Itrsquos beneficial and helps students return
to the classrooms and ready to learn with a positive attitude
MEDICATIONS Parents are encouraged to administer medications to their children
at home whenever possible No medication will be administered in school or during
school-sponsored activities without written authorization from the parentguardian and
a physicians written order Any prescribed medication that needs to be administered at
school must be in the original bottle and must be accompanied by MCPS form 525-13
(Authorization to Administer Prescribed Medication) All medications must be hand
delivered to the school by a parent Under no circumstances will school personnel
administer medications brought to school by a student Over-the-counter medications
must be accompanied by a physicians note to be administered by the health technician
Please do not send cough drops throat drops vitamins etc to school with your child
Please feel free to contact Ms Penn Fairlandrsquos Health Technician directly at 2407400642
OFFICE HOURS The school office is open from 830 am until 430 pm each school
day An answering machine will take messages during non-school hours
PARENT COMMUNICATIONS Regular communications from the school should
be expected to arrive home with the students These will include teachers notices and
announcements as appropriate A phone and email message will be sent to parents
weekly through our Connect Ed system
PICKING STUDENTS UP FROM SCHOOL Once students have arrived at school
they will be released only to their parents or legal guardians All students leaving school
before the end of the school day must be signed out from the main office by their parents
or legal guardian If parents want their child to be picked up at school at any time by
anyone else including siblings and grandparents the parents must send a note to the
school stating their wishes and the name of the person who will pick up the child The
person picking up the child must present picture identification to the school office In
order to maintain safety at the end of the instructional day students will not be
called out of class for dismissal after 310 pm
POSITIVE BEHAVIORAL INTERVENTIONS AND SUPPORTS (PBIS) Fairland will continue implementing the PBIS program this year PBIS is a behavior
intervention program that focuses on pre-teaching reinforcing and rewarding positive
student behaviors It is a school-wide systematic approach to setting high expectations
for student behavior For the 2016-2017 our School Expectations are I CAN BE SAFE I
CAN BE READY and I CAN BE RESPONSIBLE Our students will earn soar slips for their
good choices When students receive Soar Slips it will allow them to earn special
privileges and rewards We believe this program will allow students to be rewarded for
their positive acts
PTA MEETINGS PTA activities are scheduled periodically throughout the year and
provide opportunities for families to come together at the school for information
entertainment andor socialization For the 2016-2017 school year PTA Executive Board
Meetings will be held at 630 pm followed by PTA General Meetings at 700 pm The Fall
2016 dates for PTA Executive Board and General Meetings are October 4th and
December 6th All parents are invited to attend the PTA Board Meetings and we want to
see all Fairland Families at PTA General Meetings So mark your calendars for October 4th
at 630 pm and 700 pm for PTA right away
REPORT CARDS Report cards are sent home with students four times a year at the
end of each of the nine-week grading periods The dates for report card distribution will
be as follows
November 17 2016 April 19 2017
February 8 2017 June 27 2017 (mailed)
SCHOOL HOURS The instructional day for students begins at 925 am and ends at
350 pm Students arriving after the 925 am bell are considered tardy and must be signed
in by an adult at the front office In the morning students are admitted to classrooms at
900 am Students should not be dropped off at school before 900 am There will be no
supervision for students before that time
SCHOOL SUPPLIES Please refer to the attached student recommended supply list
for the 2016 - 2017 school year at Fairland Elementary School
TOYS We request that students NOT bring their personal toys balls stuffed animals
trading cards electronic games etc to school We cannot be responsible for these items
and they are not needed for the instructional program or recess
TRANSPORTATION Most of Fairlandrsquos students are bused to school Students are
picked up at designated bus stops no more than one mile from their home Parents are
responsible for maintaining discipline and safety at bus stops Inclement weather traffic
accidents and road construction can cause delays in the bus routes so the pick-up and
drop-off times of each bus may vary somewhat from day to day Questions about the
buses or bus routes should be directed to Sinisa Pavlovic MCPS Randolph Depot Manager
at the Transportation Office at (301) 929-6906 No child may ride a bus other than that
which is assigned Children wishing to ride a bus not regularly assigned to them must
have a note from their parent that is signed by office personnel Office personnel will
make a final decision based on space and student behaviors when allowing students to
ride a bus that is NOT assigned to them
VISITORS MCPS Policy requires that all visitors without exception must check in with
the Front Office staff before proceeding into the building This policy is enforced for the
safety of the students Visitors sign in and obtain a sticker from the visitor Management
System (VMS) Parents bringing items for their child (lunch band instruments homework
etc) will be asked to leave the items with front office personnel so that instructional time
remains uninterrupted We at Fairland have an open door policy We encourage families
to notify the teacher of your desire to visit in order to promote the smooth flow of the
instructional program
Montgomery County Public School Initiatives STRATEGIC PLANNING FRAMEWORK The Montgomery County Board of Education has adopted a new Strategic Planning
Framework that will guide the work of MCPS schools and offices in the years to come The
Framework Building Our Future Together Students Staff and Community incorporates
the three competencies that students need for success in the 21st centurymdashacademic
excellence creative problem solving and social emotional learningmdashas well as a
continued commitment to operational excellence The Framework describes what
students should know and be able to do in the three competency areas as well as specific
actions staff parents and community members should take to support students Parents
and staff will receive information about the Strategic Planning Framework at the
beginning of the school year but can learn more now by visiting the MCPS website at
wwwmontgomeryschoolsmdorgframework or search Strategic Planning Framework
Estructura de Planificacioacuten Estrateacutegica El Consejo de Educacioacuten (Board of Education) de Montgomery County ha adoptado una
nueva Estructura de Planificacioacuten Estrateacutegica que guiaraacute el trabajo de las escuelas y las
oficinas de MCPS en los proacuteximos antildeos La Estructura Construyendo Nuestro Futuro
Juntos Estudiantes Empleados y Comunidad incorpora las tres aacutereas de competencia
que los estudiantes necesitan para ser exitosos en el Siglo XXImdashexcelencia acadeacutemica
resolucioacuten creativa de problemas y aprendizaje social y emocionalmdashcomo asiacute un
compromiso continuo hacia la excelencia operativa La Estructura describe lo que los
estudiantes deberiacutean saber y ser capaces de hacer en las tres aacutereas de competencia asiacute
como tambieacuten acciones especiacuteficas que el personal los padres y los miembros de la
comunidad deben tomar para apoyar a los estudiantes Los padres y el personal recibiraacuten
informacioacuten sobre la Estructura de Planificacioacuten Estrateacutegica al comienzo del ciclo escolar
pero ya pueden aprender maacutes visitando la paacutegina de Internet de la Estructura de MCPS
en wwwmontgomeryschoolsmdorgframeworkes o busque Strategic Planning
Framework
Curriculum 20 All grade levels continue with implementation of Curriculum 20 This curriculum is shifting
the way in which we approach our instruction with an emphasis on depth of study versus
covering topics Please see attached for information from our superintendent Dr Starr
on the curriculum implementation and what you can expect on pages x and x of this letter
Online Library Search System Our library media center continues to use a centralized K-12 resource management tool
This tool helps our library media center work more efficiently while creating engaging and
collaborative learning environments promoting and supporting student achievement
The system is called Destiny Library Manager (Destiny) The implementation of Destiny
will enable a stronger library media program-classroom connection and support the
library media specialistrsquos role in helping students develop 21st century learning skills
Throughout the school year our library media staff members will guide students in using
the next-generation searching tool for todayrsquos digital natives Destiny contains powerful
tools to conduct research of print and digital resources
Report Card and Grading System Standards based grading and reporting will continue to be used in all schools this year
The goal of this grading format is to give families a clear understanding of your childrsquos
progress toward end of year grade level expectations The following chart below explains
the meaning of the grades
Grade Description Comment
ES Exceptional at the grade level standard Not used in
kindergarten
P Meets the grade level standard by demonstrating
proficiency of the content or processes for the
measurement topic
I In progress toward meeting the grade level standard
N Not yet making progress or making minimal progress
toward meeting the grade level standard
M Missing data-No grade recorded
NEP Not English Proficient may be used for level 1 or 2 ESOL
student for no more than two marking periods
IMPORTANT Please note these descriptions do not translate in to the old letter grades
(eg an ES is not equivalent to an ldquoOrdquo or ldquoArdquo) Any child that is working on grade level
indicators and making progress is likely to receive a report of ldquoPrdquo or ldquoIrdquo on the report card
Report cards are cumulative and will be used over the four marking periods as students
work toward end of year mastery Measurement topics are a group of related content
skills or processes in a subject For example foundational skills are a measurement topic
in the category of reading and geometry is a measurement topic in math
Learning skills will also be updated to include personal and social development skills and
thinking and academic success skills Personal and Social Development Skills are the
effort and behaviors that affect learning This section will provide information that
describes what your child is doing that helps or hinders hisher learning Thinking and
Academic Success Skills (TASS) permeate instruction in all content areas of the MCPS
PreK-5 Integrated Curriculum The chart below explains the meaning of the codes for
Personal and Social Development Skills and Thinking and Academic Success Skills
Code Description
DEM Demonstrating
PRG Progressing
N Not yet evident
Look for more information from your childrsquos teacher about the format for grading and
reporting throughout the coming year
MCPS GIVE BACKpacks Campaign Help MCPS make sure all students are ready for the new school year by donating to the
MCPS GIVE BACKpacks campaign The GIVE BACKpacks drive was created in response to
the growing need in Montgomery County to help families with the basic school supplies
students need at the start of the school year A backpack filled with school supplies costs
$10 and donors have the option to sponsor one student a classroom a grade level or an
entire school The backpacks will be distributed to students in need in schools at the
beginning of the school year Visit wwwmcpsgivebackpacksorg to learn more or to
donate
Campantildea GIVE BACKpacks de MCPS
Ayude a MCPS a asegurarse de que todos los estudiantes esteacuten listos para el nuevo ciclo
escolar donando a la Campantildea GIVE BACKpacks de MCPS La campantildea GIVE
BACKpacks fue creada en respuesta a la necesidad creciente en el condado de
Montgomery County de ayudar a familias con los uacutetiles escolares baacutesicos que los
estudiantes necesitan al principio del ciclo escolar Una mochila llena de uacutetiles escolares
cuesta $10 y los donantes tienen la opcioacuten de patrocinar a un estudiante individual a
toda una clase a un grado escolar o a toda una escuela Las mochilas se distribuiraacuten a
estudiantes necesitados al principio del ciclo escolar Para maacutes informacioacuten o para hacer
una donacioacuten visite wwwmcpsgivebackpacksorg
Back To School Night
Back to School Night for families of students in Kindergarten is scheduled for
Thursday August 25 2016 from 600 pm to 715 pm in the Media Center Fairland
Families will also have the opportunity to meet members of the 2016-2017 PTA Board
and receive information about membership and upcoming events
Back-to-School Night for families of students in Grades 1-5 is scheduled for
Wednesday September 7 2016 from 700 pm - 900 pm Families will have an
opportunity to visit homeroom classrooms During this time staff members will be
introduced and a variety of school-based initiatives and data will be shared Fairland
Families will also have the opportunity to meet members of the 2016-2017 PTA Board
and receive information about membership and upcoming events
The Fairland Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) welcomes all Fairland families to join
us in supporting our students staff school and community The PTA sponsors events
such as parent meetings school dances book fairs fundraisers cultural arts assemblies
and staff appreciation and also supports the school with funds to help pay for field trips
and other needs We hope every Fairland family will join us to help with this important
work You can become a PTA member by signing up at the PTA table at Back-to-School
Night or at other Fairland events You can also become a PTA member by attending one
of our general membership meetings to be held at 700 pm at Fairland on the following
dates October 4 2016 December 6 2016 February 7 2017 April 4 2017 and May 2
2017
Thursday August 25 Kindergarten Back-to-School Night 600 pm -715 pm
Friday August 26 OPEN HOUSE Kindergarten ndash Grade 5 300 pm ndash 400 pm
Monday August 29 First Day of School for Students in Kindergarten - Grade 5
1st Marking Period Begins
Monday September 5 Schools amp Offices are CLOSED Labor Day Holiday
Tuesday September 6 First Day of School for PEP Students
Wednesday September 7 Back-to-School Night for Students in Grades 1 ndash 5 700 pm ndash 900 pm
Monday September 12 School is CLOSED for Students Teacher Professional Day
Saturday September 17 PTA Back-to-School PICNIC
Friday September 30 EARLY RELEASE DAY FOR ALL STUDENTS 115 PM
Monday October 3 School is CLOSED for Students amp Teachers Rosh Hoshanah
Tuesday October 4 PTA Board Meeting 630 pm General PTA Meeting at 700 pm
Monday October 10 OPEN HOUSE for Parents 930 am ndash 1115 am Columbus Day
Wednesday October 12 School is CLOSED for Students amp Teachers Yom Kippur
Friday November 4 1st Marking Period Ends
Monday November 7 School is CLOSED for Students Teacher Professional Day
Tuesday November 8 Schools amp Offices are CLOSED ELECTION DAY
Wednesday November 9 2nd Marking Period Begins
Thursday November 10 Early Release Day for Students in Grades K-5 115 pm for PARENT
CONFERENCES No School for Pre-K amp Head Start
Friday November 11 Early Release Day for Students in Grades K-5 115 pm for PARENT
CONFERENCES No School for Pre-K amp Head Start
In closing if you are new to Fairland Elementary School we welcome you and your family
to our community if you are returning we look forward to working with you and your
child again this year We pride ourselves on building positive relationships high quality
instruction and our commitment to continuous improvement We look forward to
establishing a partnership with your family Enjoy your last days of summer We will see
you at the Open House on Friday August 26th at 300 pm
Best Regards
Lakeisha Lashley Stephanie Spencer
Principal Assistant Principal
Fairland Parent Handbook 2016 - 2017
ATTENDANCEABSENCES The Maryland State Department of Education has
clarified that ALL school absences MUST be accounted for with a written note or else be
counted as unexcused Parents are requested to call the school in the morning if their
child is not going to attend school that day and follow up with a note when the student
returns to school Parents may leave messages about absent students on the schools
answering machine when the school office is closed When you call to report an absence
please leave your childs name hisher teacher and the reason for the absence
Students are not permitted in school with fevers of 100 or higher Students must be
fever-free and vomit-free for 24 hours before returning to school
Students will be permitted to the extent possible and at the discretion of the teacher to
make up work missed during the period of an excused absence
Attendance at school is extremely important Research shows that there is a significant
relationship between consistent attendance and academic achievement The Maryland
State Department of Education has established standards for school attendance including
both lawful and unlawful absences As part of the Maryland School Assessment Program
all schools in the state of Maryland are monitored and evaluated on their attendance
records Students are expected to attend school regularly and be punctual
Students will be recorded as am absent if they arrive at school more than two
hours late
Students will be recorded as pm absent if they leave school more than two
hours early
Students will be recorded as either am absent or pm absent if they are absent
from school for more than two hours but less than four hours during the school
day
Students will be recorded as full-day absent if they are present for less than two
hours of the school day
Students will be recorded as full-day present if they are present for more than
four hours of the school day
If your child is absent tardy or needs to be dismissed early please send a note explaining
the reason This information is necessary for attendance coding purposes Vacation trips
are not considered excused or ldquolawfulrdquo absences According to State regulations the
following is a listing of ldquolawfulrdquo absences for elementary students
Death in the immediate family
Illness of the student
Court summons
Hazardous weather conditions
Observance of a religious holiday
State emergency
Suspension
Lack of authorized transportation
Other emergencies
BICYCLES ETC Students may ride a bicycle to school if written permission letter is sent
to the office A lock is needed in order to properly secure the bike to our rack The school
cannot assume responsibility for damaged or stolen bicycles It is important that parents
review bicycle safety and etiquette Bicycles are to be walked on school property Please
remember that Montgomery County law requires that all children 18 years of age or
younger wear bicycle helmets At no time are skateboards or inline skates to be used on
school property
BIRTHDAYS Birthdays may be celebrated with a special snacktreat donated by
parents of the birthday child (See Food Policy) Parents may select one of two ways to
celebrate their childrsquos birthday 1) Parents may contact their childrsquos teacher directly to
arrange a birthday celebration for approximately 10-15 minutes at the end of the
instructional day or 2) Parents take responsibility for handing out birthday treats during
their childrsquos lunch period (Note Teachers will not be available during the childrsquos lunch
time due to team planning)
BUS SCHEDULE Please read the enclosed schedule to determine the best (safest)
stop for your child For the first few days it is wise to be prepared for minor delays as the
new routes are established If there is a safety question please call us Families living in
the Fairdale community will have students walking to the school The patrols will be there
to help students proceed safely to school
CELL PHONES Fairland Elementary school students are NOT permitted to possess or
use portable communication devices on school grounds during the instructional day Such
devices may include but are not limited to portable pagers hand-held radios and cellular
telephones
CHECK IN AT OFFICE All visitors to the school -
parents grandparents volunteers everyone - must check in at the main office using the
Visitor Management System (VMS) Visitors must bring a photo ID that will be scanned
into our electronic system The VMS will provide visitors with a sticker This is to be done
before going anywhere in the building and before leaving the building It is extremely
important that we know who is in the school building at all times During emergency
evacuation drillsactual emergencies we must account for everyone All visitors and
volunteers must wear identification stickers while in the school building Although some
visitor faces may be familiar to staff it is still of importance that you are signed-in through
the VMS and wear a sticker We want everyone to feel safe and welcomed as they enter
our school building We believe that Fairland ES is a happy place when there are
consistent safe practices for all
CLASS PARTIES Class parties are held twice during the school year for special
celebrations Halloween and Valentines Day Parents who do not wish for their child to
participate in these or other celebrations including birthday observances should notify
the classroom teacher of their preference
DISCIPLINE POLICY A Student Discipline Policy will be sent home with each child
Parents are asked to read and discuss this policy with their child so that students can
continue to work in a safe and comfortable learning environment
DROPPING STUDENTS OFF AT SCHOOL The parent drop-off area has been
provided just outside of the schools side entrance Parents who drop their child off at
school or pick their child up in the afternoon should do so in that area No cars are
allowed in the bus circle (directly in front of the school) for safety reasons We request
that all drivers remain with their vehicles unless parked in marked spaces and that no car
be left to block the free flow of traffic entering the parking and drop off area If a student
is late an adult must walk the student into the main office and sign him or her in
EARLY DISMISSALS School is occasionally dismissed early due to adverse weather
conditions or mechanical failure (electricity water) at the school Students should know
where they are to go without having to call home if school is dismissed early for any
reason Early dismissals are announced on local media stations Planned early release
days for professional meetings and conferences are listed in the school calendar
ENROLLING STUDENTS New students are enrolled at the school by having their
parents or guardian complete enrollment forms at the school office Immunization
information birth certificate and proof of residency for each student new to Fairland
must be on file at the school before the child can attend the school Strict enforcement of
all residency policies will be in effect at all times Any questions regarding residency in the
Fairland neighborhood will be investigated
EMERGENCY CLOSINGS School is occasionally closed all day due to unsafe weather
conditions or mechanical problems in the school Announcements are made over local
media stations during the mornings of unscheduled closings Parents are asked to listen
to the radio or TV for information about school closings Please do not call the school for
this information Emergency closings are also announced on the MCPS information line
at (301) 279-3673
EVACUATION PLANS In the event of an emergency where we must evacuate the
building leave school grounds and cannot return to the building our emergency
evacuation location will again be
Paint Branch High School (Cafeteria)
14121 Old Columbia Pike
Burtonsville MD 20866
301-989-5600
Banneker Middle School
14800 Perrywood Drive
Burtonsville MD 20866
301-989-5747
All students and staff would proceed to this location where they would wait for
transportation to deliver the students home MCPS personnel would assist us in having
all school buses pick-up the students from this location and help in safely dealing with
the emergency
FOOD POLICY It is the policy of the Montgomery County Public Schools Board of
Education that only store-bought pre-packaged food be brought into the classroom for
parties snacks etc While everyone loves the idea of home-baked goods there is no way
to control the quality or contents of the food unless it is store-bought with required
labeling Some children have allergies and are sensitive to even traces of allergens in food
Please avoid foods that contain nuts
HEALTH ROOM A health technician is on duty from 900 am to 330 pm each school
day It is important for us to have every childs emergency information on file so that we
may contact parents quickly if necessary If your home cell or work telephone number
changes please let us know Students who become ill at school may be picked up in the
Health Room and should be signed out in the Health Room Please feel free to contact
Ms Penn Fairlandrsquos Health Technician directly at 2407400642
ILLNESS - See student absences
LOST AND FOUND A lost and found area is located in the recess hallway by the
stairwell for items that have been misplaced by students
LUNCH LOANS The National School Lunch program does not permit the cafeteria
to loan money or extend credit to those without money for lunch All students are
encouraged to have sufficient money in their SNAP accounts to cover breakfastlunch
purchases desired or to bring the change needed for their purchases
LUNCH PRICES
elementary lunch = $255 breakfast = $130 milk = $60
reduced-price lunch = $40 reduced-price breakfast = $00
LUNCH PROGRAM Lunches may be brought or purchased at school beginning with
the first day A computerized cash register system is used in the cafeteria Each student is
assigned an account which is accessed by a Personalized Identification Number (PIN)
Students returning to our school will use their PIN from last year Students new to our
school will receive their new PINs on the first day of school This is a debit system in which
students may choose to make deposits into an account At mealtime the computer
records food purchases and deducts them from the account when the student enters
hisher PIN on the keypad Students who choose to not pay in advance still enter their
PINs and then pay by cash We strongly suggest that deposits be made in advance
Checks made out to Fairland School Cafeteria may be brought in throughout the year
Your childs name must be written on the check The use of this program will enhance
the speed and smoothness of the lunch process and should add to the time that students
have to eat their lunch When accounts become low a reminder letter will be sent home
so additional money can be deposited into the childs account for future use Please feel
free to contact Ms Golden Fairlandrsquos Food Service Manager directly at 2407400644
Under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act a student may be entitled to receive menu
substitutions of texture modifications under the school lunch program This entitlement
occurs when a doctor determines that a child has an impairment which substantially limits
one or more major life activities A signed statement from the students doctor must
verify the existence of the students handicapping condition and an indication that the
