Rancho Family Handbook
2021-2022
Welcome to Rancho!
Dear Families,
This handbook will provide our students and families information about Rancho. Over the years, Rancho Elementary has established a reputation for outstanding educational achievement as well as positive school spirit and strong morale. The cooperative partnership between school, home, and the community make this possible.
The procedures and expectations outlined in this handbook, have been developed to allow the school to operate in an orderly, safe, and secure manner. Your cooperation in abiding by these procedures and rules will allow the staff to concentrate on providing the best possible educational experiences for your child.
We are all looking forward to a successful year building community, making memories, and helping your child grow and thrive.
Please use this handbook to refer to any questions about policies and procedures!
-Cath
Rancho Elementary School
1430 Johnson St, Novato, CA 94947
Phone: (415) 897 - 3101
Attendance: (415) - 897 - 9082
Fax: (415) 897 - 0007
Website: http://rancho.nusd.org
Catherine Nam, Principal
Carole Mencarelli, Office Manger
Lara Giusti, Office Tech
Marisol Nita, Community Liaison
Aubin Giampaoli, PTA President
Early Intervention Pre-School
Molly Ostroff, Office Manager
Phone: (415) 493 - 4600
YMCA Daycare
Alondra Mederos (Rancho Site Director)
Phone: (415) 898-6061
email: amederos@ymcasf.org
Register: https://www.ymcasf.org/afterschool
VISION
Every child will learn and grow in a highly enriched environment with rigorous standards and integrated learning practices. We commit to high personal standards, instill meaningful lifelong skills, foster responsible connections, and inspire positive impacts within our global community.
MISSION
Rancho Elementary School is committed to a culture of learning that promotes a growth mindset and motivates each and every student to maximize his or her potential. Our staff, students, and parents model and foster a positive and collaborative educational environment. Together, we will strive to instill in each student a sense of responsibility, citizenship, and pride in achieving academic excellence.
Every student will take the Eagle Pledge and recite it at the end of every Welcome Wednesday!
I pledge to respect the other children and adults at my school. I will always take care of school property and keep it clean. I will always dress appropriately for school. I promise to be safe and responsible and think before I act. I will always do my best because I am proud to be a Rancho Eagle. Remember to be safe, respectful, and responsible.
Who are the adults working with my child?
Front Office Staff:
Catherine Nam - Principal
Carole Mencarelli - Office Manager (The GO-TO person for EVERYTHING! :))
Lara Giusti - Attendance Clerk, Restorative Practice Circles, Yard Supervisor, Wellness Center
Marisol Nita - Community Liaison - (Supporting families and can help with translations)
Monica Lopez -Day Custodian
Tung Tran - Night Custodian
Teaching Staff:
TK/Kinder: Amy Bondanza, Kristina Bradshaw, Janice Pack, Kayla Casey
1st Grade: Kristen Davis, Irene Howard, Julie Poore
2nd Grade: Shereen Daly, Michael Stunz, Elaine Trang
3rd Grade: Kristy Chipman, Nancy O'Neill, Debbie Robles
4th Grade: Debie Robles, Lori Perez
5th Grade: Vanessa Coleman, Janelle McGoldrick
Music: Ms. Mary Jean DeBenedict
PE: Scott Davis & Pete Johnson
Resource Specialist: Caren Gutierrez
Speech Therapist: Krista Ytkin
Occupational Therapist: Shanee Rosenberg
TOSA (Teacher on Special Assignment) Data/Assessment: Jodi Castro
TOSA (Teacher on Special Assignment - Multi-Tiered Systems of Support MTSS: Kate Chassman
Super Support Staff
Librarian - Martha Paulos
FANS Chef - Shilpa Velkur
Resource Aide - Andrew Beach
Nurse - Shannon Field
Early Intervention Staff
Program Manager - TBD
Office Manager - Molly Ketring Ostroff
Room 2 Pre-School: Alysse McDaniel, Stephanie Walley
Room 3 Pre-School: Melissa Schwab, Tasha Vogel-Seidenberg, Linda Goodrich
Social Cognition Class: TBD
Important Dates - HOLIDAYS and Minimum Days!
