Staff Members
Linda Albert - Education Technician-Title 1
Emma Alley - Grade 4 Teacher
Heather Ambrose - Education Technician-Special Education
Amy Anderson - Kindergarten Teacher
Leslie Blanchette - Education Technician-Special Education
John Bouchard - Food Service Assistance
Mia Charette - Food Service Coordinator
Victoria Campbell - Art Teacher
Amy Clinton - Education Technician-Special Education
Ciera D’Alessandro - Grade 5 Teacher
Patricia Demers - Education Technician-PK
Tessa DeSilva - Grade 4 Teacher
Katie DiFrederico - Guidance Counselor
Laura Dwyer - Enrichment Teacher
Shelley Farrington - Education Technician-Title 1
Jessica Freeman - Food Service Assistance
Josh Garvin - Custodian
Kevin Giberson - Student Support
Julie Hale - Education Technician-Title 1
Angela Hannafin - Education Technician-Special Education
Michelle Hatch - Kindergarten Teacher
John Haugen - Education Technician-Special Education
Nikki Henley - Education Technician-PK
Shelley Illingworth - Education Technician-Title 1
Cassandra Kunkel - Education Technician-Special Education
Alicia Lazareva - Grade 5 Teacher
Jessica Leach - Physical Education Teacher
Jesika Lucarelli - Education Technician-Special Education
Linda Madore - Education Technician-Special Education
Mary McCleary - Education Technician-Title 1
Zachary McEwen - Music Teacher
Jo-Anna Merry - Principal
Staci Michaud - Grade 2 Teacher
Debbie Mooney - 3rd grade teacher
Jessie Morrison - Education Technician-Special Education
Susan Morrison - Special Education Teacher
Lorrie Nadeau - Education Technician-Special Education
Angela Osborne - Grade 2 Teacher
Mary Osborne - Education Technician-Special Education
Katy Pangburn - PK Teacher
Kimberly Petrin - Grade 1 Teacher
Corrine Reece - Librarian
Donna Seamans - Food Service Assistance
Erica Silva - Education Technician-Title 1
Joy Stewart - Custodian
Taylor Sulander - Computer & Title 1
Danielle Waite, Grade 1 Teacher
Melissa Wheaton - Grade 3 Teacher
Arrivals and DismissalsRegular Days
Walkers and riders should arrive or be dropped off no earlier than 7:30 AM. Buses will also be arriving between 7:30 and 7:45 AM. PK students will be dismissed at 12:45 PM. Walkers and riders will be dismissed at 2:10 PM. Buses will start being dismissed by 2:15 PM.
Early Release Days
Arrival times will be the same as regular days. PK students will be dismissed at 11:15 AM. Walkers and riders will be dismissed at 11:25 AM. Buses will start being dismissed by 11:30 AM.
Cancellations and Delays
The Swift Notification System will be used when there is a school delay or cancellation. Parents/guardians, staff, and students will be notified using the information on file with the Millinocket School Department. These notifications will be sent through emails, phone calls, and text messages.
*Notifications will also be on WABI Channel 5 and school Facebook pages.
*Millinocket schools will allow for 2 traditional snow days, followed by virtual learning days in the event of inclement weather.
*We realize road conditions vary from place to place. If school is not canceled and in your opinion the road conditions are too hazardous to be traveled, parents/guardians are advised to use their own discretion in sending their children to school.
Emergency InformationEmergency Sheets
Emergency sheets should be completed and returned promptly to school at the beginning of each year or when new students register. Should your child ever be involved in an injury or some emergency situation, the school will use this information to immediately contact you at home or at work. It also provides the school with names and contact information of other people we can contact in the case of an emergency, therefore accuracy is important. If we are unable to make contact with anyone on the sheet, the school will take whatever action is necessary to ensure the well-being of your child until you are notified. Please make sure to keep the school updated with any changes in your emergency contact information throughout the school year.
Standard Response ProtocolThe Millinocket School Department has been working on our updated Standard Response Protocol (SRP). The plan includes a number of protocols and drills that we must practice, with the hope that we never need to use them. The drills include our yearly fire drills as well as other measures, such as Holds and Lockdowns, that secure our buildings and classrooms.
The main objective is to be prepared for a number of situations that could arise. We will practice these protocols on a regular basis so that our staff and students are familiar with what to do in an emergency.
In the event of an actual emergency, you will be notified on our Swift System, through text or call. Please keep our schools updated with any changes in your contact information so you will be sure to receive notifications from us. The Millinocket School Department prioritizes safety and preparedness, because your childrens’ safety is of the utmost importance.
