Student Handbook

Regular and punctual patterns of attendance will be required of each student enrolled in Ossipee Central School. Student attendance is the responsibility of the parents/guardian and student. For students under the age of 16, any unauthorized absence from school is truancy. Truancy is any unexcused absence from school or class without parental or administrative permission.  A child is expected to attend school regularly, unless s/he is ill or there is a family emergency. They should also be prompt in arriving at school. For safety reasons, pupils who walk to school or who are dropped off should not arrive until 8:30 AM, and they should leave school grounds as soon as they are dismissed. Students are expected to have a documented reason for their absence. Such documentation can be in the form of a call to the school by the Parent/Guardian or a note from the Parent/Guardian explaining the absence. 

A child who is tardy for school must also present a written explanation for the tardiness from the Parent/Guardian. All students who come to school after 9:00 AM are considered tardy and must obtain a slip from the office admitting them to class. Students who are tardy due to bus delays are excused and not counted as late. 

School Board Policy JHB Student Absences and Truancy

Absences

The Board requires that school-aged children enrolled in the District attend school in accordance with all applicable state laws and Board policies. The educational program offered by the District is predicated upon the presence of the student and requires continuity of instruction and classroom participation in order for students to achieve academic standards and consistent educational progress.

Attendance shall be required of all students enrolled in the District during the days and hours that school is in session, except that the Principal may excuse a student for temporary absences when receiving satisfactory evidence of conditions or reasons that may reasonably cause the student’s absence.

The Board considers the following to be excused absences:

1. Illness

2. Recovery from an accident

3. Required court attendance

4. Health care appointments

5. Death in the immediate family

6. Observation or celebration of a bona fide religious holiday

7. Such other good cause as may be acceptable to the Principal or permitted by law

Any absence that has not been excused for any of these reasons will be considered an unexcused absence.

Truancy

Truancy is defined as any unexcused absence from class or school. Any absence that has not been excused for any of the reasons listed above will be considered an unexcused absence.

Ten half-days of unexcused absence or its equivalent during a school year constitutes habitual truancy. A half-day absence is defined as a student missing more than two hours of instructional time and less than three and one-half hours of instructional time.

Any absence of more than three and one-half hours of instructional time shall be considered a full-day absence.  The Principal is hereby designated as the District employee responsible for overseeing truancy issues. Intervention Process to Address Truancy

The Superintendent is authorized to develop and utilize other means, guidelines and programs aimed at preventing and reducing truancy.

The Principal shall ensure that the administrative guidelines on attendance properly address the matter of truancy by including a process that identifies students who are habitually truant, as defined above. When the Principal identifies a student who is habitually truant or who is in danger of becoming habitually truant, he/she shall commence an intervention with the student, the student’s parents, and other staff members as many be deemed necessary. The intervention shall include but not be limited to the following:

1. Notifying the parent of unexcused absences;

2. Investigating the cause(s) of the student’s truant behavior;

3. Involving the parents in the development of a plan designed to reduce the truancy; 4. Considering, when appropriate, modification of her/his educational program to meet particular needs that may be causing the truancy;

5. Seeking alternative disciplinary measures, but still retaining the right to impose discipline in accordance with the District’s policies and administrative guidelines on student discipline.

Truant Officer Authority

Truant officers shall have authority without a warrant to take and place in school any children violating laws relating to compulsory attendance. A truant officer or school official shall not file a petition alleging that a child is in need of services pursuant to RSA 169-D:2(a) until all steps in the school district’s intervention process have been followed.

Parental Notification of Truancy Policy

The Superintendent shall also ensure that this policy is included in or references in the student handbook and is available on the district website.

School Board Policy JHB-R Student Absences and Truancy

Procedure for Excused Absences

In the event of an excused absence, parents must call the school and inform the school of the reasons for the student’s absence. For other absences, parents must provide written notice or a written excuse that states one of these reasons for non-attendance. The Principal may require parents to provide additional documentation in support of their written notice, including but not limited to doctor’s notes, court documents, obituaries, or other documents supporting the claimed reason for non-attendance.

If parents wish for their child to be absent for a reason not identified in Policy JHB, the parent must provide a written explanation of the reason for such absence, including why the student will be absent and for how long the student will be absent. The Principal will make a determination as to whether the stated reason for the student’s absence constitutes good cause and will notify the parents via telephone and writing of her/his decision. If the Principal determines that good cause does not exist, the parents may request a conference with the Principal to again explain the reasons for non-attendance. The Principal may then reconsider her/his final determination.

Procedure for Family Vacation

If a student’s family plans to take a vacation during the academic year, the student must bring a note signed by a parent or guardian pertaining to the vacation.

This note must be brought to the office at least one week or five school days in advance to receive a vacation request form, which must be completed and returned to the principal for consideration and disposition. Students granted approval for vacation time are responsible for making up all missed assignments. It should be noted that absences for vacation could have a negative effect on grades and/or course credit.

Parent Involvement in Truancy Intervention

When a student reaches habitual truancy status or is in danger of reaching habitual truancy status, the Principal will send the student’s parent a letter which includes:

1. A statement that the student has become or is in danger of becoming habitually truant;

2. A statement of the parent’s responsibility to ensure that the student attends school; and

3. A request for a meeting between the parents and the Principal to discuss the student’s truancy and to develop a plan for reducing the student’s truancy.

In addition to the above, once intervention plans have been exhausted, the Principal may include a statement indicating that if the truancy problem is not resolved, the school will file a petition with the court alleging that the child is in need of services pursuant to RSA 169-D:2(a).

Principal Andrea Fournier

Assistant Principal Meaghan Cooper

Any student found selling, giving, possessing or having used alcohol or any controlled drug or look alike drugs or being under the influence thereof anywhere on school district property, in any district owned vehicle, or in any other district approved vehicle used to transport students to and from or district activities shall be liable for suspension and/or expulsion following the completion of investigation and consultation with parents or guardians. 

School Board Policy JICH Alcohol and Other Drug Use By Students

Any student found selling, giving, possessing or having used alcohol or any controlled drug or look-alike drugs or being under the influence thereof anywhere on school district property, in any district owned vehicle, or in any other district-approved vehicle used to transport students to and from school or district activities shall be liable for suspension and/or expulsion following the completion of investigation and consultation with parents or guardian. 

Look-alike Drugs mean any substance other than a controlled substance or prescription drug, or combination of such substance which is marketed, sold, or distributed to encourage recreational drug use or abuse or any similar nonmedical use and

1. by representation or appearance (including color, shape, size, and markings) would lead a reasonable person to believe that the substance is a controlled substance; or

2. purports to act, either alone, in multiple doses, or in combination with a substance or substances, like a controlled substance, either stimulant or depressant as defined in the Controlled Substances Act (21 U.S.C. 812 (c) or RSA 318-b, controlled Drug Act.

The use, sale, transfer or possession of drug-related paraphernalia is also prohibited.

Students may only be in possession of medication as detailed in Policy JLCD. Searches of persons reasonably suspected to be in violation of this policy will be conducted in accordance with Policy JIH. Any student who is found by the administration to be in violation of this policy shall be referred for prosecution and subject to disciplinary action up to and including suspension and/or expulsion.

The federal Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (“FERPA”) provides certain rights to parents and eligible students (18 years of age or older) with respect to the student’s education records.

A. Inspection of Records

Parents/eligible students may inspect and review the student’s education records within 45 days of making a request. Such requests must be submitted to the Superintendent or building principal in writing and must identify the record(s) to be inspected. The Superintendent or building principal will notify the parent/eligible student of the time and place where the record(s) may be inspected in the presence of school staff. Parents/eligible students may obtain copies of education records at a cost of 10 cents per page. 

B. Amendment of Records

Parents/eligible students may ask the School District to amend education records they believe are inaccurate, misleading or in violation of the student’s right to privacy. Such requests must be submitted to the Superintendent or building principal in writing, clearly identify the part of the record they want changed, and specify why it is inaccurate or misleading. If the Superintendent or building principal decides not to amend the record as requested, the parent/eligible student will be notified of the decision, their right to request a hearing and information about the hearing process.

C. Disclosure of Records 

The School District must obtain a parent/eligible student’s written consent prior to disclosure of personally identifiable information in education records except in circumstances permitted by law or regulations as summarized below.

1. Directory Information

The School District designates the following student information as directory information that may be made public at its discretion: the student’s name, grade, grade level/year of graduation, age, activity participation, school, honors and awards, weight and height for athletic teams at secondary schools, and parent/guardian name. Parents/eligible students who do not want the School District to disclose directory information must notify the building principal in writing by October 1 or within thirty (30) calendar days of enrollment, whichever is later. This opt-out request will remain in effect until the beginning of the next school year.

2. Military Recruiters/Institutions of Higher Education 

Military recruiters and institutions of higher education are entitled to receive the names, addresses, and telephone numbers of secondary school students and the School District must comply with any such request, provided that parents have been notified of their right to request that this information not be released without their prior written consent. Parents/eligible students who do not want the School District to disclose this information without their prior written consent must notify the Superintendent in writing by October 1 or within thirty (30) days of enrollment, whichever is later. 

3. School Officials with Legitimate Educational Interests

Education records may be disclosed to school officials with a “legitimate educational interest.” A school official has a legitimate educational interest if he/she needs to review an education record in order to fulfill his/her professional responsibility. School officials include persons employed by the  School District as an administrator, supervisor, instructor or support staff member (including health or  medical staff and law enforcement unit personnel); members of the School District’s School Board;  persons or companies with whom the School District has contracted to provide specific services (such  as attorneys, auditors, medical consultants, evaluators or therapists); and volunteers who are under  the direct control of the School District with regard to education records.

4. Health or Safety Emergencies

In accordance with federal regulations, the School District may disclose education records in a health or safety emergency to any person whose knowledge of the information is necessary to protect the health or safety of the student or other individuals without prior written consent.

5. Other Entities/Individuals

Education records may be disclosed to other entities and individuals as specifically permitted by law.  Parents/eligible students may obtain information about other exceptions to the written consent requirement by request to the Superintendent or building principal.

D. Complaints Regarding School District Compliance with FERPA 

Parents/eligible students who believe that the School District has not complied with the requirements of FERPA have the right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education. The office that administers FERPA is:

Family Policy Compliance Office

U.S. District of Education

400 Maryland Avenue, SW

Washington, DC 20202

Please see GWRSD policy JRB. 

Parent Pick-up/Drop-off:

If you transport your children, please drop them off at the main entrance between 8:30 and 8:45am and pick them up beginning at 3:15pm. For arrival, please pull alongside the sidewalk and wait for a staff member to signal to your child to exit the car. For dismissal, parents should pull up alongside the sidewalk and a staff member will walk your student out to the car. We ask that all parents stay in their cars during drop off and pick up.