August
- Aug 17 - First Day of School
- Aug 19 - Back to School Night - 12:35 Dismissal
September
- Sept 6 - NO SCHOOL (Labor Day)
- Sept 16 - Minimum Day - 12:35 Dismissal
October
- Oct 25 - Minimum Day - 12:35 Dismissal
November
- Nov 1 - NO SCHOOL (Professional Development Day)
- Nov 11 - NO SCHOOL (Veteran's Day)
- Nov 15 - 19 - CONFERENCE WEEK - 12:35 Dismissal
- Nov 21 - 26 - NO SCHOOL (Thanksgiving Week)
December
- Dec 20 - 31 - NO SCHOOL (Winter Break)
January
- Jan 17 - NO SCHOOL (Dr. Martin Luther King Jr Day)
- Jan 18 - NO SCHOOL (Professional Development Day)
February
- Feb 21 - 25 - NO SCHOOL (Mid-Winter Break)
March
- Mar 21 - Minimum Day - 12:35 Dismissal
- Mar 31 - Back to School Night - 12:35 Dismissal
April
- Apr 4 - 8 - NO SCHOOL (Spring Break)
May
- May 30 - NO SCHOOL (Memorial Day)
June
- Jun 9 - Last Day of School - 11:55 Dismissal
Click the links for the year-long calendar of holidays and minimum days!
CLICK HERE for a Printable Version of Rancho's Bell Schedule
School Communication
Eagle News
- The Eagle News is the weekly family newsletter that is sent out via email every Sunday evening
- It can be translated into hundreds of different languages
- The Eagle News contains information about: Dates/Events/Upcoming News
- Collaboration of School and PTA News
- Relatives and friends are welcome to subscribe and stay up to date with Rancho happenings!
Rancho's Facebook Page
- Photos and videos from school activities and events
- Information about upcoming events
- A way to connect with other families
Rancho's Instagram Page
- @ranchoelementary
- Photos and videos from school activities and events
- Information about upcoming events
Rancho School Website
- Access the school website at http://rancho.nusd.org/
Konstella
- School and classroom communication about upcoming events
- Form classroom parent groups to connect
Reporting Student Progress
The staff at Rancho makes every effort to keep families well informed about their child’s progress.
Friday Folders
- Regular communication between school and home will happen through the “Friday Folder.”
- Please read and review the feedback your child receives
- Your student should return the folder every Monday.
Report Cards
- FALL - During your November conference
- WINTER - March 11th
- SPRING - June 9th
Individual Connections
- Your child's teacher may reach out for individual chats throughout the year as necessary
- You may also contact your child's teacher at any time if you have a question or concern
Contacting Teachers
- Methods of contacting teachers include note, voicemail, or e-mail.
- Teachers will make all attempts to reply within 24 hours.
Concerns
- Step 1: First contact the person involved and attempt to solve the problem.
- Step 2: If a problem is not reconciled after utilizing Step 1, a parent may request a meeting with the principal.
Communication Events
Back to School Night
- This evening provides families with important information regarding curriculum and teacher expectations.
- Children should not be in attendance.
- August 19th, 2021 @ 6:00
Open House
- Families are invited in the spring to visit their child’s classroom.
- Children are welcome to attend Open House.
- March 31st, 2022 @ 6:00
Welcome Wednesdays
- Families are invited to join our Welcome Wednesday community time every Wednesday morning at 8:40.
Families who have a concern about their child, whether or not it is school-related, are encouraged to first speak to their child’s teacher, who may refer the particular concern to the school’s Student Success Team (SST) for a more comprehensive review.
The Student Success Team, which meets regularly, is made up of the principal or an administrative designee, school support staff, regular education teachers and parents/guardians.
As a result of noted concerns, the SST may recommend interventions in support of the student’s success. Assessment for special education eligibility and support may be considered when a severe discrepancy between ability and achievement is suspected.
Support personnel is available to serve the needs of Rancho students:
- Community Liaison
- English Learner Para-Educator
- Speech and Language Pathologist
- Occupational Therapist
- Resource Specialist
- School Psychologist
- Counseling Support
- Restorative Practices Coordinator
Office Hours
- Monday through Friday, 8:00AM to 4:00PM.
Late Student Arrival
- If a student arrives at school after the start of the school day (8:40AM), he or she must report to the office and sign in before going to the classroom.
Early Student Pick Up
- During the school day, students will only be permitted to leave the school premises in the company of a parent, guardian, or an authorized adult.
- The adult is required to check in at the office and sign the student out
As a courtesy, send a note to the teacher.
Arrive a few minutes before the pickup time so that we may call your child down to the office.
We request that you limit this as much as possible due to the fact that it disrupts the education of all students.
Forgotten Lunches/Supplies Etc
- Leave the item on the RED table right outside the office door
- Inform an office staff member the item is there. (They will call the classroom and have the student come down to pick it up.)
- Please do not take any items directly to the classroom - it disrupts the teacher and student learning
Getting a Message to Your Student
- Call the office to relay the message
- The office staff will inform the classroom teacher of the message
Campus Visitors & Volunteers
- Visitors, including regular volunteers, must check into the office
- NUSD Board policy requires all parents/visitors to sign in and wear a visitor badge while on campus.
