Student Handbook
Welcome to Lackamas!
Dear Parents, Guardians, and Students,
We would like to welcome you and your family to Lackamas Elementary School. Our pledge is to strive to create learning environments where the academic achievement of our students knows no bounds. Our one goal is that every student, without exception or excuse, will meet or exceed grade level proficiency targets in English Language Arts (reading/writing) and mathematics. We are a member of the No Excuses University Network of schools, 300+ strong across the country that understand the importance of instilling in students, as early as elementary school, the belief that after high school comes more education in order to prepare for a great career of their choice. The foundation is laid here at the elementary level. You will hear your student(s) talking about career and college throughout the school year. We focus on four year universities at the elementary level and as students move through our school system, they will become familiar with the many other valuable alternatives such as our military, trade schools, apprenticeships, and community colleges.
Your children will be engaged in a rigorous curriculum that will challenge their skills and levels of thinking. They will have the opportunity to attend specialist classes such as art, music, PE, technology, and band (5th graders only) each week. Over the course of the year there will be enrichment opportunities offered in a variety of areas such as leadership, and STEM. While academics are at the core of what we do, extra-curricular activities play a role as well in developing the whole child.
We feel that education is a partnership between school and home. This partnership is a vital link in our efforts to provide an exceptional education experience. At Lackamas, we encourage and invite all parents and guardians to join us as we work together to create an exciting year of learning for all children.
We hope that you find this handbook to be a useful tool throughout the school year. Please sign and return the acknowledgement page (on the last page of the handbook) to the school. If you have any questions or concerns, please call the school as soon as possible at 360.894.6000 (phone) or 360.894.6002 (fax). You may contact me through email at starla_watson@ycs.wednet.edu. On our website, you can find up to date information on upcoming events and a current calendar.
We Thank you for your support and the opportunity to play an important role in the life and education of your child(ren).
Sincerely,
Starla Watson
Principal
Lackamas Handbook (English | Spanish)
*Handbooks are subject to change throughout the year based on board policy, OSPI Guidelines or State & Federal Laws.
Handbook Sections
- Optimal Learning Environment
- Attendance Information
- Discipline
- Parent Involvement
- School Procedures
- Student Learning
- Student Support & Services
Optimal Learning Environment
Yelm Community Schools embraces the diversity within our schools and seeks to create a nurturing and barrier-free learning environment for each student. To achieve this goal we commit to:
- Preparing our students to thrive in a multicultural and diverse society.
- Ensuring fair, equitable and inclusive principles are integrated into our policies, programs, operations and practices.
- Creating school and classroom cultures that are free of bias-based language or behaviors.
- Eliminating barriers that perpetuate negative outcomes.
- Providing all students the resources, opportunities and supports needed to succeed at high levels.
- Honoring and building upon the strengths and assets of every student.
- Welcoming and engaging families and community members as essential partners.
Attendance Information
Yelm Community Schools places a high priority on school attendance. Studies prove that daily attendance has a direct impact on student achievement. Our goal is to have every student arrive on time and attend a full day of school.
Attendance at school is critical for students to make progress in their learning. Every day missed is a lost learning opportunity. We work hard to fill in those gaps during the school year, but if there are too many holes to fill then students will begin to struggle academically. When students begin to struggle, they may begin to engage in behaviors that are not productive and therefore fall even farther behind. Washington State has identified that a student who misses 18 days in a school year for any reason is “chronically absent.” This designation is one of the metrics that schools are evaluated on. As a result, the staff looks very closely at student attendance and designs programs meant to reduce the number of absences. The first is monthly recognition for those who meet their attendance goal (1 or less absence in any month). We also design specific interventions when we see a student developing an attendance trend that will result in them being labeled chronically absent.
Regular School Day Attendance
First Bell Rings 8:35
School Begins 8:40
Students arriving between 8:41 - 11:55 will be marked tardy
Students arriving between 11:56 - 3:10 will be marked absent for the day
Students leaving between 11:56 - 3:10 will be marked
Students leaving between 8:41 - 11:55 will be marked absent for the day
School Ends 3:10
Late Start Wednesday
First Bell Rings 9:35
School Begins 9:40
Students arriving between 9:41 - 12:25 will be marked tardy
Students arriving between 12:26 - 3:10 will be marked absent for the day
Students leaving between 12:26 - 3:10 will be marked tardy
Students leaving between 9:41 - 12:25 will be marked absent for the day
School Ends 3:10
School Hours and Supervision
School hours are 8:40-3:10. The safety of students is of utmost importance to us. Students should not arrive on campus before 8:35. We have no regular after school supervision available.