handicap restricts the students diet If the handicap prevents the student from eating the
regular school meals meal substitutions for that child will be made at no extra charge If
you believe your child needs substitutions please contact the school office
LUNCH AND RECESS Students have 30-minute lunch periods and 30-minute recess
periods each day except for early dismissal days Students will have recess outdoors
unless it is raining or the temperature is below 320 F They should dress accordingly on
days when the weather is windy or cold All students are expected to go outside on
outdoor recess days unless they have a note from their physician
Some students will have recess before they go to lunch Many Montgomery County
Schools are using this model and it has been successful for student behavior and
enjoyment By having recess before lunch students make better choices about what they
eat They eat more and always drink their fluids Itrsquos beneficial and helps students return
to the classrooms and ready to learn with a positive attitude
MEDICATIONS Parents are encouraged to administer medications to their children
at home whenever possible No medication will be administered in school or during
school-sponsored activities without written authorization from the parentguardian and
a physicians written order Any prescribed medication that needs to be administered at
school must be in the original bottle and must be accompanied by MCPS form 525-13
(Authorization to Administer Prescribed Medication) All medications must be hand
delivered to the school by a parent Under no circumstances will school personnel
administer medications brought to school by a student Over-the-counter medications
must be accompanied by a physicians note to be administered by the health technician
Please do not send cough drops throat drops vitamins etc to school with your child
Please feel free to contact Ms Penn Fairlandrsquos Health Technician directly at 2407400642
OFFICE HOURS The school office is open from 830 am until 430 pm each school
day An answering machine will take messages during non-school hours
PARENT COMMUNICATIONS Regular communications from the school should
be expected to arrive home with the students These will include teachers notices and
announcements as appropriate A phone and email message will be sent to parents
weekly through our Connect Ed system
PICKING STUDENTS UP FROM SCHOOL Once students have arrived at school
they will be released only to their parents or legal guardians All students leaving school
before the end of the school day must be signed out from the main office by their parents
or legal guardian If parents want their child to be picked up at school at any time by
anyone else including siblings and grandparents the parents must send a note to the
school stating their wishes and the name of the person who will pick up the child The
person picking up the child must present picture identification to the school office In
order to maintain safety at the end of the instructional day students will not be
called out of class for dismissal after 310 pm
POSITIVE BEHAVIORAL INTERVENTIONS AND SUPPORTS (PBIS) Fairland will continue implementing the PBIS program this year PBIS is a behavior
intervention program that focuses on pre-teaching reinforcing and rewarding positive
student behaviors It is a school-wide systematic approach to setting high expectations
for student behavior For the 2016-2017 our School Expectations are I CAN BE SAFE I
CAN BE READY and I CAN BE RESPONSIBLE Our students will earn soar slips for their
good choices When students receive Soar Slips it will allow them to earn special
privileges and rewards We believe this program will allow students to be rewarded for
their positive acts
PTA MEETINGS PTA activities are scheduled periodically throughout the year and
provide opportunities for families to come together at the school for information
entertainment andor socialization For the 2016-2017 school year PTA Executive Board
Meetings will be held at 630 pm followed by PTA General Meetings at 700 pm The Fall
2016 dates for PTA Executive Board and General Meetings are October 4th and
December 6th All parents are invited to attend the PTA Board Meetings and we want to
see all Fairland Families at PTA General Meetings So mark your calendars for October 4th
at 630 pm and 700 pm for PTA right away
REPORT CARDS Report cards are sent home with students four times a year at the
end of each of the nine-week grading periods The dates for report card distribution will
be as follows
November 17 2016 April 19 2017
February 8 2017 June 27 2017 (mailed)
SCHOOL HOURS The instructional day for students begins at 925 am and ends at
350 pm Students arriving after the 925 am bell are considered tardy and must be signed
in by an adult at the front office In the morning students are admitted to classrooms at
900 am Students should not be dropped off at school before 900 am There will be no
supervision for students before that time
SCHOOL SUPPLIES Please refer to the attached student recommended supply list
for the 2016 - 2017 school year at Fairland Elementary School
TOYS We request that students NOT bring their personal toys balls stuffed animals
trading cards electronic games etc to school We cannot be responsible for these items
and they are not needed for the instructional program or recess
TRANSPORTATION Most of Fairlandrsquos students are bused to school Students are
picked up at designated bus stops no more than one mile from their home Parents are
responsible for maintaining discipline and safety at bus stops Inclement weather traffic
accidents and road construction can cause delays in the bus routes so the pick-up and
drop-off times of each bus may vary somewhat from day to day Questions about the
buses or bus routes should be directed to Sinisa Pavlovic MCPS Randolph Depot Manager
at the Transportation Office at (301) 929-6906 No child may ride a bus other than that
which is assigned Children wishing to ride a bus not regularly assigned to them must
have a note from their parent that is signed by office personnel Office personnel will
make a final decision based on space and student behaviors when allowing students to
ride a bus that is NOT assigned to them
VISITORS MCPS Policy requires that all visitors without exception must check in with
the Front Office staff before proceeding into the building This policy is enforced for the
safety of the students Visitors sign in and obtain a sticker from the visitor Management
System (VMS) Parents bringing items for their child (lunch band instruments homework
etc) will be asked to leave the items with front office personnel so that instructional time
remains uninterrupted We at Fairland have an open door policy We encourage families
to notify the teacher of your desire to visit in order to promote the smooth flow of the
instructional program
Montgomery County Public School Initiatives STRATEGIC PLANNING FRAMEWORK The Montgomery County Board of Education has adopted a new Strategic Planning
Framework that will guide the work of MCPS schools and offices in the years to come The
Framework Building Our Future Together Students Staff and Community incorporates
the three competencies that students need for success in the 21st centurymdashacademic
excellence creative problem solving and social emotional learningmdashas well as a
continued commitment to operational excellence The Framework describes what
students should know and be able to do in the three competency areas as well as specific
actions staff parents and community members should take to support students Parents
and staff will receive information about the Strategic Planning Framework at the
beginning of the school year but can learn more now by visiting the MCPS website at
wwwmontgomeryschoolsmdorgframework or search Strategic Planning Framework
Estructura de Planificacioacuten Estrateacutegica El Consejo de Educacioacuten (Board of Education) de Montgomery County ha adoptado una
nueva Estructura de Planificacioacuten Estrateacutegica que guiaraacute el trabajo de las escuelas y las
oficinas de MCPS en los proacuteximos antildeos La Estructura Construyendo Nuestro Futuro
Juntos Estudiantes Empleados y Comunidad incorpora las tres aacutereas de competencia
que los estudiantes necesitan para ser exitosos en el Siglo XXImdashexcelencia acadeacutemica
resolucioacuten creativa de problemas y aprendizaje social y emocionalmdashcomo asiacute un
compromiso continuo hacia la excelencia operativa La Estructura describe lo que los
estudiantes deberiacutean saber y ser capaces de hacer en las tres aacutereas de competencia asiacute
como tambieacuten acciones especiacuteficas que el personal los padres y los miembros de la
comunidad deben tomar para apoyar a los estudiantes Los padres y el personal recibiraacuten
informacioacuten sobre la Estructura de Planificacioacuten Estrateacutegica al comienzo del ciclo escolar
pero ya pueden aprender maacutes visitando la paacutegina de Internet de la Estructura de MCPS
en wwwmontgomeryschoolsmdorgframeworkes o busque Strategic Planning
Framework
Curriculum 20 All grade levels continue with implementation of Curriculum 20 This curriculum is shifting
the way in which we approach our instruction with an emphasis on depth of study versus
covering topics Please see attached for information from our superintendent Dr Starr
on the curriculum implementation and what you can expect on pages x and x of this letter
Online Library Search System Our library media center continues to use a centralized K-12 resource management tool
This tool helps our library media center work more efficiently while creating engaging and
collaborative learning environments promoting and supporting student achievement
The system is called Destiny Library Manager (Destiny) The implementation of Destiny
will enable a stronger library media program-classroom connection and support the
library media specialistrsquos role in helping students develop 21st century learning skills
Throughout the school year our library media staff members will guide students in using
the next-generation searching tool for todayrsquos digital natives Destiny contains powerful
tools to conduct research of print and digital resources
Report Card and Grading System Standards based grading and reporting will continue to be used in all schools this year
The goal of this grading format is to give families a clear understanding of your childrsquos
progress toward end of year grade level expectations The following chart below explains
the meaning of the grades
Grade Description Comment
ES Exceptional at the grade level standard Not used in
kindergarten
P Meets the grade level standard by demonstrating
proficiency of the content or processes for the
measurement topic
I In progress toward meeting the grade level standard
N Not yet making progress or making minimal progress
toward meeting the grade level standard
M Missing data-No grade recorded
NEP Not English Proficient may be used for level 1 or 2 ESOL
student for no more than two marking periods
IMPORTANT Please note these descriptions do not translate in to the old letter grades
(eg an ES is not equivalent to an ldquoOrdquo or ldquoArdquo) Any child that is working on grade level
indicators and making progress is likely to receive a report of ldquoPrdquo or ldquoIrdquo on the report card
Report cards are cumulative and will be used over the four marking periods as students
work toward end of year mastery Measurement topics are a group of related content
skills or processes in a subject For example foundational skills are a measurement topic
in the category of reading and geometry is a measurement topic in math
Learning skills will also be updated to include personal and social development skills and
thinking and academic success skills Personal and Social Development Skills are the
effort and behaviors that affect learning This section will provide information that
describes what your child is doing that helps or hinders hisher learning Thinking and
Academic Success Skills (TASS) permeate instruction in all content areas of the MCPS
PreK-5 Integrated Curriculum The chart below explains the meaning of the codes for
Personal and Social Development Skills and Thinking and Academic Success Skills
Code Description
DEM Demonstrating
PRG Progressing
N Not yet evident
Look for more information from your childrsquos teacher about the format for grading and
reporting throughout the coming year
MCPS GIVE BACKpacks Campaign Help MCPS make sure all students are ready for the new school year by donating to the
MCPS GIVE BACKpacks campaign The GIVE BACKpacks drive was created in response to
the growing need in Montgomery County to help families with the basic school supplies
students need at the start of the school year A backpack filled with school supplies costs
$10 and donors have the option to sponsor one student a classroom a grade level or an
entire school The backpacks will be distributed to students in need in schools at the
beginning of the school year Visit wwwmcpsgivebackpacksorg to learn more or to
donate
Campantildea GIVE BACKpacks de MCPS
Ayude a MCPS a asegurarse de que todos los estudiantes esteacuten listos para el nuevo ciclo
escolar donando a la Campantildea GIVE BACKpacks de MCPS La campantildea GIVE
BACKpacks fue creada en respuesta a la necesidad creciente en el condado de
Montgomery County de ayudar a familias con los uacutetiles escolares baacutesicos que los
estudiantes necesitan al principio del ciclo escolar Una mochila llena de uacutetiles escolares
cuesta $10 y los donantes tienen la opcioacuten de patrocinar a un estudiante individual a
toda una clase a un grado escolar o a toda una escuela Las mochilas se distribuiraacuten a
estudiantes necesitados al principio del ciclo escolar Para maacutes informacioacuten o para hacer
una donacioacuten visite wwwmcpsgivebackpacksorg
Thursday August 25 Kindergarten Back-to-School Night 600 pm -715 pm
Friday August 26 OPEN HOUSE Kindergarten ndash Grade 5 300 pm ndash 400 pm
Monday August 29 First Day of School for Students in Kindergarten - Grade 5
1st Marking Period Begins
Monday September 5 Schools amp Offices are CLOSED Labor Day Holiday
Tuesday September 6 First Day of School for PEP Students
Wednesday September 7 Back-to-School Night for Students in Grades 1 ndash 5 700 pm ndash 900 pm
Monday September 12 School is CLOSED for Students Teacher Professional Day
Saturday September 17 PTA Back-to-School PICNIC
Friday September 30 EARLY RELEASE DAY FOR ALL STUDENTS 115 PM
Monday October 3 School is CLOSED for Students amp Teachers Rosh Hoshanah
Tuesday October 4 PTA Board Meeting 630 pm General PTA Meeting at 700 pm
Monday October 10 OPEN HOUSE for Parents 930 am ndash 1115 am Columbus Day
Wednesday October 12 School is CLOSED for Students amp Teachers Yom Kippur
Friday November 4 1st Marking Period Ends
Monday November 7 School is CLOSED for Students Teacher Professional Day
Tuesday November 8 Schools amp Offices are CLOSED ELECTION DAY
Wednesday November 9 2nd Marking Period Begins
Thursday November 10 Early Release Day for Students in Grades K-5 115 pm for PARENT
CONFERENCES No School for Pre-K amp Head Start
Friday November 11 Early Release Day for Students in Grades K-5 115 pm for PARENT
CONFERENCES No School for Pre-K amp Head Start
In closing if you are new to Fairland Elementary School we welcome you and your family
to our community if you are returning we look forward to working with you and your
child again this year We pride ourselves on building positive relationships high quality
instruction and our commitment to continuous improvement We look forward to
establishing a partnership with your family Enjoy your last days of summer We will see
you at the Open House on Friday August 26th at 300 pm
Best Regards
Lakeisha Lashley Stephanie Spencer
Principal Assistant Principal
Fairland Parent Handbook 2016 - 2017
ATTENDANCEABSENCES The Maryland State Department of Education has
clarified that ALL school absences MUST be accounted for with a written note or else be
counted as unexcused Parents are requested to call the school in the morning if their
child is not going to attend school that day and follow up with a note when the student
returns to school Parents may leave messages about absent students on the schools
answering machine when the school office is closed When you call to report an absence
please leave your childs name hisher teacher and the reason for the absence
Students are not permitted in school with fevers of 100 or higher Students must be
fever-free and vomit-free for 24 hours before returning to school
Students will be permitted to the extent possible and at the discretion of the teacher to
make up work missed during the period of an excused absence
Attendance at school is extremely important Research shows that there is a significant
relationship between consistent attendance and academic achievement The Maryland
State Department of Education has established standards for school attendance including
both lawful and unlawful absences As part of the Maryland School Assessment Program
all schools in the state of Maryland are monitored and evaluated on their attendance
records Students are expected to attend school regularly and be punctual
Students will be recorded as am absent if they arrive at school more than two
hours late
Students will be recorded as pm absent if they leave school more than two
hours early
Students will be recorded as either am absent or pm absent if they are absent
from school for more than two hours but less than four hours during the school
day
Students will be recorded as full-day absent if they are present for less than two
hours of the school day
Students will be recorded as full-day present if they are present for more than
four hours of the school day
If your child is absent tardy or needs to be dismissed early please send a note explaining
the reason This information is necessary for attendance coding purposes Vacation trips
are not considered excused or ldquolawfulrdquo absences According to State regulations the
following is a listing of ldquolawfulrdquo absences for elementary students
Death in the immediate family
Illness of the student
Court summons
Hazardous weather conditions
Observance of a religious holiday
State emergency
Suspension
Lack of authorized transportation
Other emergencies
BICYCLES ETC Students may ride a bicycle to school if written permission letter is sent
to the office A lock is needed in order to properly secure the bike to our rack The school
cannot assume responsibility for damaged or stolen bicycles It is important that parents
review bicycle safety and etiquette Bicycles are to be walked on school property Please
remember that Montgomery County law requires that all children 18 years of age or
younger wear bicycle helmets At no time are skateboards or inline skates to be used on
school property
BIRTHDAYS Birthdays may be celebrated with a special snacktreat donated by
parents of the birthday child (See Food Policy) Parents may select one of two ways to
celebrate their childrsquos birthday 1) Parents may contact their childrsquos teacher directly to
arrange a birthday celebration for approximately 10-15 minutes at the end of the
instructional day or 2) Parents take responsibility for handing out birthday treats during
their childrsquos lunch period (Note Teachers will not be available during the childrsquos lunch
time due to team planning)
BUS SCHEDULE Please read the enclosed schedule to determine the best (safest)
stop for your child For the first few days it is wise to be prepared for minor delays as the
new routes are established If there is a safety question please call us Families living in
the Fairdale community will have students walking to the school The patrols will be there
to help students proceed safely to school
CELL PHONES Fairland Elementary school students are NOT permitted to possess or
use portable communication devices on school grounds during the instructional day Such
devices may include but are not limited to portable pagers hand-held radios and cellular
telephones
CHECK IN AT OFFICE All visitors to the school -
parents grandparents volunteers everyone - must check in at the main office using the
Visitor Management System (VMS) Visitors must bring a photo ID that will be scanned
into our electronic system The VMS will provide visitors with a sticker This is to be done
before going anywhere in the building and before leaving the building It is extremely
important that we know who is in the school building at all times During emergency
evacuation drillsactual emergencies we must account for everyone All visitors and
volunteers must wear identification stickers while in the school building Although some
visitor faces may be familiar to staff it is still of importance that you are signed-in through
the VMS and wear a sticker We want everyone to feel safe and welcomed as they enter
our school building We believe that Fairland ES is a happy place when there are
consistent safe practices for all
CLASS PARTIES Class parties are held twice during the school year for special
celebrations Halloween and Valentines Day Parents who do not wish for their child to
participate in these or other celebrations including birthday observances should notify
the classroom teacher of their preference
DISCIPLINE POLICY A Student Discipline Policy will be sent home with each child
Parents are asked to read and discuss this policy with their child so that students can
continue to work in a safe and comfortable learning environment
DROPPING STUDENTS OFF AT SCHOOL The parent drop-off area has been
provided just outside of the schools side entrance Parents who drop their child off at
school or pick their child up in the afternoon should do so in that area No cars are
allowed in the bus circle (directly in front of the school) for safety reasons We request
that all drivers remain with their vehicles unless parked in marked spaces and that no car
be left to block the free flow of traffic entering the parking and drop off area If a student
is late an adult must walk the student into the main office and sign him or her in
EARLY DISMISSALS School is occasionally dismissed early due to adverse weather
conditions or mechanical failure (electricity water) at the school Students should know
where they are to go without having to call home if school is dismissed early for any
reason Early dismissals are announced on local media stations Planned early release
days for professional meetings and conferences are listed in the school calendar
ENROLLING STUDENTS New students are enrolled at the school by having their
parents or guardian complete enrollment forms at the school office Immunization
information birth certificate and proof of residency for each student new to Fairland
must be on file at the school before the child can attend the school Strict enforcement of
all residency policies will be in effect at all times Any questions regarding residency in the
Fairland neighborhood will be investigated
EMERGENCY CLOSINGS School is occasionally closed all day due to unsafe weather
conditions or mechanical problems in the school Announcements are made over local
media stations during the mornings of unscheduled closings Parents are asked to listen
to the radio or TV for information about school closings Please do not call the school for
this information Emergency closings are also announced on the MCPS information line
at (301) 279-3673
EVACUATION PLANS In the event of an emergency where we must evacuate the
building leave school grounds and cannot return to the building our emergency
evacuation location will again be
Paint Branch High School (Cafeteria)
14121 Old Columbia Pike
Burtonsville MD 20866
301-989-5600
Banneker Middle School
14800 Perrywood Drive
Burtonsville MD 20866
301-989-5747
All students and staff would proceed to this location where they would wait for
transportation to deliver the students home MCPS personnel would assist us in having
all school buses pick-up the students from this location and help in safely dealing with
the emergency
FOOD POLICY It is the policy of the Montgomery County Public Schools Board of
Education that only store-bought pre-packaged food be brought into the classroom for
parties snacks etc While everyone loves the idea of home-baked goods there is no way
to control the quality or contents of the food unless it is store-bought with required
labeling Some children have allergies and are sensitive to even traces of allergens in food
Please avoid foods that contain nuts
HEALTH ROOM A health technician is on duty from 900 am to 330 pm each school
day It is important for us to have every childs emergency information on file so that we
may contact parents quickly if necessary If your home cell or work telephone number
changes please let us know Students who become ill at school may be picked up in the
Health Room and should be signed out in the Health Room Please feel free to contact
Ms Penn Fairlandrsquos Health Technician directly at 2407400642
ILLNESS - See student absences
LOST AND FOUND A lost and found area is located in the recess hallway by the
stairwell for items that have been misplaced by students
LUNCH LOANS The National School Lunch program does not permit the cafeteria
to loan money or extend credit to those without money for lunch All students are
encouraged to have sufficient money in their SNAP accounts to cover breakfastlunch
purchases desired or to bring the change needed for their purchases
LUNCH PRICES
elementary lunch = $255 breakfast = $130 milk = $60
reduced-price lunch = $40 reduced-price breakfast = $00
LUNCH PROGRAM Lunches may be brought or purchased at school beginning with
the first day A computerized cash register system is used in the cafeteria Each student is
assigned an account which is accessed by a Personalized Identification Number (PIN)
Students returning to our school will use their PIN from last year Students new to our
school will receive their new PINs on the first day of school This is a debit system in which
students may choose to make deposits into an account At mealtime the computer
records food purchases and deducts them from the account when the student enters
hisher PIN on the keypad Students who choose to not pay in advance still enter their
PINs and then pay by cash We strongly suggest that deposits be made in advance
Checks made out to Fairland School Cafeteria may be brought in throughout the year
Your childs name must be written on the check The use of this program will enhance
the speed and smoothness of the lunch process and should add to the time that students
have to eat their lunch When accounts become low a reminder letter will be sent home
so additional money can be deposited into the childs account for future use Please feel
free to contact Ms Golden Fairlandrsquos Food Service Manager directly at 2407400644
Under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act a student may be entitled to receive menu
substitutions of texture modifications under the school lunch program This entitlement
occurs when a doctor determines that a child has an impairment which substantially limits
one or more major life activities A signed statement from the students doctor must
verify the existence of the students handicapping condition and an indication that the
handicap restricts the students diet If the handicap prevents the student from eating the
regular school meals meal substitutions for that child will be made at no extra charge If
you believe your child needs substitutions please contact the school office
LUNCH AND RECESS Students have 30-minute lunch periods and 30-minute recess
periods each day except for early dismissal days Students will have recess outdoors
unless it is raining or the temperature is below 320 F They should dress accordingly on
days when the weather is windy or cold All students are expected to go outside on
outdoor recess days unless they have a note from their physician