- While a guest on campus, cell phones should be turned off or placed on vibrate.
Custody
- In most cases, divorced parents continue to have equal rights, such as access to information.
- If you have a court order that limits the rights of one parent in matters such as custody or visitation, bring a copy to the school office.
- Unless your court order is on file with us, we must provide equal rights and access to both parents.
Animals on Campus
- Dogs and other animals are not permitted on school grounds without prior permission from the site administrator.
- School grounds begin at the Arroyo Avichi park entrance.
- As noted on posted signage, only service animals must be checked in at the front office.
- There is no charge for books used in the instructional program.
- In the case of lost or damaged books, notices of the cost will be sent home and payment will be expected.
- Repair and/or compensation for damaged devices will be determined on an individual basis.
The Library
- Families, as well as students, are encouraged to use the school library.
- Books in the general collection may be checked out for two weeks.
Lost or Damaged Books
- Lost books will be paid at the current cost of the replacement rather than the purchase price. Damaged books will be assessed by the Library Clerk and a fine will be charged for the amount of repair needed.
Student Belongings
- Please LABEL garments, lunch boxes, and other belongings with your child's first and last name.
- Unclaimed items will be donated to charity during school breaks.
- Personal items such as toys, trinkets, etc. are not to be brought to school.
- Rancho is not responsible for lost or stolen items.
ATTENDANCE Line: (415) 897-9082
General Absences
It is essential that your child attend school every day or part of the day. Adults must telephone the school by 9:00AM if their child will be absent.
The 24-hour Attendance Hot Line number is 897-9082 ext. 700.
It is the adult's responsibility to respond to the school within three days.
- Not all absences are excused.
- Review the information below to see what constitutes an excused absence.
Please keep children out of school when they are sick. A child should remain at home if he/she has swollen glands, a sore throat, rashes or sores, abnormal temperature, nausea, earache, headache, or lice. Contagious diseases should be reported to the office. Students have to be fever-free for 24 hours without medication before returning to school.
Children cannot be released to individuals who are not on the child’s emergency card.
Notwithstanding E.C. 48200, a pupil shall be excused from school when the absence is: A.
- Due to his or her illness
- Due to quarantine under the direction of a county or city health officer
- For the purpose of having medical, dental, optometric, or chiropractic services rendered
- For the purpose of attending the funeral services of a member of his or her immediate family, so long as the absence is not more than one day if the service is conducted in California and not more than three days if the service is conducted outside California
- For justifiable personal reasons, including, but not limited to, an appearance in court, attendance at a funeral service, observance of a holiday or ceremony of his or her religion, attendance at religious retreats, or attendance at an employment conference when the pupil’s absence has been requested in writing by the parent or guardian and approved by the principal or a designated representative pursuant to uniform standards established by the governing board
- Participation in religious instruction or exercises in accordance with district policy
A pupil absent from school under this section shall be allowed to complete all assignments and tests missed during the absence that can be reasonably provided and, upon satisfactory completion within a reasonable period of time, shall be given full credit thereof. The teacher of any class from which a pupil is absent shall determine the tests and assignments, which shall be reasonably equivalent to, but not necessarily identical to, the tests and assignments that the pupil missed during the absence
For the purposes of this section, attendance at religious retreats shall not exceed four hours per semester
Independent Study
Short-Term Independent Study may be an option for students who have unavoidable absences and will be absent for a minimum of three days (not including illness).
- Short-Term Independent Study contracts will not be issued during spring standardized testing periods.
- Families must notify the office a minimum of five school days prior to the absence to request an independent study contract.
- All student work must be submitted to the school on the contracted day of return.
- If all the work is returned with satisfactory progress, the student will maintain a clear attendance record.
If the student’s work is unsatisfactory, or incomplete, the school can only grant excused days of absence for the amount of satisfactory work returned.
- The additional days of absence will be considered unexcused and will count towards truancy.
- Although a student may satisfactorily complete an independent study contract, the student will not qualify for perfect attendance.
Lateness/Tardiness
Children are encouraged to establish a habit of promptness. Students are at a disadvantage when they enter late, as they frequently miss directions given by the teacher.
- Tardies count towards truancy.
- Students will be marked tardy if they arrive at Rancho or enter the classroom after 8:40.
- Children who arrive late must first report to the office before going to class.
- Students who leave school early or are tardy will not be eligible to receive perfect attendance.
The Kiss-n-Go Circle
While it is highly encouraged for students to walk or ride to school daily, there are times you may need to drive and drop your student off in the Kiss -n- Go Circle.