Arrival at School
Students may arrive at school NO EARLIER than 8:35 a.m. as this is when supervision is available in the bus loop, playground, and breakfast areas. Upon arrival at school, all students are to move to the playground area or to the gym to purchase breakfast. The bell rings at 8:35 a.m. at which time students should line up in their assigned area. On a late start Wednesday, arrival is 9:35 a.m. and the first bell rings at 9:35 a.m. To ensure student safety, all students must be picked up by 3:15 p.m. Individual after school activities will be communicated by a supervising teacher.
Tardiness
Students are expected to be in class on time. When a student’s tardiness becomes frequent (after 5 in a semester), the student shall be referred to the school counselor and/or Dean of Students for support. In addition, excessive tardiness may result in the school requiring an Attendance Agreement.
Definition of “Excused Absences”
Students are expected to attend ALL assigned classes each day unless excused by the parent/guardian for valid reasons below.
- Participation in a school-approved activity: This absence must be authorized by a staff member and prior notification must be provided to parent/guardian for approval. (IE., field trips)
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Illness, health condition, health care appointments, family emergency, or religious/cultural purpose: We encourage parents/guardians to schedule appointments during non-school hours whenever possible. School officials may require a health professional’s written note when a student has more than 3 consecutive absences. Families are encouraged to acquire a health professional’s written note whenever possible and submit a copy to the Attendance Office.
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Parental/Family Pre-Arranged Absence: Parents/Guardians are to notify the school if there will be a pre-arranged absence from school. The absence may be classified as unexcused if the student is under an Attendance Agreement, BECCA order, or has an adverse effect on the student’s education or student has already reached 10 absences for the school year or 10% of the current year. The Pre-Arranged Absence Form is available at each school office.
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Court, judicial proceedings, court-ordered activity or absences related to homeless or foster care status.
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Suspensions from school
Definition of “Unexcused Absences”
Unexcused absences are defined as “failure on the part of the parent/guardian to notify the school in a timely manner.”
Reporting Absence Procedures
When your child will be absent from school, you can notify the school in two ways:
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Send an email to: LK_attendance@ycs.wednet.edu and provide reason
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Call attendance line at 360.894.6012 and provide reason
If your student has not arrived to school or the school hasn’t been notified of the absence by 10:45 (11:45 on late start) an automated phone call, email and/or text will be sent to parent/guardian.
Chronic Absenteeism
Chronic absenteeism incorporates all absences: excused, unexcused and suspensions. The focus is on the academic consequences due to the loss of instructional time and preventing absences before students fall behind. Chronic absenteeism is defined as missing more than 10% of the school year.
Process for Truancy
The following truancy procedures will be followed prior to filing a full petition.
Tier 1
- 1-2 Unexcused Absences: Parent/Guardian will be contacted via School Messenger, E-mail, letter or phone call
- 3 Unexcused Absences: Schedule a meeting with school personnel to find solutions
- IEP/504 Accruing Students: Case manager will convene an IEP meeting to develop a plan
Tier 2
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4 Unexcused Absences/Excessive Excused Absences or 10% of the school year: Students will be placed on attendance contract
Tier 3
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5 Unexcused Absences/Excessive Excused Absences or 10% of the school year: The school will file a stay petition with Thurston county Juvenile court and schedule community Truancy Board Meeting
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Students not attending school as court ordered results in school filling a contempt and progress report Thurston County Juvenile court
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Monitor and review expiration date
Attendance – Policy 3122
Discipline
The rules contained herein are meant to regulate student conduct at school, at all school-sponsored activities, and off-campus that adversely affects the school-learning climate. Depending on the circumstance of the student’s violation, school authorities may, in compliance with state law and the rules of the State Board of Education, Chapter 180-40 WAC, impose discipline. District Policies are available in the Student Rights & Responsibility Handbook.
Discipline procedures will follow district policies.
Student Conduct – Policy 3240
Classroom Management, Discipline & Corrective Action – Policy 3241
Exceptional Misconduct – Policy 3241
Student Sexual Harassment – Policy 3205
Use of Tobacco and Nicotine Products & Delivery Devices – Policy 4215
District Policies are available in the on the website.