Some students will have recess before they go to lunch Many Montgomery County
Schools are using this model and it has been successful for student behavior and
enjoyment By having recess before lunch students make better choices about what they
eat They eat more and always drink their fluids Itrsquos beneficial and helps students return
to the classrooms and ready to learn with a positive attitude
MEDICATIONS Parents are encouraged to administer medications to their children
at home whenever possible No medication will be administered in school or during
school-sponsored activities without written authorization from the parentguardian and
a physicians written order Any prescribed medication that needs to be administered at
school must be in the original bottle and must be accompanied by MCPS form 525-13
(Authorization to Administer Prescribed Medication) All medications must be hand
delivered to the school by a parent Under no circumstances will school personnel
administer medications brought to school by a student Over-the-counter medications
must be accompanied by a physicians note to be administered by the health technician
Please do not send cough drops throat drops vitamins etc to school with your child
Please feel free to contact Ms Penn Fairlandrsquos Health Technician directly at 2407400642
OFFICE HOURS The school office is open from 830 am until 430 pm each school
day An answering machine will take messages during non-school hours
PARENT COMMUNICATIONS Regular communications from the school should
be expected to arrive home with the students These will include teachers notices and
announcements as appropriate A phone and email message will be sent to parents
weekly through our Connect Ed system
PICKING STUDENTS UP FROM SCHOOL Once students have arrived at school
they will be released only to their parents or legal guardians All students leaving school
before the end of the school day must be signed out from the main office by their parents
or legal guardian If parents want their child to be picked up at school at any time by
anyone else including siblings and grandparents the parents must send a note to the
school stating their wishes and the name of the person who will pick up the child The
person picking up the child must present picture identification to the school office In
order to maintain safety at the end of the instructional day students will not be
called out of class for dismissal after 310 pm
POSITIVE BEHAVIORAL INTERVENTIONS AND SUPPORTS (PBIS) Fairland will continue implementing the PBIS program this year PBIS is a behavior
intervention program that focuses on pre-teaching reinforcing and rewarding positive
student behaviors It is a school-wide systematic approach to setting high expectations
for student behavior For the 2016-2017 our School Expectations are I CAN BE SAFE I
CAN BE READY and I CAN BE RESPONSIBLE Our students will earn soar slips for their
good choices When students receive Soar Slips it will allow them to earn special
privileges and rewards We believe this program will allow students to be rewarded for
their positive acts
PTA MEETINGS PTA activities are scheduled periodically throughout the year and
provide opportunities for families to come together at the school for information
entertainment andor socialization For the 2016-2017 school year PTA Executive Board
Meetings will be held at 630 pm followed by PTA General Meetings at 700 pm The Fall
2016 dates for PTA Executive Board and General Meetings are October 4th and
December 6th All parents are invited to attend the PTA Board Meetings and we want to
see all Fairland Families at PTA General Meetings So mark your calendars for October 4th
at 630 pm and 700 pm for PTA right away
REPORT CARDS Report cards are sent home with students four times a year at the
end of each of the nine-week grading periods The dates for report card distribution will
be as follows
November 17 2016 April 19 2017
February 8 2017 June 27 2017 (mailed)
SCHOOL HOURS The instructional day for students begins at 925 am and ends at
350 pm Students arriving after the 925 am bell are considered tardy and must be signed
in by an adult at the front office In the morning students are admitted to classrooms at
900 am Students should not be dropped off at school before 900 am There will be no
supervision for students before that time
SCHOOL SUPPLIES Please refer to the attached student recommended supply list
for the 2016 - 2017 school year at Fairland Elementary School
TOYS We request that students NOT bring their personal toys balls stuffed animals
trading cards electronic games etc to school We cannot be responsible for these items
and they are not needed for the instructional program or recess
TRANSPORTATION Most of Fairlandrsquos students are bused to school Students are
picked up at designated bus stops no more than one mile from their home Parents are
responsible for maintaining discipline and safety at bus stops Inclement weather traffic
accidents and road construction can cause delays in the bus routes so the pick-up and
drop-off times of each bus may vary somewhat from day to day Questions about the
buses or bus routes should be directed to Sinisa Pavlovic MCPS Randolph Depot Manager
at the Transportation Office at (301) 929-6906 No child may ride a bus other than that
which is assigned Children wishing to ride a bus not regularly assigned to them must
have a note from their parent that is signed by office personnel Office personnel will
make a final decision based on space and student behaviors when allowing students to
ride a bus that is NOT assigned to them
VISITORS MCPS Policy requires that all visitors without exception must check in with
the Front Office staff before proceeding into the building This policy is enforced for the
safety of the students Visitors sign in and obtain a sticker from the visitor Management
System (VMS) Parents bringing items for their child (lunch band instruments homework
etc) will be asked to leave the items with front office personnel so that instructional time
remains uninterrupted We at Fairland have an open door policy We encourage families
to notify the teacher of your desire to visit in order to promote the smooth flow of the
instructional program
Montgomery County Public School Initiatives STRATEGIC PLANNING FRAMEWORK The Montgomery County Board of Education has adopted a new Strategic Planning
Framework that will guide the work of MCPS schools and offices in the years to come The
Framework Building Our Future Together Students Staff and Community incorporates
the three competencies that students need for success in the 21st centurymdashacademic
excellence creative problem solving and social emotional learningmdashas well as a
continued commitment to operational excellence The Framework describes what
students should know and be able to do in the three competency areas as well as specific
actions staff parents and community members should take to support students Parents
and staff will receive information about the Strategic Planning Framework at the
beginning of the school year but can learn more now by visiting the MCPS website at
wwwmontgomeryschoolsmdorgframework or search Strategic Planning Framework
Estructura de Planificacioacuten Estrateacutegica El Consejo de Educacioacuten (Board of Education) de Montgomery County ha adoptado una
nueva Estructura de Planificacioacuten Estrateacutegica que guiaraacute el trabajo de las escuelas y las
oficinas de MCPS en los proacuteximos antildeos La Estructura Construyendo Nuestro Futuro
Juntos Estudiantes Empleados y Comunidad incorpora las tres aacutereas de competencia
que los estudiantes necesitan para ser exitosos en el Siglo XXImdashexcelencia acadeacutemica
resolucioacuten creativa de problemas y aprendizaje social y emocionalmdashcomo asiacute un
compromiso continuo hacia la excelencia operativa La Estructura describe lo que los
estudiantes deberiacutean saber y ser capaces de hacer en las tres aacutereas de competencia asiacute
como tambieacuten acciones especiacuteficas que el personal los padres y los miembros de la
comunidad deben tomar para apoyar a los estudiantes Los padres y el personal recibiraacuten
informacioacuten sobre la Estructura de Planificacioacuten Estrateacutegica al comienzo del ciclo escolar
pero ya pueden aprender maacutes visitando la paacutegina de Internet de la Estructura de MCPS
en wwwmontgomeryschoolsmdorgframeworkes o busque Strategic Planning
Framework
Curriculum 20 All grade levels continue with implementation of Curriculum 20 This curriculum is shifting
the way in which we approach our instruction with an emphasis on depth of study versus
covering topics Please see attached for information from our superintendent Dr Starr
on the curriculum implementation and what you can expect on pages x and x of this letter
Online Library Search System Our library media center continues to use a centralized K-12 resource management tool
This tool helps our library media center work more efficiently while creating engaging and
collaborative learning environments promoting and supporting student achievement
The system is called Destiny Library Manager (Destiny) The implementation of Destiny
will enable a stronger library media program-classroom connection and support the
library media specialistrsquos role in helping students develop 21st century learning skills
Throughout the school year our library media staff members will guide students in using
the next-generation searching tool for todayrsquos digital natives Destiny contains powerful
tools to conduct research of print and digital resources
Report Card and Grading System Standards based grading and reporting will continue to be used in all schools this year
The goal of this grading format is to give families a clear understanding of your childrsquos
progress toward end of year grade level expectations The following chart below explains
the meaning of the grades
Grade Description Comment
ES Exceptional at the grade level standard Not used in
kindergarten
P Meets the grade level standard by demonstrating
proficiency of the content or processes for the
measurement topic
I In progress toward meeting the grade level standard
N Not yet making progress or making minimal progress
toward meeting the grade level standard
M Missing data-No grade recorded
NEP Not English Proficient may be used for level 1 or 2 ESOL
student for no more than two marking periods
IMPORTANT Please note these descriptions do not translate in to the old letter grades
(eg an ES is not equivalent to an ldquoOrdquo or ldquoArdquo) Any child that is working on grade level
indicators and making progress is likely to receive a report of ldquoPrdquo or ldquoIrdquo on the report card
Report cards are cumulative and will be used over the four marking periods as students
work toward end of year mastery Measurement topics are a group of related content
skills or processes in a subject For example foundational skills are a measurement topic
in the category of reading and geometry is a measurement topic in math
Learning skills will also be updated to include personal and social development skills and
thinking and academic success skills Personal and Social Development Skills are the
effort and behaviors that affect learning This section will provide information that
describes what your child is doing that helps or hinders hisher learning Thinking and
Academic Success Skills (TASS) permeate instruction in all content areas of the MCPS
PreK-5 Integrated Curriculum The chart below explains the meaning of the codes for
Personal and Social Development Skills and Thinking and Academic Success Skills
Code Description
DEM Demonstrating
PRG Progressing
N Not yet evident
Look for more information from your childrsquos teacher about the format for grading and
reporting throughout the coming year
MCPS GIVE BACKpacks Campaign Help MCPS make sure all students are ready for the new school year by donating to the
MCPS GIVE BACKpacks campaign The GIVE BACKpacks drive was created in response to
the growing need in Montgomery County to help families with the basic school supplies
students need at the start of the school year A backpack filled with school supplies costs
$10 and donors have the option to sponsor one student a classroom a grade level or an
entire school The backpacks will be distributed to students in need in schools at the
beginning of the school year Visit wwwmcpsgivebackpacksorg to learn more or to
donate
Campantildea GIVE BACKpacks de MCPS
Ayude a MCPS a asegurarse de que todos los estudiantes esteacuten listos para el nuevo ciclo
escolar donando a la Campantildea GIVE BACKpacks de MCPS La campantildea GIVE
BACKpacks fue creada en respuesta a la necesidad creciente en el condado de
Montgomery County de ayudar a familias con los uacutetiles escolares baacutesicos que los
estudiantes necesitan al principio del ciclo escolar Una mochila llena de uacutetiles escolares
cuesta $10 y los donantes tienen la opcioacuten de patrocinar a un estudiante individual a
toda una clase a un grado escolar o a toda una escuela Las mochilas se distribuiraacuten a
estudiantes necesitados al principio del ciclo escolar Para maacutes informacioacuten o para hacer
una donacioacuten visite wwwmcpsgivebackpacksorg
Fairland Parent Handbook 2016 - 2017
ATTENDANCEABSENCES The Maryland State Department of Education has
clarified that ALL school absences MUST be accounted for with a written note or else be
counted as unexcused Parents are requested to call the school in the morning if their
child is not going to attend school that day and follow up with a note when the student
returns to school Parents may leave messages about absent students on the schools
answering machine when the school office is closed When you call to report an absence
please leave your childs name hisher teacher and the reason for the absence
Students are not permitted in school with fevers of 100 or higher Students must be
fever-free and vomit-free for 24 hours before returning to school
Students will be permitted to the extent possible and at the discretion of the teacher to
make up work missed during the period of an excused absence
Attendance at school is extremely important Research shows that there is a significant
relationship between consistent attendance and academic achievement The Maryland
State Department of Education has established standards for school attendance including
both lawful and unlawful absences As part of the Maryland School Assessment Program
all schools in the state of Maryland are monitored and evaluated on their attendance
records Students are expected to attend school regularly and be punctual
Students will be recorded as am absent if they arrive at school more than two
hours late
Students will be recorded as pm absent if they leave school more than two
hours early
Students will be recorded as either am absent or pm absent if they are absent
from school for more than two hours but less than four hours during the school
day
Students will be recorded as full-day absent if they are present for less than two
hours of the school day
Students will be recorded as full-day present if they are present for more than
four hours of the school day
If your child is absent tardy or needs to be dismissed early please send a note explaining
the reason This information is necessary for attendance coding purposes Vacation trips
are not considered excused or ldquolawfulrdquo absences According to State regulations the
following is a listing of ldquolawfulrdquo absences for elementary students
Death in the immediate family
Illness of the student
Court summons
Hazardous weather conditions
Observance of a religious holiday
State emergency
Suspension
Lack of authorized transportation
Other emergencies
BICYCLES ETC Students may ride a bicycle to school if written permission letter is sent
to the office A lock is needed in order to properly secure the bike to our rack The school
cannot assume responsibility for damaged or stolen bicycles It is important that parents
review bicycle safety and etiquette Bicycles are to be walked on school property Please
remember that Montgomery County law requires that all children 18 years of age or
younger wear bicycle helmets At no time are skateboards or inline skates to be used on
school property
BIRTHDAYS Birthdays may be celebrated with a special snacktreat donated by
parents of the birthday child (See Food Policy) Parents may select one of two ways to
celebrate their childrsquos birthday 1) Parents may contact their childrsquos teacher directly to
arrange a birthday celebration for approximately 10-15 minutes at the end of the
instructional day or 2) Parents take responsibility for handing out birthday treats during
their childrsquos lunch period (Note Teachers will not be available during the childrsquos lunch
time due to team planning)
BUS SCHEDULE Please read the enclosed schedule to determine the best (safest)
stop for your child For the first few days it is wise to be prepared for minor delays as the
new routes are established If there is a safety question please call us Families living in
the Fairdale community will have students walking to the school The patrols will be there
to help students proceed safely to school
CELL PHONES Fairland Elementary school students are NOT permitted to possess or
use portable communication devices on school grounds during the instructional day Such
devices may include but are not limited to portable pagers hand-held radios and cellular
telephones
CHECK IN AT OFFICE All visitors to the school -
parents grandparents volunteers everyone - must check in at the main office using the
Visitor Management System (VMS) Visitors must bring a photo ID that will be scanned
into our electronic system The VMS will provide visitors with a sticker This is to be done
before going anywhere in the building and before leaving the building It is extremely
important that we know who is in the school building at all times During emergency
evacuation drillsactual emergencies we must account for everyone All visitors and
volunteers must wear identification stickers while in the school building Although some
visitor faces may be familiar to staff it is still of importance that you are signed-in through
the VMS and wear a sticker We want everyone to feel safe and welcomed as they enter
our school building We believe that Fairland ES is a happy place when there are
consistent safe practices for all
CLASS PARTIES Class parties are held twice during the school year for special
celebrations Halloween and Valentines Day Parents who do not wish for their child to
participate in these or other celebrations including birthday observances should notify
the classroom teacher of their preference
DISCIPLINE POLICY A Student Discipline Policy will be sent home with each child
Parents are asked to read and discuss this policy with their child so that students can
continue to work in a safe and comfortable learning environment
DROPPING STUDENTS OFF AT SCHOOL The parent drop-off area has been
provided just outside of the schools side entrance Parents who drop their child off at
school or pick their child up in the afternoon should do so in that area No cars are
allowed in the bus circle (directly in front of the school) for safety reasons We request
that all drivers remain with their vehicles unless parked in marked spaces and that no car
be left to block the free flow of traffic entering the parking and drop off area If a student
is late an adult must walk the student into the main office and sign him or her in
EARLY DISMISSALS School is occasionally dismissed early due to adverse weather
conditions or mechanical failure (electricity water) at the school Students should know
where they are to go without having to call home if school is dismissed early for any
reason Early dismissals are announced on local media stations Planned early release
days for professional meetings and conferences are listed in the school calendar
ENROLLING STUDENTS New students are enrolled at the school by having their
parents or guardian complete enrollment forms at the school office Immunization
information birth certificate and proof of residency for each student new to Fairland
must be on file at the school before the child can attend the school Strict enforcement of
all residency policies will be in effect at all times Any questions regarding residency in the
Fairland neighborhood will be investigated
EMERGENCY CLOSINGS School is occasionally closed all day due to unsafe weather
conditions or mechanical problems in the school Announcements are made over local
media stations during the mornings of unscheduled closings Parents are asked to listen
to the radio or TV for information about school closings Please do not call the school for
this information Emergency closings are also announced on the MCPS information line
at (301) 279-3673
EVACUATION PLANS In the event of an emergency where we must evacuate the
building leave school grounds and cannot return to the building our emergency
evacuation location will again be
Paint Branch High School (Cafeteria)
14121 Old Columbia Pike
Burtonsville MD 20866
301-989-5600
Banneker Middle School
14800 Perrywood Drive
Burtonsville MD 20866
301-989-5747
All students and staff would proceed to this location where they would wait for
transportation to deliver the students home MCPS personnel would assist us in having
all school buses pick-up the students from this location and help in safely dealing with
the emergency
FOOD POLICY It is the policy of the Montgomery County Public Schools Board of
Education that only store-bought pre-packaged food be brought into the classroom for
parties snacks etc While everyone loves the idea of home-baked goods there is no way
to control the quality or contents of the food unless it is store-bought with required
labeling Some children have allergies and are sensitive to even traces of allergens in food
Please avoid foods that contain nuts
HEALTH ROOM A health technician is on duty from 900 am to 330 pm each school
day It is important for us to have every childs emergency information on file so that we
may contact parents quickly if necessary If your home cell or work telephone number
changes please let us know Students who become ill at school may be picked up in the
Health Room and should be signed out in the Health Room Please feel free to contact
Ms Penn Fairlandrsquos Health Technician directly at 2407400642
ILLNESS - See student absences
LOST AND FOUND A lost and found area is located in the recess hallway by the
stairwell for items that have been misplaced by students
LUNCH LOANS The National School Lunch program does not permit the cafeteria
to loan money or extend credit to those without money for lunch All students are
encouraged to have sufficient money in their SNAP accounts to cover breakfastlunch
purchases desired or to bring the change needed for their purchases
LUNCH PRICES
elementary lunch = $255 breakfast = $130 milk = $60
reduced-price lunch = $40 reduced-price breakfast = $00
LUNCH PROGRAM Lunches may be brought or purchased at school beginning with
the first day A computerized cash register system is used in the cafeteria Each student is
assigned an account which is accessed by a Personalized Identification Number (PIN)
Students returning to our school will use their PIN from last year Students new to our
school will receive their new PINs on the first day of school This is a debit system in which
students may choose to make deposits into an account At mealtime the computer
records food purchases and deducts them from the account when the student enters
hisher PIN on the keypad Students who choose to not pay in advance still enter their
PINs and then pay by cash We strongly suggest that deposits be made in advance
Checks made out to Fairland School Cafeteria may be brought in throughout the year
Your childs name must be written on the check The use of this program will enhance
the speed and smoothness of the lunch process and should add to the time that students
have to eat their lunch When accounts become low a reminder letter will be sent home
so additional money can be deposited into the childs account for future use Please feel
free to contact Ms Golden Fairlandrsquos Food Service Manager directly at 2407400644
Under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act a student may be entitled to receive menu
substitutions of texture modifications under the school lunch program This entitlement
occurs when a doctor determines that a child has an impairment which substantially limits
one or more major life activities A signed statement from the students doctor must
verify the existence of the students handicapping condition and an indication that the
handicap restricts the students diet If the handicap prevents the student from eating the
regular school meals meal substitutions for that child will be made at no extra charge If
you believe your child needs substitutions please contact the school office
LUNCH AND RECESS Students have 30-minute lunch periods and 30-minute recess
periods each day except for early dismissal days Students will have recess outdoors
unless it is raining or the temperature is below 320 F They should dress accordingly on
days when the weather is windy or cold All students are expected to go outside on
outdoor recess days unless they have a note from their physician
Some students will have recess before they go to lunch Many Montgomery County
Schools are using this model and it has been successful for student behavior and
enjoyment By having recess before lunch students make better choices about what they
eat They eat more and always drink their fluids Itrsquos beneficial and helps students return
to the classrooms and ready to learn with a positive attitude
MEDICATIONS Parents are encouraged to administer medications to their children
at home whenever possible No medication will be administered in school or during
school-sponsored activities without written authorization from the parentguardian and
a physicians written order Any prescribed medication that needs to be administered at
school must be in the original bottle and must be accompanied by MCPS form 525-13
(Authorization to Administer Prescribed Medication) All medications must be hand
delivered to the school by a parent Under no circumstances will school personnel
administer medications brought to school by a student Over-the-counter medications
must be accompanied by a physicians note to be administered by the health technician
Please do not send cough drops throat drops vitamins etc to school with your child
Please feel free to contact Ms Penn Fairlandrsquos Health Technician directly at 2407400642
OFFICE HOURS The school office is open from 830 am until 430 pm each school
day An answering machine will take messages during non-school hours
PARENT COMMUNICATIONS Regular communications from the school should
be expected to arrive home with the students These will include teachers notices and
announcements as appropriate A phone and email message will be sent to parents
weekly through our Connect Ed system
PICKING STUDENTS UP FROM SCHOOL Once students have arrived at school
they will be released only to their parents or legal guardians All students leaving school
before the end of the school day must be signed out from the main office by their parents
or legal guardian If parents want their child to be picked up at school at any time by
anyone else including siblings and grandparents the parents must send a note to the
school stating their wishes and the name of the person who will pick up the child The
person picking up the child must present picture identification to the school office In
order to maintain safety at the end of the instructional day students will not be
called out of class for dismissal after 310 pm
POSITIVE BEHAVIORAL INTERVENTIONS AND SUPPORTS (PBIS) Fairland will continue implementing the PBIS program this year PBIS is a behavior