Traffic around schools can pose a safety problem, especially at the beginning and end of each school day. Our goal is to make sure our community is SAFE! Please help look out for our students and families.
- DRIVE SLOWLY!
- Practice Patience! (Even if you have to wait an extra 30 seconds to follow the car in front of you, it can help keep someone safe.)
- Allow EXTRA time and leave earlier to drop off
BEFORE SCHOOL
Kiss - n- Go Circle (Before School)
- Pull forward all the way before unloading, even if there are no cars behind you.
- Unload only from the passenger side of the car.
- Unload QUICKLY in the Kiss & Go Circle.
- Drivers must remain in the car.
- If your child needs help exiting the car, you need to park and walk into school.
- Stay single file. Please don't pass other cars and pull in front of someone.
- Please exit the circle promptly after unloading your child
Walking Routes
- Walking path from Pini Hardware
- Bridge at the end of Hill Rd
- Walking path from Novato Blvd
- Church parking lot - by Novato Parents Nursery School
- Harrison Ct - Park and walk
- Arroyo Avichi Park - Access from Taft Court
Bike or Scoot to School
- Students are encouraged to bike or ride a scooter to school!
- Helmets must be worn
- Bikes and scooters need to be walked when on campus
- Students should follow the safety rules of the road
Parking
- Please park in designated visitor parking spaces
- Staff spaces are assigned and allocated for the Rancho Staff. They need them to get to work on time too!
- Drivers who park illegally (in the fire lane or in handicapped spots) may be ticketed Novato police
Before School - Student Protocols
- Students will enter through their designated entrance
- Walk to classroom dots and wait for the teacher
AFTER SCHOOL
Kiss & Go (After School)
- Pull forward all the way before picking up, even if there are no cars behind you.
- Students need to enter the car from the passenger side only.
Load QUICKLY in the Kiss & Go Circle.
Do not park in the Kiss & Go Circle and/or leave car unattended.
The Kiss & Go is for loading and unloading only.
Drivers must remain in the car.
Pick-Up
- There is no waiting in the interior of the school outside of classrooms.
- If you would like to greet your child at pick up, you must park in a parking space
- Students need to wait calmly for their grown-up
- Walk to your ride/grown-up
- Please be prompt when picking up your student
- There is not any after school supervision
- Families will be called if students are not picked up promptly
- Students should go directly to their home or area for pick up
- If any issues arise, please inform the school
- Students represent Rancho and are expected to exhibit appropriate conduct while traveling home
After School (Grown-Up Protocols)
- Parents on campus after school are responsible for supervising their children in accordance with the school rules.
- The same behaviors demonstrated in school are expected of children after school.
- Parents are expected to be cautious and keep supervised children within their line of vision.
*Please note that the upper yard playground is closed after school. (YMCA Aftercare uses the playground.)
What do I do if my student takes medication?
Children may take medication prescribed by a physician and get help from school personnel during the school day if:
- The office has a written statement from the physician detailing the medication name, method, amount, and time schedules by which the medication is to be taken.
- Parent, guardian or caregiver submits a written statement indicating his/her desire that the school district allocate the medication.
- Parent signs a release statement on a special form available from Rancho Elementary.
Students may be allowed to self-administer an asthma inhaler or Epipen injection if the parent has completed a form with all of the above information and confirmation from the physician stating the following:
- It is necessary for the student to carry the medication.
- Student has been trained in the use of the medication
- Student is able to self-administer the medication
- Parents and physician must complete and sign Authorization to Administer Medication/Treatment and medication must be in original container.
If your child is on a continuing medication regimen for a non-episodic condition, you are required to notify the school office of the medication being taken, the current dosage, and the name of the supervising physician.
Medications include prescription medications and over-the-counter medications including but not limited to Tylenol, cough drops, cough syrup, vitamins, etc.
All Medications must be delivered to the office. Medications must be picked up before the end of the school year or the following week. Otherwise, the medication will be discarded.
New medication forms must be filled out yearly.
School Lunch Information
Lunch is an important meal of a day. Food is what gives you energy. Lunch raises your blood sugar level in the middle of the day, making you be able to focus for the rest of the afternoon.
This year, EVERYONE will receive a free lunch. You have to option to send your child with a lunch from home, but they may order the school lunch at no cost.
If your child brings lunch to school, use reusable containers—no glass and, if possible, no baggies. Soda, gum, and candy are not allowed. Nut free zones must be honored.
How Can We Be Safe, Respectful, and Responsible During Lunch?