Fire Drills
Fire drills will be held at least 10 times per year. These will allow students to become familiar with exit plans for their classrooms, learn to use exit plans from multiple settings within the school building, and follow the teacher's directions quickly in order to get to a designated safe space.
Attendance Policy and Procedure
Maine State Law has placed the legal obligation for your child’s school attendance on both school personnel and parents/guardians. School attendance has a direct effect on each student’s educational growth and development.
It is important to note that although students can have excused absences, the state tracks total attendance and we need to maintain at least 94% attendance throughout the year. Each day counts; please make every effort to have your child here as much as possible.
Maine Statutes provide the following five reasons for excused absences.
Absences
If your child is going to be absent:
a. Please call the school at (207) 723-6425 between 7:15 a.m. and 8:00 a.m.
b. Please send a note with reasons for the absence upon their return.
c. A doctor’s note may be requested for frequent or extended absences.
d. If a student is absent and we do not receive a phone call, the school secretary will contact the families after 8:30 a.m. to ensure the child is safely at home.
Tardiness/Dismissals
A written note is required for all absences and dismissals. Parents/guardians who request their child be dismissed during instructional time are urged to limit these requests to emergencies only. Doctors and dentists will usually comply with parent requests for appointments during non-school hours, if possible.
Truancy
A student is considered truant when he/she has seven (7) or more cumulative unexcused absences or five (5) or more consecutive unexcused absences. When a student is classified as truant, the name is entered into the state electronic recording system as well as referred to the Superintendent of Schools for further action.
Family and Teacher Connections
Open House
At the beginning of the school year, an open house is scheduled to provide a time for families and staff to meet one another before the start of the school year. Please take this opportunity to meet your child’s teacher, other staff members, and explore the school.
Conferences
Individual conferences are scheduled after the first and second trimesters to provide a time for families and teachers to discuss each child’s progress during the school year.
Monthly Newsletter
A monthly newsletter will be shared with families to provide information about what is happening at Granite Street School.
Ongoing Contact
Teachers will be reaching out with families on a regular basis through phone calls, emails, or other forms of communication to keep you informed and work in partnership with you for the benefit of your child(ren). You can also reach out at any other time during the school year with questions and concerns. Please contact the school via phone call or email if you also want to make an appointment.
Educational Services
Curriculum
Granite Street School’s curriculum is aligned with the Maine Learning Standards. Curriculum areas include English language arts (reading, writing, language, speaking and listening) mathematics, science and engineering, social studies, health, visual and performing arts, physical education and digital learning. Students are expected to meet these grade span standards at regular intervals during their educational career. Formal and informal assessments will be used to help us better understand each student’s learning strengths and areas of need in order to provide appropriate instruction.
*After school and summer programs may be offered depending on needs and staffing availability.
Field Trips
Developmentally appropriate field trips might be scheduled throughout the school year by grade level and building teams. These trips will be designed to supplement the classroom curriculum by offering children opportunities to learn information in an exciting, different way. Parents/guardians will receive notices of field trip dates in advance and will be asked to sign a field trip permission form. Sometimes a small amount of money may be requested from each student to help defray costs.
Report Cards
Report cards will be issued three (3) times a year at approximately 12 week intervals along with PRIDE Standards Reports. The PRIDE report will share information on skills that are building blocks for learning such as work habits, communication, problem solving, and following directions.
Additional Services
In addition to regular educational instruction, other educational services are provided for students meeting eligibility requirements. These services include:
Student Placement
During the last several weeks of the school year, staff teams that include sending teachers, receiving teachers, the guidance counselor, learning specialists, special subject teachers, and the principal work together to create class lists. They consider various criteria (ie. class size, personalities, boy-girl ratio, learning styles, social relationships, learning levels, teaching styles, and heterogeneous groupings) in order to place children in appropriate classes for the next school year. Our goal is to provide each child with a suitable learning environment and “balanced classes” so there is a reasonable mix of learning abilities and distribution of strengths and weaknesses.
In most cases, these teams have ample knowledge about each child’s needs in order to make wise placements. However, parents/guardians sometimes have information of a different nature which might need to be considered. If this is the case, parents/guardians need to make an appointment to speak to the principal about this information and the related concerns. Please realize, however, the final decision must rest with the staff and the principal as they have many factors to consider when making these decisions and cannot provide preferential treatment to parents/ guardians.
After School Activities
There are many extra activities offered by the school or the Recreation Department that occur after school hours. Permission slips are required and will be available through the office. Students who sign up for after school activities are expected to attend all sessions unless ill.