intervention program that focuses on pre-teaching reinforcing and rewarding positive
student behaviors It is a school-wide systematic approach to setting high expectations
for student behavior For the 2016-2017 our School Expectations are I CAN BE SAFE I
CAN BE READY and I CAN BE RESPONSIBLE Our students will earn soar slips for their
good choices When students receive Soar Slips it will allow them to earn special
privileges and rewards We believe this program will allow students to be rewarded for
their positive acts
PTA MEETINGS PTA activities are scheduled periodically throughout the year and
provide opportunities for families to come together at the school for information
entertainment andor socialization For the 2016-2017 school year PTA Executive Board
Meetings will be held at 630 pm followed by PTA General Meetings at 700 pm The Fall
2016 dates for PTA Executive Board and General Meetings are October 4th and
December 6th All parents are invited to attend the PTA Board Meetings and we want to
see all Fairland Families at PTA General Meetings So mark your calendars for October 4th
at 630 pm and 700 pm for PTA right away
REPORT CARDS Report cards are sent home with students four times a year at the
end of each of the nine-week grading periods The dates for report card distribution will
be as follows
November 17 2016 April 19 2017
February 8 2017 June 27 2017 (mailed)
SCHOOL HOURS The instructional day for students begins at 925 am and ends at
350 pm Students arriving after the 925 am bell are considered tardy and must be signed
in by an adult at the front office In the morning students are admitted to classrooms at
900 am Students should not be dropped off at school before 900 am There will be no
supervision for students before that time
SCHOOL SUPPLIES Please refer to the attached student recommended supply list
for the 2016 - 2017 school year at Fairland Elementary School
TOYS We request that students NOT bring their personal toys balls stuffed animals
trading cards electronic games etc to school We cannot be responsible for these items
and they are not needed for the instructional program or recess
TRANSPORTATION Most of Fairlandrsquos students are bused to school Students are
picked up at designated bus stops no more than one mile from their home Parents are
responsible for maintaining discipline and safety at bus stops Inclement weather traffic
accidents and road construction can cause delays in the bus routes so the pick-up and
drop-off times of each bus may vary somewhat from day to day Questions about the
buses or bus routes should be directed to Sinisa Pavlovic MCPS Randolph Depot Manager
at the Transportation Office at (301) 929-6906 No child may ride a bus other than that
which is assigned Children wishing to ride a bus not regularly assigned to them must
have a note from their parent that is signed by office personnel Office personnel will
make a final decision based on space and student behaviors when allowing students to
ride a bus that is NOT assigned to them
VISITORS MCPS Policy requires that all visitors without exception must check in with
the Front Office staff before proceeding into the building This policy is enforced for the
safety of the students Visitors sign in and obtain a sticker from the visitor Management
System (VMS) Parents bringing items for their child (lunch band instruments homework
etc) will be asked to leave the items with front office personnel so that instructional time
remains uninterrupted We at Fairland have an open door policy We encourage families
to notify the teacher of your desire to visit in order to promote the smooth flow of the
instructional program
Montgomery County Public School Initiatives STRATEGIC PLANNING FRAMEWORK The Montgomery County Board of Education has adopted a new Strategic Planning
Framework that will guide the work of MCPS schools and offices in the years to come The
Framework Building Our Future Together Students Staff and Community incorporates
the three competencies that students need for success in the 21st centurymdashacademic
excellence creative problem solving and social emotional learningmdashas well as a
continued commitment to operational excellence The Framework describes what
students should know and be able to do in the three competency areas as well as specific
actions staff parents and community members should take to support students Parents
and staff will receive information about the Strategic Planning Framework at the
beginning of the school year but can learn more now by visiting the MCPS website at
wwwmontgomeryschoolsmdorgframework or search Strategic Planning Framework
Estructura de Planificacioacuten Estrateacutegica El Consejo de Educacioacuten (Board of Education) de Montgomery County ha adoptado una
nueva Estructura de Planificacioacuten Estrateacutegica que guiaraacute el trabajo de las escuelas y las
oficinas de MCPS en los proacuteximos antildeos La Estructura Construyendo Nuestro Futuro
Juntos Estudiantes Empleados y Comunidad incorpora las tres aacutereas de competencia
que los estudiantes necesitan para ser exitosos en el Siglo XXImdashexcelencia acadeacutemica
resolucioacuten creativa de problemas y aprendizaje social y emocionalmdashcomo asiacute un
compromiso continuo hacia la excelencia operativa La Estructura describe lo que los
estudiantes deberiacutean saber y ser capaces de hacer en las tres aacutereas de competencia asiacute
como tambieacuten acciones especiacuteficas que el personal los padres y los miembros de la
comunidad deben tomar para apoyar a los estudiantes Los padres y el personal recibiraacuten
informacioacuten sobre la Estructura de Planificacioacuten Estrateacutegica al comienzo del ciclo escolar
pero ya pueden aprender maacutes visitando la paacutegina de Internet de la Estructura de MCPS
en wwwmontgomeryschoolsmdorgframeworkes o busque Strategic Planning
Framework
Curriculum 20 All grade levels continue with implementation of Curriculum 20 This curriculum is shifting
the way in which we approach our instruction with an emphasis on depth of study versus
covering topics Please see attached for information from our superintendent Dr Starr
on the curriculum implementation and what you can expect on pages x and x of this letter
Online Library Search System Our library media center continues to use a centralized K-12 resource management tool
This tool helps our library media center work more efficiently while creating engaging and
collaborative learning environments promoting and supporting student achievement
The system is called Destiny Library Manager (Destiny) The implementation of Destiny
will enable a stronger library media program-classroom connection and support the
library media specialistrsquos role in helping students develop 21st century learning skills
Throughout the school year our library media staff members will guide students in using
the next-generation searching tool for todayrsquos digital natives Destiny contains powerful
tools to conduct research of print and digital resources
Report Card and Grading System Standards based grading and reporting will continue to be used in all schools this year
The goal of this grading format is to give families a clear understanding of your childrsquos
progress toward end of year grade level expectations The following chart below explains
the meaning of the grades
Grade Description Comment
ES Exceptional at the grade level standard Not used in
kindergarten
P Meets the grade level standard by demonstrating
proficiency of the content or processes for the
measurement topic
I In progress toward meeting the grade level standard
N Not yet making progress or making minimal progress
toward meeting the grade level standard
M Missing data-No grade recorded
NEP Not English Proficient may be used for level 1 or 2 ESOL
student for no more than two marking periods
IMPORTANT Please note these descriptions do not translate in to the old letter grades
(eg an ES is not equivalent to an ldquoOrdquo or ldquoArdquo) Any child that is working on grade level
indicators and making progress is likely to receive a report of ldquoPrdquo or ldquoIrdquo on the report card
Report cards are cumulative and will be used over the four marking periods as students
work toward end of year mastery Measurement topics are a group of related content
skills or processes in a subject For example foundational skills are a measurement topic
in the category of reading and geometry is a measurement topic in math
Learning skills will also be updated to include personal and social development skills and
thinking and academic success skills Personal and Social Development Skills are the
effort and behaviors that affect learning This section will provide information that
describes what your child is doing that helps or hinders hisher learning Thinking and
Academic Success Skills (TASS) permeate instruction in all content areas of the MCPS
PreK-5 Integrated Curriculum The chart below explains the meaning of the codes for
Personal and Social Development Skills and Thinking and Academic Success Skills
Code Description
DEM Demonstrating
PRG Progressing
N Not yet evident
Look for more information from your childrsquos teacher about the format for grading and
reporting throughout the coming year
MCPS GIVE BACKpacks Campaign Help MCPS make sure all students are ready for the new school year by donating to the
MCPS GIVE BACKpacks campaign The GIVE BACKpacks drive was created in response to
the growing need in Montgomery County to help families with the basic school supplies
students need at the start of the school year A backpack filled with school supplies costs
$10 and donors have the option to sponsor one student a classroom a grade level or an
entire school The backpacks will be distributed to students in need in schools at the
beginning of the school year Visit wwwmcpsgivebackpacksorg to learn more or to
donate
Campantildea GIVE BACKpacks de MCPS
Ayude a MCPS a asegurarse de que todos los estudiantes esteacuten listos para el nuevo ciclo
escolar donando a la Campantildea GIVE BACKpacks de MCPS La campantildea GIVE
BACKpacks fue creada en respuesta a la necesidad creciente en el condado de
Montgomery County de ayudar a familias con los uacutetiles escolares baacutesicos que los
estudiantes necesitan al principio del ciclo escolar Una mochila llena de uacutetiles escolares
cuesta $10 y los donantes tienen la opcioacuten de patrocinar a un estudiante individual a
toda una clase a un grado escolar o a toda una escuela Las mochilas se distribuiraacuten a
estudiantes necesitados al principio del ciclo escolar Para maacutes informacioacuten o para hacer
una donacioacuten visite wwwmcpsgivebackpacksorg
are not considered excused or ldquolawfulrdquo absences According to State regulations the
following is a listing of ldquolawfulrdquo absences for elementary students
Death in the immediate family
Illness of the student
Court summons
Hazardous weather conditions
Observance of a religious holiday
State emergency
Suspension
Lack of authorized transportation
Other emergencies
BICYCLES ETC Students may ride a bicycle to school if written permission letter is sent
to the office A lock is needed in order to properly secure the bike to our rack The school
cannot assume responsibility for damaged or stolen bicycles It is important that parents
review bicycle safety and etiquette Bicycles are to be walked on school property Please
remember that Montgomery County law requires that all children 18 years of age or
younger wear bicycle helmets At no time are skateboards or inline skates to be used on
school property
BIRTHDAYS Birthdays may be celebrated with a special snacktreat donated by
parents of the birthday child (See Food Policy) Parents may select one of two ways to
celebrate their childrsquos birthday 1) Parents may contact their childrsquos teacher directly to
arrange a birthday celebration for approximately 10-15 minutes at the end of the
instructional day or 2) Parents take responsibility for handing out birthday treats during
their childrsquos lunch period (Note Teachers will not be available during the childrsquos lunch
time due to team planning)
BUS SCHEDULE Please read the enclosed schedule to determine the best (safest)
stop for your child For the first few days it is wise to be prepared for minor delays as the
new routes are established If there is a safety question please call us Families living in
the Fairdale community will have students walking to the school The patrols will be there
to help students proceed safely to school
CELL PHONES Fairland Elementary school students are NOT permitted to possess or
use portable communication devices on school grounds during the instructional day Such
devices may include but are not limited to portable pagers hand-held radios and cellular
telephones
CHECK IN AT OFFICE All visitors to the school -
parents grandparents volunteers everyone - must check in at the main office using the
Visitor Management System (VMS) Visitors must bring a photo ID that will be scanned
into our electronic system The VMS will provide visitors with a sticker This is to be done
before going anywhere in the building and before leaving the building It is extremely
important that we know who is in the school building at all times During emergency
evacuation drillsactual emergencies we must account for everyone All visitors and
volunteers must wear identification stickers while in the school building Although some
visitor faces may be familiar to staff it is still of importance that you are signed-in through
the VMS and wear a sticker We want everyone to feel safe and welcomed as they enter
our school building We believe that Fairland ES is a happy place when there are
consistent safe practices for all
CLASS PARTIES Class parties are held twice during the school year for special
celebrations Halloween and Valentines Day Parents who do not wish for their child to
participate in these or other celebrations including birthday observances should notify
the classroom teacher of their preference
DISCIPLINE POLICY A Student Discipline Policy will be sent home with each child
Parents are asked to read and discuss this policy with their child so that students can
continue to work in a safe and comfortable learning environment
DROPPING STUDENTS OFF AT SCHOOL The parent drop-off area has been
provided just outside of the schools side entrance Parents who drop their child off at
school or pick their child up in the afternoon should do so in that area No cars are
allowed in the bus circle (directly in front of the school) for safety reasons We request
that all drivers remain with their vehicles unless parked in marked spaces and that no car
be left to block the free flow of traffic entering the parking and drop off area If a student
is late an adult must walk the student into the main office and sign him or her in
EARLY DISMISSALS School is occasionally dismissed early due to adverse weather
conditions or mechanical failure (electricity water) at the school Students should know
where they are to go without having to call home if school is dismissed early for any
reason Early dismissals are announced on local media stations Planned early release
days for professional meetings and conferences are listed in the school calendar
ENROLLING STUDENTS New students are enrolled at the school by having their
parents or guardian complete enrollment forms at the school office Immunization
information birth certificate and proof of residency for each student new to Fairland
must be on file at the school before the child can attend the school Strict enforcement of
all residency policies will be in effect at all times Any questions regarding residency in the
Fairland neighborhood will be investigated
EMERGENCY CLOSINGS School is occasionally closed all day due to unsafe weather
conditions or mechanical problems in the school Announcements are made over local
media stations during the mornings of unscheduled closings Parents are asked to listen
to the radio or TV for information about school closings Please do not call the school for
this information Emergency closings are also announced on the MCPS information line
at (301) 279-3673
EVACUATION PLANS In the event of an emergency where we must evacuate the
building leave school grounds and cannot return to the building our emergency
evacuation location will again be
Paint Branch High School (Cafeteria)
14121 Old Columbia Pike
Burtonsville MD 20866
301-989-5600
Banneker Middle School
14800 Perrywood Drive
Burtonsville MD 20866
301-989-5747
All students and staff would proceed to this location where they would wait for
transportation to deliver the students home MCPS personnel would assist us in having
all school buses pick-up the students from this location and help in safely dealing with
the emergency
FOOD POLICY It is the policy of the Montgomery County Public Schools Board of
Education that only store-bought pre-packaged food be brought into the classroom for
parties snacks etc While everyone loves the idea of home-baked goods there is no way
to control the quality or contents of the food unless it is store-bought with required
labeling Some children have allergies and are sensitive to even traces of allergens in food
Please avoid foods that contain nuts
HEALTH ROOM A health technician is on duty from 900 am to 330 pm each school
day It is important for us to have every childs emergency information on file so that we
may contact parents quickly if necessary If your home cell or work telephone number
changes please let us know Students who become ill at school may be picked up in the
Health Room and should be signed out in the Health Room Please feel free to contact
Ms Penn Fairlandrsquos Health Technician directly at 2407400642
ILLNESS - See student absences
LOST AND FOUND A lost and found area is located in the recess hallway by the
stairwell for items that have been misplaced by students
LUNCH LOANS The National School Lunch program does not permit the cafeteria
to loan money or extend credit to those without money for lunch All students are
encouraged to have sufficient money in their SNAP accounts to cover breakfastlunch
purchases desired or to bring the change needed for their purchases
LUNCH PRICES
elementary lunch = $255 breakfast = $130 milk = $60
reduced-price lunch = $40 reduced-price breakfast = $00
LUNCH PROGRAM Lunches may be brought or purchased at school beginning with
the first day A computerized cash register system is used in the cafeteria Each student is
assigned an account which is accessed by a Personalized Identification Number (PIN)
Students returning to our school will use their PIN from last year Students new to our
school will receive their new PINs on the first day of school This is a debit system in which
students may choose to make deposits into an account At mealtime the computer
records food purchases and deducts them from the account when the student enters
hisher PIN on the keypad Students who choose to not pay in advance still enter their
PINs and then pay by cash We strongly suggest that deposits be made in advance
Checks made out to Fairland School Cafeteria may be brought in throughout the year
Your childs name must be written on the check The use of this program will enhance
the speed and smoothness of the lunch process and should add to the time that students
have to eat their lunch When accounts become low a reminder letter will be sent home
so additional money can be deposited into the childs account for future use Please feel
free to contact Ms Golden Fairlandrsquos Food Service Manager directly at 2407400644
Under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act a student may be entitled to receive menu
substitutions of texture modifications under the school lunch program This entitlement
occurs when a doctor determines that a child has an impairment which substantially limits
one or more major life activities A signed statement from the students doctor must
verify the existence of the students handicapping condition and an indication that the
handicap restricts the students diet If the handicap prevents the student from eating the
regular school meals meal substitutions for that child will be made at no extra charge If
you believe your child needs substitutions please contact the school office
LUNCH AND RECESS Students have 30-minute lunch periods and 30-minute recess
periods each day except for early dismissal days Students will have recess outdoors
unless it is raining or the temperature is below 320 F They should dress accordingly on
days when the weather is windy or cold All students are expected to go outside on
outdoor recess days unless they have a note from their physician
Some students will have recess before they go to lunch Many Montgomery County
Schools are using this model and it has been successful for student behavior and
enjoyment By having recess before lunch students make better choices about what they
eat They eat more and always drink their fluids Itrsquos beneficial and helps students return
to the classrooms and ready to learn with a positive attitude
MEDICATIONS Parents are encouraged to administer medications to their children
at home whenever possible No medication will be administered in school or during
school-sponsored activities without written authorization from the parentguardian and
a physicians written order Any prescribed medication that needs to be administered at
school must be in the original bottle and must be accompanied by MCPS form 525-13
(Authorization to Administer Prescribed Medication) All medications must be hand
delivered to the school by a parent Under no circumstances will school personnel
administer medications brought to school by a student Over-the-counter medications
must be accompanied by a physicians note to be administered by the health technician
Please do not send cough drops throat drops vitamins etc to school with your child
Please feel free to contact Ms Penn Fairlandrsquos Health Technician directly at 2407400642
OFFICE HOURS The school office is open from 830 am until 430 pm each school
day An answering machine will take messages during non-school hours
PARENT COMMUNICATIONS Regular communications from the school should
be expected to arrive home with the students These will include teachers notices and
announcements as appropriate A phone and email message will be sent to parents
weekly through our Connect Ed system
PICKING STUDENTS UP FROM SCHOOL Once students have arrived at school
they will be released only to their parents or legal guardians All students leaving school
before the end of the school day must be signed out from the main office by their parents
or legal guardian If parents want their child to be picked up at school at any time by
anyone else including siblings and grandparents the parents must send a note to the
school stating their wishes and the name of the person who will pick up the child The
person picking up the child must present picture identification to the school office In
order to maintain safety at the end of the instructional day students will not be
called out of class for dismissal after 310 pm
POSITIVE BEHAVIORAL INTERVENTIONS AND SUPPORTS (PBIS) Fairland will continue implementing the PBIS program this year PBIS is a behavior
intervention program that focuses on pre-teaching reinforcing and rewarding positive
student behaviors It is a school-wide systematic approach to setting high expectations
for student behavior For the 2016-2017 our School Expectations are I CAN BE SAFE I
CAN BE READY and I CAN BE RESPONSIBLE Our students will earn soar slips for their
good choices When students receive Soar Slips it will allow them to earn special
privileges and rewards We believe this program will allow students to be rewarded for
their positive acts
PTA MEETINGS PTA activities are scheduled periodically throughout the year and
provide opportunities for families to come together at the school for information
entertainment andor socialization For the 2016-2017 school year PTA Executive Board
Meetings will be held at 630 pm followed by PTA General Meetings at 700 pm The Fall
2016 dates for PTA Executive Board and General Meetings are October 4th and
December 6th All parents are invited to attend the PTA Board Meetings and we want to
see all Fairland Families at PTA General Meetings So mark your calendars for October 4th
at 630 pm and 700 pm for PTA right away
REPORT CARDS Report cards are sent home with students four times a year at the
end of each of the nine-week grading periods The dates for report card distribution will
be as follows
November 17 2016 April 19 2017
February 8 2017 June 27 2017 (mailed)
SCHOOL HOURS The instructional day for students begins at 925 am and ends at
350 pm Students arriving after the 925 am bell are considered tardy and must be signed
in by an adult at the front office In the morning students are admitted to classrooms at
900 am Students should not be dropped off at school before 900 am There will be no
supervision for students before that time
SCHOOL SUPPLIES Please refer to the attached student recommended supply list
for the 2016 - 2017 school year at Fairland Elementary School
TOYS We request that students NOT bring their personal toys balls stuffed animals
trading cards electronic games etc to school We cannot be responsible for these items
and they are not needed for the instructional program or recess
TRANSPORTATION Most of Fairlandrsquos students are bused to school Students are
picked up at designated bus stops no more than one mile from their home Parents are
responsible for maintaining discipline and safety at bus stops Inclement weather traffic
accidents and road construction can cause delays in the bus routes so the pick-up and
drop-off times of each bus may vary somewhat from day to day Questions about the
buses or bus routes should be directed to Sinisa Pavlovic MCPS Randolph Depot Manager
at the Transportation Office at (301) 929-6906 No child may ride a bus other than that
which is assigned Children wishing to ride a bus not regularly assigned to them must
have a note from their parent that is signed by office personnel Office personnel will
make a final decision based on space and student behaviors when allowing students to
ride a bus that is NOT assigned to them
VISITORS MCPS Policy requires that all visitors without exception must check in with
the Front Office staff before proceeding into the building This policy is enforced for the
safety of the students Visitors sign in and obtain a sticker from the visitor Management
System (VMS) Parents bringing items for their child (lunch band instruments homework
etc) will be asked to leave the items with front office personnel so that instructional time
remains uninterrupted We at Fairland have an open door policy We encourage families
to notify the teacher of your desire to visit in order to promote the smooth flow of the
instructional program
Montgomery County Public School Initiatives STRATEGIC PLANNING FRAMEWORK The Montgomery County Board of Education has adopted a new Strategic Planning
Framework that will guide the work of MCPS schools and offices in the years to come The
Framework Building Our Future Together Students Staff and Community incorporates
the three competencies that students need for success in the 21st centurymdashacademic
excellence creative problem solving and social emotional learningmdashas well as a
continued commitment to operational excellence The Framework describes what
students should know and be able to do in the three competency areas as well as specific
actions staff parents and community members should take to support students Parents
and staff will receive information about the Strategic Planning Framework at the
beginning of the school year but can learn more now by visiting the MCPS website at
wwwmontgomeryschoolsmdorgframework or search Strategic Planning Framework
Estructura de Planificacioacuten Estrateacutegica El Consejo de Educacioacuten (Board of Education) de Montgomery County ha adoptado una