1. Line “cuts” will not be allowed.
2. Use quiet voices when talking to a neighbor.
3. Listen with your whole body when an adult is giving directions.
4. Remain seated while eating.
5. Food or any other object should not be thrown during lunch.
6. Students are not to share food or ask another student for food or milk.
7. During rainy day recesses, students are permitted to participate in teacher-selected activities.
8. Lunches are to be placed in the red bins.
9. Nut-free zones must be honored.
Click HERE for more information about FREE LUNCHES for the 2021-2022 school year.
Birthday Celebrations
While we love birthdays (we ALL experience them), we celebrate birthdays without food snacks brought in by parents or children. Much discussion with staff, PTA, and School Site Council went into this decision. The following bullet points will help you better understand and explain the reasons for this policy.
Many of our students have various food allergies
It can be a hardship to bring in treats for the entire class
Some families do not want their children to eat doughnuts, cake, and cookies during the school day.
Your child's teacher will share how birthdays will be celebrated!
Please remember:
- Students are not allowed to bring snacks or items to school to share with other students in celebration of birthdays, etc.
- Flowers and balloons are also not to be delivered to the school.
- Please coordinate the distribution of invitations outside of school.
The First 22 Days of School
Overall Expecations
Vision, Mission, and Eagle Pledge
Be Safe, Be Respectful, and Be Responsible
Eagle Pledge
Partners in Safety
Respect all adults at school
Follow all classroom and playground rules
Show Respect, Make Good Decisions, and Solve Problems
Walk in a safe, silent manner, staying to the right side in the hallways
HALL Walking - (Hands at sides, All eyes forward, Lips zipped, Low speed)
Always ask for adult permission before leaving the classroom or playground.
Outdoor Expectations
Playground Etiquette
Follow the instructions of the playground supervisors
Eat in the designated eating areas and play in designated playing areas.
First part of recess is reserved snack time.
Play time will begin at the Yard Supervisor’s signal.
Always ask for adult permission before leaving the playground
Play fair & share; play by the rules, include everyone.
Toys or other personal items should stay at home
Gymnastics, chasing games (i.e. tag) and play fighting are not allowed.
Use all available equipment for its intended purpose.
Use bathrooms properly
Walk calmly to class at the end of recess
Lunchtime Etiquette
Be orderly and respectful in the lunch lines and at the tables
Stay seated, and raise a quiet hand if you need help from an adult
Reduce, Reuse, Recycle. Use reusable containers, no plastic baggies when possible.
Keep all trash in your lunchbox and take it home with you.
Be mindful of the nut-free/allergy table.
For safety reasons, absolutely NO sharing of food or drink.
Practice good manners and use quiet voices
Bathroom Etiquette and Procedures
Single occupants in stalls - respect others’ privacy
Be sanitary (flush, wash, dry, & throw paper towel away in trash can)
Use quiet voices
Take care of business and exit
Hallway Behavior
Any student outside the classroom during the school day, must have a pass
Be respectful of the learning in classrooms you walk by (silent)
Take care of your business responsibly and efficiently
HALL Walking - (Hands at sides, All eyes forward, Lips zipped, Low speed)
Respect other classes when packing backpacks - use quiet voices
Dress Code & Belongings
Dress Code
Wear sensible shoes for P.E. & playground activity (No open toe shoes/Crocs/flip flops/sandals)
Clothing should cover undergarments
Clothing must cover chest, torso, and buttocks (This applies to very short shorts, skirts, saggy jeans, and halter or backless tops)
Clothing and backpacks shall be free of designs promoting controlled substances, violence, or media rated Teen/Mature/Adult Only (including Fortnite)
Hats or hoods remain off inside classrooms
Personal Belongings
Label all personal possessions: jackets, lunch boxes, water bottles, etc.
Toys or other personal items (including electronic devices) should stay at home.
Respect others’ belongings (i.e. don’t go into others’ backpacks)
Before and After School
Before school Etiquette
Walk in through your designated entrance
Stand on the dots near your classroom
Use low voices when talking to your friends
After School and Dismissal behavior
Put chairs up
Check the floor for learning tools and garbage - Pick up and place in the proper areas
Wait for teachers to dismiss you
Walk to your designated pick up area and wait calmly for your adult
Interacting with Others
Interacting with Peers
Treat everyone with respect (Golden Rule)
Use an appropriate tone of voice
Be polite - say “please, thank you, excuse me”
Listen carefully to what other say
Be inclusive
Be helpful
Do Good. Be Kind.
Interacting with Adults
Treat all adults with equal respect
Be courteous and respond to adults when they speak to you
Address adults as Mr., Ms., or Mrs.