Buses:

In the morning after departure from the bus in the rear of the building, students are to enter the building using the rear door. After entering the building, students are to either go to breakfast, or take a seat in their assigned area and wait until the staff on duty dismiss them to their classes. In the afternoon, students will be dismissed from their classrooms.

Each pupil is required to participate in the physical education, art, and music programs on a regular basis, unless the school receives a written excuse from a doctor stating the reasons why the pupil should be excused.

Students are encouraged to bring a “smock” to school to use when they are in art, and sneakers must be worn when in physical education class.

Assemblies are held periodically during the school year at Ossipee Central School. Students and guests are expected to be courteous and polite during these events. Students and guests should remember that their behavior reflects not only upon themselves, but also upon the entire student body and community. Talking, unnecessary movement, whistling, booing, and exaggerated applause are all considered inappropriate assembly manners. The students work hard to get ready for their concerts and/or performances to share with parents and guardians. Please follow the Concert Etiquette.  If you feel you would like to visit during the performance please let one of the Ossipee Central School staff know and they will open one of the classrooms for you to use.

We encourage you to send your child to school with a backpack. This can help assist your child with organization. For safety reasons please do not write the name of your child in large print on the back of their backpacks where it can be easily read by other people. Please place your child’s name on the backpack in a less visible location.

The Band teacher offers a school band program for beginning and intermediate band students in grades 5 & 6. A Holiday Concert and Spring Concert are held during the year. 

It is the OCS philosophy that students will be safe, responsible and respectful at all times. 

School Board Policy JIC – Student Conduct

The behavior of each student in the Governor Wentworth Regional School District must be based on respect and consideration for the rights of others.

Students have the responsibility to behave everywhere in a manner appropriate to good citizenship. This includes respectful use of language and behavior that avoids ethnic, racial, and sexual stereotypes and biases. Insults, force, or hurtful sarcasm shall not be used.

Students shall receive annually a listing of the rules and regulations to which they are subject. Students have a responsibility to know and respect the rules and regulations of the school.

Any and all cases of discipline brought before the Governor Wentworth School Board shall be considered in non-public session.

Children are allowed to ride bicycles to school, if the following rules are observed:

1. Parents/Guardians sign a permission form (available at the office);

2. Students riding a bicycle to school must wear a bike helmet. (State law) 2. All bicycles shall be parked in the bicycle rack next to the music room and skateboards carried to the student’s homeroom;

3. Bicycle/Skateboard riders shall leave school grounds by the Art room exit.

Students using bicycles/skateboards to go to and from school are urged to use extreme caution while riding on the streets. Students are asked not to ride while around the school, but rather WALK THE BIKE and CARRY THE SKATEBOARDS while on school property. Bikes and skateboards ridden to school must be “parked” for the day. 

This past year, the Governor Wentworth Regional School District revised the wellness policy due in part to GWRSD Wellness Committee’s recommendations, as well as a change in United States Dietary Guidelines for Americans with which schools receiving federal funds must comply. Please see GWRSD policy JLCF. 

Please be aware that one of the most significant changes to the policy is related to food brought into school for things such as birthday and/or holiday celebrations. In order to meet the nutritional guidelines required by law, any food sent into school classrooms must comply with the federal guidelines; cupcakes and other sugary sweets can no longer be served during the school day. If you wish to provide a birthday treat for your child’s class, it should be one that is considered healthy (low in fat and sugar). Your child’s teacher is happy to provide suggestions if you wish.

The NH Department of Education does allow districts to offer three exemptions to the law per school year. Elementary schools in the Governor Wentworth Regional School District will exercise those exemptions for the following celebrations: Halloween, Winter Holiday and Valentine’s Day.  If you have any questions related to this policy, please contact Andrea Fournier at Ossipee Central School. See Wellness/Snack Ideas for Classroom Celebrations.

Breakfast, hot lunch and milk are available at Ossipee Central School every day. Chocolate milk is only available at lunch. The Hot Lunch Program publishes menus monthly and are available on www.gwrsdfoodservice.org. Menus are subject to change. However, this usually happens only when there  has been a snow-day or an emergency day.  Menus are also sent home with students once a month. You may pay for your child’s meals in advance with cash, check or using My School Bucks.

The cost for breakfast is $1.50 and the cost for lunch is $2.85. If students would like to purchase a milk separate from the hot lunch program the milk cost is $0.40. You may make checks payable to GWRSD Food Service. These prices are subject to change during the school year.  Applications for free/reduced meals can be accessed at www.myschoolapps.com.

Meal Charge Procedure – Parents are responsible for providing their children with lunch money or to provide a packed lunch from home. Parents are encouraged to put money “on account” for all students in the district.

If you are experiencing financial hardships, the Governor Wentworth Regional School District does participate in the National Free & Reduced Lunch and Breakfast program. You may apply at any point during the year. Applications are available at each school office or on our district website. Not only will this help you, it also has an impact on the amount the district receives from state financial aid and will help reduce taxes. These procedures are intended to outline the parameters of charges for school meals and to set a process for collection of funds owed to the district. Parents/Guardians of students in grades K-6 will be alerted of a low balance once a student’s account is overdue by five days. 

MySchoolBucks - GWRSD makes paying for school lunches easy! With myschoolbucks, giving your students lunch money could not be easier. The Service is easy-to-use, convenient, private, and secure. Simply go to www.myschoolbucks.com to enroll and start using the site to deposit funds into your child’s lunch account. Once your account is established, you can check balances and fund the account anytime from your home computer or phone. Your personal and payment card information is protected by the most advanced Internet security. To obtain your child’s District ID call the District Foodservice Office at 603-569-2433.

Breakfast is served from 8:30 to 8:50. Students who arrive after 8:50 will not be able to access the breakfast program.

If you have a questions or want an update on your child(ren)’s breakfast/lunch balance please feel free to call Andrea Fournier at 603-539-4589 or email her at afournier@govwentworth.k12.nh.us. She will be happy to assist you.

The right of all students to ride the school bus is conditioned on their good behavior and observance of the rules. The driver is in full charge of the bus and the students. Students shall obey the driver promptly. Since the school bus is considered an extension of school, students are subject to all school rules once they board the bus.

(Please see GWRSD for School Bus Code of Conduct Policy – EEA-R)

It is important that your child be at the appropriate bus stop and ride the bus the first day of school, to learn his/her bus number/color and driver, for departure from school in the afternoon. With overlapping bus routes, you may see another bus drive by; please be patient, as your child's bus will be along soon.  It takes a week or so of school each Fall before the pick-up and drop-off times become regular. A note is required for a child to be let off at a different bus stop, or to ride a different bus. Please be advised that if your child is issued a pass to ride on a different bus, rider ship is contingent on space.

Chromebooks, iPads, textbooks, and/or library books may be loaned to students. We expect that these items will receive proper care and will be returned in good condition. Parents/Guardians are expected to pay the cost of technology, books or materials in cases involving loss, willful damage, or destruction. All technology, taken back and forth from home to school, should be placed in the provided sleeve to protect the item. To assist with the transition to Middle School, students in grades 4-6 are given an assignment planner book. Lost planners will be replaced at the student’s cost of $2.00.

Students are permitted to have cell phones in their possession with parent approval. However, cell phone use is not allowed at school. Cell phones must be “off and away.” The school is not responsible for any lost or damaged cell phones. If the need arises to confiscate a student’s cell phone, parents/guardians will be contacted by school personnel.

Identification of children with disabilities, birth to age 21, is ongoing. If there are parents living in the district who suspect that their child has an educational disability, they should contact their local school, the office of the superintendent, or the special education director for referral information.

It is the policy of the Governor Wentworth Regional School Board to cooperate with the parents of all children registered in the district. 

(Refer to GWRSD policy for Children of Divorced or Separated Parents KBBA)

The music teacher offers Chorus for students in grades 4-6. Concerts are held throughout the year.

In the event of inclement weather or other emergencies, school may be canceled for the day. Notice of closing will be made through the School Messenger system and broadcasted over the radio and television. Should the schools in our district be closed or have an early dismissal due to weather, or any other reason, the School Messenger system will be utilized and the following radio/television stations will be notified:

1. Channel 9 TV - WMUR

2. Channel 6 TV - WSCH

3. WMWV Radio 93.5

4. WOKQ Radio 97.5

5. WSCY Radio 106.9

If the school day is shortened and the students are dismissed early, the above radio stations will be notified and local busses will be ready to start taking students home. Please sit down with your children to discuss and develop an action plan should there be an announcement made at school that we would be dismissing the students early. This will hopefully alleviate the tied-up phone lines, and will also help to ease the child’s mind. We also ask that you listen to the radio and TV for up-to-date information regarding dismissals. We try to keep the phone lines open in order to receive emergency information. Emergency lists are kept at school. It is the parents' responsibility to keep complete InfoSnap so the school has emergency information. We need your cooperation to get your children home safely!! If school is only delayed in opening (not canceled), it will be for a period of 2 hours. When a delayed opening is called, morning Pre-school sessions will be canceled and other students should not arrive before 10:30. If school is dismissed early, afternoon Pre-school sessions will not be held.

Additional information regarding school closing due to inclement weather or emergencies will be sent via School Messenger.

Breakfast is not served when the school is operating on a delayed opening schedule.

Each member of our educational community is expected to:

✓ Be respectful and courteous

✓ Properly use public property

✓ Use the property of others only with permission

✓ Follow rules and reasonable requests

✓ Be kind and polite to others, in action and speech

✓ Take responsibility for their actions and words

✓ Be honest and truthful

The Board recognizes its responsibility to preserve order and ensure safety of students and staff.  Students, as part of the educational community, must be made aware (through student handbooks, letters, etc.) that violation of the rules of conduct will not be tolerated and may result in removal from the educational community on a temporary (suspension) or permanent (expulsion) basis. Student handbooks and building rules outline the rights and responsibilities of each educational community member and will reflect this commitment to a safe school environment and will be reviewed on this basis. 

Pursuant to RSA 189:15, this board requires that the student body shall be notified of the content of RSA 193:13 through posting and student handbooks.

NH RSA 193-D is known as the Safe School Zone Statute. It is also the policy of the GWRSD that all school buildings, premises, bus stops, and routes shall be safe environments for students, free of danger posed by the presence of weapons or conduct that threatens harm by means of weapons or objects used as weapons. Under this Safe School Act, the superintendent or his/her representative may suspend and/or expel students for acts of theft or destruction or violence, as defined in RSA 193- D:1, gross misconduct, neglect or refusal to conform to reasonable rules, possession of a pellet or BB gun or rifle, or bringing or possessing a firearm or other dangerous weapon. RSA 193-D:1 requires that acts of theft, destruction, or violence, and possession of contraband to be reported to the local law enforcement authority. Any suspension in excess of five days may be appealed to the local board.  Furthermore, the local board must approve suspensions in excess of 20 days. The school board may expel a student and this expulsion is appealable to the state board of education. RSA 193:13 III requires the school board to expel students for firearms violations for a period of not less than 12 months.  Details of board policies and state statutes may be found in the office of the building principal or superintendent of schools.