- Bus Expectations
- Climbing Equipment Rules
- CrimeStoppers 1.800.222.TIPS (8477)
- Dress Code
- Equipment Rules
- Harassment, Intimindation and Bullying (HIB)
- Playground Rules
- Problem Solving
- Public Displays of Affection
- Student Conduct/Behavior Expectations
Bus Expectations
We expect all students to observe the same rules on the bus as they do in school. They should stay in their seats and cooperate with the bus driver. Only students with service animals may bring an animal on the bus. If it is necessary to make a bus change, please call transportation at 360.458.3300 to have the change approved, then contact the school office before 2:40 PM p.m. to notify the office of the change. If you have bus related concerns or questions please contact transportation at 360.458.3300. Bus drivers handle all discipline on the buses. Helium balloons, glass containers, and skateboards are not allowed on buses.
Climbing Equipment Rules
CrimeStoppers 1.800.222.TIPS (8477)
- Calling 800-222-TIPS(8477)
- Submitting Online at p3tips.com
- Download the P3 App to your mobile device
As always, tipsters remain 100% anonymous and could possibly be rewarded up to $1,000. Remember to save your “tip number” in order to follow up and receive a reward. Anyone having knowledge about dangerous situations or crimes (past, present or future) can report a tip.
Dress Code
In order to facilitate learning for all students, YCS requires that student dress and appearance follow health and safety standards and not cause disruption to the learning environment. Students who do not follow these guidelines will be asked to change their clothing, cover up, and/or contact home if necessary.
Heads: K-5 students must remove all headwear while in the building. Headwear includes hats, hoods, headbands with animal ears, bandanas and head wraps. (Exceptions will be made for medical, religious and other approved reasons.)
Torso: Clothing must cover stomachs, backs, shoulders, chests and undergarments.
Legs: Shorts, skirts and dresses must be longer than mid-thigh. Undergarments must be covered.
Feet: Footwear must be worn at all times appropriate to the activity. Strapless shoes and high heels are discouraged for safety.
Guidelines
- Clothing that promotes drugs, alcohol, tobacco, violence, is sexually suggestive, or displays inappropriate pictures or writing is prohibited.
- Any clothing worn in a manner identified as gang related is prohibited.
- Jewelry that can pose safety hazards is prohibited.
- Exceptions to dress code standards may be made for PE or school activities.
What students wear does affect the way they think about, and behave toward, their tasks at school, their peers, and adults. Please consider this as you help your child make appropriate choices for school clothes.
Equipment Rules
Swings: Students are to sit safely on swings, holding onto the chains. Students should come to a complete stop before getting off the swings. If an empty swing isn’t available, students should count 50 swings before taking their turn. For safety reasons: 1 person per swing; only swing front to back.
Slides: Go down one at a time in a sitting position, feet forward. Make sure the base of the slide is clear before going down.
Balls: We have soccer balls and rubber balls for use on the playground. Balls are to be kept in the dirt area and away from fences to avoid having them go over the fence.
Harassment, Intimindation and Bullying (HIB)
Schools are meant to be safe and inclusive environments where all students are protected from Harassment, Intimidation, and Bullying (HIB), including in the classroom, on the school bus, in school sports, and during other school activities.
View the full definition of HIB, Sexual Harassment, Civil Rights and Gender Inclusive procedures.
Playground Rules
- Students are expected to follow directions of playground supervisors at all times.
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Play only in designated areas. Stay within boundaries and avoid:
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Restroom areas, except when needed
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Behind the little house
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Between and behind buildings
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Steps, porches, ramps and railings
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Areas near and behind doors
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P.E. class areas
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Main building activity centers
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Play games that avoid physical contact. Refrain from chasing, tagging, pulling and tugging at clothing, fighting (even “play fighting”), karate and judo.
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Before school, students will walk to the sidewalk, put belongings down and then go to the playground to play.
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Equipment from home is discouraged. Equipment that goes over the fence will be retrieved when time allows. The school is not responsible for damaged personal equipment.
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When the bell rings, return balls and equipment to equipment rack.
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When you need help or have problems, find a playground supervisor or peer helper. They are there to help you.
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Students are to remain on school grounds at all times.
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If the ball goes over the fence, tell the playground supervisor.
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If you have a conflict, use the problem solving strategies (Kelso’s Choices). If that doesn’t work, get help from an adult or Kelso’s Helper.