nueva Estructura de Planificacioacuten Estrateacutegica que guiaraacute el trabajo de las escuelas y las
oficinas de MCPS en los proacuteximos antildeos La Estructura Construyendo Nuestro Futuro
Juntos Estudiantes Empleados y Comunidad incorpora las tres aacutereas de competencia
que los estudiantes necesitan para ser exitosos en el Siglo XXImdashexcelencia acadeacutemica
resolucioacuten creativa de problemas y aprendizaje social y emocionalmdashcomo asiacute un
compromiso continuo hacia la excelencia operativa La Estructura describe lo que los
estudiantes deberiacutean saber y ser capaces de hacer en las tres aacutereas de competencia asiacute
como tambieacuten acciones especiacuteficas que el personal los padres y los miembros de la
comunidad deben tomar para apoyar a los estudiantes Los padres y el personal recibiraacuten
informacioacuten sobre la Estructura de Planificacioacuten Estrateacutegica al comienzo del ciclo escolar
pero ya pueden aprender maacutes visitando la paacutegina de Internet de la Estructura de MCPS
en wwwmontgomeryschoolsmdorgframeworkes o busque Strategic Planning
Framework
Curriculum 20 All grade levels continue with implementation of Curriculum 20 This curriculum is shifting
the way in which we approach our instruction with an emphasis on depth of study versus
covering topics Please see attached for information from our superintendent Dr Starr
on the curriculum implementation and what you can expect on pages x and x of this letter
Online Library Search System Our library media center continues to use a centralized K-12 resource management tool
This tool helps our library media center work more efficiently while creating engaging and
collaborative learning environments promoting and supporting student achievement
The system is called Destiny Library Manager (Destiny) The implementation of Destiny
will enable a stronger library media program-classroom connection and support the
library media specialistrsquos role in helping students develop 21st century learning skills
Throughout the school year our library media staff members will guide students in using
the next-generation searching tool for todayrsquos digital natives Destiny contains powerful
tools to conduct research of print and digital resources
Report Card and Grading System Standards based grading and reporting will continue to be used in all schools this year
The goal of this grading format is to give families a clear understanding of your childrsquos
progress toward end of year grade level expectations The following chart below explains
the meaning of the grades
Grade Description Comment
ES Exceptional at the grade level standard Not used in
kindergarten
P Meets the grade level standard by demonstrating
proficiency of the content or processes for the
measurement topic
I In progress toward meeting the grade level standard
N Not yet making progress or making minimal progress
toward meeting the grade level standard
M Missing data-No grade recorded
NEP Not English Proficient may be used for level 1 or 2 ESOL
student for no more than two marking periods
IMPORTANT Please note these descriptions do not translate in to the old letter grades
(eg an ES is not equivalent to an ldquoOrdquo or ldquoArdquo) Any child that is working on grade level
indicators and making progress is likely to receive a report of ldquoPrdquo or ldquoIrdquo on the report card
Report cards are cumulative and will be used over the four marking periods as students
work toward end of year mastery Measurement topics are a group of related content
skills or processes in a subject For example foundational skills are a measurement topic
in the category of reading and geometry is a measurement topic in math
Learning skills will also be updated to include personal and social development skills and
thinking and academic success skills Personal and Social Development Skills are the
effort and behaviors that affect learning This section will provide information that
describes what your child is doing that helps or hinders hisher learning Thinking and
Academic Success Skills (TASS) permeate instruction in all content areas of the MCPS
PreK-5 Integrated Curriculum The chart below explains the meaning of the codes for
Personal and Social Development Skills and Thinking and Academic Success Skills
Code Description
DEM Demonstrating
PRG Progressing
N Not yet evident
Look for more information from your childrsquos teacher about the format for grading and
reporting throughout the coming year
MCPS GIVE BACKpacks Campaign Help MCPS make sure all students are ready for the new school year by donating to the
MCPS GIVE BACKpacks campaign The GIVE BACKpacks drive was created in response to
the growing need in Montgomery County to help families with the basic school supplies
students need at the start of the school year A backpack filled with school supplies costs
$10 and donors have the option to sponsor one student a classroom a grade level or an
entire school The backpacks will be distributed to students in need in schools at the
beginning of the school year Visit wwwmcpsgivebackpacksorg to learn more or to
donate
Campantildea GIVE BACKpacks de MCPS
Ayude a MCPS a asegurarse de que todos los estudiantes esteacuten listos para el nuevo ciclo
escolar donando a la Campantildea GIVE BACKpacks de MCPS La campantildea GIVE
BACKpacks fue creada en respuesta a la necesidad creciente en el condado de
Montgomery County de ayudar a familias con los uacutetiles escolares baacutesicos que los
estudiantes necesitan al principio del ciclo escolar Una mochila llena de uacutetiles escolares
cuesta $10 y los donantes tienen la opcioacuten de patrocinar a un estudiante individual a
toda una clase a un grado escolar o a toda una escuela Las mochilas se distribuiraacuten a
estudiantes necesitados al principio del ciclo escolar Para maacutes informacioacuten o para hacer
una donacioacuten visite wwwmcpsgivebackpacksorg
CHECK IN AT OFFICE All visitors to the school -
parents grandparents volunteers everyone - must check in at the main office using the
Visitor Management System (VMS) Visitors must bring a photo ID that will be scanned
into our electronic system The VMS will provide visitors with a sticker This is to be done
before going anywhere in the building and before leaving the building It is extremely
important that we know who is in the school building at all times During emergency
evacuation drillsactual emergencies we must account for everyone All visitors and
volunteers must wear identification stickers while in the school building Although some
visitor faces may be familiar to staff it is still of importance that you are signed-in through
the VMS and wear a sticker We want everyone to feel safe and welcomed as they enter
our school building We believe that Fairland ES is a happy place when there are
consistent safe practices for all
CLASS PARTIES Class parties are held twice during the school year for special
celebrations Halloween and Valentines Day Parents who do not wish for their child to
participate in these or other celebrations including birthday observances should notify
the classroom teacher of their preference
DISCIPLINE POLICY A Student Discipline Policy will be sent home with each child
Parents are asked to read and discuss this policy with their child so that students can
continue to work in a safe and comfortable learning environment
DROPPING STUDENTS OFF AT SCHOOL The parent drop-off area has been
provided just outside of the schools side entrance Parents who drop their child off at
school or pick their child up in the afternoon should do so in that area No cars are
allowed in the bus circle (directly in front of the school) for safety reasons We request
that all drivers remain with their vehicles unless parked in marked spaces and that no car
be left to block the free flow of traffic entering the parking and drop off area If a student
is late an adult must walk the student into the main office and sign him or her in
EARLY DISMISSALS School is occasionally dismissed early due to adverse weather
conditions or mechanical failure (electricity water) at the school Students should know
where they are to go without having to call home if school is dismissed early for any
reason Early dismissals are announced on local media stations Planned early release
days for professional meetings and conferences are listed in the school calendar
ENROLLING STUDENTS New students are enrolled at the school by having their
parents or guardian complete enrollment forms at the school office Immunization
information birth certificate and proof of residency for each student new to Fairland
must be on file at the school before the child can attend the school Strict enforcement of
all residency policies will be in effect at all times Any questions regarding residency in the
Fairland neighborhood will be investigated
EMERGENCY CLOSINGS School is occasionally closed all day due to unsafe weather
conditions or mechanical problems in the school Announcements are made over local
media stations during the mornings of unscheduled closings Parents are asked to listen
to the radio or TV for information about school closings Please do not call the school for
this information Emergency closings are also announced on the MCPS information line
at (301) 279-3673
EVACUATION PLANS In the event of an emergency where we must evacuate the
building leave school grounds and cannot return to the building our emergency
evacuation location will again be
Paint Branch High School (Cafeteria)
14121 Old Columbia Pike
Burtonsville MD 20866
301-989-5600
Banneker Middle School
14800 Perrywood Drive
Burtonsville MD 20866
301-989-5747
All students and staff would proceed to this location where they would wait for
transportation to deliver the students home MCPS personnel would assist us in having
all school buses pick-up the students from this location and help in safely dealing with
the emergency
FOOD POLICY It is the policy of the Montgomery County Public Schools Board of
Education that only store-bought pre-packaged food be brought into the classroom for
parties snacks etc While everyone loves the idea of home-baked goods there is no way
to control the quality or contents of the food unless it is store-bought with required
labeling Some children have allergies and are sensitive to even traces of allergens in food
Please avoid foods that contain nuts
HEALTH ROOM A health technician is on duty from 900 am to 330 pm each school
day It is important for us to have every childs emergency information on file so that we
may contact parents quickly if necessary If your home cell or work telephone number
changes please let us know Students who become ill at school may be picked up in the
Health Room and should be signed out in the Health Room Please feel free to contact
Ms Penn Fairlandrsquos Health Technician directly at 2407400642
ILLNESS - See student absences
LOST AND FOUND A lost and found area is located in the recess hallway by the
stairwell for items that have been misplaced by students
LUNCH LOANS The National School Lunch program does not permit the cafeteria
to loan money or extend credit to those without money for lunch All students are
encouraged to have sufficient money in their SNAP accounts to cover breakfastlunch
purchases desired or to bring the change needed for their purchases
LUNCH PRICES
elementary lunch = $255 breakfast = $130 milk = $60
reduced-price lunch = $40 reduced-price breakfast = $00
LUNCH PROGRAM Lunches may be brought or purchased at school beginning with
the first day A computerized cash register system is used in the cafeteria Each student is
assigned an account which is accessed by a Personalized Identification Number (PIN)
Students returning to our school will use their PIN from last year Students new to our
school will receive their new PINs on the first day of school This is a debit system in which
students may choose to make deposits into an account At mealtime the computer
records food purchases and deducts them from the account when the student enters
hisher PIN on the keypad Students who choose to not pay in advance still enter their
PINs and then pay by cash We strongly suggest that deposits be made in advance
Checks made out to Fairland School Cafeteria may be brought in throughout the year
Your childs name must be written on the check The use of this program will enhance
the speed and smoothness of the lunch process and should add to the time that students
have to eat their lunch When accounts become low a reminder letter will be sent home
so additional money can be deposited into the childs account for future use Please feel
free to contact Ms Golden Fairlandrsquos Food Service Manager directly at 2407400644
Under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act a student may be entitled to receive menu
substitutions of texture modifications under the school lunch program This entitlement
occurs when a doctor determines that a child has an impairment which substantially limits
one or more major life activities A signed statement from the students doctor must
verify the existence of the students handicapping condition and an indication that the
handicap restricts the students diet If the handicap prevents the student from eating the
regular school meals meal substitutions for that child will be made at no extra charge If
you believe your child needs substitutions please contact the school office
LUNCH AND RECESS Students have 30-minute lunch periods and 30-minute recess
periods each day except for early dismissal days Students will have recess outdoors
unless it is raining or the temperature is below 320 F They should dress accordingly on
days when the weather is windy or cold All students are expected to go outside on
outdoor recess days unless they have a note from their physician
Some students will have recess before they go to lunch Many Montgomery County
Schools are using this model and it has been successful for student behavior and
enjoyment By having recess before lunch students make better choices about what they
eat They eat more and always drink their fluids Itrsquos beneficial and helps students return
to the classrooms and ready to learn with a positive attitude
MEDICATIONS Parents are encouraged to administer medications to their children
at home whenever possible No medication will be administered in school or during
school-sponsored activities without written authorization from the parentguardian and
a physicians written order Any prescribed medication that needs to be administered at
school must be in the original bottle and must be accompanied by MCPS form 525-13
(Authorization to Administer Prescribed Medication) All medications must be hand
delivered to the school by a parent Under no circumstances will school personnel
administer medications brought to school by a student Over-the-counter medications
must be accompanied by a physicians note to be administered by the health technician
Please do not send cough drops throat drops vitamins etc to school with your child
Please feel free to contact Ms Penn Fairlandrsquos Health Technician directly at 2407400642
OFFICE HOURS The school office is open from 830 am until 430 pm each school
day An answering machine will take messages during non-school hours
PARENT COMMUNICATIONS Regular communications from the school should
be expected to arrive home with the students These will include teachers notices and
announcements as appropriate A phone and email message will be sent to parents
weekly through our Connect Ed system
PICKING STUDENTS UP FROM SCHOOL Once students have arrived at school
they will be released only to their parents or legal guardians All students leaving school
before the end of the school day must be signed out from the main office by their parents
or legal guardian If parents want their child to be picked up at school at any time by
anyone else including siblings and grandparents the parents must send a note to the
school stating their wishes and the name of the person who will pick up the child The
person picking up the child must present picture identification to the school office In
order to maintain safety at the end of the instructional day students will not be
called out of class for dismissal after 310 pm
POSITIVE BEHAVIORAL INTERVENTIONS AND SUPPORTS (PBIS) Fairland will continue implementing the PBIS program this year PBIS is a behavior
intervention program that focuses on pre-teaching reinforcing and rewarding positive
student behaviors It is a school-wide systematic approach to setting high expectations
for student behavior For the 2016-2017 our School Expectations are I CAN BE SAFE I
CAN BE READY and I CAN BE RESPONSIBLE Our students will earn soar slips for their
good choices When students receive Soar Slips it will allow them to earn special
privileges and rewards We believe this program will allow students to be rewarded for
their positive acts
PTA MEETINGS PTA activities are scheduled periodically throughout the year and
provide opportunities for families to come together at the school for information
entertainment andor socialization For the 2016-2017 school year PTA Executive Board
Meetings will be held at 630 pm followed by PTA General Meetings at 700 pm The Fall
2016 dates for PTA Executive Board and General Meetings are October 4th and
December 6th All parents are invited to attend the PTA Board Meetings and we want to
see all Fairland Families at PTA General Meetings So mark your calendars for October 4th
at 630 pm and 700 pm for PTA right away
REPORT CARDS Report cards are sent home with students four times a year at the
end of each of the nine-week grading periods The dates for report card distribution will
be as follows
November 17 2016 April 19 2017
February 8 2017 June 27 2017 (mailed)
SCHOOL HOURS The instructional day for students begins at 925 am and ends at
350 pm Students arriving after the 925 am bell are considered tardy and must be signed
in by an adult at the front office In the morning students are admitted to classrooms at
900 am Students should not be dropped off at school before 900 am There will be no
supervision for students before that time
SCHOOL SUPPLIES Please refer to the attached student recommended supply list
for the 2016 - 2017 school year at Fairland Elementary School
TOYS We request that students NOT bring their personal toys balls stuffed animals
trading cards electronic games etc to school We cannot be responsible for these items
and they are not needed for the instructional program or recess
TRANSPORTATION Most of Fairlandrsquos students are bused to school Students are
picked up at designated bus stops no more than one mile from their home Parents are
responsible for maintaining discipline and safety at bus stops Inclement weather traffic
accidents and road construction can cause delays in the bus routes so the pick-up and
drop-off times of each bus may vary somewhat from day to day Questions about the
buses or bus routes should be directed to Sinisa Pavlovic MCPS Randolph Depot Manager
at the Transportation Office at (301) 929-6906 No child may ride a bus other than that
which is assigned Children wishing to ride a bus not regularly assigned to them must
have a note from their parent that is signed by office personnel Office personnel will
make a final decision based on space and student behaviors when allowing students to
ride a bus that is NOT assigned to them
VISITORS MCPS Policy requires that all visitors without exception must check in with
the Front Office staff before proceeding into the building This policy is enforced for the
safety of the students Visitors sign in and obtain a sticker from the visitor Management
System (VMS) Parents bringing items for their child (lunch band instruments homework
etc) will be asked to leave the items with front office personnel so that instructional time
remains uninterrupted We at Fairland have an open door policy We encourage families
to notify the teacher of your desire to visit in order to promote the smooth flow of the
instructional program
Montgomery County Public School Initiatives STRATEGIC PLANNING FRAMEWORK The Montgomery County Board of Education has adopted a new Strategic Planning
Framework that will guide the work of MCPS schools and offices in the years to come The
Framework Building Our Future Together Students Staff and Community incorporates
the three competencies that students need for success in the 21st centurymdashacademic
excellence creative problem solving and social emotional learningmdashas well as a
continued commitment to operational excellence The Framework describes what
students should know and be able to do in the three competency areas as well as specific
actions staff parents and community members should take to support students Parents
and staff will receive information about the Strategic Planning Framework at the
beginning of the school year but can learn more now by visiting the MCPS website at
wwwmontgomeryschoolsmdorgframework or search Strategic Planning Framework
Estructura de Planificacioacuten Estrateacutegica El Consejo de Educacioacuten (Board of Education) de Montgomery County ha adoptado una
nueva Estructura de Planificacioacuten Estrateacutegica que guiaraacute el trabajo de las escuelas y las
oficinas de MCPS en los proacuteximos antildeos La Estructura Construyendo Nuestro Futuro
Juntos Estudiantes Empleados y Comunidad incorpora las tres aacutereas de competencia
que los estudiantes necesitan para ser exitosos en el Siglo XXImdashexcelencia acadeacutemica
resolucioacuten creativa de problemas y aprendizaje social y emocionalmdashcomo asiacute un
compromiso continuo hacia la excelencia operativa La Estructura describe lo que los
estudiantes deberiacutean saber y ser capaces de hacer en las tres aacutereas de competencia asiacute
como tambieacuten acciones especiacuteficas que el personal los padres y los miembros de la
comunidad deben tomar para apoyar a los estudiantes Los padres y el personal recibiraacuten
informacioacuten sobre la Estructura de Planificacioacuten Estrateacutegica al comienzo del ciclo escolar
pero ya pueden aprender maacutes visitando la paacutegina de Internet de la Estructura de MCPS
en wwwmontgomeryschoolsmdorgframeworkes o busque Strategic Planning
Framework
Curriculum 20 All grade levels continue with implementation of Curriculum 20 This curriculum is shifting
the way in which we approach our instruction with an emphasis on depth of study versus
covering topics Please see attached for information from our superintendent Dr Starr
on the curriculum implementation and what you can expect on pages x and x of this letter
Online Library Search System Our library media center continues to use a centralized K-12 resource management tool
This tool helps our library media center work more efficiently while creating engaging and
collaborative learning environments promoting and supporting student achievement
The system is called Destiny Library Manager (Destiny) The implementation of Destiny
will enable a stronger library media program-classroom connection and support the
library media specialistrsquos role in helping students develop 21st century learning skills
Throughout the school year our library media staff members will guide students in using
the next-generation searching tool for todayrsquos digital natives Destiny contains powerful
tools to conduct research of print and digital resources
Report Card and Grading System Standards based grading and reporting will continue to be used in all schools this year
The goal of this grading format is to give families a clear understanding of your childrsquos
progress toward end of year grade level expectations The following chart below explains
the meaning of the grades
Grade Description Comment
ES Exceptional at the grade level standard Not used in
kindergarten
P Meets the grade level standard by demonstrating
proficiency of the content or processes for the
measurement topic
I In progress toward meeting the grade level standard
N Not yet making progress or making minimal progress
toward meeting the grade level standard
M Missing data-No grade recorded
NEP Not English Proficient may be used for level 1 or 2 ESOL
student for no more than two marking periods
IMPORTANT Please note these descriptions do not translate in to the old letter grades
(eg an ES is not equivalent to an ldquoOrdquo or ldquoArdquo) Any child that is working on grade level
indicators and making progress is likely to receive a report of ldquoPrdquo or ldquoIrdquo on the report card
Report cards are cumulative and will be used over the four marking periods as students
work toward end of year mastery Measurement topics are a group of related content
skills or processes in a subject For example foundational skills are a measurement topic
in the category of reading and geometry is a measurement topic in math
Learning skills will also be updated to include personal and social development skills and
thinking and academic success skills Personal and Social Development Skills are the
effort and behaviors that affect learning This section will provide information that
describes what your child is doing that helps or hinders hisher learning Thinking and
Academic Success Skills (TASS) permeate instruction in all content areas of the MCPS
PreK-5 Integrated Curriculum The chart below explains the meaning of the codes for
Personal and Social Development Skills and Thinking and Academic Success Skills
Code Description
DEM Demonstrating
PRG Progressing
N Not yet evident
Look for more information from your childrsquos teacher about the format for grading and
reporting throughout the coming year
MCPS GIVE BACKpacks Campaign Help MCPS make sure all students are ready for the new school year by donating to the
MCPS GIVE BACKpacks campaign The GIVE BACKpacks drive was created in response to
the growing need in Montgomery County to help families with the basic school supplies
students need at the start of the school year A backpack filled with school supplies costs
$10 and donors have the option to sponsor one student a classroom a grade level or an
entire school The backpacks will be distributed to students in need in schools at the
beginning of the school year Visit wwwmcpsgivebackpacksorg to learn more or to
donate
Campantildea GIVE BACKpacks de MCPS
Ayude a MCPS a asegurarse de que todos los estudiantes esteacuten listos para el nuevo ciclo
escolar donando a la Campantildea GIVE BACKpacks de MCPS La campantildea GIVE
BACKpacks fue creada en respuesta a la necesidad creciente en el condado de
Montgomery County de ayudar a familias con los uacutetiles escolares baacutesicos que los
estudiantes necesitan al principio del ciclo escolar Una mochila llena de uacutetiles escolares
cuesta $10 y los donantes tienen la opcioacuten de patrocinar a un estudiante individual a
toda una clase a un grado escolar o a toda una escuela Las mochilas se distribuiraacuten a
estudiantes necesitados al principio del ciclo escolar Para maacutes informacioacuten o para hacer
una donacioacuten visite wwwmcpsgivebackpacksorg
where they are to go without having to call home if school is dismissed early for any
reason Early dismissals are announced on local media stations Planned early release
days for professional meetings and conferences are listed in the school calendar
ENROLLING STUDENTS New students are enrolled at the school by having their
parents or guardian complete enrollment forms at the school office Immunization
information birth certificate and proof of residency for each student new to Fairland
must be on file at the school before the child can attend the school Strict enforcement of
all residency policies will be in effect at all times Any questions regarding residency in the
Fairland neighborhood will be investigated
EMERGENCY CLOSINGS School is occasionally closed all day due to unsafe weather
conditions or mechanical problems in the school Announcements are made over local
media stations during the mornings of unscheduled closings Parents are asked to listen