Acts of theft, destruction or violence as defined by RSA 193-D:1 require a written report to be filed with the local law enforcement authority according to RSA 193;D:4.

Teachers shall report students to the principal for gross misconduct.

In accordance with RSA 193:13 IV, the superintendent shall have the authority to evaluate each incident on a case by case basis and shall be permitted to impose disciplinary measures as (s)he deems appropriate notwithstanding the provisions of RSA 193:13, II and III.

Any and all cases of discipline brought before the school board shall be considered in non-public session.

Please refer to GWRSD policy JIC-R. 

Because our society is undergoing continued rapid changes, our students will have an increasing number of demands placed upon them in the future. If they are to be successful in the coming years each graduate will:

*Master the basics of education (incorporating technology):

 reading, writing, mathematics, science, social studies

*Exhibit teamwork and leadership skills

*Be an effective communicator

*Be computer literate and technologically competent

*Be proficient in a second language

*Have respect for self & others and display good citizenship

*Appreciate the fine and performing arts

*Be a critical and creative thinker

*Have personal responsibility and accountability

*Be a life-long learner and take risks targeted toward personal growth

*Have knowledge of and responsibility for the environment

*Have an understanding of economics

*Have a commitment to health and well being

*Understand vocational and career choices

*Be nationally and globally aware

Please take a few minutes to read over this information. It is important that you understand what is expected of you while attending a concert or performance at Ossipee Central School. Thank you.

We deeply appreciate your attendance at our concert and/or performance. We understand that you attend in support of a specific person(s). Please remember that while your person may have completed his/her contribution, someone seated next to you could be listening intently to their special person’s performance. Please help everyone enjoy all performances by respecting and adhering to the following guidelines:

• Please refrain from talking. This is the first and greatest rule. This includes whispering to other adults, children, or on a cell phone during a concert/performance.
• Please turn off cell phones and pagers. While many phones or pagers now have symphonic-like rings, they do not always fit into the musical score, nor do they provide pleasant sounds for your neighbors.
• Please be seated prior to the start of the program. Please remain seated until intermission or the end of the program.
• Please do not leave as soon as your child’s portion of the concert/performance is over. All students deserve a full audience for their performance.
• Please do not leave during the performance. It is distracting to the performers. Please wait for a break in the performance if you must leave the gymnasium.
• Please remember that the law prohibits smoking in the school or on school grounds.
• Go to the performance expecting the best. You just might be surprised how good your child sounds when the other students join in.

Please feel free to take pictures and thank you for joining us. Enjoy the performance.

The services of the school counselor are available to deal with the children's emotional needs.  Counseling may be recommended on a short-term basis to help alleviate a crisis situation. When problems are more serious or less tangible, long-term services may be provided.

Protecting the health and well-being of all students is of utmost importance to the school district. The school board has adopted a suicide prevention policy which will help to protect all students through the following steps: 

• Students will learn about recognizing and responding to warning signs of suicide in friends, using coping skills, support systems, and seeking help for themselves and friends. This curricular content will occur in all health classes throughout the school year, not just in response to a suicide, and the encouragement of help-seeking behavior will be promoted at all levels of the school leadership and stakeholders
• Each school or district will designate a suicide prevention coordinator to serve as a point of contact for students in crisis and to refer students to appropriate resources 
• When a student is identified as being at-risk, a risk assessment will be completed by a trained school staff member who will work with the student and help connect the student to appropriate local resources 
• Students will have access to national resources that they can contact for additional support, such as: —
  •  National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: 988
    • https://988lifeline.org/
  • The Trevor Lifeline: 1-866-488-7386 https://www.thetrevorproject.org/
    • Trevor Lifeline Text/Chat Services, available 24/7 Text START to 678-678
  • Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741-741 crisistextline.org 

All school personnel and students will be expected to help create a school culture of respect and support, in which students feel comfortable seeking help for themselves or friends. Students are encouraged to tell any staff member if they or a friend are feeling suicidal, or are in need of help. 

While confidentiality and privacy are important, students should know that when there is risk of suicide, safety comes first. 

For a more detailed review of policy changes, please see the district’s full suicide prevention policy.

The District is committed to providing a positive and productive learning and working environment. Any form of harassment using electronic devices, commonly known as “cyber bullying” by students, staff or third parties is prohibited and will not be tolerated in the District. Cyber bullying is the use of any electronic communication device to convey a message in any form (text, image, audio, or video)
that defames, intimidates, harasses or is otherwise intended to harm, insult or humiliate another in a deliberate, repeated or hostile and unwanted manner. In addition, any communication of this form which disrupts or prevents a safe and positive educational or working environment may also be considered cyber bullying. Students and staff will refrain from using personal communication devices or district property to harass or stalk another.
The District will take any report of cyber bullying seriously and will investigate reports promptly. Students are encouraged to report an incident immediately to a teacher or principal, who will take appropriate action. Students who make a report should also preserve evidence of the cyber bullying. For example a student nay save or bring a copy of an email, text message, picture or other electronic transmission that the student believes was intended to harm, insult, or humiliate.
Students, whose behavior is found to be in violation of the above, will be subject to loss of privileges, discipline, up to and including expulsion. Staff whose behavior is found to be in violation of this policy will be subject to discipline, up to and including dismissal. Third parties whose behavior is found to be in violation of this policy shall be subject to appropriate sanctions as determined and imposed by the Superintendent or School Board. Any perceived criminal conduct will be reported immediately to local law enforcement.

(For the full Pupil Safety and Violence Prevention Bullying Policy please refer to GWRSD policy JICK)

8:30-8:45 AM Bus arrival 

8:45 Students in classrooms

8:55 Morning announcements

 See Lunch/Recess Schedule 

3:15 Afternoon announcements

3:15 Walkers dismissed

Immediately following bus dismissal begins

Please refer to GWRSD policy EHAB. 
 

No child will be dismissed from school unless the Parent/Guardian has sent a note or called the school requesting release. Children will only be released to the parents or legal guardians, unless the school is otherwise instructed. The Parent/Guardian should report to the office when picking up their child.  Students may be dismissed from school prior to the end of the day only with parental/guardian permission. At the time of departure, they are required to sign out at the front office. Individuals that are unfamiliar to school personnel must bring photo identification with them when picking up a student. 

The Board recognizes that student individual dress is primarily a parental responsibility that should reflect concern for health and safety of students, staff, and others. When the dress of an individual student constitutes a health problem, is unsuitable for school wear, is a danger to any person, or causes a substantial and material disruption or substantial disturbance, the principal or their designees, shall take appropriate action to correct the situation.

The following apparel is not to be worn during the school day: clothing with offensive, lewd, vulgar, or racist language or pictures, tops that do not properly cover the upper body and mid-section, bottoms that do not properly cover the lower body, or clothing that glorifies, encourages, or promotes the use of alcohol or other drugs. Caps, hats, or hoods may be worn but must be removed if they interfere with the educational process or limit identification with exceptions for health, religious, or safety reasons. Principals, or their designees, are authorized to interpret this policy in their respective buildings as appropriate and necessary.

Students who violate this policy will be given an opportunity to correct the situation by either changing the clothing, removing the clothing (if appropriate), wearing it inside-out, or other means as determined by the principal, or their designees, so the student is in compliance with this policy. Students who repeatedly violate this policy may face more disciplinary action including, but not limited to detention, or suspension.

It is the policy of the GWRSD to provide students with an environment that is free of the problems associated with alcohol and drug abuse. Alcohol and drug abuse is inconsistent with the behavior expected of our students.

Any student found selling, giving, possessing, or having used alcohol or any controlled drug or look alike drug or being under the influence of anywhere on district property or at school functions shall be liable for suspension and expulsion.

Drug-free school zone signs have been posted to mark the boundaries of an area within 1000 feet of school property. These signs are intended to deter drug sellers and/or drug users and remind the community of our commitment to combat drug abuse.

Cell phones, game systems, Kindles, and any other form of electronics or other inappropriate items shall not be used in school without the express permission of the classroom teacher. Cell phones, electronic readers, and electronic games are allowed on the bus, but they must be put away upon entering the school. After an initial warning, inappropriate use of these items in school will result in them being confiscated and parents will be asked to pick up the items in the office. The school is not responsible for loss or damages to this type of equipment

There will be no school on November 8, 2022 and an early release on November 9, 2022. Parent Conferences will be held on November 8, 2022 and November 9, 2022.

EMERGENCY PLANS - Policy EBCA - The Board recognizes that New Hampshire law requires the district to implement an Emergency Response Plan that conforms to the Incident Command System and the National Incident Management System. Each school building shall have an emergency response plan that is reviewed annually by building administration and staff.

SAFETY DRILLS - Policy EBCB The Governor Wentworth Regional School Board recognizes that emergencies may occur during the school day/year. Safety drills train students, under staff direction, to move safely, quickly, and quietly from any location within the building to an assigned evacuation area. Safety drills will be scheduled by the building principals to occur each month during the school year.

PANDEMIC/EPIDEMIC EMERGENCIES - Policy EBCF The Board recognizes that a pandemic/epidemic is a serious threat that stands to affect students, staff, and the community as a whole. The Board established this policy in the event any town within the school district, or the school district as a whole, is affected by pandemic or epidemic. In the event of such an emergency, the district will follow the recommendations of the CDC and/or the State of New Hampshire’s Department of Health and Human Services.

If any change has occurred in your address, telephone number, work telephone number, or emergency name of neighbor or relative, write a note to or call the school so that our office files may be kept up-to date in case of any emergency. This is very important and your cooperation in this matter is crucial so that the school can contact you when necessary.  

The federal Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (“FERPA”) provides certain rights to parents and eligible students (18 years of age or older) with respect to the student’s education records.

A. Inspection of Records

Parents/eligible students may inspect and review the student’s education records within 45 days of making a request. Such requests must be submitted to the Superintendent or building principal in writing and must identify the record(s) to be inspected. The Superintendent or building principal will notify the parent/eligible student of the time and place where the record(s) may be inspected in the presence of school staff. Parents/eligible students may obtain copies of education records at a cost of 10 cents per page. 

B. Amendment of Records

Parents/eligible students may ask the School District to amend education records they believe are inaccurate, misleading or in violation of the student’s right to privacy. Such requests must be submitted to the Superintendent or building principal in writing, clearly identify the part of the record they want changed, and specify why it is inaccurate or misleading. If the Superintendent or building principal decides not to amend the record as requested, the parent/eligible student will be notified of the decision, their right to request a hearing and information about the hearing process.

C. Disclosure of Records 

The School District must obtain a parent/eligible student’s written consent prior to disclosure of personally identifiable information in education records except in circumstances permitted by law or regulations as summarized below.