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Use playground equipment in a safe manner.
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When the bell rings, stop play immediately, put equipment away and proceed to line up with your class.
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Use school appropriate language at all times.
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Students are expected to keep their hands and feet to themselves at all times.
Do not bring personal items from home unless allowed by the teacher. Items not approved will be sent to the office and it will be the student’s responsibility to take them home after school. The school is not responsible for lost, stolen, or damaged items.
It is our desire to provide a positive playground experience for all Lackamas students. To this end, recess supervisors are present on the playground to keep kids safe and enforce the rules. Students are expected to follow their directions at all times. Students playing in an unsafe manner or in violation of the rules may receive the following consequences:
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Verbal warning.
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Removal from game/activity.
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Assignment to wall.
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Restriction from game/activity/location for an extended period.
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Sent to the office to speak with the Principal.
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Severe violations can result in suspension.
Problem Solving
We teach students positive ways to deal with difficult situations:
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Go to another game, activity or area.
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Share and take turns.
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Respectfully talk it over and listen to each other.
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Walk away from the problem.
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Ignore the behavior.
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Tell the person to stop the problem behavior.
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Apologize.
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Make a deal or compromise.
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Wait and cool off.
- Go to an adult.
Public Displays of Affection
At Lackamas, students should refrain from public displays of affection such as hugging, kissing and hand holding. These behaviors are a distraction to the learning environment and take the focus away from each student’s job, which is to be a successful learner. The range of discipline for this type of behavior consists of a verbal warning to suspension.
Student Conduct/Behavior Expectations
At Lackamas Elementary, we treat all people and property with respect and focus on learning. To that end we have established the Lackamas Hi-5 expectations that are communicated each day. Students are to be:
SAFE
KIND
RESPONSIBLE
RESPECTFUL
READY TO LEARN
Expectations have been developed for each area of the school. Lackamas staff will teach, demonstrate and remind students of these Hi-5 expectations on a regular basis. They will hold students accountable through a classroom management plan that includes both positive and corrective measures. On the positive side, students can earn Hi-5 tickets for meeting/exceeding expectations. Hi-5 tickets can be exchanged at the Hi-5 store for a wide variety of incentives. Individual teachers also design their own motivational systems to encourage appropriate behavior. Each teacher uses a multi-level system for addressing inappropriate behavior. The system includes verbal or non-verbal warnings, removal to a “recovery chair” within the classroom (think-time out), filling out a reflection form to be signed by parents, removal to another classroom for recovery, and lastly referral to the office to see the principal. Students sent to the principal’s office will have a call home and a decision will be made whether the student can return to class or not. If the student returns to the classroom, but continues the inappropriate behavior, he/she will be sent home. If the student continues similar behaviors on subsequent days and is again sent to the office, suspension from school may occur. Preservation of the learning environment is important to students making academic progress.
Students who receive three office referrals and/or demonstrate inappropriate behavior on an ongoing basis will be referred to the building PBIS (Positive Behavior Intervention and Supports) team. This team is made up of school staff and will set up a conference with the parent/guardian to discuss strategies for improving the student’s behavior.
Yelm Community Schools does have a policy containing consequences for what is determined to be exceptional misconduct. Consequences range from short term suspension to Expulsion and/or referral to law enforcement. Exceptional misconduct can include:
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Threatening or verbal abuse, fighting or fighting words
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Damaging school property
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Communication of inappropriate messages
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Disrupting the educational process
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Refusing to follow reasonable directions of staff
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Possession of weapons, drugs, alcohol, tobacco
Parent Involvement
- Concerns
- Counselor
- Custody Paperwork
- Family Access
- Parent - Teacher - Organization (PTO)
- Permanent Records
- Report Cards/Conferences
- Visiting the School
- Volunteering at School
Concerns
Counselor
Our school counselor is here to assist students, teachers, and parents in meeting the individual, social, emotional, and academic needs of our students. Any student needing to see the counselor can leave her a note in the tray outside of her office door or send a note to her via their teacher. If you have any questions or need information from our counselor, please call 360.894.6000 press 5.
Custody Paperwork
Family Access
The administration and staff at Yelm Community Schools recognize that many parents/guardians would like to play a greater role in their child’s education. To make it easier for you to get involved, each parent/guardian is provided the ability to view their student’s information anytime, day or night.