Student Expectations
Dress Code
All students are expected to dress in appropriate clothing. This includes not wearing clothing depicting tobacco products, drugs or alcohol, other inappropriate, endorse substances, or having inappropriate language. Clothing should not reveal midriff, cleavage, backs, chest, or underwear. Clothing should not include short shorts or very thin/ spaghetti straps on shirts. Parents/guardians will be contacted if their child is wearing inappropriate clothing and may be asked to bring a change of clothing for their child.
Winter boots and hats are for outdoor use only and are not allowed to be worn during the school day.
Please make sure your child has appropriate footwear during the school day, including sneakers for PE classes.
Cell Phones
Cell phone use on school grounds or school buses is prohibited. Students may carry a cell phone in their backpack as long as it is not turned on. Any cell phone observed by staff will be taken from the student and returned at the end of the day. Repeated violations will prompt a phone call to parents/guardians. Any cell phone that interrupts a class will be taken from the student and parents/guardians will be contacted to pick up the phone at school. For safety reasons, cell phones are not to be used on school buses. Please contact the principal’s office if you have a specific concern about this.
Electronic Devices
The staff at Granite Street recognizes the positive benefits of electronic devices. Students will have one-on-one devices to be used in the classroom. At the beginning of the year, students and guardians will need to sign and return a "Device Take Home Agreement” form.
Inside the School Building
Pledge of Allegiance
Pairs of Fourth Graders take turns each morning reciting the Pledge of Allegiance on the intercom.
Disciplinary Consequence refer to green sheet and power school entries
Violations of school rules will result in disciplinary action. Depending on the nature and severity of the action, consequences for broken rules may include, but are not limited to the following:
Playground/ School Property
Drugs/Alcohol/Tobacco
Drugs: the sale, possession, distribution or use of alcohol or scheduled drugs is forbidden. Anyone found under the influence will not be allowed to remain on the school premises. Those found selling, possessing or distributing these products will be disciplined according to school policy, state and federal laws.
Smoking is prohibited by everyone anywhere on school property (buses, buildings grounds, etc.). Possession or use of tobacco products, by students, is prohibited. (Please see the school policy for more information.)
Harassment
Students are expected to treat each other with respect at all times. Any student who feels harassed (i.e. threats of physical force, intimidation, discrimination, unwanted sexual advances etc.) should report the incident to an adult. Any form of harassment is a serious offense, and all reports will be investigated in a confidential manner and appropriate disciplinary action will result for violations.
Searches
Desks, cubbies etc. are considered school property. Students should leave valuable items at home. If there are reasonable grounds to suspect that an individual is in possession of illegal or dangerous materials (drugs, weapons, etc.), the student’s clothing, desk, backpack etc. may be searched. (Please see the school policy for more information).
Weapons
Weapons (firearms, knives, chains, etc.) as defined in the school policy are not permitted on school property or at school functions and events. Violators may be suspended, expelled and referred to local authorities. (Please see the school policy for more information).
Deliveries:
Please do not have balloons, flowers etc. delivered to your child at school.
Party Invitations:
Party invitations must include everyone in the class if they are to be distributed at school.
Student RecordsAccess Rights
Parents/guardians shall have access to the entire student record at times mutually agreed upon with the school. (Please see the school policy and FERPA for more information).
Directory Information
The district will not publish or provide any personal student information on the web or other sources without first obtaining written approval from the parent/guardian.
Transfer
Upon written request from a school designee to which your child has transferred, all student records will be transferred. (I.e. grades, test results, disciplinary reports, special education records, etc.)
Food Service Program
All elementary school children may participate in the school lunch and/or breakfast program. A letter concerning a change in the funding for school meal programs was a part of the packet of information provided at the open house in August. Students will be assigned and use ID Cards for meal accountability and for purchasing a la carte items. A la carte items are limited to milk and extra servings of entrees. Funds can be put on student accounts by sending payment to Millinocket School Nutrition, 199 State Street in Millinocket or by sending the payment in an envelope labeled with the student's name and grade. Checks made payable to Millinocket School Nutrition. Payments can also be made online at www.myschoolbucks.com.
Lunchroom Expectations
Health TopicsSchool Nurse
The school nurse covers both Granite St. and Stearns/Jr. Senior High School. There is always a medical professional available by phone in case of an emergency. Please remember to update the front office if you have a change of phone number or address, in order to help us reach you if there is an emergency at school. Also, please notify the front office if you are going away and your child will be staying with someone else.
Illness:
Please do not send your child to school if they have been vomiting, have diarrhea, have a temperature above 100.4, or have had harsh cold symptoms during the past 24 hours. If your child requires over the counter or prescription medication at school due to a short term illness, or is too ill to participate in school activities such as recess and PE, they should stay home to recuperate.
Home Injuries:
If your student receives an injury at home, please try to care for it at that time and not wait until he/she comes to school the next day. That being said, we would be happy to follow up on any injury that happens at home.