1. Directory Information

The School District designates the following student information as directory information that may be made public at its discretion: the student’s name, grade, grade level/year of graduation, age, activity participation, school, honors and awards, weight and height for athletic teams at secondary schools, and parent/guardian name. Parents/eligible students who do not want the School District to disclose directory information must notify the building principal in writing by October 1 or within thirty (30) calendar days of enrollment, whichever is later. This opt-out request will remain in effect until the beginning of the next school year.

2. Military Recruiters/Institutions of Higher Education 

Military recruiters and institutions of higher education are entitled to receive the names, addresses, and telephone numbers of secondary school students and the School District must comply with any such request, provided that parents have been notified of their right to request that this information not be released without their prior written consent. Parents/eligible students who do not want the School District to disclose this information without their prior written consent must notify the Superintendent in writing by October 1 or within thirty (30) days of enrollment, whichever is later. 

3. School Officials with Legitimate Educational Interests

Education records may be disclosed to school officials with a “legitimate educational interest.” A school official has a legitimate educational interest if he/she needs to review an education record in order to fulfill his/her professional responsibility. School officials include persons employed by the  School District as an administrator, supervisor, instructor or support staff member (including health or  medical staff and law enforcement unit personnel); members of the School District’s School Board;  persons or companies with whom the School District has contracted to provide specific services (such  as attorneys, auditors, medical consultants, evaluators or therapists); and volunteers who are under  the direct control of the School District with regard to education records.

4. Health or Safety Emergencies

In accordance with federal regulations, the School District may disclose education records in a health or safety emergency to any person whose knowledge of the information is necessary to protect the health or safety of the student or other individuals without prior written consent.

5. Other Entities/Individuals

Education records may be disclosed to other entities and individuals as specifically permitted by law.  Parents/eligible students may obtain information about other exceptions to the written consent requirement by request to the Superintendent or building principal.

D. Complaints Regarding School District Compliance with FERPA 

Parents/eligible students who believe that the School District has not complied with the requirements of FERPA have the right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education. The office that administers FERPA is:

Family Policy Compliance Office

U.S. District of Education

400 Maryland Avenue, SW

Washington, DC 20202

Please see GWRSD policy JRB. 

The school encourages field trips as a means of helping students learn about the world in which they live. Before each trip, permission slips will be sent home to parents/guardians with information about the field trip. School field trips will not include visits to the gifts shops if one exists. 

There will be a number of practice fire/safety drills during the school year. During fire drills, students will walk silently in a single line to the exit that is assigned to their class. As soon as the Fire Department or designee clears the building, the students will return to their classes. Visitors and volunteers in the building must exit through the nearest exit.

The Governor Wentworth Regional School Board recognizes that emergencies may occur during the school day/year. Safety drills train students, under staff direction, to move safely, quickly, and quietly from any location within the building to an assigned evacuation area. Safety drills will be scheduled by the building principals to occur each month during the school year.

All the doors to the school are kept locked while students are in the building. The front door is equipped with a buzzer system to gain entry to the building. If you need to enter the building during school time, the buzzer is located to the right of the front door and to the left of the office window. 

Because of a grant written by the GWRSD Food Service Director, Ossipee Central School students are fortunate to be provided with a selection of fruits and vegetables, each day, at no cost. Fruit and vegetable bowls are available throughout the school, at various locations, for easy access to all  students. 

Ossipee Central School is a Pre-school through Sixth grade school. Each student receives instruction in the basic core areas of Reading, Math, and Language Arts. Students also receive instruction in Social Studies and Science. We have specialists who work with the staff and students in the areas of Reading, Math, Music, Physical Education, Art, Media, and Health. 

Our Special Education team is made up of the Special Education Coordinator (DPT), Special Education teachers, Speech/Language Pathologists, Occupational Therapist, Physical Therapist, Psychologists, and School Counselors. 

It is believed that the OCS educational program should be a continuous process in the physical, social, emotional and mental development of children. Therefore, the school should provide an atmosphere in which the child may feel comfortable progressing at his/her own rate and ability.  It is the charge of the school to stimulate a desire for intellectual curiosity, develop self-confidence and provide opportunities for each child to acquire the knowledge necessary to assure his/her role in a changing world. OCS should be receptive to inevitable changes in the educational process, sensitive to the individual needs and differences of children, committed to a continuous program of professional growth. This philosophy should be continually open to re-evaluation and improvement.

Although there is nothing wrong with gum chewing itself, the disposal of the gum is what causes the problem. As a result of finding the chewed gum “stuck” under desks, tables, chairs, sinks, toilets, etc.  gum chewing is not allowed at the Ossipee Central School. 

The GWRSD maintains a firm policy prohibiting all forms of discrimination, harassment, and violence.  All persons are to be treated with respect and dignity. Any form of personal harassment by any person, which creates an intimidating, hostile, or offensive environment, will not be tolerated under any circumstances.

Harassment includes, but is not limited to: bullying, physical contact, inappropriate verbal statements (i.e.: threats, requests, demands). Sexual harassment and/or sexual violence will not be tolerated.  Sexual harassment consists of unwelcome verbal or physical sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, sexually motivated physical conduct or other verbal or physical conduct or communications of a sexual nature.

The GWRSD will take such disciplinary action it deems necessary and appropriate, including warning, suspension, and/or expulsion to end harassment and violence, and to prevent recurrences.  (Please refer to GWRSD  for Sexual Harassment and Sexual Violence Policy ACAA and ACAA-R)

It is the policy of the Governor Wentworth Regional School District that hazing activities of any type are inconsistent with the educational process and will be prohibited at all times. For the purpose of this policy, hazing is defined as an activity which recklessly or intentionally endangers the mental or  physical health or safety of a student for the purpose of initiation or admission into or affiliation with  any organization sanctioned or authorized by the School Board. Permission, consent or assumption of risk by an individual subjected to hazing does not lessen the prohibition contained in this policy.  (Please refer to GWRSD for complete Hazing Policy – JICFA)

Health is taught as part of the 4^th, 5^th, & 6^th grade curriculum. The district’s elementary health teacher travels to each school for a series of health lessons. The GWRSD Elementary Health Program is dedicated to giving each student the knowledge and skills necessary to make healthy choices through life. Topics such as nutrition, safety and first aid, growth and development, disease process and prevention, consumer health, and substance use and abuse are taught in an age appropriate, sequential format. Copies of videos and materials used are available through the school office. The GWRSD School Board recognizes the importance of proper nutrition and developmentally appropriate physical activity as ways of promoting healthy lifestyles, minimizing childhood obesity, and preventing other diet-related chronic diseases. The board also recognizes that health and student success are interrelated. It is therefore the goal of the Board that the entire learning environment be aligned to positively influence a student’s understanding, beliefs, and habits as they relate to good nutrition and physical activity.

At the beginning of each school year, Parent/Guardians are to complete emergency information on InfoSnap. It is important that you provide the school with all necessary information. In the event of a change of address, telephone number, or emergency contact, please inform the school immediately. The medical care and responsibility for the sick child is that of the Parent/Guardian. If the child is ill, s/he should be kept home. Children will not be allowed to remain inside during recess without a Physician’s written request. If a child is sick, and is sent to school, s/he will be returned home. If a child becomes ill in school, care will be provided until a Parent/Guardian can be contacted to come and pick up the child.  The parent should notify the school office if a child has a communicable disease or if the child will be out for three (3) or more days.

To insure individuals the “Right to Privacy” please do not enter the Nurse’s Office if she is on the phone or is with a student or parent/guardian. We have provided a bench for you to sit on while you wait for the Nurse to be available. Thank you for your cooperation.

If your family lives in any of the following situations: doubled-up with friends or relatives because you cannot find or afford housing; in a motel or hotel; in a campground, vehicle or other inadequate accommodations then your children have certain rights under the McKinney-Vento Homeless Education Assistance Act. This may include: free breakfast and lunch; go to school, no matter where you live or how long you have lived there; continue in the school they attended before you became homeless; and, if you choose, receive transportation to and from school. If you need further assistance, contact the office or call Janice Andrea, the GWRSD liaison at 603-455-0698 or email her at jandrea@govwentworth.k12.nh.us.

Homework is a constructive tool in the teaching/learning process when geared to the needs and abilities of students. Purposeful assignments not only enhance student achievement, but also develop self-discipline and associated good work habits. As an extension of the classroom, homework must be planned, organized, purposeful, and should provide feedback to students in a timely manner. Teachers may give homework to students to aid in the student's educational development. Teachers may assign homework as part of their curriculum. [If homework is to be used by teachers as part of a student's grade, the teacher will explain to students how such homework assignments relate to the evaluation of their performance.] Homework should be an application or extension of a classroom experience, and should not be assigned for disciplinary purposes.

All children who are entering the Governor Wentworth Regional School District, and students transferring into the District, prior to entrance, must present documentation of required immunization as required by the State of New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services, Division of Public Health Services (He-P 301.13 and He-P 301.14). The student may be conditionally enrolled with documentation of at least one dose of each required vaccine and appointment date for next dose(s).  This appointment date will be the date of exclusion if appointment is not completed (He-P 301.13.c). Non-compliance shall result in non-admittance until written proof is presented. (Ed 311.01d) After a period of five (5) days, the truancy policy shall be put into effect if non-compliance continues. A child shall be exempted from the above immunization requirements if he/she presents evidence from his/her physician that immunization would be detrimental to the child’s health. For a child to be granted religious exemption, the State of NH Certificate of Religious Exemption Form must be completed, notarized and submitted to the school. (RSA 141-C:20-c)

A child who is exempt from immunization shall not attend school during an outbreak of a communicable disease for which immunization is required. (RSA 141-C:20-a)

Please see the State of New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services Division of Public Health Services for the most up-to-date requirements for immunizations. 

All students entering Ossipee Central School or currently enrolled, parents/guardians, must register and update information on InfoSnap prior to the start of school. This program allows for both newly enrolling, as well as current students, to complete all demographic and enrollment data on line. The use of Infosnap alleviates the piles of paper, per student, that is sent home on the first day of school that requires completion. Much of the information is requested more than once on different forms, and then multiply that by several students in a household, and you can end up with a serious case of writer’s cramp! This saves the family time and effort; it also saves the District money, in clerical time, paper, and copier/printer toner. Current students will receive their snap code in the mail prior to the start of school. If you do not own your own computer, or do not have access through a friend, relative, or neighbor, this registration can be done at your local library, or at any of the school buildings. All Infosnap data must be entered prior to the first day of school. This will allow school personnel to have access to your students’ emergency information when the students walk through the door. If you do not have access to a computer, you can use one at the library or at the school.

The Student Electronic Communications policy JBA and JGA-R can be accessed at GWRSD.  

All students are entitled to a safe and healthy educational environment. Therefore, the school has the responsibility to protect students from anti-social behavior on the part of irresponsible classmates.  Furthermore, school administrators must take preventive and disciplinary measures that are both swift and informal in order to be effective.