Family Access is available at the top of every page on this website. If you forget your password, go to the login page to recover account information. You will receive an email to reset your password. You can also update your email and contact phone number. Please ask school office staff if you need assistance.
Parent - Teacher - Organization (PTO)
Lackamas has a very active and enthusiastic PTO. They provide programs and opportunities for students and families in conjunction with Lackamas. PTO actively seeks interested volunteers to assist with a variety of activities. If you are interested in joining or volunteering please contact ptolackamas@gmail.com.
Permanent Records
The school maintains a record of each student. Records contain a summary of each year’s grades, testing, and attendance data as well as summaries of conferences and teacher anecdotal records. In compliance with Federal Laws 93-380 and 93-568, parents are welcomed to review the cumulative records of their child with the principal. All parents and guardians of students under the age of 18 years and all students over the age of
18 years have the right to examine the official records, files, and data of the school district directly related to the student. The school is prohibited from releasing any personally identifiable records about individual students without written parent consent. However, the school may release a list of students belonging to a group (i.e. – Valentine’s Day class list). A student’s name will be excluded from a list upon written request by a parent or guardian. The school may release photos of students for public information purposes.
Please sign and return the YCS opt out form for student photographs and directory information if you do not wish this information regarding your student to be released.
Report Cards/Conferences
Primary (K-2) and Intermediate (3-5)
Students will receive a progress report at four reporting periods with conferences in November and April.
A final report card is mailed home at the end of the school year. Attendance at conferences is crucial to helping your children maximize their potential for success. Please make every effort to attend.
Student academic progress is reported related to performance on the Common Core State Standards. Grading is based on the standards and how students are performing on content taught to that point.
Visiting the School
Parents and guardians are welcomed and encouraged to visit the school. A call or note to your child’s teacher is required before your visit (let them know you are coming). Please check in with the office upon your arrival. Students are not allowed to bring guests to school, as most classrooms do not have space available and a visitor is a distraction. If you wish to observe in the classroom, there is a special process for that. Please contact the principal for appropriate steps.
Volunteering at School
Volunteers are a vital part of our students’ education. To volunteer in a school during the school year, an application must be completed online. All volunteers must receive clearance through the Washington Access to Criminal History (WATCH) before volunteering. Clearance is granted for one school year only. Visit the website to complete the application: http://www.helpcounter.net/yelm. For more information, contact our Volunteer Coordinator Office at 360.458.6100.
School Procedures
- Class Parties/Treats for Birthdays
- Dismissal Policies
- Emergency Closure
- Field Trips
- Items From Home
- Lost & Found
- Pick-Up/Drop-Off
- Safety Procedures
- School Phone Use
Class Parties/Treats for Birthdays
Several seasonal parties will be held in classrooms during the school year. Due to safety concerns, we are only able to serve store bought treats. Homemade treats cannot be served. With the increase in food allergies present in students, we ask that parents send in appropriate treats for their own children if allergies are present so that a student will not feel left out. Having a small supply here at school for those students would be helpful for unexpected birthdays or celebrations.
Party Invitations
Students are not allowed to hand out party invitations at school. This causes hurt feelings for students who do not receive invitations and disrupts the classroom environment. Bus passes cannot be issued to more than three students attending the same birthday party, based on limited additional seating capacity on all of our buses. Please contact transportation for more information regarding bus passes for parties.
Dismissal Policies
- Any student leaving the building early must be signed out through the office. This is for protection of the student, parent/guardian, and school district. If someone other than those listed as an emergency contact will be picking up your child, there must be a written note sent to the teacher, or you must contact the front office, OR the child WILL NOT be released.
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Students going home in a way that is not the usual routine (a different bus, different bus stop, with a friend, etc) MUST bring a note giving permission to do so, or call the front office at 360.894.6000 to notify. Students WILL NOT be permitted to use the phone to make last minute arrangements unless it is an emergency situation.
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All end of the day transportation changes must be called in before 2:40 p.m. so we may send a note to your student and not disrupt the classroom. For long term transportation changes please contact the front office at 360.894.6000.
Emergency Closure
View Flash Alert for today's status OR to subscribe to receive text or email alerts
Sometimes during the school year, we face the possibility of inclement weather resulting in school closure or schedule changes. Typically, families will be notified of emergency schedule changes by an automated phone call, email and/or text. We will announce closures and delays as early as possible but not later than 5:30 a.m. Occasionally circumstances change quickly and late announcements are unavoidable. The following information is for reference in the event that the schools are closed or buses operate on an emergency schedule:
- School Closure: All schools will be closed all day and any activities planned for the day or evening will be announced by 12pm on the district website.