School Injuries:
Parents/guardians may be called, sent a message or receive a note from school if there is an injury that requires any follow up care. Minor scrapes, bumps and bruises would not typically fall into this category (unless they are on the head or neck).
Physical Education:
If a student has sustained an injury that requires them not to participate in PE class, they must have a note from a provider stating that they are unable to participate and for how long. They will need another note from a provider allowing them back into PE class.
Vision/Hearing:
Students in grades Pre-K, Kindergarten, grades 1, 3 & 5 will have vision, hearing, height and weight screenings. If the student fails the vision or hearing screening, a written notice will be sent home for follow up, per state regulations.
Medication:
All medication will be administered by trained employees at our schools. All medications (prescription and over the counter) must be brought in by a parent/guardian. Medication must be sent in the original container with an expiration date and prescription label (if applicable). All medication given at school must be accompanied by a permission form, which can be found in the front office or the nurse’s office. If prescription medication is to be given at school for 15 or more days a written order must be completed by the prescribing provider.
Immunizations: All Pre-K students are required to have: 4 DTaP, 3 Polio, 1 MMR and 1 Varicella. All kindergarten through grade 5 students are required to have: 5 DPT shots, 4 polio, 2 MMR, and 2 Varicella. Please call the school nurse at 723-6426 if you have any questions.
Head Checks:
Children are examined occasionally at school for head lice. Please check frequently at home and feel free to contact the school if there is a concern that a student is infested with head lice. All cases of head lice are confidential and will be handled directly with the parent/guardian.
Healthy Snacks:
Please send healthy snacks with your child. (ex: fruit, cheese, yogurt, crackers, raw veggies).
Water Bottles:
Teachers may choose to allow students to have water bottles at their desks during the school day. Only water is allowed.
Dressing for the Weather:
Please make sure your child is dressed appropriately for the weather. (Ex: cold – jackets, boots, ski pants, hat, mittens and boots; hot - loose fitting clothing).
Outdoor Recess:
If weather permits, students go outside for a 15-20 minute outdoor recess. During inclement weather or when the temperature or windchill is below zero degrees, students will have indoor recess. Special arrangements can be made for students who are unable to go outside due to a medical issue (provider note required).
Asbestos:
All schools in the Millinocket School Department have been inspected for the presence of asbestos-containing materials. A written plan for the management of these materials has been developed. This plan is available for inspection at the Central Office of the Millinocket School Department.
Transportation
Bus Policy
Bus Safely
Linda Albert - Education Technician-Title 1
Emma Alley - Grade 4 Teacher
Heather Ambrose - Education Technician-Special Education
Amy Anderson - Kindergarten Teacher
Leslie Blanchette - Education Technician-Special Education
John Bouchard - Food Service Assistance
Mia Charette - Food Service Coordinator
Victoria Campbell - Art Teacher
Amy Clinton - Education Technician-Special Education
Ciera D’Alessandro - Grade 5 Teacher
Patricia Demers - Education Technician-PK
Tessa DeSilva - Grade 4 Teacher
Katie DiFrederico - Guidance Counselor
Laura Dwyer - Enrichment Teacher
Shelley Farrington - Education Technician-Title 1
Jessica Freeman - Food Service Assistance
Josh Garvin - Custodian
Kevin Giberson - Student Support
Julie Hale - Education Technician-Title 1
Angela Hannafin - Education Technician-Special Education
Michelle Hatch - Kindergarten Teacher
John Haugen - Education Technician-Special Education
Nikki Henley - Education Technician-PK
Shelley Illingworth - Education Technician-Title 1
Cassandra Kunkel - Education Technician-Special Education
Alicia Lazareva - Grade 5 Teacher
Jessica Leach - Physical Education Teacher
Jesika Lucarelli - Education Technician-Special Education
Linda Madore - Education Technician-Special Education
Mary McCleary - Education Technician-Title 1
Zachary McEwen - Music Teacher
Jo-Anna Merry - Principal
Staci Michaud - Grade 2 Teacher
Debbie Mooney - 3rd grade teacher
Jessie Morrison - Education Technician-Special Education
Susan Morrison - Special Education Teacher
Lorrie Nadeau - Education Technician-Special Education
Angela Osborne - Grade 2 Teacher
Mary Osborne - Education Technician-Special Education
Katy Pangburn - PK Teacher
Kimberly Petrin - Grade 1 Teacher
Corrine Reece - Librarian
Donna Seamans - Food Service Assistance
Erica Silva - Education Technician-Title 1
Joy Stewart - Custodian
Taylor Sulander - Computer & Title 1
Danielle Waite, Grade 1 Teacher
Melissa Wheaton - Grade 3 Teacher
Arrivals and DismissalsRegular Days
Walkers and riders should arrive or be dropped off no earlier than 7:30 AM. Buses will also be arriving between 7:30 and 7:45 AM. PK students will be dismissed at 12:45 PM. Walkers and riders will be dismissed at 2:10 PM. Buses will start being dismissed by 2:15 PM.