Be polite - say “please, thank you, excuse me”
Academic Expectations
Academic Expectations
Arrive on time and prepared
Be ready to learn & do your best every day (get enough sleep, eat a healthy breakfast, bring homework, etc.)
Be an active participant in your own learning
Respect others’ right to learn.
Homework Expectations
Set a designated area at home
Try your best
Read every night - 30 minutes
TK-1st - Return Homework packets on Friday
2nd-5th - Complete assigned daily work
3rd-5th Use your Homework Planner to record homework and communicate nightly homework expectations with your family
Rewards and Repairs
Positive Behavior Reinforcement
Eagle Eyes
Eagle Cards
Welcome Wednesday Shout Outs
Positive reinforcement systems within the classroom- Per teacher discretion.
Repairing Mistakes
Behavior Reflection Form
Restorative Circles
Community Service Projects (Repairing any harm done)
Behavior Contracts
Other Expectations
Office Procedures
Wait patiently for office staff to help you
Assembly Behavior
Arrive in a calm manner
Be prompt
Sit on your bottom in assigned area, legs should be crisscrossed
Listen to the speaker & be respectful
Clap, laugh, and respond appropriately
Stay seated & look to teacher to be dismissed
Disaster Drills
Listen to your teacher for directions
HALL Walking to designated area
Be ready to respond to roll call
If in transition, (i.e. bathroom), walk toward designated area, nearest classroom, or nearest visible staff member
Substitute / Guest Teacher Behavior
All academic & behavioral expectations apply
Be respectful, responsible, & helpful
Be flexible & understanding of substitute’s different teaching styles
Rainy Day Behavior
Walk in class & halls; walk under awnings and stay dry
Follow lunchtime etiquette and classroom expectations
Use quiet voices and play games calmly
Stay in seat during eating time
Ask adult permission to leave class
Put garbage in cans outside
Stay dry (don’t play in the rain or puddles)
School Wide Community (Evening / Weekend) Events
All students must be under adult supervision
All school rules still apply
No wheels on campus (i.e. bikes, scooters, skateboards)
Homework at Rancho Elementary is intended to assist students in the following:
- Provide practice, review, and application of basic skills
- Reinforce and extend school learning experiences
- Allow for the application of learning to real-life situations
- Develop independent study habits, responsibility, and self-discipline
- Develop organizational and time management skills
- Stimulate critical thinking and problem-solving
Student Homework Expectations
Use a designated homework area
Try your best
Complete assigned work
Read every night - 30 minutes
Adult Homework Expectations
- Help your child set up a designated homework area
- Schedule a designated consistent time to do homework
- Allow students the independence to do the work on their own
- Ask questions such as: What are the directions? What resources do you have to help you? When have you done something similar at school?
- Connect with the teacher if your child is struggling with assignments
Teacher Homework Expectations
- Assigned work will be review and practice: Monday - Thursday
- No new concepts are expected to be learned during homework
- Nightly reading is expected
- Teachers will contact families if a student needs extra support with planning, organization, and completion of homework
While the goal is to support our students in developing life-long study habits and practicing concepts introduced at school, there are consequences for incomplete or non-returned homework. These may include:
- Homework alert
- Classroom consequence
- Parent notification
Students must take homework with them at dismissal time and bring it back with them. The office is not to be disturbed if homework is forgotten. Returning completed homework to school is not an adult responsibility, it is the student's responsibility.
- It is not necessary to request homework during short absence periods.
- If a child is sick, they need to reset and recuperate
- Teachers will make individual decisions as to what work must be completed when children return.
- If your child is going to be absent two or more days, you may request homework and/or assignments.
- For Homework Requests: Call the office by 9:00AM to receive homework for the day. The homework will be in the office after 2:45P
Classroom Volunteers
If you would like to volunteer to work in the classroom or with students, you will need:
- A current TB test
- Are encouraged to be fully vaccinated
VIP on Campus
VIP on Campus invites all positive role models (mothers and fathers, grandmothers and grandfathers, aunts and uncles, older siblings, family friends, and other community members) to volunteer at least one day during the school year. VIPs on Campus might assist with the Kiss 'N Go Circle, read with students, help teachers prepare projects, engage with kids at recess, eat lunch with students, or assist students with a variety of activities in your child's classroom and other classrooms.
If you would like to be a VIP, you will need:
- A current TB test
- Are encouraged to be fully vaccinated
Come join the fun and spend a day (or a morning) at Rancho!
Other Volunteer Opportunities
Here is just a sample of how families help support Rancho! (And if you have a new idea - let us know! We welcome all ideas and help!)