- Emergency Schedule: Indicates that schools will start on a delayed schedule. Parents are reminded that although the buses will start the runs later, if we are on an emergency schedule, the buses may be slightly later near the end of the run. We request that parents make allowances for this.
- Limited Transportation: Limited transportation will prevail if some roads become inaccessible or if the county announces road closures. If we alter a route, we will send an automated message. School will be in session unless otherwise announced by the Superintendent’s Office.
Stay informed about Emergency Closures & Delays by
- Signing up for FLASH ALERT to receive an email notification.
- Updating your Family Access email and home & cell numbers
- Opting In for Text Messaging (Text YES to 67587)
- Following Yelm Community Schools social media platforms
- Visiting the district website for detailed information and updates
- Tuning in to other media outlets
It is requested that parents/guardians do not call the media stations for closure information.
AM Stations | FM Stations | TV Stations |
KGTK 920
KOMO 1000
KGY 1240
KITZ 1400
|
KPLU 88.5
KMPS 94.1
KXXO 96.1
KGY 96.9
KIRO 97.3
KRWM 106.9
|
KOMO 4
KING 5 / KONG 6
KIRO 7
KCPQ 13
|
Field Trips
During the school year classes may take field trips. Permission slips are required for field trips. There may be occasion when your student is transported by bus to another school within the district for a district program, this does not require a permission slip. Parents are encouraged to participate, but siblings may not attend class field trips. Parents attending field trips must have filled out the district volunteer application and been cleared by the district.
Items From Home
Students may bring items from home for “Show and Tell” ONLY. These items will remain in the classroom during the day. The responsibility for the items lies strictly with the students and his/her parents/guardians. Parents/guardians are urged to assist their children in the selection of items being brought to school and communicating the child’s responsibility for the item. Money and other valuables should be left at home. Articles of value for class display or use should be checked in with the teacher. Fidget spinners, tablets, I-pods, CD players, cameras, toys, cards, and other distracting items are NOT allowed. Cell phones will remain in students’ backpacks in the “off” position. Students bringing personal property onto school district property do so at their own risk. (Students are requested to leave personal property at home, especially due to state-wide increased incidences of theft of high-tech electronics.) The school district does not assume responsibility for lost, damaged or stolen property. Children, who wish to bring pets to school, are not allowed to transport them on the bus. Parents MUST check with the classroom teacher before bringing a pet to school. Pets are not allowed without prior approval from the teacher and the principal.
Energy Drinks
When packing lunches for students please don’t send energy drinks (such as Red Bull, Monster, Etc.) as these are not healthy choices. If they are opened at school they will be thrown away. If unopened they will be sent home.
Chewing Gum
Chewing gum is not appropriate at school and should be left at home. There are some special circumstances where gum is allowed. These are handled on a class by class basis and are limited.
Make-Up
Students may not apply make-up at school.
Lost & Found
Pick-Up/Drop-Off
For the safety of our students and families, the parent pick-up/drop-off loop access is in the front parking lot. There are painted arrows directing you to this area. There is adult supervision in this area beginning at 8:35 a.m. until 8:50 a.m. Students who arrive at school after 8:50 a.m. must be escorted into the school office rather than dropped off. This is for your child’s safety. If dropping off students before the bell rings, drive around the outside of the driveway following the signs and arrows. When picking students up at the end of the day, follow the same procedure as drop off. For safety reasons, please stay in your vehicle and wait for a staff member to bring your student to your car. Please do not park in visitor parking and signal for your student to come to you without first communicating with a staff member.
Safety Procedures
Our procedures are based on concern for the safety and well-being of all of our students and staff. Everyone must check in to the office before proceeding on to campus. If your child does not arrive home as expected after school and you become concerned, we suggest call the school at 360.894.6000 or transportation at 360.458.3300.
School Phone Use
Student Learning
- District Technology Access
- Homework
- Lackamas Leaders Student Helpers
- Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS)
- Special Programs
- Textbooks and Library Books
District Technology Access
The district is dedicated to promoting and instilling principles of digital citizenship and media literacy in students and encourages guardians to play an active role in the process of educating students. While the district takes great care to monitor and filter inappropriate websites, students are expected to be responsible users of their access and the educational technology tools made available. For a complete list of Student Responsible Use Guidelines, review the Student Rights and Responsibility Handbook and/or Policy and Procedure 2022/P on the district website, at Yelm Community Schools
Students will be given a unique user login and password to access educational technology tools. The login portal icon is available at the top of the school and district website for students to access at school or home. It is essential students keep this information private to ensure security of their school files and online accounts.