to the radio or TV for information about school closings Please do not call the school for
this information Emergency closings are also announced on the MCPS information line
at (301) 279-3673
EVACUATION PLANS In the event of an emergency where we must evacuate the
building leave school grounds and cannot return to the building our emergency
evacuation location will again be
Paint Branch High School (Cafeteria)
14121 Old Columbia Pike
Burtonsville MD 20866
301-989-5600
Banneker Middle School
14800 Perrywood Drive
Burtonsville MD 20866
301-989-5747
All students and staff would proceed to this location where they would wait for
transportation to deliver the students home MCPS personnel would assist us in having
all school buses pick-up the students from this location and help in safely dealing with
the emergency
FOOD POLICY It is the policy of the Montgomery County Public Schools Board of
Education that only store-bought pre-packaged food be brought into the classroom for
parties snacks etc While everyone loves the idea of home-baked goods there is no way
to control the quality or contents of the food unless it is store-bought with required
labeling Some children have allergies and are sensitive to even traces of allergens in food
Please avoid foods that contain nuts
HEALTH ROOM A health technician is on duty from 900 am to 330 pm each school
day It is important for us to have every childs emergency information on file so that we
may contact parents quickly if necessary If your home cell or work telephone number
changes please let us know Students who become ill at school may be picked up in the
Health Room and should be signed out in the Health Room Please feel free to contact
Ms Penn Fairlandrsquos Health Technician directly at 2407400642
ILLNESS - See student absences
LOST AND FOUND A lost and found area is located in the recess hallway by the
stairwell for items that have been misplaced by students
LUNCH LOANS The National School Lunch program does not permit the cafeteria
to loan money or extend credit to those without money for lunch All students are
encouraged to have sufficient money in their SNAP accounts to cover breakfastlunch
purchases desired or to bring the change needed for their purchases
LUNCH PRICES
elementary lunch = $255 breakfast = $130 milk = $60
reduced-price lunch = $40 reduced-price breakfast = $00
LUNCH PROGRAM Lunches may be brought or purchased at school beginning with
the first day A computerized cash register system is used in the cafeteria Each student is
assigned an account which is accessed by a Personalized Identification Number (PIN)
Students returning to our school will use their PIN from last year Students new to our
school will receive their new PINs on the first day of school This is a debit system in which
students may choose to make deposits into an account At mealtime the computer
records food purchases and deducts them from the account when the student enters
hisher PIN on the keypad Students who choose to not pay in advance still enter their
PINs and then pay by cash We strongly suggest that deposits be made in advance
Checks made out to Fairland School Cafeteria may be brought in throughout the year
Your childs name must be written on the check The use of this program will enhance
the speed and smoothness of the lunch process and should add to the time that students
have to eat their lunch When accounts become low a reminder letter will be sent home
so additional money can be deposited into the childs account for future use Please feel
free to contact Ms Golden Fairlandrsquos Food Service Manager directly at 2407400644
Under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act a student may be entitled to receive menu
substitutions of texture modifications under the school lunch program This entitlement
occurs when a doctor determines that a child has an impairment which substantially limits
one or more major life activities A signed statement from the students doctor must
verify the existence of the students handicapping condition and an indication that the
handicap restricts the students diet If the handicap prevents the student from eating the
regular school meals meal substitutions for that child will be made at no extra charge If
you believe your child needs substitutions please contact the school office
LUNCH AND RECESS Students have 30-minute lunch periods and 30-minute recess
periods each day except for early dismissal days Students will have recess outdoors
unless it is raining or the temperature is below 320 F They should dress accordingly on
days when the weather is windy or cold All students are expected to go outside on
outdoor recess days unless they have a note from their physician
Some students will have recess before they go to lunch Many Montgomery County
Schools are using this model and it has been successful for student behavior and
enjoyment By having recess before lunch students make better choices about what they
eat They eat more and always drink their fluids Itrsquos beneficial and helps students return
to the classrooms and ready to learn with a positive attitude
MEDICATIONS Parents are encouraged to administer medications to their children
at home whenever possible No medication will be administered in school or during
school-sponsored activities without written authorization from the parentguardian and
a physicians written order Any prescribed medication that needs to be administered at
school must be in the original bottle and must be accompanied by MCPS form 525-13
(Authorization to Administer Prescribed Medication) All medications must be hand
delivered to the school by a parent Under no circumstances will school personnel
administer medications brought to school by a student Over-the-counter medications
must be accompanied by a physicians note to be administered by the health technician
Please do not send cough drops throat drops vitamins etc to school with your child
Please feel free to contact Ms Penn Fairlandrsquos Health Technician directly at 2407400642
OFFICE HOURS The school office is open from 830 am until 430 pm each school
day An answering machine will take messages during non-school hours
PARENT COMMUNICATIONS Regular communications from the school should
be expected to arrive home with the students These will include teachers notices and
announcements as appropriate A phone and email message will be sent to parents
weekly through our Connect Ed system
PICKING STUDENTS UP FROM SCHOOL Once students have arrived at school
they will be released only to their parents or legal guardians All students leaving school
before the end of the school day must be signed out from the main office by their parents
or legal guardian If parents want their child to be picked up at school at any time by
anyone else including siblings and grandparents the parents must send a note to the
school stating their wishes and the name of the person who will pick up the child The
person picking up the child must present picture identification to the school office In
order to maintain safety at the end of the instructional day students will not be
called out of class for dismissal after 310 pm
POSITIVE BEHAVIORAL INTERVENTIONS AND SUPPORTS (PBIS) Fairland will continue implementing the PBIS program this year PBIS is a behavior
intervention program that focuses on pre-teaching reinforcing and rewarding positive
student behaviors It is a school-wide systematic approach to setting high expectations
for student behavior For the 2016-2017 our School Expectations are I CAN BE SAFE I
CAN BE READY and I CAN BE RESPONSIBLE Our students will earn soar slips for their
good choices When students receive Soar Slips it will allow them to earn special
privileges and rewards We believe this program will allow students to be rewarded for
their positive acts
PTA MEETINGS PTA activities are scheduled periodically throughout the year and
provide opportunities for families to come together at the school for information
entertainment andor socialization For the 2016-2017 school year PTA Executive Board
Meetings will be held at 630 pm followed by PTA General Meetings at 700 pm The Fall
2016 dates for PTA Executive Board and General Meetings are October 4th and
December 6th All parents are invited to attend the PTA Board Meetings and we want to
see all Fairland Families at PTA General Meetings So mark your calendars for October 4th
at 630 pm and 700 pm for PTA right away
REPORT CARDS Report cards are sent home with students four times a year at the
end of each of the nine-week grading periods The dates for report card distribution will
be as follows
November 17 2016 April 19 2017
February 8 2017 June 27 2017 (mailed)
SCHOOL HOURS The instructional day for students begins at 925 am and ends at
350 pm Students arriving after the 925 am bell are considered tardy and must be signed
in by an adult at the front office In the morning students are admitted to classrooms at
900 am Students should not be dropped off at school before 900 am There will be no
supervision for students before that time
SCHOOL SUPPLIES Please refer to the attached student recommended supply list
for the 2016 - 2017 school year at Fairland Elementary School
TOYS We request that students NOT bring their personal toys balls stuffed animals
trading cards electronic games etc to school We cannot be responsible for these items
and they are not needed for the instructional program or recess
TRANSPORTATION Most of Fairlandrsquos students are bused to school Students are
picked up at designated bus stops no more than one mile from their home Parents are
responsible for maintaining discipline and safety at bus stops Inclement weather traffic
accidents and road construction can cause delays in the bus routes so the pick-up and
drop-off times of each bus may vary somewhat from day to day Questions about the
buses or bus routes should be directed to Sinisa Pavlovic MCPS Randolph Depot Manager
at the Transportation Office at (301) 929-6906 No child may ride a bus other than that
which is assigned Children wishing to ride a bus not regularly assigned to them must
have a note from their parent that is signed by office personnel Office personnel will
make a final decision based on space and student behaviors when allowing students to
ride a bus that is NOT assigned to them
VISITORS MCPS Policy requires that all visitors without exception must check in with
the Front Office staff before proceeding into the building This policy is enforced for the
safety of the students Visitors sign in and obtain a sticker from the visitor Management
System (VMS) Parents bringing items for their child (lunch band instruments homework
etc) will be asked to leave the items with front office personnel so that instructional time
remains uninterrupted We at Fairland have an open door policy We encourage families
to notify the teacher of your desire to visit in order to promote the smooth flow of the
instructional program
Montgomery County Public School Initiatives STRATEGIC PLANNING FRAMEWORK The Montgomery County Board of Education has adopted a new Strategic Planning
Framework that will guide the work of MCPS schools and offices in the years to come The
Framework Building Our Future Together Students Staff and Community incorporates
the three competencies that students need for success in the 21st centurymdashacademic
excellence creative problem solving and social emotional learningmdashas well as a
continued commitment to operational excellence The Framework describes what
students should know and be able to do in the three competency areas as well as specific
actions staff parents and community members should take to support students Parents
and staff will receive information about the Strategic Planning Framework at the
beginning of the school year but can learn more now by visiting the MCPS website at
wwwmontgomeryschoolsmdorgframework or search Strategic Planning Framework
Estructura de Planificacioacuten Estrateacutegica El Consejo de Educacioacuten (Board of Education) de Montgomery County ha adoptado una
nueva Estructura de Planificacioacuten Estrateacutegica que guiaraacute el trabajo de las escuelas y las
oficinas de MCPS en los proacuteximos antildeos La Estructura Construyendo Nuestro Futuro
Juntos Estudiantes Empleados y Comunidad incorpora las tres aacutereas de competencia
que los estudiantes necesitan para ser exitosos en el Siglo XXImdashexcelencia acadeacutemica
resolucioacuten creativa de problemas y aprendizaje social y emocionalmdashcomo asiacute un
compromiso continuo hacia la excelencia operativa La Estructura describe lo que los
estudiantes deberiacutean saber y ser capaces de hacer en las tres aacutereas de competencia asiacute
como tambieacuten acciones especiacuteficas que el personal los padres y los miembros de la
comunidad deben tomar para apoyar a los estudiantes Los padres y el personal recibiraacuten
informacioacuten sobre la Estructura de Planificacioacuten Estrateacutegica al comienzo del ciclo escolar
pero ya pueden aprender maacutes visitando la paacutegina de Internet de la Estructura de MCPS
en wwwmontgomeryschoolsmdorgframeworkes o busque Strategic Planning
Framework
Curriculum 20 All grade levels continue with implementation of Curriculum 20 This curriculum is shifting
the way in which we approach our instruction with an emphasis on depth of study versus
covering topics Please see attached for information from our superintendent Dr Starr
on the curriculum implementation and what you can expect on pages x and x of this letter
Online Library Search System Our library media center continues to use a centralized K-12 resource management tool
This tool helps our library media center work more efficiently while creating engaging and
collaborative learning environments promoting and supporting student achievement
The system is called Destiny Library Manager (Destiny) The implementation of Destiny
will enable a stronger library media program-classroom connection and support the
library media specialistrsquos role in helping students develop 21st century learning skills
Throughout the school year our library media staff members will guide students in using
the next-generation searching tool for todayrsquos digital natives Destiny contains powerful
tools to conduct research of print and digital resources
Report Card and Grading System Standards based grading and reporting will continue to be used in all schools this year
The goal of this grading format is to give families a clear understanding of your childrsquos
progress toward end of year grade level expectations The following chart below explains
the meaning of the grades
Grade Description Comment
ES Exceptional at the grade level standard Not used in
kindergarten
P Meets the grade level standard by demonstrating
proficiency of the content or processes for the
measurement topic
I In progress toward meeting the grade level standard
N Not yet making progress or making minimal progress
toward meeting the grade level standard
M Missing data-No grade recorded
NEP Not English Proficient may be used for level 1 or 2 ESOL
student for no more than two marking periods
IMPORTANT Please note these descriptions do not translate in to the old letter grades
(eg an ES is not equivalent to an ldquoOrdquo or ldquoArdquo) Any child that is working on grade level
indicators and making progress is likely to receive a report of ldquoPrdquo or ldquoIrdquo on the report card
Report cards are cumulative and will be used over the four marking periods as students
work toward end of year mastery Measurement topics are a group of related content
skills or processes in a subject For example foundational skills are a measurement topic
in the category of reading and geometry is a measurement topic in math
Learning skills will also be updated to include personal and social development skills and
thinking and academic success skills Personal and Social Development Skills are the
effort and behaviors that affect learning This section will provide information that
describes what your child is doing that helps or hinders hisher learning Thinking and
Academic Success Skills (TASS) permeate instruction in all content areas of the MCPS
PreK-5 Integrated Curriculum The chart below explains the meaning of the codes for
Personal and Social Development Skills and Thinking and Academic Success Skills
Code Description
DEM Demonstrating
PRG Progressing
N Not yet evident
Look for more information from your childrsquos teacher about the format for grading and
reporting throughout the coming year
MCPS GIVE BACKpacks Campaign Help MCPS make sure all students are ready for the new school year by donating to the
MCPS GIVE BACKpacks campaign The GIVE BACKpacks drive was created in response to
the growing need in Montgomery County to help families with the basic school supplies
students need at the start of the school year A backpack filled with school supplies costs
$10 and donors have the option to sponsor one student a classroom a grade level or an
entire school The backpacks will be distributed to students in need in schools at the
beginning of the school year Visit wwwmcpsgivebackpacksorg to learn more or to
donate
Campantildea GIVE BACKpacks de MCPS
Ayude a MCPS a asegurarse de que todos los estudiantes esteacuten listos para el nuevo ciclo
escolar donando a la Campantildea GIVE BACKpacks de MCPS La campantildea GIVE
BACKpacks fue creada en respuesta a la necesidad creciente en el condado de
Montgomery County de ayudar a familias con los uacutetiles escolares baacutesicos que los
estudiantes necesitan al principio del ciclo escolar Una mochila llena de uacutetiles escolares
cuesta $10 y los donantes tienen la opcioacuten de patrocinar a un estudiante individual a
toda una clase a un grado escolar o a toda una escuela Las mochilas se distribuiraacuten a
estudiantes necesitados al principio del ciclo escolar Para maacutes informacioacuten o para hacer
una donacioacuten visite wwwmcpsgivebackpacksorg
to control the quality or contents of the food unless it is store-bought with required
labeling Some children have allergies and are sensitive to even traces of allergens in food
Please avoid foods that contain nuts
HEALTH ROOM A health technician is on duty from 900 am to 330 pm each school
day It is important for us to have every childs emergency information on file so that we
may contact parents quickly if necessary If your home cell or work telephone number
changes please let us know Students who become ill at school may be picked up in the
Health Room and should be signed out in the Health Room Please feel free to contact
Ms Penn Fairlandrsquos Health Technician directly at 2407400642
ILLNESS - See student absences
LOST AND FOUND A lost and found area is located in the recess hallway by the
stairwell for items that have been misplaced by students
LUNCH LOANS The National School Lunch program does not permit the cafeteria
to loan money or extend credit to those without money for lunch All students are
encouraged to have sufficient money in their SNAP accounts to cover breakfastlunch
purchases desired or to bring the change needed for their purchases
LUNCH PRICES
elementary lunch = $255 breakfast = $130 milk = $60
reduced-price lunch = $40 reduced-price breakfast = $00
LUNCH PROGRAM Lunches may be brought or purchased at school beginning with
the first day A computerized cash register system is used in the cafeteria Each student is
assigned an account which is accessed by a Personalized Identification Number (PIN)
Students returning to our school will use their PIN from last year Students new to our
school will receive their new PINs on the first day of school This is a debit system in which
students may choose to make deposits into an account At mealtime the computer
records food purchases and deducts them from the account when the student enters
hisher PIN on the keypad Students who choose to not pay in advance still enter their
PINs and then pay by cash We strongly suggest that deposits be made in advance
Checks made out to Fairland School Cafeteria may be brought in throughout the year
Your childs name must be written on the check The use of this program will enhance
the speed and smoothness of the lunch process and should add to the time that students
have to eat their lunch When accounts become low a reminder letter will be sent home
so additional money can be deposited into the childs account for future use Please feel
free to contact Ms Golden Fairlandrsquos Food Service Manager directly at 2407400644
Under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act a student may be entitled to receive menu
substitutions of texture modifications under the school lunch program This entitlement
occurs when a doctor determines that a child has an impairment which substantially limits
one or more major life activities A signed statement from the students doctor must
verify the existence of the students handicapping condition and an indication that the
handicap restricts the students diet If the handicap prevents the student from eating the
regular school meals meal substitutions for that child will be made at no extra charge If
you believe your child needs substitutions please contact the school office
LUNCH AND RECESS Students have 30-minute lunch periods and 30-minute recess
periods each day except for early dismissal days Students will have recess outdoors
unless it is raining or the temperature is below 320 F They should dress accordingly on
days when the weather is windy or cold All students are expected to go outside on
outdoor recess days unless they have a note from their physician
Some students will have recess before they go to lunch Many Montgomery County
Schools are using this model and it has been successful for student behavior and
enjoyment By having recess before lunch students make better choices about what they
eat They eat more and always drink their fluids Itrsquos beneficial and helps students return
to the classrooms and ready to learn with a positive attitude
MEDICATIONS Parents are encouraged to administer medications to their children
at home whenever possible No medication will be administered in school or during
school-sponsored activities without written authorization from the parentguardian and
a physicians written order Any prescribed medication that needs to be administered at
school must be in the original bottle and must be accompanied by MCPS form 525-13
(Authorization to Administer Prescribed Medication) All medications must be hand
delivered to the school by a parent Under no circumstances will school personnel
administer medications brought to school by a student Over-the-counter medications
must be accompanied by a physicians note to be administered by the health technician
Please do not send cough drops throat drops vitamins etc to school with your child
Please feel free to contact Ms Penn Fairlandrsquos Health Technician directly at 2407400642
OFFICE HOURS The school office is open from 830 am until 430 pm each school
day An answering machine will take messages during non-school hours
PARENT COMMUNICATIONS Regular communications from the school should
be expected to arrive home with the students These will include teachers notices and
announcements as appropriate A phone and email message will be sent to parents
weekly through our Connect Ed system
PICKING STUDENTS UP FROM SCHOOL Once students have arrived at school
they will be released only to their parents or legal guardians All students leaving school
before the end of the school day must be signed out from the main office by their parents
or legal guardian If parents want their child to be picked up at school at any time by
anyone else including siblings and grandparents the parents must send a note to the
school stating their wishes and the name of the person who will pick up the child The
person picking up the child must present picture identification to the school office In
order to maintain safety at the end of the instructional day students will not be
called out of class for dismissal after 310 pm
POSITIVE BEHAVIORAL INTERVENTIONS AND SUPPORTS (PBIS) Fairland will continue implementing the PBIS program this year PBIS is a behavior
intervention program that focuses on pre-teaching reinforcing and rewarding positive
student behaviors It is a school-wide systematic approach to setting high expectations
for student behavior For the 2016-2017 our School Expectations are I CAN BE SAFE I
CAN BE READY and I CAN BE RESPONSIBLE Our students will earn soar slips for their
good choices When students receive Soar Slips it will allow them to earn special
privileges and rewards We believe this program will allow students to be rewarded for
their positive acts
PTA MEETINGS PTA activities are scheduled periodically throughout the year and
provide opportunities for families to come together at the school for information
entertainment andor socialization For the 2016-2017 school year PTA Executive Board
Meetings will be held at 630 pm followed by PTA General Meetings at 700 pm The Fall
2016 dates for PTA Executive Board and General Meetings are October 4th and
December 6th All parents are invited to attend the PTA Board Meetings and we want to
see all Fairland Families at PTA General Meetings So mark your calendars for October 4th
at 630 pm and 700 pm for PTA right away
REPORT CARDS Report cards are sent home with students four times a year at the
end of each of the nine-week grading periods The dates for report card distribution will
be as follows
November 17 2016 April 19 2017
February 8 2017 June 27 2017 (mailed)
SCHOOL HOURS The instructional day for students begins at 925 am and ends at
350 pm Students arriving after the 925 am bell are considered tardy and must be signed
in by an adult at the front office In the morning students are admitted to classrooms at
900 am Students should not be dropped off at school before 900 am There will be no
supervision for students before that time
SCHOOL SUPPLIES Please refer to the attached student recommended supply list
for the 2016 - 2017 school year at Fairland Elementary School
TOYS We request that students NOT bring their personal toys balls stuffed animals
trading cards electronic games etc to school We cannot be responsible for these items
and they are not needed for the instructional program or recess
TRANSPORTATION Most of Fairlandrsquos students are bused to school Students are
picked up at designated bus stops no more than one mile from their home Parents are
responsible for maintaining discipline and safety at bus stops Inclement weather traffic
accidents and road construction can cause delays in the bus routes so the pick-up and
drop-off times of each bus may vary somewhat from day to day Questions about the
buses or bus routes should be directed to Sinisa Pavlovic MCPS Randolph Depot Manager
at the Transportation Office at (301) 929-6906 No child may ride a bus other than that
which is assigned Children wishing to ride a bus not regularly assigned to them must
have a note from their parent that is signed by office personnel Office personnel will
make a final decision based on space and student behaviors when allowing students to
ride a bus that is NOT assigned to them
VISITORS MCPS Policy requires that all visitors without exception must check in with
the Front Office staff before proceeding into the building This policy is enforced for the
safety of the students Visitors sign in and obtain a sticker from the visitor Management
System (VMS) Parents bringing items for their child (lunch band instruments homework
etc) will be asked to leave the items with front office personnel so that instructional time
remains uninterrupted We at Fairland have an open door policy We encourage families
to notify the teacher of your desire to visit in order to promote the smooth flow of the
instructional program
Montgomery County Public School Initiatives STRATEGIC PLANNING FRAMEWORK The Montgomery County Board of Education has adopted a new Strategic Planning