Field Trip Volunteers
Field Trip Volunteer Chaperones
- Need a current TB test
- Are encouraged to be fully vaccinated
- Required to be fingerprinted.
Field Trip Volunteer Drivers
- Need a current TB test
- Must be fingerprinted
- Must complete the “Field Trip Driver” form with required documents attached to the office at least 10 working days prior to the field trip.
- Once these forms are on file and approved, the driver is certified to drive for the entire school year.
- It is the driver's responsibility to notify the school of any changes regarding vehicle information.
- Conduct a thorough vehicle inspection prior to the trip. The inspection should include gas, lights, horn, turn signals, brakes, tires (including spare) and emergency tools.
- Drivers are to travel to and from destination points with no side trips.
- The driver is responsible in the event of an accident or injury resulting from the use of their vehicle.
The District accepts no responsibility for damage or loss to the vehicle resulting from use on the trip.
- All passengers must use their seatbelts at all times, one passenger per seatbelt.
- SB929 requires that children younger than 8 years old must ride in safety/booster seats, unless they are 4' 9" in height.
- Please be aware that when your child attends a field trip using private vehicles, a safety/booster seat will need to be provided if he/she is younger than 8 years old unless they are at least 4' 9" tall.
- The California Highway Patrol website also states that CHP will look for children to be seated in the back seat.
The Rancho community has worked together to build strong relationships between students and between staff and students. The focus is on building a safe and trusting community where children want to come to school. Eagles take pride in their community, are kind to their friends, and build strong character.
Build a Culture of Caring
- Daily Classroom Circles
- Learn about each other - build trusting relationships
- Assume best intentions of ALL
Positive Behavior Reinforcement
Eagle Eyes - Awarded for being safe, respectful, and responsible (Redeem at the Student Store)
Eagle Cards - Earned for exceptional character, perseverance, and working towards your academic goals (Public Recognition - photos and Welcome Wednesday)
Welcome Wednesday Shout Outs - Awarded for monthly character traits
Positive reinforcement systems within the classroom- Per teacher discretion.
Sometimes students make mistakes. When this happens, a restorative practice approach that is inclusive and does not isolate or exclude students is implemented
Repairing Mistakes
Behavior Reflection Form
Restorative Circles
Community Service Projects (Repairing any harm done)
Behavior Contracts
Conference with the principal
Reflection Form
- Hear all voices
- Allow students to take ownership and reflect on how to make things better
- Find out the root of the behavior
Restorative Circle (Led by Lara Giusti)
- Circles usually happen during recess (or right before or after)
- Lara is a trained facilitator and helps students work through social dynamics
- The students determine how to repair the harm and give back to their community
Community Service Project
- Repairs harm
- Gives back to the school and community
Students may be suspended for fighting, profanity, disobedience, threats, gender, ethnic, or racial remarks. A conference with the principal will be held prior to the child returning to school. Students will be suspended from school for additional rule infractions according to the California Education Code.
Bullying
The Rancho School administration and faculty are fully committed to protecting all students from bullying, racism, harassment, or sexual harassment of any type. The administration trains the staff every year about the NUSD board policies that address bullying and harassment. The Rancho School administration and faculty will be proactive and enforce the board policies that address harassment and bullying and, to the extent possible, shall focus on prevention of bullying by establishing clear rules for student conduct and strategies to establish a positive, collaborative school climate.
If students or staff witness or hear of any type of behavior related to bullying, racism, or harassment, the student or staff member must report the incident to the administration immediately. Once the incident is reported to the administration, the administration will investigate the incident and take appropriate steps to mitigate the situation. A No Bully Solution Team® is a district-supported practice utilized to restore the positive relationship between the bullied student and the bully and maintain a positive school climate for all students. Solution Teams are available to any student and have proven to be a successful intervention in ending bullying. Under the guidance of a trained adult, a group of students are brought together to solve the bullying of one of their peers. Solution Teams are non- punitive and build upon empathy to solve the problem.
Students found to have violated the harassment/bullying policy will earn appropriate consequences based upon the findings in the investigation that range from No Bully Solution Team®, restorative justice, peer court, school detention, school suspension, and expulsion. Consequences and solutions are varied depending on the developmental age of students and the history of problem behaviors.
Bullying behavior is repeated over time and includes the use of hurtful words and/or acts.
- Aggressive or unwanted and unwelcome behavior by an individual or groups of individuals
- Ridicule, harass, humiliate, or intimidate another while on school grounds, at a school-sponsored activity, while traveling to or from school, on a school bus, during any activity related to school attendance,
- Directed against students or school district personnel
- Sufficiently severe or pervasive to have the effect of disrupting class work, creating substantial disorder, and invading the rights of either students or school personnel or students by creating an intimidating or hostile environment.