Homework
In-class assignments and homework are at the core of learning activities in the schooling of students. Students will be held accountable for all work assigned with appropriate exceptions being made by the teacher. A complete explanation of the district Homework Policy can be obtained from the school office.
Lackamas Leaders Student Helpers
Students may choose to participate in the Lackamas Leaders Student Helper program. Mrs. Fitzgerald, our counselor, develops a list of weekly jobs that students are able to apply for throughout the school year. This is an opportunity for students to develop skills and show how responsible they can be. Students who receive an office referral for inappropriate behavior may lose their jobs.
Student Recognition
Lackamas students are recognized monthly for exhibiting the Lackamas Hi-5. Parents are informed via letter if their student was chosen for student of the month. These students are recognized at an assembly each month.
Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS)
The vision of Yelm Community Schools is to prepare ALL students for post-secondary pathways, careers, and civic engagement.
A Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) is a service delivery framework focused on prevention and problem solving for all students. An integrated MTSS connects all of the academic and non-academic interventions, supports, and services available in schools and communities to support instruction and eliminate barriers to learning and teaching. Within an MTSS framework, multiple levels of instruction, assessment, and intervention are designed to meet the academic and non-academic needs of ALL students.
Essential Components of an MTSS Framework
- Core Instruction and Tiered Continuum of Evidence-based Interventions and Supports (Tier I, II, III)
- Universal Screening and Progress Monitoring
- Data-based Decision Making
- Family Engagement and Community Partnerships
- Creating and maintaining the infrastructure to support an integrated MTSS Framework
Special Programs
Art
Our art specialist teaches general art. Students could attend art class one day per week.
Instrumental Music- 5th
Students in 5th grade have the option of participating in band class within the school day. Involvement in band requires time away from general classroom activity four days per week. This is a pull out program; students in band will also attend all other specialists.
Music
Our music specialist teaches general music. Students could attend music class one day per week.
Special Services
Yelm Community Schools offers a number of special services to students. At Lackamas, we offer Learning Center and LAP/Title I support to the general education classroom as well as Speech Therapy, Occupational, and/or Physical Therapy. If you feel that your child has a possible handicapping condition that affects his/her progress in school, contact the classroom teacher or counselor.
504 Coordinator – Board Policy 2162
The district 504 coordinator is the superintendent or his/her designee. The counselor at Lackamas Elementary School coordinates 504 plans for our building.
Physical Education
The physical education program at Lackamas Elementary School emphasizes individual improvement. We strive to improve fitness levels and skill levels in our students. This is accomplished through a variety of fitness and movement activities, sports, games and dance.
Along with the physical aspect, the learning of social skills is an inherent part of physical education. Cooperation, good sportsmanship, treating others with respect, leadership, fair competition and acceptance of other people’s differences are all practiced in P.E. class. Proper use and care of school equipment is expected.
Students at Lackamas could have PE twice a week. Please help your child get the most out of the P.E. program by reminding him/her to wear clothes that will not hinder activity on P.E. days. Recommended dress includes:
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Clothing in which students can run, jump, climb and get dirty.
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Proper shoes are essential for the safety of all students. Please ensure your child wears tennis shoes on P.E. days. Boots, flip flops, dress shoes, sandals, platform shoes and shoes with high heels are not appropriate for P.E. activities.
Recess
We expect all children to participate in daily recess. Be sure that your child is dressed appropriately for the weather conditions; students are only kept inside during severe weather conditions.
Textbooks and Library Books
Textbooks and library books are loaned free of charge. Parents are responsible for replacing damaged or lost books.
Book Orders
When sending checks to school for book club orders, please make checks payable to LACKAMAS ELEMENTARY SCHOOL. Please double check your figures and make sure that the check is written for the exact amount. If you send cash, send the exact amount also.
Student Support & Services
Emergency Kits
We request, as a part of our emergency preparedness program, that each student bring an emergency kit to school to be stored in the classroom emergency containers. The items should be enclosed in a large zip-lock storage bag with the student's name clearly marked. List of items for personal emergency packs will be included in the beginning of year school packet and on supply lists.