(For the full Student Interrogation, Searches and Arrests Policy please refer to GWRSD policy JIH)

“Party” invitations should not be distributed on the school bus or at school unless everyone in the student’s class is invited. 

The JumpRope Parent/Student Portal is an online tool to help families stay connected to and informed of academic progress. You are able to view your child’s missing assignments and current grades from any device that has Internet access. Grades are posted to the Parent Portal by teachers. The grades that you see are a “snapshot” of how your child is progressing toward the standards. Please remember that all assignments will be posted as soon as possible, but some assignments will take longer to assess and post depending on size.

Knives, water pistols, guns, and any other dangerous articles are not allowed in school or on school property. Such items will be confiscated and NOT returned. Violation of this regulation is considered to be serious and will be treated with strict disciplinary measures.  For further information please refer to the GWRSD policy Weapons on School Property JICI.

Please see Title 1 Learning Compact. 

To help prevent loss of clothing, and other belongings, parents are urged to sew labels, or mark name of the child on clothing, overshoes, backpacks and all personal articles. Please write the child's name on bags containing lunches. Should any article be lost at school there will be a lost and found box where misplaced items will be sent which is located in the front lobby. Valuable items such as glasses and jewelry will be sent to the main office.

TBD

Breakfast, hot lunch and milk are available at Ossipee Central School every day. Chocolate milk is only available at lunch. The Hot Lunch Program publishes menus monthly and are available on www.gwrsdfoodservice.org. Menus are subject to change. However, this usually happens only when there  has been a snow-day or an emergency day.  Menus are also sent home with students once a month. You may pay for your child’s meals in advance with cash, check or using My School Bucks.

The cost for breakfast is $1.50 and the cost for lunch is $2.85. If students would like to purchase a milk separate from the hot lunch program the milk cost is $0.40. You may make checks payable to GWRSD Food Service. These prices are subject to change during the school year.  Applications for free/reduced meals can be accessed at www.myschoolapps.com.

Meal Charge Procedure – Parents are responsible for providing their children with lunch money or to provide a packed lunch from home. Parents are encouraged to put money “on account” for all students in the district.

If you are experiencing financial hardships, the Governor Wentworth Regional School District does participate in the National Free & Reduced Lunch and Breakfast program. You may apply at any point during the year. Applications are available at each school office or on our district website. Not only will this help you, it also has an impact on the amount the district receives from state financial aid and will help reduce taxes. These procedures are intended to outline the parameters of charges for school meals and to set a process for collection of funds owed to the district. Parents/Guardians of students in grades K-6 will be alerted of a low balance once a student’s account is overdue by five days. 

MySchoolBucks - GWRSD makes paying for school lunches easy! With myschoolbucks, giving your students lunch money could not be easier. The Service is easy-to-use, convenient, private, and secure. Simply go to www.myschoolbucks.com to enroll and start using the site to deposit funds into your child’s lunch account. Once your account is established, you can check balances and fund the account anytime from your home computer or phone. Your personal and payment card information is protected by the most advanced Internet security. To obtain your child’s District ID call the District Foodservice Office at 603-569-2433.

Breakfast is served from 8:30 to 8:50. Students who arrive after 8:50 will not be able to access the breakfast program.

If you have a questions or want an update on your child(ren)’s breakfast/lunch balance please feel free to call Andrea Fournier at 603-539-4589 or email her at afournier@govwentworth.k12.nh.us. She will be happy to assist you.

The school Media Center will be open daily. Students are allowed to use the Media Center at any time unless it has been scheduled for a class or a program. All students enrolled in the school are entitled to borrow materials from the Media Center. The student’s teacher and the Media Specialist shall determine the number and assist with the types of books checked out. A student who does not return library materials is not allowed to borrow more until overdue items are returned or paid for. Library books, which are damaged, lost, or destroyed, are to be paid for by the student who has signed them out. The Media personnel and the current catalog price determine the price. In consideration of others who are working in the library, we ask that talking and noise be kept at a minimum.

Children are not allowed to take medication in school, unless the following medication policy is followed:

In accordance with the State Board of Education and Division of Public Health Regulations: Any pupil, grades Preschool through 6th, who is required to take prescribed medication during the school day, shall be assisted by the school nurse or another member of the school staff, so designated by the building principal, provided that the school has the following on file:

1. A written statement from the prescribing physician, detailing the method of taking the dosage and the time schedule to be observed, and any possible side effects.

2. A written authorization (request) from the Parent/Guardian of the pupil indicating the desire that the school assist the pupil in matters set forth in the physician's statement, accompanied by a "hold harmless" release, signed by a Parent/Guardian. Request forms may be obtained from the schools.

3. The medication must be in a container properly labeled (pharmacy label) with the student's name, physician's name, the date of the original prescription, name and strength of medication and directions for taking by student. The medication should be delivered directly to the school nurse, principal, or teacher by the Parent/Guardian. Do not send any medication to school with your child.

4. Prescribed medication will not be taken during school hours if it is possible to achieve the medical regiment at home.

5. Non-prescribed medication will not be allowed in school.

6. Students with lactose intolerance need a physician's statement regarding diagnosed lactose intolerance for special snack/lunch arrangements to be made.

7. Screening programs: Screening for vision, hearing and scoliosis (curvature of the spine) are carried on during the school year at various grade levels. Referral notices will be sent home if screening results indicate that there may be a problem. The second sheet of the referral notice is to be returned to school when completed by a physician or specialist. Students will be routinely checked for pediculosis (head lice).

8. Enforcement of these policies and procedures are necessary in that they comply with New Hampshire Law and School Board Policy. They also provide a uniform systematic approach for the care and maintenance of children's health in the school setting.

The mission of the Governor Wentworth Regional School District is to assure that all students acquire the knowledge and develop skills and work habits to enable them to become contributing members of society.

The mission is best accomplished when all school personnel recognize and address the individual abilities and needs of all students, maintain challenging expectations for those students, create a positive school climate, ensure a safe and orderly school environment, monitor students' progress on a frequent basis, and promote effective school-community involvement

Breakfast, hot lunch and milk are available at Ossipee Central School every day. Chocolate milk is only available at lunch. The Hot Lunch Program publishes menus monthly and are available on www.gwrsdfoodservice.org. Menus are subject to change. However, this usually happens only when there  has been a snow-day or an emergency day.  Menus are also sent home with students once a month. You may pay for your child’s meals in advance with cash, check or using My School Bucks.

The cost for breakfast is $1.50 and the cost for lunch is $2.85. If students would like to purchase a milk separate from the hot lunch program the milk cost is $0.40. You may make checks payable to GWRSD Food Service. These prices are subject to change during the school year.  Applications for free/reduced meals can be accessed at www.myschoolapps.com.

Meal Charge Procedure – Parents are responsible for providing their children with lunch money or to provide a packed lunch from home. Parents are encouraged to put money “on account” for all students in the district.

If you are experiencing financial hardships, the Governor Wentworth Regional School District does participate in the National Free & Reduced Lunch and Breakfast program. You may apply at any point during the year. Applications are available at each school office or on our district website. Not only will this help you, it also has an impact on the amount the district receives from state financial aid and will help reduce taxes. These procedures are intended to outline the parameters of charges for school meals and to set a process for collection of funds owed to the district. Parents/Guardians of students in grades K-6 will be alerted of a low balance once a student’s account is overdue by five days. 

MySchoolBucks - GWRSD makes paying for school lunches easy! With myschoolbucks, giving your students lunch money could not be easier. The Service is easy-to-use, convenient, private, and secure. Simply go to www.myschoolbucks.com to enroll and start using the site to deposit funds into your child’s lunch account. Once your account is established, you can check balances and fund the account anytime from your home computer or phone. Your personal and payment card information is protected by the most advanced Internet security. To obtain your child’s District ID call the District Foodservice Office at 603-569-2433.

Breakfast is served from 8:30 to 8:50. Students who arrive after 8:50 will not be able to access the breakfast program.

If you have a questions or want an update on your child(ren)’s breakfast/lunch balance please feel free to call Andrea Fournier at 603-539-4589 or email her at afournier@govwentworth.k12.nh.us. She will be happy to assist you.

The Ossipee Central School will publish the newsletter on a trimester basis. It will be distributed with each report card and includes information regarding classroom news, community information, and school happenings.

Each year, as required by law, schools that receive Title I funds must notify parents/guardians that they may request information regarding the professional qualifications of their child’s teachers.  This information will be provided by the school in a timely manner.  At a minimum this includes the following:

• whether the teacher meets the New Hampshire requirements for the grade level(s) and subject areas taught

• whether the teacher is teaching under emergency status and that the Department of Education has temporarily waived their certification requirement

• the teacher’s degrees and any other graduate certifications held by the teacher and the field of discipline of the certification or degree

• whether the child is provided services by a paraprofessional and, if so, their qualifications

Each Title I school must also provide parents with the following information:

• the level of achievement their child has achieved on all state assessments

• timely notice if a child has been taught for four or more consecutive weeks by a teacher who is not qualified

All information provided to parents must be clearly written and provided in a language the parent is able to understand.  Please contact your school principal or Linda Perrow, grant writer/project manager, at 603.569.0221 if you have any questions regarding your Right to Know or if you would like to request information.  

Reviewed 5/22 - OCS

The GWRSD does not discriminate regarding access to our participation in its facilities, programs, or practices on the basis or race, color, national origin, religion, age, gender, marital status, veteran status, or physical or mental disability. Persons with questions or concerns about such issues should contact Caroline Arakelian, Superintendent, SAU 49, Post Office Box 190, Wolfeboro Falls, NH 03896. 603-569-1658.

Please see GWRSD Policy AC. 

Occupational Therapy (O.T.) services are available, if recommended, through the Special Education process. O.T. services are provided by an Occupational Therapist. Areas focused on include:

1) Fine motor skills

2) Gross motor skills

3) Visual motor skills

4) Activities for daily living

The purpose of this team is to share, discuss, and brainstorm in order to provide support and suggestions to teachers with students for whom they have academic or behavior concerns. The Child Study Team is not a special education team. It is composed of classroom teachers and specialists.  The Child Study Team provides information and classroom strategies to teachers for students they feel could be making better academic progress and/or social adjustment in school.

September 28, 2022 5:30pm

We request that appointments for outside activities and doctors' appointments be avoided during school hours whenever possible.

Instructional Assistants

• Susan Akucewich
• Nancy Arsenault
• Robin Boutin
• Rhonda Cameron
• Rebecca Coache
• Carlene Contois
• Kelsey Cullison
• Sheryl David
• Carrie Dixon 
• Sandy Freeman
• Krystal Gonzalez
• Julie Hall
• Brenda Meader
• Nancy Miller
• Linda Morgan
• Jane Podsen
• Cheryl Riley
• Susan Rogers
• Deanna Scripture
• Annie St. James
• Marie Stackhouse
• Julie Stinchfield
• Alyson Stirling
• Nancy White

Administrative Assistants

• Gayle Bergeron
• Kerri Eldridge
• Jaclyn Bergeron, Special Education

Custodians

• Hillary Eldridge
• Brian Godfrey
• Marie Hayford
• Adam Rogers, Head Custodian

School Lunch

• Lois Cochrane
• Dot LeBrecque
• Joyce White
• Kaylor White, Supervisor

If there is a guardianship issue concerning your child, the school must be provided with a copy of the court document that will be placed in your child’s file.