Early Release Days
Arrival times will be the same as regular days. PK students will be dismissed at 11:15 AM. Walkers and riders will be dismissed at 11:25 AM. Buses will start being dismissed by 11:30 AM.
Cancellations and Delays
The Swift Notification System will be used when there is a school delay or cancellation. Parents/guardians, staff, and students will be notified using the information on file with the Millinocket School Department. These notifications will be sent through emails, phone calls, and text messages.
*Notifications will also be on WABI Channel 5 and school Facebook pages.
*Millinocket schools will allow for 2 traditional snow days, followed by virtual learning days in the event of inclement weather.
*We realize road conditions vary from place to place. If school is not canceled and in your opinion the road conditions are too hazardous to be traveled, parents/guardians are advised to use their own discretion in sending their children to school.
Emergency InformationEmergency Sheets
Emergency sheets should be completed and returned promptly to school at the beginning of each year or when new students register. Should your child ever be involved in an injury or some emergency situation, the school will use this information to immediately contact you at home or at work. It also provides the school with names and contact information of other people we can contact in the case of an emergency, therefore accuracy is important. If we are unable to make contact with anyone on the sheet, the school will take whatever action is necessary to ensure the well-being of your child until you are notified. Please make sure to keep the school updated with any changes in your emergency contact information throughout the school year.
Standard Response ProtocolThe Millinocket School Department has been working on our updated Standard Response Protocol (SRP). The plan includes a number of protocols and drills that we must practice, with the hope that we never need to use them. The drills include our yearly fire drills as well as other measures, such as Holds and Lockdowns, that secure our buildings and classrooms.
The main objective is to be prepared for a number of situations that could arise. We will practice these protocols on a regular basis so that our staff and students are familiar with what to do in an emergency.
In the event of an actual emergency, you will be notified on our Swift System, through text or call. Please keep our schools updated with any changes in your contact information so you will be sure to receive notifications from us. The Millinocket School Department prioritizes safety and preparedness, because your childrens’ safety is of the utmost importance.
Fire Drills
Fire drills will be held at least 10 times per year. These will allow students to become familiar with exit plans for their classrooms, learn to use exit plans from multiple settings within the school building, and follow the teacher's directions quickly in order to get to a designated safe space.
Attendance Policy and Procedure
Maine State Law has placed the legal obligation for your child’s school attendance on both school personnel and parents/guardians. School attendance has a direct effect on each student’s educational growth and development.
It is important to note that although students can have excused absences, the state tracks total attendance and we need to maintain at least 94% attendance throughout the year. Each day counts; please make every effort to have your child here as much as possible.
Maine Statutes provide the following five reasons for excused absences.
- Personal health; physical, mental and behavioral
- Doctor/other health appointments that cannot be made outside of regular school hours
- Family emergencies
- Planned absences for personal or educational purposes, approved by the principal
- Observations of recognized religious holidays when the observance is required during the regular school day
- Education disruption resulting from case by case situations listed in Maine State Statutes [PL 2007, c. 451, §5 (NEW).][PL 2019, c. 562, §2 (AMD).]
Absences
If your child is going to be absent:
a. Please call the school at (207) 723-6425 between 7:15 a.m. and 8:00 a.m.
b. Please send a note with reasons for the absence upon their return.
c. A doctor’s note may be requested for frequent or extended absences.
d. If a student is absent and we do not receive a phone call, the school secretary will contact the families after 8:30 a.m. to ensure the child is safely at home.
Tardiness/Dismissals
A written note is required for all absences and dismissals. Parents/guardians who request their child be dismissed during instructional time are urged to limit these requests to emergencies only. Doctors and dentists will usually comply with parent requests for appointments during non-school hours, if possible.
Truancy
A student is considered truant when he/she has seven (7) or more cumulative unexcused absences or five (5) or more consecutive unexcused absences. When a student is classified as truant, the name is entered into the state electronic recording system as well as referred to the Superintendent of Schools for further action.
Family and Teacher Connections
Open House
At the beginning of the school year, an open house is scheduled to provide a time for families and staff to meet one another before the start of the school year. Please take this opportunity to meet your child’s teacher, other staff members, and explore the school.
Conferences
Individual conferences are scheduled after the first and second trimesters to provide a time for families and teachers to discuss each child’s progress during the school year.