Framework that will guide the work of MCPS schools and offices in the years to come The
Framework Building Our Future Together Students Staff and Community incorporates
the three competencies that students need for success in the 21st centurymdashacademic
excellence creative problem solving and social emotional learningmdashas well as a
continued commitment to operational excellence The Framework describes what
students should know and be able to do in the three competency areas as well as specific
actions staff parents and community members should take to support students Parents
and staff will receive information about the Strategic Planning Framework at the
beginning of the school year but can learn more now by visiting the MCPS website at
wwwmontgomeryschoolsmdorgframework or search Strategic Planning Framework
Estructura de Planificacioacuten Estrateacutegica El Consejo de Educacioacuten (Board of Education) de Montgomery County ha adoptado una
nueva Estructura de Planificacioacuten Estrateacutegica que guiaraacute el trabajo de las escuelas y las
oficinas de MCPS en los proacuteximos antildeos La Estructura Construyendo Nuestro Futuro
Juntos Estudiantes Empleados y Comunidad incorpora las tres aacutereas de competencia
que los estudiantes necesitan para ser exitosos en el Siglo XXImdashexcelencia acadeacutemica
resolucioacuten creativa de problemas y aprendizaje social y emocionalmdashcomo asiacute un
compromiso continuo hacia la excelencia operativa La Estructura describe lo que los
estudiantes deberiacutean saber y ser capaces de hacer en las tres aacutereas de competencia asiacute
como tambieacuten acciones especiacuteficas que el personal los padres y los miembros de la
comunidad deben tomar para apoyar a los estudiantes Los padres y el personal recibiraacuten
informacioacuten sobre la Estructura de Planificacioacuten Estrateacutegica al comienzo del ciclo escolar
pero ya pueden aprender maacutes visitando la paacutegina de Internet de la Estructura de MCPS
en wwwmontgomeryschoolsmdorgframeworkes o busque Strategic Planning
Framework
Curriculum 20 All grade levels continue with implementation of Curriculum 20 This curriculum is shifting
the way in which we approach our instruction with an emphasis on depth of study versus
covering topics Please see attached for information from our superintendent Dr Starr
on the curriculum implementation and what you can expect on pages x and x of this letter
Online Library Search System Our library media center continues to use a centralized K-12 resource management tool
This tool helps our library media center work more efficiently while creating engaging and
collaborative learning environments promoting and supporting student achievement
The system is called Destiny Library Manager (Destiny) The implementation of Destiny
will enable a stronger library media program-classroom connection and support the
library media specialistrsquos role in helping students develop 21st century learning skills
Throughout the school year our library media staff members will guide students in using
the next-generation searching tool for todayrsquos digital natives Destiny contains powerful
tools to conduct research of print and digital resources
Report Card and Grading System Standards based grading and reporting will continue to be used in all schools this year
The goal of this grading format is to give families a clear understanding of your childrsquos
progress toward end of year grade level expectations The following chart below explains
the meaning of the grades
Grade Description Comment
ES Exceptional at the grade level standard Not used in
kindergarten
P Meets the grade level standard by demonstrating
proficiency of the content or processes for the
measurement topic
I In progress toward meeting the grade level standard
N Not yet making progress or making minimal progress
toward meeting the grade level standard
M Missing data-No grade recorded
NEP Not English Proficient may be used for level 1 or 2 ESOL
student for no more than two marking periods
IMPORTANT Please note these descriptions do not translate in to the old letter grades
(eg an ES is not equivalent to an ldquoOrdquo or ldquoArdquo) Any child that is working on grade level
indicators and making progress is likely to receive a report of ldquoPrdquo or ldquoIrdquo on the report card
Report cards are cumulative and will be used over the four marking periods as students
work toward end of year mastery Measurement topics are a group of related content
skills or processes in a subject For example foundational skills are a measurement topic
in the category of reading and geometry is a measurement topic in math
Learning skills will also be updated to include personal and social development skills and
thinking and academic success skills Personal and Social Development Skills are the
effort and behaviors that affect learning This section will provide information that
describes what your child is doing that helps or hinders hisher learning Thinking and
Academic Success Skills (TASS) permeate instruction in all content areas of the MCPS
PreK-5 Integrated Curriculum The chart below explains the meaning of the codes for
Personal and Social Development Skills and Thinking and Academic Success Skills
Code Description
DEM Demonstrating
PRG Progressing
N Not yet evident
Look for more information from your childrsquos teacher about the format for grading and
reporting throughout the coming year
MCPS GIVE BACKpacks Campaign Help MCPS make sure all students are ready for the new school year by donating to the
MCPS GIVE BACKpacks campaign The GIVE BACKpacks drive was created in response to
the growing need in Montgomery County to help families with the basic school supplies
students need at the start of the school year A backpack filled with school supplies costs
$10 and donors have the option to sponsor one student a classroom a grade level or an
entire school The backpacks will be distributed to students in need in schools at the
beginning of the school year Visit wwwmcpsgivebackpacksorg to learn more or to
donate
Campantildea GIVE BACKpacks de MCPS
Ayude a MCPS a asegurarse de que todos los estudiantes esteacuten listos para el nuevo ciclo
escolar donando a la Campantildea GIVE BACKpacks de MCPS La campantildea GIVE
BACKpacks fue creada en respuesta a la necesidad creciente en el condado de
Montgomery County de ayudar a familias con los uacutetiles escolares baacutesicos que los
estudiantes necesitan al principio del ciclo escolar Una mochila llena de uacutetiles escolares
cuesta $10 y los donantes tienen la opcioacuten de patrocinar a un estudiante individual a
toda una clase a un grado escolar o a toda una escuela Las mochilas se distribuiraacuten a
estudiantes necesitados al principio del ciclo escolar Para maacutes informacioacuten o para hacer
una donacioacuten visite wwwmcpsgivebackpacksorg
Your childs name must be written on the check The use of this program will enhance
the speed and smoothness of the lunch process and should add to the time that students
have to eat their lunch When accounts become low a reminder letter will be sent home
so additional money can be deposited into the childs account for future use Please feel
free to contact Ms Golden Fairlandrsquos Food Service Manager directly at 2407400644
Under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act a student may be entitled to receive menu
substitutions of texture modifications under the school lunch program This entitlement
occurs when a doctor determines that a child has an impairment which substantially limits
one or more major life activities A signed statement from the students doctor must
verify the existence of the students handicapping condition and an indication that the
handicap restricts the students diet If the handicap prevents the student from eating the
regular school meals meal substitutions for that child will be made at no extra charge If
you believe your child needs substitutions please contact the school office
LUNCH AND RECESS Students have 30-minute lunch periods and 30-minute recess
periods each day except for early dismissal days Students will have recess outdoors
unless it is raining or the temperature is below 320 F They should dress accordingly on
days when the weather is windy or cold All students are expected to go outside on
outdoor recess days unless they have a note from their physician
Some students will have recess before they go to lunch Many Montgomery County
Schools are using this model and it has been successful for student behavior and
enjoyment By having recess before lunch students make better choices about what they
eat They eat more and always drink their fluids Itrsquos beneficial and helps students return
to the classrooms and ready to learn with a positive attitude
MEDICATIONS Parents are encouraged to administer medications to their children
at home whenever possible No medication will be administered in school or during
school-sponsored activities without written authorization from the parentguardian and
a physicians written order Any prescribed medication that needs to be administered at
school must be in the original bottle and must be accompanied by MCPS form 525-13
(Authorization to Administer Prescribed Medication) All medications must be hand
delivered to the school by a parent Under no circumstances will school personnel
administer medications brought to school by a student Over-the-counter medications
must be accompanied by a physicians note to be administered by the health technician
Please do not send cough drops throat drops vitamins etc to school with your child
Please feel free to contact Ms Penn Fairlandrsquos Health Technician directly at 2407400642
OFFICE HOURS The school office is open from 830 am until 430 pm each school
day An answering machine will take messages during non-school hours
PARENT COMMUNICATIONS Regular communications from the school should
be expected to arrive home with the students These will include teachers notices and
announcements as appropriate A phone and email message will be sent to parents
weekly through our Connect Ed system
PICKING STUDENTS UP FROM SCHOOL Once students have arrived at school
they will be released only to their parents or legal guardians All students leaving school
before the end of the school day must be signed out from the main office by their parents
or legal guardian If parents want their child to be picked up at school at any time by
anyone else including siblings and grandparents the parents must send a note to the
school stating their wishes and the name of the person who will pick up the child The
person picking up the child must present picture identification to the school office In
order to maintain safety at the end of the instructional day students will not be
called out of class for dismissal after 310 pm
POSITIVE BEHAVIORAL INTERVENTIONS AND SUPPORTS (PBIS) Fairland will continue implementing the PBIS program this year PBIS is a behavior
intervention program that focuses on pre-teaching reinforcing and rewarding positive
student behaviors It is a school-wide systematic approach to setting high expectations
for student behavior For the 2016-2017 our School Expectations are I CAN BE SAFE I
CAN BE READY and I CAN BE RESPONSIBLE Our students will earn soar slips for their
good choices When students receive Soar Slips it will allow them to earn special
privileges and rewards We believe this program will allow students to be rewarded for
their positive acts
PTA MEETINGS PTA activities are scheduled periodically throughout the year and
provide opportunities for families to come together at the school for information
entertainment andor socialization For the 2016-2017 school year PTA Executive Board
Meetings will be held at 630 pm followed by PTA General Meetings at 700 pm The Fall
2016 dates for PTA Executive Board and General Meetings are October 4th and
December 6th All parents are invited to attend the PTA Board Meetings and we want to
see all Fairland Families at PTA General Meetings So mark your calendars for October 4th
at 630 pm and 700 pm for PTA right away
REPORT CARDS Report cards are sent home with students four times a year at the
end of each of the nine-week grading periods The dates for report card distribution will
be as follows
November 17 2016 April 19 2017
February 8 2017 June 27 2017 (mailed)
SCHOOL HOURS The instructional day for students begins at 925 am and ends at
350 pm Students arriving after the 925 am bell are considered tardy and must be signed
in by an adult at the front office In the morning students are admitted to classrooms at
900 am Students should not be dropped off at school before 900 am There will be no
supervision for students before that time
SCHOOL SUPPLIES Please refer to the attached student recommended supply list
for the 2016 - 2017 school year at Fairland Elementary School
TOYS We request that students NOT bring their personal toys balls stuffed animals
trading cards electronic games etc to school We cannot be responsible for these items
and they are not needed for the instructional program or recess
TRANSPORTATION Most of Fairlandrsquos students are bused to school Students are
picked up at designated bus stops no more than one mile from their home Parents are
responsible for maintaining discipline and safety at bus stops Inclement weather traffic
accidents and road construction can cause delays in the bus routes so the pick-up and
drop-off times of each bus may vary somewhat from day to day Questions about the
buses or bus routes should be directed to Sinisa Pavlovic MCPS Randolph Depot Manager
at the Transportation Office at (301) 929-6906 No child may ride a bus other than that
which is assigned Children wishing to ride a bus not regularly assigned to them must
have a note from their parent that is signed by office personnel Office personnel will
make a final decision based on space and student behaviors when allowing students to
ride a bus that is NOT assigned to them
VISITORS MCPS Policy requires that all visitors without exception must check in with
the Front Office staff before proceeding into the building This policy is enforced for the
safety of the students Visitors sign in and obtain a sticker from the visitor Management
System (VMS) Parents bringing items for their child (lunch band instruments homework
etc) will be asked to leave the items with front office personnel so that instructional time
remains uninterrupted We at Fairland have an open door policy We encourage families
to notify the teacher of your desire to visit in order to promote the smooth flow of the
instructional program
Montgomery County Public School Initiatives STRATEGIC PLANNING FRAMEWORK The Montgomery County Board of Education has adopted a new Strategic Planning
Framework that will guide the work of MCPS schools and offices in the years to come The
Framework Building Our Future Together Students Staff and Community incorporates
the three competencies that students need for success in the 21st centurymdashacademic
excellence creative problem solving and social emotional learningmdashas well as a
continued commitment to operational excellence The Framework describes what
students should know and be able to do in the three competency areas as well as specific
actions staff parents and community members should take to support students Parents
and staff will receive information about the Strategic Planning Framework at the
beginning of the school year but can learn more now by visiting the MCPS website at
wwwmontgomeryschoolsmdorgframework or search Strategic Planning Framework
Estructura de Planificacioacuten Estrateacutegica El Consejo de Educacioacuten (Board of Education) de Montgomery County ha adoptado una
nueva Estructura de Planificacioacuten Estrateacutegica que guiaraacute el trabajo de las escuelas y las
oficinas de MCPS en los proacuteximos antildeos La Estructura Construyendo Nuestro Futuro
Juntos Estudiantes Empleados y Comunidad incorpora las tres aacutereas de competencia
que los estudiantes necesitan para ser exitosos en el Siglo XXImdashexcelencia acadeacutemica
resolucioacuten creativa de problemas y aprendizaje social y emocionalmdashcomo asiacute un
compromiso continuo hacia la excelencia operativa La Estructura describe lo que los
estudiantes deberiacutean saber y ser capaces de hacer en las tres aacutereas de competencia asiacute
como tambieacuten acciones especiacuteficas que el personal los padres y los miembros de la
comunidad deben tomar para apoyar a los estudiantes Los padres y el personal recibiraacuten
informacioacuten sobre la Estructura de Planificacioacuten Estrateacutegica al comienzo del ciclo escolar
pero ya pueden aprender maacutes visitando la paacutegina de Internet de la Estructura de MCPS
en wwwmontgomeryschoolsmdorgframeworkes o busque Strategic Planning
Framework
Curriculum 20 All grade levels continue with implementation of Curriculum 20 This curriculum is shifting
the way in which we approach our instruction with an emphasis on depth of study versus
covering topics Please see attached for information from our superintendent Dr Starr
on the curriculum implementation and what you can expect on pages x and x of this letter
Online Library Search System Our library media center continues to use a centralized K-12 resource management tool
This tool helps our library media center work more efficiently while creating engaging and
collaborative learning environments promoting and supporting student achievement
The system is called Destiny Library Manager (Destiny) The implementation of Destiny
will enable a stronger library media program-classroom connection and support the
library media specialistrsquos role in helping students develop 21st century learning skills
Throughout the school year our library media staff members will guide students in using
the next-generation searching tool for todayrsquos digital natives Destiny contains powerful
tools to conduct research of print and digital resources
Report Card and Grading System Standards based grading and reporting will continue to be used in all schools this year
The goal of this grading format is to give families a clear understanding of your childrsquos
progress toward end of year grade level expectations The following chart below explains
the meaning of the grades
Grade Description Comment
ES Exceptional at the grade level standard Not used in
kindergarten
P Meets the grade level standard by demonstrating
proficiency of the content or processes for the
measurement topic
I In progress toward meeting the grade level standard
N Not yet making progress or making minimal progress
toward meeting the grade level standard
M Missing data-No grade recorded
NEP Not English Proficient may be used for level 1 or 2 ESOL
student for no more than two marking periods
IMPORTANT Please note these descriptions do not translate in to the old letter grades
(eg an ES is not equivalent to an ldquoOrdquo or ldquoArdquo) Any child that is working on grade level
indicators and making progress is likely to receive a report of ldquoPrdquo or ldquoIrdquo on the report card
Report cards are cumulative and will be used over the four marking periods as students
work toward end of year mastery Measurement topics are a group of related content
skills or processes in a subject For example foundational skills are a measurement topic
in the category of reading and geometry is a measurement topic in math
Learning skills will also be updated to include personal and social development skills and
thinking and academic success skills Personal and Social Development Skills are the
effort and behaviors that affect learning This section will provide information that
describes what your child is doing that helps or hinders hisher learning Thinking and
Academic Success Skills (TASS) permeate instruction in all content areas of the MCPS
PreK-5 Integrated Curriculum The chart below explains the meaning of the codes for
Personal and Social Development Skills and Thinking and Academic Success Skills
Code Description
DEM Demonstrating
PRG Progressing
N Not yet evident
Look for more information from your childrsquos teacher about the format for grading and
reporting throughout the coming year
MCPS GIVE BACKpacks Campaign Help MCPS make sure all students are ready for the new school year by donating to the
MCPS GIVE BACKpacks campaign The GIVE BACKpacks drive was created in response to
the growing need in Montgomery County to help families with the basic school supplies
students need at the start of the school year A backpack filled with school supplies costs
$10 and donors have the option to sponsor one student a classroom a grade level or an
entire school The backpacks will be distributed to students in need in schools at the
beginning of the school year Visit wwwmcpsgivebackpacksorg to learn more or to
donate
Campantildea GIVE BACKpacks de MCPS
Ayude a MCPS a asegurarse de que todos los estudiantes esteacuten listos para el nuevo ciclo
escolar donando a la Campantildea GIVE BACKpacks de MCPS La campantildea GIVE
BACKpacks fue creada en respuesta a la necesidad creciente en el condado de
Montgomery County de ayudar a familias con los uacutetiles escolares baacutesicos que los
estudiantes necesitan al principio del ciclo escolar Una mochila llena de uacutetiles escolares
cuesta $10 y los donantes tienen la opcioacuten de patrocinar a un estudiante individual a
toda una clase a un grado escolar o a toda una escuela Las mochilas se distribuiraacuten a
estudiantes necesitados al principio del ciclo escolar Para maacutes informacioacuten o para hacer
una donacioacuten visite wwwmcpsgivebackpacksorg
OFFICE HOURS The school office is open from 830 am until 430 pm each school
day An answering machine will take messages during non-school hours
PARENT COMMUNICATIONS Regular communications from the school should
be expected to arrive home with the students These will include teachers notices and
announcements as appropriate A phone and email message will be sent to parents
weekly through our Connect Ed system
PICKING STUDENTS UP FROM SCHOOL Once students have arrived at school
they will be released only to their parents or legal guardians All students leaving school
before the end of the school day must be signed out from the main office by their parents
or legal guardian If parents want their child to be picked up at school at any time by
anyone else including siblings and grandparents the parents must send a note to the
school stating their wishes and the name of the person who will pick up the child The
person picking up the child must present picture identification to the school office In
order to maintain safety at the end of the instructional day students will not be
called out of class for dismissal after 310 pm
POSITIVE BEHAVIORAL INTERVENTIONS AND SUPPORTS (PBIS) Fairland will continue implementing the PBIS program this year PBIS is a behavior
intervention program that focuses on pre-teaching reinforcing and rewarding positive
student behaviors It is a school-wide systematic approach to setting high expectations
for student behavior For the 2016-2017 our School Expectations are I CAN BE SAFE I
CAN BE READY and I CAN BE RESPONSIBLE Our students will earn soar slips for their
good choices When students receive Soar Slips it will allow them to earn special
privileges and rewards We believe this program will allow students to be rewarded for
their positive acts
PTA MEETINGS PTA activities are scheduled periodically throughout the year and
provide opportunities for families to come together at the school for information
entertainment andor socialization For the 2016-2017 school year PTA Executive Board
Meetings will be held at 630 pm followed by PTA General Meetings at 700 pm The Fall
2016 dates for PTA Executive Board and General Meetings are October 4th and
December 6th All parents are invited to attend the PTA Board Meetings and we want to
see all Fairland Families at PTA General Meetings So mark your calendars for October 4th
at 630 pm and 700 pm for PTA right away
REPORT CARDS Report cards are sent home with students four times a year at the
end of each of the nine-week grading periods The dates for report card distribution will
be as follows
November 17 2016 April 19 2017
February 8 2017 June 27 2017 (mailed)
SCHOOL HOURS The instructional day for students begins at 925 am and ends at
350 pm Students arriving after the 925 am bell are considered tardy and must be signed
in by an adult at the front office In the morning students are admitted to classrooms at
900 am Students should not be dropped off at school before 900 am There will be no
supervision for students before that time
SCHOOL SUPPLIES Please refer to the attached student recommended supply list
for the 2016 - 2017 school year at Fairland Elementary School
TOYS We request that students NOT bring their personal toys balls stuffed animals
trading cards electronic games etc to school We cannot be responsible for these items
and they are not needed for the instructional program or recess
TRANSPORTATION Most of Fairlandrsquos students are bused to school Students are
picked up at designated bus stops no more than one mile from their home Parents are
responsible for maintaining discipline and safety at bus stops Inclement weather traffic
accidents and road construction can cause delays in the bus routes so the pick-up and
drop-off times of each bus may vary somewhat from day to day Questions about the
buses or bus routes should be directed to Sinisa Pavlovic MCPS Randolph Depot Manager
at the Transportation Office at (301) 929-6906 No child may ride a bus other than that
which is assigned Children wishing to ride a bus not regularly assigned to them must
have a note from their parent that is signed by office personnel Office personnel will
make a final decision based on space and student behaviors when allowing students to
ride a bus that is NOT assigned to them
VISITORS MCPS Policy requires that all visitors without exception must check in with
the Front Office staff before proceeding into the building This policy is enforced for the
safety of the students Visitors sign in and obtain a sticker from the visitor Management
System (VMS) Parents bringing items for their child (lunch band instruments homework
etc) will be asked to leave the items with front office personnel so that instructional time
remains uninterrupted We at Fairland have an open door policy We encourage families
to notify the teacher of your desire to visit in order to promote the smooth flow of the
instructional program
Montgomery County Public School Initiatives STRATEGIC PLANNING FRAMEWORK The Montgomery County Board of Education has adopted a new Strategic Planning
Framework that will guide the work of MCPS schools and offices in the years to come The
Framework Building Our Future Together Students Staff and Community incorporates
the three competencies that students need for success in the 21st centurymdashacademic
excellence creative problem solving and social emotional learningmdashas well as a
continued commitment to operational excellence The Framework describes what
students should know and be able to do in the three competency areas as well as specific
actions staff parents and community members should take to support students Parents
and staff will receive information about the Strategic Planning Framework at the
beginning of the school year but can learn more now by visiting the MCPS website at
wwwmontgomeryschoolsmdorgframework or search Strategic Planning Framework
Estructura de Planificacioacuten Estrateacutegica El Consejo de Educacioacuten (Board of Education) de Montgomery County ha adoptado una
nueva Estructura de Planificacioacuten Estrateacutegica que guiaraacute el trabajo de las escuelas y las
oficinas de MCPS en los proacuteximos antildeos La Estructura Construyendo Nuestro Futuro
Juntos Estudiantes Empleados y Comunidad incorpora las tres aacutereas de competencia