Please see Title 1 for Parent Involvement Guidelines/Policy.

Please see Title 1 for Parent Survey.

Teachers are available throughout the school year for individual conferences. Please feel free to arrange an appointment that is mutually convenient anytime during the school year. Telephone contact (603-539-4589) or email should be used to arrange the conference.

Trimester conferences regarding grades may be arranged either by the teacher or the Parent/Guardian by calling or emailing the classroom teacher.

School-wide parent/teacher conferences are scheduled for 11/08/2022 and 11/09/2022.

Guests may use the provided parking spaces in front of the school building and/or by the kitchen.  Please do not park in the designated Fire Lane and do not keep your car motor running near the front of the school. The exhaust fumes from the vehicles filter into the classrooms. 

The main objectives of the Peer Helper Program are to encourage children's natural helping capacity and to provide settings in which this ability can grow. The program teaches responsibility, leadership and communication to a group of students, who then serve in a variety of helping positions throughout the school. In the Spring semester of the fifth grade, teachers and peers recommend students to be peer helpers. This group of students meets for approximately eight weeks of training. When students return to school in the fall as 6th graders, they are ready to assume their roles as peer helpers. Some of their responsibilities include welcoming new students, being a special friend, tutoring students in reading and math, helping in the reading room, helping on the playground, writing for the school newsletter, and giving building tours to visitors. The group meets weekly to discuss new roles and responsibilities, to provide support for one another, and to further develop their interpersonal and leadership skills. The Peer Helpers also assist by working at the school store.

For a student to receive Perfect Attendance Recognition at the end of the school year they must be present every day. A student may still be eligible for Perfect Attendance Recognition with up to three excused tardies or early dismissals. 

Students are expected to have necessary materials for their classes. For the protection of the students’ personal property, personal items are not allowed to be “traded” or purchased between students while at the bus stop, on the bus or in school. This includes food items. The school is not responsible for any lost or damaged personal items.

The Parent/Guardian, of any child with physical and/or medical concerns should inform the school nurse.

A child may not ride home with anyone other than his/her Parents/Guardians, unless a note accompanies the child stating the name of the person and his/her relationship to the child. This note must be sent to the office in the morning. Children leaving school other than at assigned times, or by assigned transportation, must be picked up at the office.

In Governor Wentworth Regional School District, we believe all children can and should be given the opportunity to succeed in the school environment. To do this, we sometimes need to modify what we normally do in the classroom or accommodate to a special need. The Plan For Success is a document that allows us to document and communicate a modification of the usual expectations or instruction that will help a child be more successful.

Ossipee Central School has an active Parent Teacher Organization. They are dedicated to supporting the students of Ossipee Central School. Please consider becoming a member by filling out the membership form and returning to your child’s homeroom teacher. You may also call the school for additional information.

The Governor Wentworth Regional School Board is committed to providing all students a safe school environment in which all members of the school community are treated with respect. This policy is intended to comply with RSA 193-F, which specifically identifies “bullying” as a form of pupil harassment. Conduct constituting bullying will not be tolerated, and is prohibited by the policy, in accordance with RSA 193-F. Bullying is conduct which subjects a student to insults, taunts, or challenges, whether verbal or physical in nature, which is likely to intimidate or provoke a violent or disorderly response from the student being treated in this manner. 

(For the full Pupil Safety and Violence Prevention Bullying Policy please refer to GWRSD policy JICK)

We feel that fresh air is very beneficial to growing children, but we will not keep them out for long periods during inclement weather or extremely cold weather. All children will be expected to participate in outdoor activities, unless excused for medical reasons. A letter from a physician is required. Please see that your child comes to school appropriately dressed for the prevailing weather conditions including boots, mittens, hats, etc.

A Remote Day may be used during inclement weather, where students will work at home on assignments planned by their teachers. Assignments may be completed on a computer or using books, pencils and paper. There may also be other types of activities assigned which can be completed at home. The assignments are due the day following the Remote Day. Missing assignments may affect a student’s grade. You will receive a School Messenger Alert saying that school is canceled and that the day has been designated as a Remote Day. Additional information about Remote Days will be sent home in the near future and additional questions can be answered by the classroom teacher at Open House in September.

1^st Trimester Interim Reports October 21^st, 2022 

1^st Trimester Ends December 9^th, 2022

1^st Trimester Report Cards emailed December 16^th, 2022

2^nd Trimester Interim Reports January 27^th, 2023 

2^nd Trimester Ends March 17^th, 2023

2^nd Trimester Report Cards sent emailed March 24^th, 2023

3^rd Trimester Interim Reports May 5^th, 2023 

3^rd Trimester Report Cards sent emailed June 16^th, 2023

It is the policy of the Governor Wentworth Regional School District that all school buildings, premises, bus stops and routes and associated areas shall be safe environments for students, free of danger posed by the presence of weapons or conduct that threatens harm by means of weapons or objects used as weapons. It is the District’s policy that the provisions or RSA 193-D:2, the “Safe School Zone Act”, will be carried out in all respects. Should any portion of this policy conflict with state law or regulations issued pursuant thereto, it is the District’s intention that its policy be read in such a manner that it conforms to law or regulations.

(For the full Safe School Zone Policy refer to GWRSD policies JICD, JICD-R.)

The GWRSD School Board meets regularly during the year. The School Board regular sessions will begin at 7:00 pm. All are welcome and encouraged to attend the meetings. The schedule of School Board meetings, location and agendas are posted at the school in the front office. This information is also posted on the GWRSD website.

School begins at 8:45 AM. Students should not in the school or on school property before 8:30. Classes begin dismissal at 3:15 for the first bus wave, as well as the walkers. 

Keeping you informed is a top priority in the Governor Wentworth Regional School District. This is why we have adopted the School Messenger Notification Service, which allows us to send a telephone message to you providing important information about school events or emergencies. School Messenger will be used to notify you of school delays and/or cancellations due to inclement weather.  We will also use School Messenger to remind you of school events such as concerts and open houses. The data stored in the School Messenger server is GWRSD data. It does not belong to School Messenger and cannot be shared with another party. Please inform the office immediately of any changes in your School Messenger information to ensure that you will continue to receive messages from School Messenger. 

School’s Out! Is a 21^st Century Community Learning Center program at Ossipee Central School. It is a grant-funded program, which serves 1^st-6^th graders. Each day, Monday-Friday from 3:10-3:40 students will be provided with a snack and movement. From 3:40-4:10, Monday through Thursday, they will attend Homework Club where they will be assisted with homework from certified teachers and assistants. From 4:10-5:10, Monday through Thursday, and 3:40 - 5:10 on Fridays, enrichment clubs will meet to work on projects and participate in scheduled activities; students are required to sign up for clubs on a trimester basis. The grant also provides for transportation home at 5:10 p.m. Two late buses pick students up at OCS and drop them off at designated sites throughout Ossipee. The late buses will be available to all students who participate in any after school program associated with the Ossipee Afterschool Consortium. 

School’s Out! will charge each trimester for each scheduled club and it is expected that students who register for the program will make a strong commitment to be present and involved during scheduled programs. 

If your child is participating in the School’s Out! Program it is expected that any changes in student schedules (i.e.: if your child will not attend on a given day or will be dismissed in a different manner than has been arranged with the program) will be communicated via a note or a phone call to School’s Out! personnel.

The Ossipee Central School phone numbers are 603-539-4589, 603-539-4580, and 603-539-2280. Ossipee Central School's fax number is 603-539-4390. The GWRSD website is http://www.gwrsd.org and OCS website is http://www.ossipeecentralschool.org.

Student pictures will be taken in the fall and spring. Ossipee Central School students will have their pictures taken on October 6, 2022. Additional information will be sent out the week before pictures are to be taken. 

The OCS School Store, operated by OCS Peer Helpers, is open on Wednesday mornings in the front lobby from 8:30 – 8:50. Pencils, pens, erasers and other miscellaneous items can be purchased at this  time. Merchandise is priced from $.25 to $2.00.

The GWRSD does not discriminate regarding access to our participation in its facilities, programs, or  practices on the basis of handicap in violation of Section 504. The Principal of the Kingswood Regional  Middle School has been designated as the Coordinator for Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, to hear and review any issues, complaints, grievances, or matters pertaining to the educationally disabled in GWRSD. Persons with questions or concerns about such issues should contact Kerry  Hunt, Kingswood Regional Middle School, 603-569-3689.

School Counselor Mary Thomas

Health Teacher Elizabeth Bronson

Outreach Counselor Deborah Bunting

School Psychologist Bonnie Stinson

Reading Specialists

• Dawn Alexander-Tapper
• Janice Arinello
• Elaine Luke

DPTs

• Jessica Heald, Preschool
• Susan Wright

Math Project Manager Christine Zimmer

Music Teacher Peter McDonald                                                        

School’s Out! Program Director Jennifer Berkowitz

Physical Education Teacher Alicia Cushing

ESOL Tina Rouvalis

Art Teacher Elaine Giles

Special Education Teachers

• Ashley Danforth
• Charlie Hossack
• Kristen Lane
• Kathy LeMay
• Katie Walsh

Occupational Therapist Sharon Stackhouse

Speech/Language Pathologist

• Caroline Maynard
• Deb Yeaton

Physical Therapist Christine Dearborn

School Nurse Dawn Keyes

Band Teacher Caryn Chassie

Media Specialist Nicole Anderson

STEP I Teacher Jackleen Roberts

Because our society is undergoing continued rapid changes, our students will have an increasing number of demands placed upon them in the future. If they are to be successful in the coming years each graduate will:
*Master the basics of education (incorporating technology):
reading, writing, mathematics, science, social studies
*Exhibit teamwork and leadership skills
*Be an effective communicator
*Be computer literate and technologically competent
*Be proficient in a second language
*Have respect for self & others and display good citizenship
*Appreciate the fine and performing arts
*Be a critical and creative thinker
*Have personal responsibility and accountability
*Be a life-long learner and take risks targeted toward personal growth
*Have knowledge of and responsibility for the environment
*Have an understanding of economics
*Have a commitment to health and well being
*Understand vocational and career choices
*Be nationally and globally aware

To promote further the health and safety of all students and staff, and to promote the cleanliness of all facilities, THE BOARD BANS THE USE OF ALL TOBACCO PRODUCTS IN ALL SCHOOL BUILDINGS IN THE DISTRICT, ON ALL SCHOOL VEHICLES BY ALL PERSONS AT ALL TIMES, AND ON THE GROUNDS OF ANY PUBLIC EDUCATIONAL FACILITY. (This includes the parking lots and ball field area) Students are prohibited from carrying tobacco products on their person or in any backpack, purse or carrier. In accordance with RSA 155:76, individuals found smoking are subject to a fine of not less than $100. (For the full Tobacco Products Ban Policy refer to GWRSD policy JICG.)