Monthly Newsletter
A monthly newsletter will be shared with families to provide information about what is happening at Granite Street School.
Ongoing Contact
Teachers will be reaching out with families on a regular basis through phone calls, emails, or other forms of communication to keep you informed and work in partnership with you for the benefit of your child(ren). You can also reach out at any other time during the school year with questions and concerns. Please contact the school via phone call or email if you also want to make an appointment.
Educational Services
Curriculum
Granite Street School’s curriculum is aligned with the Maine Learning Standards. Curriculum areas include English language arts (reading, writing, language, speaking and listening) mathematics, science and engineering, social studies, health, visual and performing arts, physical education and digital learning. Students are expected to meet these grade span standards at regular intervals during their educational career. Formal and informal assessments will be used to help us better understand each student’s learning strengths and areas of need in order to provide appropriate instruction.
*After school and summer programs may be offered depending on needs and staffing availability.
Field Trips
Developmentally appropriate field trips might be scheduled throughout the school year by grade level and building teams. These trips will be designed to supplement the classroom curriculum by offering children opportunities to learn information in an exciting, different way. Parents/guardians will receive notices of field trip dates in advance and will be asked to sign a field trip permission form. Sometimes a small amount of money may be requested from each student to help defray costs.
Report Cards
Report cards will be issued three (3) times a year at approximately 12 week intervals along with PRIDE Standards Reports. The PRIDE report will share information on skills that are building blocks for learning such as work habits, communication, problem solving, and following directions.
Additional Services
In addition to regular educational instruction, other educational services are provided for students meeting eligibility requirements. These services include:
- Title I: A federally funded program that provides additional small group instruction for any children who are struggling in the areas of reading, writing and mathematics. These groups are flexible and can be changed at any time based upon data collected by the school.
- Special Education: Children referred and identified as individuals with disabilities under IDEA are provided with specifically designed individual programs based on their needs in the least restrictive educational setting.
- 504 services: These services are provided for children identified as having a physical or mental impairment, which substantially limits one or more major life activities. Accommodations or modifications are provided in order for identified students to access the general curriculum.
Student Placement
During the last several weeks of the school year, staff teams that include sending teachers, receiving teachers, the guidance counselor, learning specialists, special subject teachers, and the principal work together to create class lists. They consider various criteria (ie. class size, personalities, boy-girl ratio, learning styles, social relationships, learning levels, teaching styles, and heterogeneous groupings) in order to place children in appropriate classes for the next school year. Our goal is to provide each child with a suitable learning environment and “balanced classes” so there is a reasonable mix of learning abilities and distribution of strengths and weaknesses.
In most cases, these teams have ample knowledge about each child’s needs in order to make wise placements. However, parents/guardians sometimes have information of a different nature which might need to be considered. If this is the case, parents/guardians need to make an appointment to speak to the principal about this information and the related concerns. Please realize, however, the final decision must rest with the staff and the principal as they have many factors to consider when making these decisions and cannot provide preferential treatment to parents/ guardians.
After School Activities
There are many extra activities offered by the school or the Recreation Department that occur after school hours. Permission slips are required and will be available through the office. Students who sign up for after school activities are expected to attend all sessions unless ill.
Student Expectations
Dress Code
All students are expected to dress in appropriate clothing. This includes not wearing clothing depicting tobacco products, drugs or alcohol, other inappropriate, endorse substances, or having inappropriate language. Clothing should not reveal midriff, cleavage, backs, chest, or underwear. Clothing should not include short shorts or very thin/ spaghetti straps on shirts. Parents/guardians will be contacted if their child is wearing inappropriate clothing and may be asked to bring a change of clothing for their child.
Winter boots and hats are for outdoor use only and are not allowed to be worn during the school day.
Please make sure your child has appropriate footwear during the school day, including sneakers for PE classes.
Cell Phones
Cell phone use on school grounds or school buses is prohibited. Students may carry a cell phone in their backpack as long as it is not turned on. Any cell phone observed by staff will be taken from the student and returned at the end of the day. Repeated violations will prompt a phone call to parents/guardians. Any cell phone that interrupts a class will be taken from the student and parents/guardians will be contacted to pick up the phone at school. For safety reasons, cell phones are not to be used on school buses. Please contact the principal’s office if you have a specific concern about this.
Electronic Devices
The staff at Granite Street recognizes the positive benefits of electronic devices. Students will have one-on-one devices to be used in the classroom. At the beginning of the year, students and guardians will need to sign and return a "Device Take Home Agreement” form.
Inside the School Building
- Observe rules of good school conduct at all times.
- Walk; do not run in the building.