que los estudiantes necesitan para ser exitosos en el Siglo XXImdashexcelencia acadeacutemica
resolucioacuten creativa de problemas y aprendizaje social y emocionalmdashcomo asiacute un
compromiso continuo hacia la excelencia operativa La Estructura describe lo que los
estudiantes deberiacutean saber y ser capaces de hacer en las tres aacutereas de competencia asiacute
como tambieacuten acciones especiacuteficas que el personal los padres y los miembros de la
comunidad deben tomar para apoyar a los estudiantes Los padres y el personal recibiraacuten
informacioacuten sobre la Estructura de Planificacioacuten Estrateacutegica al comienzo del ciclo escolar
pero ya pueden aprender maacutes visitando la paacutegina de Internet de la Estructura de MCPS
en wwwmontgomeryschoolsmdorgframeworkes o busque Strategic Planning
Framework
Curriculum 20 All grade levels continue with implementation of Curriculum 20 This curriculum is shifting
the way in which we approach our instruction with an emphasis on depth of study versus
covering topics Please see attached for information from our superintendent Dr Starr
on the curriculum implementation and what you can expect on pages x and x of this letter
Online Library Search System Our library media center continues to use a centralized K-12 resource management tool
This tool helps our library media center work more efficiently while creating engaging and
collaborative learning environments promoting and supporting student achievement
The system is called Destiny Library Manager (Destiny) The implementation of Destiny
will enable a stronger library media program-classroom connection and support the
library media specialistrsquos role in helping students develop 21st century learning skills
Throughout the school year our library media staff members will guide students in using
the next-generation searching tool for todayrsquos digital natives Destiny contains powerful
tools to conduct research of print and digital resources
Report Card and Grading System Standards based grading and reporting will continue to be used in all schools this year
The goal of this grading format is to give families a clear understanding of your childrsquos
progress toward end of year grade level expectations The following chart below explains
the meaning of the grades
Grade Description Comment
ES Exceptional at the grade level standard Not used in
kindergarten
P Meets the grade level standard by demonstrating
proficiency of the content or processes for the
measurement topic
I In progress toward meeting the grade level standard
N Not yet making progress or making minimal progress
toward meeting the grade level standard
M Missing data-No grade recorded
NEP Not English Proficient may be used for level 1 or 2 ESOL
student for no more than two marking periods
IMPORTANT Please note these descriptions do not translate in to the old letter grades
(eg an ES is not equivalent to an ldquoOrdquo or ldquoArdquo) Any child that is working on grade level
indicators and making progress is likely to receive a report of ldquoPrdquo or ldquoIrdquo on the report card
Report cards are cumulative and will be used over the four marking periods as students
work toward end of year mastery Measurement topics are a group of related content
skills or processes in a subject For example foundational skills are a measurement topic
in the category of reading and geometry is a measurement topic in math
Learning skills will also be updated to include personal and social development skills and
thinking and academic success skills Personal and Social Development Skills are the
effort and behaviors that affect learning This section will provide information that
describes what your child is doing that helps or hinders hisher learning Thinking and
Academic Success Skills (TASS) permeate instruction in all content areas of the MCPS
PreK-5 Integrated Curriculum The chart below explains the meaning of the codes for
Personal and Social Development Skills and Thinking and Academic Success Skills
Code Description
DEM Demonstrating
PRG Progressing
N Not yet evident
Look for more information from your childrsquos teacher about the format for grading and
reporting throughout the coming year
MCPS GIVE BACKpacks Campaign Help MCPS make sure all students are ready for the new school year by donating to the
MCPS GIVE BACKpacks campaign The GIVE BACKpacks drive was created in response to
the growing need in Montgomery County to help families with the basic school supplies
students need at the start of the school year A backpack filled with school supplies costs
$10 and donors have the option to sponsor one student a classroom a grade level or an
entire school The backpacks will be distributed to students in need in schools at the
beginning of the school year Visit wwwmcpsgivebackpacksorg to learn more or to
donate
Campantildea GIVE BACKpacks de MCPS
Ayude a MCPS a asegurarse de que todos los estudiantes esteacuten listos para el nuevo ciclo
escolar donando a la Campantildea GIVE BACKpacks de MCPS La campantildea GIVE
BACKpacks fue creada en respuesta a la necesidad creciente en el condado de
Montgomery County de ayudar a familias con los uacutetiles escolares baacutesicos que los
estudiantes necesitan al principio del ciclo escolar Una mochila llena de uacutetiles escolares
cuesta $10 y los donantes tienen la opcioacuten de patrocinar a un estudiante individual a
toda una clase a un grado escolar o a toda una escuela Las mochilas se distribuiraacuten a
estudiantes necesitados al principio del ciclo escolar Para maacutes informacioacuten o para hacer
una donacioacuten visite wwwmcpsgivebackpacksorg
November 17 2016 April 19 2017
February 8 2017 June 27 2017 (mailed)
SCHOOL HOURS The instructional day for students begins at 925 am and ends at
350 pm Students arriving after the 925 am bell are considered tardy and must be signed
in by an adult at the front office In the morning students are admitted to classrooms at
900 am Students should not be dropped off at school before 900 am There will be no
supervision for students before that time
SCHOOL SUPPLIES Please refer to the attached student recommended supply list
for the 2016 - 2017 school year at Fairland Elementary School
TOYS We request that students NOT bring their personal toys balls stuffed animals
trading cards electronic games etc to school We cannot be responsible for these items
and they are not needed for the instructional program or recess
TRANSPORTATION Most of Fairlandrsquos students are bused to school Students are
picked up at designated bus stops no more than one mile from their home Parents are
responsible for maintaining discipline and safety at bus stops Inclement weather traffic
accidents and road construction can cause delays in the bus routes so the pick-up and
drop-off times of each bus may vary somewhat from day to day Questions about the
buses or bus routes should be directed to Sinisa Pavlovic MCPS Randolph Depot Manager
at the Transportation Office at (301) 929-6906 No child may ride a bus other than that
which is assigned Children wishing to ride a bus not regularly assigned to them must
have a note from their parent that is signed by office personnel Office personnel will
make a final decision based on space and student behaviors when allowing students to
ride a bus that is NOT assigned to them
VISITORS MCPS Policy requires that all visitors without exception must check in with
the Front Office staff before proceeding into the building This policy is enforced for the
safety of the students Visitors sign in and obtain a sticker from the visitor Management
System (VMS) Parents bringing items for their child (lunch band instruments homework
etc) will be asked to leave the items with front office personnel so that instructional time
remains uninterrupted We at Fairland have an open door policy We encourage families
to notify the teacher of your desire to visit in order to promote the smooth flow of the
instructional program
Montgomery County Public School Initiatives STRATEGIC PLANNING FRAMEWORK The Montgomery County Board of Education has adopted a new Strategic Planning
Framework that will guide the work of MCPS schools and offices in the years to come The
Framework Building Our Future Together Students Staff and Community incorporates
the three competencies that students need for success in the 21st centurymdashacademic
excellence creative problem solving and social emotional learningmdashas well as a
continued commitment to operational excellence The Framework describes what
students should know and be able to do in the three competency areas as well as specific
actions staff parents and community members should take to support students Parents
and staff will receive information about the Strategic Planning Framework at the
beginning of the school year but can learn more now by visiting the MCPS website at
wwwmontgomeryschoolsmdorgframework or search Strategic Planning Framework
Estructura de Planificacioacuten Estrateacutegica El Consejo de Educacioacuten (Board of Education) de Montgomery County ha adoptado una
nueva Estructura de Planificacioacuten Estrateacutegica que guiaraacute el trabajo de las escuelas y las
oficinas de MCPS en los proacuteximos antildeos La Estructura Construyendo Nuestro Futuro
Juntos Estudiantes Empleados y Comunidad incorpora las tres aacutereas de competencia
que los estudiantes necesitan para ser exitosos en el Siglo XXImdashexcelencia acadeacutemica
resolucioacuten creativa de problemas y aprendizaje social y emocionalmdashcomo asiacute un
compromiso continuo hacia la excelencia operativa La Estructura describe lo que los
estudiantes deberiacutean saber y ser capaces de hacer en las tres aacutereas de competencia asiacute
como tambieacuten acciones especiacuteficas que el personal los padres y los miembros de la
comunidad deben tomar para apoyar a los estudiantes Los padres y el personal recibiraacuten
informacioacuten sobre la Estructura de Planificacioacuten Estrateacutegica al comienzo del ciclo escolar
pero ya pueden aprender maacutes visitando la paacutegina de Internet de la Estructura de MCPS
en wwwmontgomeryschoolsmdorgframeworkes o busque Strategic Planning
Framework
Curriculum 20 All grade levels continue with implementation of Curriculum 20 This curriculum is shifting
the way in which we approach our instruction with an emphasis on depth of study versus
covering topics Please see attached for information from our superintendent Dr Starr
on the curriculum implementation and what you can expect on pages x and x of this letter
Online Library Search System Our library media center continues to use a centralized K-12 resource management tool
This tool helps our library media center work more efficiently while creating engaging and
collaborative learning environments promoting and supporting student achievement
The system is called Destiny Library Manager (Destiny) The implementation of Destiny
will enable a stronger library media program-classroom connection and support the
library media specialistrsquos role in helping students develop 21st century learning skills
Throughout the school year our library media staff members will guide students in using
the next-generation searching tool for todayrsquos digital natives Destiny contains powerful
tools to conduct research of print and digital resources
Report Card and Grading System Standards based grading and reporting will continue to be used in all schools this year
The goal of this grading format is to give families a clear understanding of your childrsquos
progress toward end of year grade level expectations The following chart below explains
the meaning of the grades
Grade Description Comment
ES Exceptional at the grade level standard Not used in
kindergarten
P Meets the grade level standard by demonstrating
proficiency of the content or processes for the
measurement topic
I In progress toward meeting the grade level standard
N Not yet making progress or making minimal progress
toward meeting the grade level standard
M Missing data-No grade recorded
NEP Not English Proficient may be used for level 1 or 2 ESOL
student for no more than two marking periods
IMPORTANT Please note these descriptions do not translate in to the old letter grades
(eg an ES is not equivalent to an ldquoOrdquo or ldquoArdquo) Any child that is working on grade level
indicators and making progress is likely to receive a report of ldquoPrdquo or ldquoIrdquo on the report card
Report cards are cumulative and will be used over the four marking periods as students
work toward end of year mastery Measurement topics are a group of related content
skills or processes in a subject For example foundational skills are a measurement topic
in the category of reading and geometry is a measurement topic in math
Learning skills will also be updated to include personal and social development skills and
thinking and academic success skills Personal and Social Development Skills are the
effort and behaviors that affect learning This section will provide information that
describes what your child is doing that helps or hinders hisher learning Thinking and
Academic Success Skills (TASS) permeate instruction in all content areas of the MCPS
PreK-5 Integrated Curriculum The chart below explains the meaning of the codes for
Personal and Social Development Skills and Thinking and Academic Success Skills
Code Description
DEM Demonstrating
PRG Progressing
N Not yet evident
Look for more information from your childrsquos teacher about the format for grading and
reporting throughout the coming year
MCPS GIVE BACKpacks Campaign Help MCPS make sure all students are ready for the new school year by donating to the
MCPS GIVE BACKpacks campaign The GIVE BACKpacks drive was created in response to
the growing need in Montgomery County to help families with the basic school supplies
students need at the start of the school year A backpack filled with school supplies costs
$10 and donors have the option to sponsor one student a classroom a grade level or an
entire school The backpacks will be distributed to students in need in schools at the
beginning of the school year Visit wwwmcpsgivebackpacksorg to learn more or to
donate
Campantildea GIVE BACKpacks de MCPS
Ayude a MCPS a asegurarse de que todos los estudiantes esteacuten listos para el nuevo ciclo
escolar donando a la Campantildea GIVE BACKpacks de MCPS La campantildea GIVE
BACKpacks fue creada en respuesta a la necesidad creciente en el condado de
Montgomery County de ayudar a familias con los uacutetiles escolares baacutesicos que los
estudiantes necesitan al principio del ciclo escolar Una mochila llena de uacutetiles escolares
cuesta $10 y los donantes tienen la opcioacuten de patrocinar a un estudiante individual a
toda una clase a un grado escolar o a toda una escuela Las mochilas se distribuiraacuten a
estudiantes necesitados al principio del ciclo escolar Para maacutes informacioacuten o para hacer
una donacioacuten visite wwwmcpsgivebackpacksorg
Montgomery County Public School Initiatives STRATEGIC PLANNING FRAMEWORK The Montgomery County Board of Education has adopted a new Strategic Planning
Framework that will guide the work of MCPS schools and offices in the years to come The
Framework Building Our Future Together Students Staff and Community incorporates
the three competencies that students need for success in the 21st centurymdashacademic
excellence creative problem solving and social emotional learningmdashas well as a
continued commitment to operational excellence The Framework describes what
students should know and be able to do in the three competency areas as well as specific
actions staff parents and community members should take to support students Parents
and staff will receive information about the Strategic Planning Framework at the
beginning of the school year but can learn more now by visiting the MCPS website at
wwwmontgomeryschoolsmdorgframework or search Strategic Planning Framework
Estructura de Planificacioacuten Estrateacutegica El Consejo de Educacioacuten (Board of Education) de Montgomery County ha adoptado una
nueva Estructura de Planificacioacuten Estrateacutegica que guiaraacute el trabajo de las escuelas y las
oficinas de MCPS en los proacuteximos antildeos La Estructura Construyendo Nuestro Futuro
Juntos Estudiantes Empleados y Comunidad incorpora las tres aacutereas de competencia
que los estudiantes necesitan para ser exitosos en el Siglo XXImdashexcelencia acadeacutemica
resolucioacuten creativa de problemas y aprendizaje social y emocionalmdashcomo asiacute un
compromiso continuo hacia la excelencia operativa La Estructura describe lo que los
estudiantes deberiacutean saber y ser capaces de hacer en las tres aacutereas de competencia asiacute
como tambieacuten acciones especiacuteficas que el personal los padres y los miembros de la
comunidad deben tomar para apoyar a los estudiantes Los padres y el personal recibiraacuten
informacioacuten sobre la Estructura de Planificacioacuten Estrateacutegica al comienzo del ciclo escolar
pero ya pueden aprender maacutes visitando la paacutegina de Internet de la Estructura de MCPS
en wwwmontgomeryschoolsmdorgframeworkes o busque Strategic Planning
Framework
Curriculum 20 All grade levels continue with implementation of Curriculum 20 This curriculum is shifting
the way in which we approach our instruction with an emphasis on depth of study versus
covering topics Please see attached for information from our superintendent Dr Starr
on the curriculum implementation and what you can expect on pages x and x of this letter
Online Library Search System Our library media center continues to use a centralized K-12 resource management tool
This tool helps our library media center work more efficiently while creating engaging and
collaborative learning environments promoting and supporting student achievement
The system is called Destiny Library Manager (Destiny) The implementation of Destiny
will enable a stronger library media program-classroom connection and support the
library media specialistrsquos role in helping students develop 21st century learning skills
Throughout the school year our library media staff members will guide students in using
the next-generation searching tool for todayrsquos digital natives Destiny contains powerful
tools to conduct research of print and digital resources
Report Card and Grading System Standards based grading and reporting will continue to be used in all schools this year
The goal of this grading format is to give families a clear understanding of your childrsquos
progress toward end of year grade level expectations The following chart below explains
the meaning of the grades
Grade Description Comment
ES Exceptional at the grade level standard Not used in
kindergarten
P Meets the grade level standard by demonstrating
proficiency of the content or processes for the
measurement topic
I In progress toward meeting the grade level standard
N Not yet making progress or making minimal progress
toward meeting the grade level standard
M Missing data-No grade recorded
NEP Not English Proficient may be used for level 1 or 2 ESOL
student for no more than two marking periods
IMPORTANT Please note these descriptions do not translate in to the old letter grades
(eg an ES is not equivalent to an ldquoOrdquo or ldquoArdquo) Any child that is working on grade level
indicators and making progress is likely to receive a report of ldquoPrdquo or ldquoIrdquo on the report card
Report cards are cumulative and will be used over the four marking periods as students
work toward end of year mastery Measurement topics are a group of related content
skills or processes in a subject For example foundational skills are a measurement topic
in the category of reading and geometry is a measurement topic in math
Learning skills will also be updated to include personal and social development skills and
thinking and academic success skills Personal and Social Development Skills are the
effort and behaviors that affect learning This section will provide information that
describes what your child is doing that helps or hinders hisher learning Thinking and
Academic Success Skills (TASS) permeate instruction in all content areas of the MCPS
PreK-5 Integrated Curriculum The chart below explains the meaning of the codes for
Personal and Social Development Skills and Thinking and Academic Success Skills
Code Description
DEM Demonstrating
PRG Progressing
N Not yet evident
Look for more information from your childrsquos teacher about the format for grading and
reporting throughout the coming year
MCPS GIVE BACKpacks Campaign Help MCPS make sure all students are ready for the new school year by donating to the
MCPS GIVE BACKpacks campaign The GIVE BACKpacks drive was created in response to
the growing need in Montgomery County to help families with the basic school supplies
students need at the start of the school year A backpack filled with school supplies costs
$10 and donors have the option to sponsor one student a classroom a grade level or an
entire school The backpacks will be distributed to students in need in schools at the
beginning of the school year Visit wwwmcpsgivebackpacksorg to learn more or to
donate
Campantildea GIVE BACKpacks de MCPS
Ayude a MCPS a asegurarse de que todos los estudiantes esteacuten listos para el nuevo ciclo
escolar donando a la Campantildea GIVE BACKpacks de MCPS La campantildea GIVE
BACKpacks fue creada en respuesta a la necesidad creciente en el condado de
Montgomery County de ayudar a familias con los uacutetiles escolares baacutesicos que los
estudiantes necesitan al principio del ciclo escolar Una mochila llena de uacutetiles escolares
cuesta $10 y los donantes tienen la opcioacuten de patrocinar a un estudiante individual a
toda una clase a un grado escolar o a toda una escuela Las mochilas se distribuiraacuten a
estudiantes necesitados al principio del ciclo escolar Para maacutes informacioacuten o para hacer
una donacioacuten visite wwwmcpsgivebackpacksorg
collaborative learning environments promoting and supporting student achievement
The system is called Destiny Library Manager (Destiny) The implementation of Destiny
will enable a stronger library media program-classroom connection and support the
library media specialistrsquos role in helping students develop 21st century learning skills
Throughout the school year our library media staff members will guide students in using
the next-generation searching tool for todayrsquos digital natives Destiny contains powerful
tools to conduct research of print and digital resources
Report Card and Grading System Standards based grading and reporting will continue to be used in all schools this year
The goal of this grading format is to give families a clear understanding of your childrsquos
progress toward end of year grade level expectations The following chart below explains
the meaning of the grades
Grade Description Comment
ES Exceptional at the grade level standard Not used in
kindergarten
P Meets the grade level standard by demonstrating
proficiency of the content or processes for the
measurement topic
I In progress toward meeting the grade level standard
N Not yet making progress or making minimal progress
toward meeting the grade level standard
M Missing data-No grade recorded
NEP Not English Proficient may be used for level 1 or 2 ESOL
student for no more than two marking periods
IMPORTANT Please note these descriptions do not translate in to the old letter grades
(eg an ES is not equivalent to an ldquoOrdquo or ldquoArdquo) Any child that is working on grade level
indicators and making progress is likely to receive a report of ldquoPrdquo or ldquoIrdquo on the report card
Report cards are cumulative and will be used over the four marking periods as students
work toward end of year mastery Measurement topics are a group of related content
skills or processes in a subject For example foundational skills are a measurement topic
in the category of reading and geometry is a measurement topic in math
Learning skills will also be updated to include personal and social development skills and
thinking and academic success skills Personal and Social Development Skills are the
effort and behaviors that affect learning This section will provide information that
describes what your child is doing that helps or hinders hisher learning Thinking and
Academic Success Skills (TASS) permeate instruction in all content areas of the MCPS
PreK-5 Integrated Curriculum The chart below explains the meaning of the codes for
Personal and Social Development Skills and Thinking and Academic Success Skills
Code Description
DEM Demonstrating
PRG Progressing
N Not yet evident
Look for more information from your childrsquos teacher about the format for grading and
reporting throughout the coming year
MCPS GIVE BACKpacks Campaign Help MCPS make sure all students are ready for the new school year by donating to the
MCPS GIVE BACKpacks campaign The GIVE BACKpacks drive was created in response to
the growing need in Montgomery County to help families with the basic school supplies
students need at the start of the school year A backpack filled with school supplies costs
$10 and donors have the option to sponsor one student a classroom a grade level or an
entire school The backpacks will be distributed to students in need in schools at the
beginning of the school year Visit wwwmcpsgivebackpacksorg to learn more or to
donate
Campantildea GIVE BACKpacks de MCPS
Ayude a MCPS a asegurarse de que todos los estudiantes esteacuten listos para el nuevo ciclo
escolar donando a la Campantildea GIVE BACKpacks de MCPS La campantildea GIVE
BACKpacks fue creada en respuesta a la necesidad creciente en el condado de
Montgomery County de ayudar a familias con los uacutetiles escolares baacutesicos que los
estudiantes necesitan al principio del ciclo escolar Una mochila llena de uacutetiles escolares
cuesta $10 y los donantes tienen la opcioacuten de patrocinar a un estudiante individual a
toda una clase a un grado escolar o a toda una escuela Las mochilas se distribuiraacuten a
estudiantes necesitados al principio del ciclo escolar Para maacutes informacioacuten o para hacer
una donacioacuten visite wwwmcpsgivebackpacksorg
PreK-5 Integrated Curriculum The chart below explains the meaning of the codes for
Personal and Social Development Skills and Thinking and Academic Success Skills
Code Description
DEM Demonstrating
PRG Progressing
N Not yet evident
Look for more information from your childrsquos teacher about the format for grading and
reporting throughout the coming year
MCPS GIVE BACKpacks Campaign Help MCPS make sure all students are ready for the new school year by donating to the
MCPS GIVE BACKpacks campaign The GIVE BACKpacks drive was created in response to
the growing need in Montgomery County to help families with the basic school supplies
students need at the start of the school year A backpack filled with school supplies costs
$10 and donors have the option to sponsor one student a classroom a grade level or an
entire school The backpacks will be distributed to students in need in schools at the
beginning of the school year Visit wwwmcpsgivebackpacksorg to learn more or to
donate
Campantildea GIVE BACKpacks de MCPS
Ayude a MCPS a asegurarse de que todos los estudiantes esteacuten listos para el nuevo ciclo
escolar donando a la Campantildea GIVE BACKpacks de MCPS La campantildea GIVE
BACKpacks fue creada en respuesta a la necesidad creciente en el condado de
Montgomery County de ayudar a familias con los uacutetiles escolares baacutesicos que los
estudiantes necesitan al principio del ciclo escolar Una mochila llena de uacutetiles escolares
cuesta $10 y los donantes tienen la opcioacuten de patrocinar a un estudiante individual a
toda una clase a un grado escolar o a toda una escuela Las mochilas se distribuiraacuten a
estudiantes necesitados al principio del ciclo escolar Para maacutes informacioacuten o para hacer
una donacioacuten visite wwwmcpsgivebackpacksorg
top related