Students with educational disabilities are provided instruction and services designed to meet their unique educational needs. (For additional information refer to the GWRSD School Board Policy manual).

Speech services are available to any student who requires them. The four areas of service include:

1) Articulation - "speech sounds"

2) Language - how well a child understands and uses language

3) Fluency - "stuttering"

4) Voice

A diagnostic evaluation by the Speech/Language Pathologist helps to determine whether or not services are warranted.

Student Planners are issued to all 4-6 graders. Planners are used to teach organization skills and to make communication between home and school convenient. Students are required to have their Planners every day so that they can record their homework assignments and due dates for projects, tests and quizzes. Parents are asked to check their child’s planner frequently especially at the beginning of the year to ensure that they are being used properly and to help establish the habit.  Students should understand that parents expect to see homework assignments recorded. When this happens, it is much easier to check homework for content and quality. Lost planners will be replaced at the student’s cost of $2.00.

School staff recognize students throughout the school year for the following accomplishments: 

• Wildcat Pride Award – This award is given by any staff member to any student who is consistently practicing one or more of our schoolwide traits, “Be Safe, Be Responsible, Be Respectful.”  The Wildcat Pride Award is given in recognition of students who, over time, personify our ideal OCS community.
• Thumbs Up Award – This award is given by any staff member to any student who is caught doing something good. The Thumbs Up Award is given in recognition of thoughtful or helpful contributions to our school community.

The Following awards replace the traditional honor roll that has been previously reported:

Pride Award:

• Recognition for Work Habits and Life Skills areas
• Given at the end of Trimesters 1, 2, and 3 for students in grades 4-8.

This award recognizes students at the end of each trimester who have earned 3s (usually) and/or 4s (consistently) in the Work Habits and Life Skills areas.

Principal’s Award:

• Recognition for Academic Achievement & Work Habits and Life Skills areas
• Given at the end of the school year only for students in grades 4, 5, & 6

This award recognizes students who have achieved 3s (Proficient) and/or 4s (Proficient with Distinction) in all academic areas (core and specials), in addition to 3s and 4s in the Work Habits and Life Skills areas, reported as a summative assessment in trimester 3 (or the final graded trimester).

The Governor Wentworth Regional School District is pleased to share that a new model of student recognition has been adopted for students in grades four through eight, in place of traditional honor roll recognition. A committee representing parents, teachers, administrators, and school board members has worked together for the past three years to research and develop a model of student recognition that aligns more closely with standards-based assessment, which has been in place now for several years for students in kindergarten through eighth grade.

Objective:

To develop a model of recognition for students’ demonstrated growth in academics, as well as in work habits and life skills.

Rationale:

Standards-based assessment is about a learning continuum. In a true standards-based model, there is an expectation that academic growth will occur over time and that students may not necessarily demonstrate proficiency in particular skills until the end of the school year. While students are expected to demonstrate successful work habits and life skills throughout the year, achieving proficiency in the grade-level academic standards is expected by the end of the school year.

Our former model of honor roll recognition does not align with how we assess and report student achievement. Traditional honor roll aligns with an average of work completed by the end of each quarter instead of a student’s progress on a learning continuum. Thus, not awarding honor roll status for a given quarter may wrongfully penalize a student for being where he/she is expected to be on the learning continuum. Because this district values recognition of student growth and achievement, we proudly present the newly aligned GWRSD recognition system for students in grades 4-8.

The Pride Award will be given each quarter and will recognize students meeting expectations in the Work Habits and Life Skills areas. The Principal’s Award, given at the end of the year, will recognize students for academic achievement and meeting expectations in the Work Habits and Life Skills areas.

Questions? Please contact your child’s teacher, principal, or GWRSD Assistant Superintendent Heather Cummings (hcummings@sau49.org) or by phone at 603-569-1658.

The Student Support Center (SSC) was created to provide students with an opportunity to discuss inappropriate behavior and to learn strategies for not repeating the same inappropriate behavior.

Regular and punctual patterns of attendance will be required of each student enrolled in Ossipee Central School. Student attendance is the responsibility of the parents/guardian and student. For students under the age of 16, any unauthorized absence from school is truancy. Truancy is any unexcused absence from school or class without parental or administrative permission.  A child is expected to attend school regularly, unless s/he is ill or there is a family emergency. They should also be prompt in arriving at school. For safety reasons, pupils who walk to school or who are dropped off should not arrive until 8:30 AM, and they should leave school grounds as soon as they are dismissed. Students are expected to have a documented reason for their absence. Such documentation can be in the form of a call to the school by the Parent/Guardian or a note from the Parent/Guardian explaining the absence. 

A child who is tardy for school must also present a written explanation for the tardiness from the Parent/Guardian. All students who come to school after 9:00 AM are considered tardy and must obtain a slip from the office admitting them to class. Students who are tardy due to bus delays are excused and not counted as late. 

School Board Policy JHB Student Absences and Truancy

Absences

The Board requires that school-aged children enrolled in the District attend school in accordance with all applicable state laws and Board policies. The educational program offered by the District is predicated upon the presence of the student and requires continuity of instruction and classroom participation in order for students to achieve academic standards and consistent educational progress.

Attendance shall be required of all students enrolled in the District during the days and hours that school is in session, except that the Principal may excuse a student for temporary absences when receiving satisfactory evidence of conditions or reasons that may reasonably cause the student’s absence.

The Board considers the following to be excused absences:

1. Illness

2. Recovery from an accident

3. Required court attendance

4. Health care appointments

5. Death in the immediate family

6. Observation or celebration of a bona fide religious holiday

7. Such other good cause as may be acceptable to the Principal or permitted by law

Any absence that has not been excused for any of these reasons will be considered an unexcused absence.

Truancy

Truancy is defined as any unexcused absence from class or school. Any absence that has not been excused for any of the reasons listed above will be considered an unexcused absence.

Ten half-days of unexcused absence or its equivalent during a school year constitutes habitual truancy. A half-day absence is defined as a student missing more than two hours of instructional time and less than three and one-half hours of instructional time.

Any absence of more than three and one-half hours of instructional time shall be considered a full-day absence.  The Principal is hereby designated as the District employee responsible for overseeing truancy issues. Intervention Process to Address Truancy

The Superintendent is authorized to develop and utilize other means, guidelines and programs aimed at preventing and reducing truancy.

The Principal shall ensure that the administrative guidelines on attendance properly address the matter of truancy by including a process that identifies students who are habitually truant, as defined above. When the Principal identifies a student who is habitually truant or who is in danger of becoming habitually truant, he/she shall commence an intervention with the student, the student’s parents, and other staff members as many be deemed necessary. The intervention shall include but not be limited to the following:

1. Notifying the parent of unexcused absences;

2. Investigating the cause(s) of the student’s truant behavior;

3. Involving the parents in the development of a plan designed to reduce the truancy; 4. Considering, when appropriate, modification of her/his educational program to meet particular needs that may be causing the truancy;

5. Seeking alternative disciplinary measures, but still retaining the right to impose discipline in accordance with the District’s policies and administrative guidelines on student discipline.

Truant Officer Authority

Truant officers shall have authority without a warrant to take and place in school any children violating laws relating to compulsory attendance. A truant officer or school official shall not file a petition alleging that a child is in need of services pursuant to RSA 169-D:2(a) until all steps in the school district’s intervention process have been followed.

Parental Notification of Truancy Policy

The Superintendent shall also ensure that this policy is included in or references in the student handbook and is available on the district website.

School Board Policy JHB-R Student Absences and Truancy

Procedure for Excused Absences

In the event of an excused absence, parents must call the school and inform the school of the reasons for the student’s absence. For other absences, parents must provide written notice or a written excuse that states one of these reasons for non-attendance. The Principal may require parents to provide additional documentation in support of their written notice, including but not limited to doctor’s notes, court documents, obituaries, or other documents supporting the claimed reason for non-attendance.

If parents wish for their child to be absent for a reason not identified in Policy JHB, the parent must provide a written explanation of the reason for such absence, including why the student will be absent and for how long the student will be absent. The Principal will make a determination as to whether the stated reason for the student’s absence constitutes good cause and will notify the parents via telephone and writing of her/his decision. If the Principal determines that good cause does not exist, the parents may request a conference with the Principal to again explain the reasons for non-attendance. The Principal may then reconsider her/his final determination.

Procedure for Family Vacation

If a student’s family plans to take a vacation during the academic year, the student must bring a note signed by a parent or guardian pertaining to the vacation.

This note must be brought to the office at least one week or five school days in advance to receive a vacation request form, which must be completed and returned to the principal for consideration and disposition. Students granted approval for vacation time are responsible for making up all missed assignments. It should be noted that absences for vacation could have a negative effect on grades and/or course credit.

Parent Involvement in Truancy Intervention

When a student reaches habitual truancy status or is in danger of reaching habitual truancy status, the Principal will send the student’s parent a letter which includes:

1. A statement that the student has become or is in danger of becoming habitually truant;

2. A statement of the parent’s responsibility to ensure that the student attends school; and

3. A request for a meeting between the parents and the Principal to discuss the student’s truancy and to develop a plan for reducing the student’s truancy.

In addition to the above, once intervention plans have been exhausted, the Principal may include a statement indicating that if the truancy problem is not resolved, the school will file a petition with the court alleging that the child is in need of services pursuant to RSA 169-D:2(a).

Preschool:   

• Marie Reichheld 

Kindergarten 

• Rachele Harvey
• Jessica Kelly
• Steve Zimmer

Grade 1

• Jessica Lear
• Samantha Morrill
• Farrah Williams

Grade 2

• Nicole Campbell
• Lori McDonald

Grade 3

• Jessica Cullen
• Casey Widmann

Grade 4

• Jessica Morrill
• Lisa Wheeler

Grade 5

• Kathy Hayford
• Courtney Scripture

Grade 6

• Tracey Holmes
• Lindsay Libby
• Shannon McCarty-Drapcho

This award can be given by any staff member to any student “caught” doing something good. The Thumbs Up Award is given in recognition of small, thoughtful, or helpful contributions to our school community. Think of the Thumbs Up Award as an opportunity to recognize any desired behavior from any student. We want students to be “thumbs Up” most of the time; this is the chance to publicly note students for doing the right thing.