- Never throw objects unless instructed by an adult for learning purposes.
- Gum is not to be chewed in school.
- Students should remove baseball caps inside the school.
Pledge of Allegiance
Pairs of Fourth Graders take turns each morning reciting the Pledge of Allegiance on the intercom.
Disciplinary Consequence refer to green sheet and power school entries
Violations of school rules will result in disciplinary action. Depending on the nature and severity of the action, consequences for broken rules may include, but are not limited to the following:
- Teacher reminder of expectations
- Loss of privilege
- Cool down in a quiet location
- Spending time with an adult outside of the classroom setting
- Phone call/note home
- Parent/Teacher conference
- Multiple violations of disrespect (i.e. picking on others, poor language choice, etc.) or dangerous behavior (i.e. fighting, hitting, property destruction, etc.) may result in parent, teacher, and principal meeting to discuss consequences and next steps.
- While students are responsible for books and property that become damaged or lost, parents/guardians are liable for replacement or repair costs.
Playground/ School Property
- Students should follow directions given by adults.
- Students will remain within assigned/ designated areas, within sight of playground supervisors, and away from parked cars, the building, and windows (especially when playing with items such as balls).
- Students will refrain from unsafe behavior such as: throwing objects (ie. rocks, snowballs), fighting, rough/ harmful activities (ie. pushing, kicking, wrestling, ), playing near the building/ windows, etc.
- Students will take care of the playground and school grounds by taking care of playground equipment and refraining from littering by using the provided waste barrels.
- Any school property marked, damaged or lost – books, equipment, furniture, walls and windows – will result in loss of privileges. Students and parents/guardians will be held responsible for payment for such damage.
Drugs/Alcohol/Tobacco
Drugs: the sale, possession, distribution or use of alcohol or scheduled drugs is forbidden. Anyone found under the influence will not be allowed to remain on the school premises. Those found selling, possessing or distributing these products will be disciplined according to school policy, state and federal laws.
Smoking is prohibited by everyone anywhere on school property (buses, buildings grounds, etc.). Possession or use of tobacco products, by students, is prohibited. (Please see the school policy for more information.)
Harassment
Students are expected to treat each other with respect at all times. Any student who feels harassed (i.e. threats of physical force, intimidation, discrimination, unwanted sexual advances etc.) should report the incident to an adult. Any form of harassment is a serious offense, and all reports will be investigated in a confidential manner and appropriate disciplinary action will result for violations.
Searches
Desks, cubbies etc. are considered school property. Students should leave valuable items at home. If there are reasonable grounds to suspect that an individual is in possession of illegal or dangerous materials (drugs, weapons, etc.), the student’s clothing, desk, backpack etc. may be searched. (Please see the school policy for more information).
Weapons
Weapons (firearms, knives, chains, etc.) as defined in the school policy are not permitted on school property or at school functions and events. Violators may be suspended, expelled and referred to local authorities. (Please see the school policy for more information).
Deliveries:
Please do not have balloons, flowers etc. delivered to your child at school.
Party Invitations:
Party invitations must include everyone in the class if they are to be distributed at school.
Student RecordsAccess Rights
Parents/guardians shall have access to the entire student record at times mutually agreed upon with the school. (Please see the school policy and FERPA for more information).
Directory Information
The district will not publish or provide any personal student information on the web or other sources without first obtaining written approval from the parent/guardian.
Transfer
Upon written request from a school designee to which your child has transferred, all student records will be transferred. (I.e. grades, test results, disciplinary reports, special education records, etc.)
Food Service Program
All elementary school children may participate in the school lunch and/or breakfast program. A letter concerning a change in the funding for school meal programs was a part of the packet of information provided at the open house in August. Students will be assigned and use ID Cards for meal accountability and for purchasing a la carte items. A la carte items are limited to milk and extra servings of entrees. Funds can be put on student accounts by sending payment to Millinocket School Nutrition, 199 State Street in Millinocket or by sending the payment in an envelope labeled with the student's name and grade. Checks made payable to Millinocket School Nutrition. Payments can also be made online at www.myschoolbucks.com.
Lunchroom Expectations
- Students will follow directions given by lunchroom supervisors.
- Students will keep their hands and feet to themselves.
- Students will raise their hand if they need help or to ask to leave their seat.
- Students will use their inside voices while socializing with others.
- Students will clean up the area around their seat before leaving the cafeteria.
- Students will demonstrate appropriate table manners.
- Students will follow the same rules of conduct as expected in all other school areas.
Health TopicsSchool Nurse
The school nurse covers both Granite St. and Stearns/Jr. Senior High School. There is always a medical professional available by phone in case of an emergency. Please remember to update the front office if you have a change of phone number or address, in order to help us reach you if there is an emergency at school. Also, please notify the front office if you are going away and your child will be staying with someone else.