Food Service & Meals
Meal Service
The breakfast and lunch program is provided by our district’s Food Service department. Breakfast is served from 8:20-8:35. Lunch times vary by grade level. Check the website for an updated fee schedule.
Meal Costs
Please check the website for an updated fee schedule.
Free and Reduced Meals
Meal benefits are available to families that meet income guidelines. Free and Reduced applications are available online through Skyward Family Access. Paper applications are available at school upon request or on our Food Service website.
If you have questions regarding your child’s meal account, please contact your school. For assistance with Free and Reduced application, please contact the district Food Service Department at 360.400.1151.
Online Payments
As a convenience to families, Yelm Community Schools provides an easy way to make online payments from home or work, 24/7. With just one login, you can make payments for any child in your household using Discover, VISA, or MasterCard credit or debit cards.
Online payments can be used to replenish a student’s food service account or pay for any existing fines or fees, such as class fees, athletic fees, or ASB activities.
Yelm Community Schools is fully compliant with all data protection laws, including PCI Data Security Standards. Yelm School District does not store your billing or payment information at any time. Any personal information you enter related to your credit card through this website is purged immediately. Any contact information you enter is stored for your convenience when using our website. Information you provide to us will only be used by Yelm Community Schools. We will never sell or rent your personal information to third parties.
Health Information
Common Health Care Procedures
Accident or Head Trauma: Parents will be notified regarding any incident that necessitates an accident report. In addition, any student who suffers trauma to the head at school will be assessed in the health room and parents will be notified.
Allergy Accommodations: Latex Allergy - Yelm Community Schools prohibits the use of all latex products, including latex balloons, due to severe allergies. Peanut Allergy - Please refrain from sending any peanut products due to severe allergies.
Diarrhea: Any student who has been having diarrhea will be sent home and may return to school when they have been free of diarrhea for 24 hours.
Fever: Any student with a fever of 100.4 or higher will be sent home and may return to school once the child has been fever free for 24 hours without the use of fever reducing medication.
Injury: If any child has an injury that prohibits them from participating in PE or other school activities, a note from the physician is needed to excuse participation. Please be sure the doctor includes when student can return to normal activity or provide a separate note.
Lice: The Infectious Disease Control Guide no longer recommends long-term exclusion for pediculosis/head lice. Head lice is a nuisance condition and is not known to transmit infection from person to person. Any student who presents with live lice will be sent home for treatment. Students may return to school when no live lice are present.
Rash: Any student with an undiagnosed rash will be sent home from school in order to be evaluated by a healthcare provider. The parent/guardian will be asked to provide a note from a healthcare provider upon return to school.
Vomiting: Any student who has been vomiting will be sent home and may return to school when they have not vomited in 24 hours.
Life Threatening Illness
If your child has an illness, which has the potential to cause death during the school day YCS must be made aware prior to the student’s first day of school. Examples of these conditions would be seizures, diabetes, allergies requiring an Epi Pen, severe asthma and/or any other condition that is considered to be life threatening. Parents/guardians are responsible to report this information to the Registered Nurse assigned to that school. Parents/guardians must provide the medication in its original container along with the medication authorization form prior to the first day of school. Students will be excluded from school until these requirements are met. (RCW 28A.210.320, District Policy 3413)
Immunizations
In order to protect children against a number of childhood diseases, Washington State Law requires that all children enrolled to YCS be immunized against varicella, diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, measles, rubella, mumps and hepatitis b as appropriate. Parents may submit the Exemption from Immunization form. However, students will be excluded from school if they do not meet the requirements of the law. (RCW 28A.210.060, District Policy 3413)
Infectious Disease
In order to safeguard the school community from the spread of certain communicable diseases YCS will comply with the State Board of Health rules and regulations within the most current Infectious Disease Control Guide, provided by the State Department of Health and the Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction. (District Policy 3414.
Medications
YCS requires signed authorization forms for the dispensing of any prescription or non-prescription medicines to students. Forms must be signed by the physician as well as the parent/guardian and are available from the office. Physicians may fax this information to our school at 360.458.6315. All medications must be delivered to and picked up from the school by the parent/guardian in the original container. Most medications can be dispensed by the parent/guardian before or after school. Please ask your healthcare provider for guidance on medication delivery times. (RCW 28A.210.260 & 270, District Policy 3416)