Here are some examples of Thumbs Up Award acts:

• Helping an adult or student carry items
• Picking up litter from the hallways or playground
• Asking a classmate to join in a game at recess
• Volunteering to help clean up after lunch
• Listening and participating during an assembly
• Being a good line leader
• Walking without disrupting in the hall

Each staff member will have a supply of Thumbs Up awards. Once filled in, the award is sent to the office, and student names will be announced each day. The paper award, an actual thumbs-up symbol, will be displayed on a monthly bulletin board in the lobby, then finally sent home. Classroom teachers should use the award outside of their own classrooms, and continue to use

Title I is the federal project designed to help disadvantaged children meet challenging content and performance standards. Schools that receive Title I funding in the Governor Wentworth Regional School District change from year to year based on the percentage of students qualifying to receive free or reduced lunch. 

The Ossipee Central School is the site of one of New Hampshire’s Schoolwide Programs. This designation enables us to combine resources, coordinate services, and provide extra support to ALL students, rather than just an identified few. Students may receive extra support in any aspect of literacy instruction, usually within their regular classroom. The teachers and Title I staff work very hard to coordinate their instruction, in order to improve student achievement. Title I funds also support the summer program, parent activities, and professional development in current instructional strategies for teachers and support staff.

All parents in Ossipee are encouraged to assess the status of the instructional program and recommend modifications, additions, and deletions each year. An informational brochure and the OCS Learning Compact will be distributed to all parents each year. We encourage you to join the staff and administration in signing the compact as a demonstration of your commitment to the education of your child. If there are questions that the brochure doesn’t answer for you, please contact any of the staff listed.

(See Title I for Parent Involvement Guidelines/Policy and OCS Learning Compact.)

Students are not allowed to trade, buy or sell personal property on school grounds or on school buses.  This interferes with the educational process and can result in student conflict and loss of valuable items.

Regular and punctual patterns of attendance will be required of each student enrolled in Ossipee Central School. Student attendance is the responsibility of the parents/guardian and student. For students under the age of 16, any unauthorized absence from school is truancy. Truancy is any unexcused absence from school or class without parental or administrative permission.  A child is expected to attend school regularly, unless s/he is ill or there is a family emergency. They should also be prompt in arriving at school. For safety reasons, pupils who walk to school or who are dropped off should not arrive until 8:30 AM, and they should leave school grounds as soon as they are dismissed. Students are expected to have a documented reason for their absence. Such documentation can be in the form of a call to the school by the Parent/Guardian or a note from the Parent/Guardian explaining the absence. 

A child who is tardy for school must also present a written explanation for the tardiness from the Parent/Guardian. All students who come to school after 9:00 AM are considered tardy and must obtain a slip from the office admitting them to class. Students who are tardy due to bus delays are excused and not counted as late. 

School Board Policy JHB Student Absences and Truancy

Absences

The Board requires that school-aged children enrolled in the District attend school in accordance with all applicable state laws and Board policies. The educational program offered by the District is predicated upon the presence of the student and requires continuity of instruction and classroom participation in order for students to achieve academic standards and consistent educational progress.

Attendance shall be required of all students enrolled in the District during the days and hours that school is in session, except that the Principal may excuse a student for temporary absences when receiving satisfactory evidence of conditions or reasons that may reasonably cause the student’s absence.

The Board considers the following to be excused absences:

1. Illness

2. Recovery from an accident

3. Required court attendance

4. Health care appointments

5. Death in the immediate family

6. Observation or celebration of a bona fide religious holiday

7. Such other good cause as may be acceptable to the Principal or permitted by law

Any absence that has not been excused for any of these reasons will be considered an unexcused absence.

Truancy

Truancy is defined as any unexcused absence from class or school. Any absence that has not been excused for any of the reasons listed above will be considered an unexcused absence.

Ten half-days of unexcused absence or its equivalent during a school year constitutes habitual truancy. A half-day absence is defined as a student missing more than two hours of instructional time and less than three and one-half hours of instructional time.

Any absence of more than three and one-half hours of instructional time shall be considered a full-day absence.  The Principal is hereby designated as the District employee responsible for overseeing truancy issues. Intervention Process to Address Truancy

The Superintendent is authorized to develop and utilize other means, guidelines and programs aimed at preventing and reducing truancy.

The Principal shall ensure that the administrative guidelines on attendance properly address the matter of truancy by including a process that identifies students who are habitually truant, as defined above. When the Principal identifies a student who is habitually truant or who is in danger of becoming habitually truant, he/she shall commence an intervention with the student, the student’s parents, and other staff members as many be deemed necessary. The intervention shall include but not be limited to the following:

1. Notifying the parent of unexcused absences;

2. Investigating the cause(s) of the student’s truant behavior;

3. Involving the parents in the development of a plan designed to reduce the truancy; 4. Considering, when appropriate, modification of her/his educational program to meet particular needs that may be causing the truancy;

5. Seeking alternative disciplinary measures, but still retaining the right to impose discipline in accordance with the District’s policies and administrative guidelines on student discipline.

Truant Officer Authority

Truant officers shall have authority without a warrant to take and place in school any children violating laws relating to compulsory attendance. A truant officer or school official shall not file a petition alleging that a child is in need of services pursuant to RSA 169-D:2(a) until all steps in the school district’s intervention process have been followed.

Parental Notification of Truancy Policy

The Superintendent shall also ensure that this policy is included in or references in the student handbook and is available on the district website.

School Board Policy JHB-R Student Absences and Truancy

Procedure for Excused Absences

In the event of an excused absence, parents must call the school and inform the school of the reasons for the student’s absence. For other absences, parents must provide written notice or a written excuse that states one of these reasons for non-attendance. The Principal may require parents to provide additional documentation in support of their written notice, including but not limited to doctor’s notes, court documents, obituaries, or other documents supporting the claimed reason for non-attendance.

If parents wish for their child to be absent for a reason not identified in Policy JHB, the parent must provide a written explanation of the reason for such absence, including why the student will be absent and for how long the student will be absent. The Principal will make a determination as to whether the stated reason for the student’s absence constitutes good cause and will notify the parents via telephone and writing of her/his decision. If the Principal determines that good cause does not exist, the parents may request a conference with the Principal to again explain the reasons for non-attendance. The Principal may then reconsider her/his final determination.

Procedure for Family Vacation

If a student’s family plans to take a vacation during the academic year, the student must bring a note signed by a parent or guardian pertaining to the vacation.

This note must be brought to the office at least one week or five school days in advance to receive a vacation request form, which must be completed and returned to the principal for consideration and disposition. Students granted approval for vacation time are responsible for making up all missed assignments. It should be noted that absences for vacation could have a negative effect on grades and/or course credit.

Parent Involvement in Truancy Intervention

When a student reaches habitual truancy status or is in danger of reaching habitual truancy status, the Principal will send the student’s parent a letter which includes:

1. A statement that the student has become or is in danger of becoming habitually truant;

2. A statement of the parent’s responsibility to ensure that the student attends school; and

3. A request for a meeting between the parents and the Principal to discuss the student’s truancy and to develop a plan for reducing the student’s truancy.

In addition to the above, once intervention plans have been exhausted, the Principal may include a statement indicating that if the truancy problem is not resolved, the school will file a petition with the court alleging that the child is in need of services pursuant to RSA 169-D:2(a).

The Governor Wentworth Regional School Board authorizes the use of video and/or surveillance on District property to ensure the health, welfare, and safety of all staff, students, and visitors to District property and to safeguard District buildings, grounds, and equipment. The Superintendent will approve appropriate locations for surveillance devices. (Refer to GWRSD Policy ECAF.)

“Helping Each Child Create the Future”

We welcome and encourage parents to visit the school. If you wish to visit a specific classroom at a specific time, please call to make arrangements for your visitations. ALL VISITORS MUST REPORT TO THE OFFICE. PLEASE DO NOT GO DIRECTLY TO THE CLASSROOM. Please help us keep your child safe by cooperating with this procedure. Visitor and Volunteer buttons are available at the front desk.

Walkers are to sign out at dismissal time with their classroom teachers. Walkers are to exit the building through the Main Entrance.

Weapons, whether visible or concealed, are not permitted on school property, in school vehicles or at school sponsored activities.

(For the full Weapons on School Property Policy please see refer to GWRSD policy JICI.)

The Governor Wentworth Regional School District revised the wellness policy due in part to GWRSD Wellness Committee’s recommendations, as well as a change in United States Dietary Guidelines for Americans with which schools receiving federal funds must comply. Please refer to GWRSD policy JLCF.

Please be aware that one of the most significant changes to the policy is related to food brought into school for things such as birthday and/or holiday celebrations. In order to meet the nutritional guidelines required by law, any food sent into school classrooms must comply with the federal guidelines; cupcakes and other sugary sweets can no longer be served during the school day. If you wish to provide a birthday treat for your child’s class, it should be one that is considered healthy (low in fat and sugar). Your child’s teacher is happy to provide suggestions if you wish.

The NH Department of Education does allow districts to offer three exemptions to the law per school year. Elementary schools in the Governor Wentworth Regional School District will exercise those exemptions for the following celebrations: Halloween, Winter Holiday, and Valentine’s Day.  If you have any questions related to this policy, please contact Andrea Fournier at Ossipee Central School.

Snack Ideas for Classroom Celebration

• 100% Fruit/Vegetable Juice

• Water/Flavored Water (calorie free)

• Low-fat or fat-free milk

• Fresh Fruit assortment

• Fruit and cheese kabobs

• Fruit with whipped topping

• 100% fruit snacks

• Vegetable trays

• Cheese-cubes, string cheese

• Pretzels

• Low-fat popcorn

• Graham crackers

• Animal crackers

• Angel food cake – plain or topped with fruit

• Low-fat pudding

• Low-fat yogurt or parfaits

• Trail/Cereal Mixes or Bars

• Nuts, seeds

From http://actionforhealthykids.org

The Student Wellness Guidelines (Policy JLCF-R) promote periodic activity breaks during the student school day. A two to three minute “physical activity breaks” (i.e. jumping jacks, running in place) will be held prior to the beginning of any whole group lesson in the classroom. (See GWRSD Policy JLCF and JLCF R.)

Skiing, snowboarding, and ice-skating will be available at a reasonable cost for lessons, rental and transportation. Costs will be reduced for students who own their equipment. The Winter Sports Program occurs during the months of January and February.

This award can be given by any staff member to any student who consistently practices one or more of our schoolwide traits: “Be Safe,” “Be Responsible,” and “Be Respectful.”  The Wildcat Pride is given in recognition of students who, over time, personify our ideal OCS community. Think of the Wildcat Pride Award as an opportunity to recognize students who do the right thing most of the time.

Here are some examples of Wildcat Pride Award acts:

• Being present and prepared
• Greeting staff members with a “Good Morning” and a smile every day
• Playing fairly and safely at recess
• Keeping up with schoolwork
• Being a role model during group assemblies
• Being good even if nobody’s looking
• Being trustworthy throughout the building

Each staff member will have a supply of Wildcat Pride awards. Once filled in, the award is sent to the office, and student names will be announced at our monthly assemblies.