Illness:
Please do not send your child to school if they have been vomiting, have diarrhea, have a temperature above 100.4, or have had harsh cold symptoms during the past 24 hours. If your child requires over the counter or prescription medication at school due to a short term illness, or is too ill to participate in school activities such as recess and PE, they should stay home to recuperate.
Home Injuries:
If your student receives an injury at home, please try to care for it at that time and not wait until he/she comes to school the next day. That being said, we would be happy to follow up on any injury that happens at home.
School Injuries:
Parents/guardians may be called, sent a message or receive a note from school if there is an injury that requires any follow up care. Minor scrapes, bumps and bruises would not typically fall into this category (unless they are on the head or neck).
Physical Education:
If a student has sustained an injury that requires them not to participate in PE class, they must have a note from a provider stating that they are unable to participate and for how long. They will need another note from a provider allowing them back into PE class.
Vision/Hearing:
Students in grades Pre-K, Kindergarten, grades 1, 3 & 5 will have vision, hearing, height and weight screenings. If the student fails the vision or hearing screening, a written notice will be sent home for follow up, per state regulations.
Medication:
All medication will be administered by trained employees at our schools. All medications (prescription and over the counter) must be brought in by a parent/guardian. Medication must be sent in the original container with an expiration date and prescription label (if applicable). All medication given at school must be accompanied by a permission form, which can be found in the front office or the nurse’s office. If prescription medication is to be given at school for 15 or more days a written order must be completed by the prescribing provider.
Immunizations: All Pre-K students are required to have: 4 DTaP, 3 Polio, 1 MMR and 1 Varicella. All kindergarten through grade 5 students are required to have: 5 DPT shots, 4 polio, 2 MMR, and 2 Varicella. Please call the school nurse at 723-6426 if you have any questions.
Head Checks:
Children are examined occasionally at school for head lice. Please check frequently at home and feel free to contact the school if there is a concern that a student is infested with head lice. All cases of head lice are confidential and will be handled directly with the parent/guardian.
Healthy Snacks:
Please send healthy snacks with your child. (ex: fruit, cheese, yogurt, crackers, raw veggies).
Water Bottles:
Teachers may choose to allow students to have water bottles at their desks during the school day. Only water is allowed.
Dressing for the Weather:
Please make sure your child is dressed appropriately for the weather. (Ex: cold – jackets, boots, ski pants, hat, mittens and boots; hot - loose fitting clothing).
Outdoor Recess:
If weather permits, students go outside for a 15-20 minute outdoor recess. During inclement weather or when the temperature or windchill is below zero degrees, students will have indoor recess. Special arrangements can be made for students who are unable to go outside due to a medical issue (provider note required).
Asbestos:
All schools in the Millinocket School Department have been inspected for the presence of asbestos-containing materials. A written plan for the management of these materials has been developed. This plan is available for inspection at the Central Office of the Millinocket School Department.
Transportation
Bus Policy
- All students living in the immediate vicinity of schools are walkers or riders who are dropped off and picked up by an adult.
- All students, regardless of grade, age or locale, may receive transportation by the bus for a medical reason (substantiated by a doctor) if he or she is deemed unable to walk.
- All students must ride on assigned buses and be on time at designated bus stops. Parents/guardians requesting changes need to contact Bruce Bragdon.
- The School Department provides bus transportation for students as a privilege. Monitors are on the buses to ensure the safety of all riders.
- Students reported to the principal by a bus driver or bus monitor for safety and rule infractions will be given a warning and a chance to correct their behavior. Parents/guardians will be notified by mail, phone, or email and asked to help correct their child’s behavior. Bus privileges may be suspended per school policy. The bus privilege will be restored upon evidence of student improvement.
Bus Safely
- Take your seat promptly and sit properly, facing forward at all times.
- Place backpacks under your seat or on your lap.
- Keep the aisle of the bus clear at all times.
- Always keep your head, hands and arms inside the bus.
- Throwing objects inside or outside of the bus is not permitted.
- Talk quietly; the driver needs to concentrate to safely drive the bus. Fighting, shouting, or use of obscene language is not permitted.
- Be absolutely quiet when approaching a railroad crossing.
- Never change seats while the bus is moving.
- Participate in all bus evacuation procedures.
- Eating and drinking (this includes chewing gum) is not allowed on school buses at any time. This rule protects students or drivers that have food allergies and anaphylaxis, prevents choking, and maintains bus cleanliness.
- Do not use electronics on the bus.
- Always follow the bus driver’s instructions.