- Verbal
- Non-verbal
- Emotional,
- Physical
- Cyber bullying
Harassment
The Novato Unified School District is committed to providing an educational environment free of unlawful harassment. The District maintains a strict policy prohibiting harassment of students because of sex, race, color, national origin, ethnicity, religion, age, physical or mental disability, blindness or severely impaired vision or any other basis protected by federal, state or local law ordinance, or regulations. All such harassment is unlawful. Irrespective of law, the District believes that all such harassment is offensive. Unlawful harassment in any form, including verbal, physical and visual conduct, threats, demands and retaliation, is prohibited. Violation of this policy by an employee may result in discipline, which may include discharge, depending on the seriousness of the violation. Violation of this policy by another student may result in discipline, which may include suspension or expulsion, depending on the nature and seriousness of the violation. (See Education Code Sections 48900 and 48900.2)
If a student feels that he/she is being harassed, the principal, teacher, or other adults at the school should be told immediately.
Students found to have violated the harassment/bullying policy will earn appropriate consequences based upon the findings in the investigation that range from No Bully Solution Team®, restorative justice, peer court, school detention, school suspension, and expulsion. Consequences and solutions are varied depending on the developmental age of students and the history of problem behaviors.
A student has the right to an informal conference with the principal or designee prior to a suspension, at which time he/she has these rights:
- To be informed of the charges against him/her and the evidence used as a basis for the charges
- To present his/her side of the incident and any supporting evidence of testimony
The parent or legal guardian has the right to:
- Oral notification at the time of suspension (school personnel will make a reasonable effort)
- Written notice following the suspension
- Request a conference with school personnel
The principal may suspend a student under an emergency situation where the principal determines that the situation constitutes a clear and present danger to the lives, safety or health of students or school personnel.
Any student in grades 4th and 5th who engages in the sexual harassment of anyone in or from the school may be subject to disciplinary action up to and including expulsion as specified in School Board Policy 5149.
Any employee who permits or engages in sexual harassment may be subject to disciplinary action up to and including dismissal.
Suspension
Our intention is that our school environment be a positive and successful one. At times, it may become necessary to suspend a student from school. According to NUSD Board Policy, 5114(c), and California Education Code, 48900, students may be suspended from school for any of the following reasons.
1. Caused, attempted to cause, or threatened to cause physical injury to another person.
2. Possessed, sold, or otherwise furnished any firearm, knife, explosive, or other dangerous object.
3. Unlawfully possessed, used, sold, or otherwise furnished, or was under the influence of any controlled substance.
4. Unlawfully offered or arranged or negotiated to sell any controlled substance.
5. Committed robbery or extortion.
6. Caused or attempted to cause damage to school property or private property.
7. Stole or attempted to steal school property or private property.
8. Possessed or used tobacco, except as permitted under the regulations of this school district according to
Education Code Section 48901 (df.5131.6-Drugs, Tobacco, Alcohol).
9. Committed an obscene act or engaged in habitual profanity or vulgarity.
10. Unlawfully offered, arranged, or negotiated to sell any drug paraphernalia, as defined in Section 11364 of the
Health and Safety Code.
11. Disrupted school activities or otherwise willfully defied the valid authority of supervisors, teachers, administrators, other school officials, or other school personnel engaged in the performance of their duties.
12. Has committed sexual harassment as defined in Education Code 48900.2 section 212.5.
13. In the event of suspension, parents and pupils have the right to due process, (Education Code 48911, 48914, 48915) and to review the student’s records. In the event of suspension, a parent conference with the principal may occur before the student is readmitted to school.
Rancho School PTA is an organization of parents, teachers, staff, and administrators who support the school and students. The mission is to enrich the educational experience for all children, to support the teachers and staff, and to provide opportunities for increased parent involvement in the school.
The PTA sponsors numerous events throughout the year for the benefit of our children. We hope you will lend your support.
A strong PTA is a volunteer organization that is vital to the continued health of the school and community. Membership dues and fundraisers are one of our main sources of income to support enrichment programs.
The Rancho PTA meets the fourth Monday of each month. Specific dates and times will be provided in the, Eagle News, Rancho's weekly newsletter. All parents are invited to attend and are encouraged to become PTA members.
Look for more information on how to join and support PTA! Please feel free to reach out to PTA President, Aubin Giampaoli at ranchoschoolpta@gmail.com
The Site Council works collaboratively to make decisions about how state-allocated funds will be spent to support the school plan.
The School Site Council (SSC) is elected from the parent/guardian and faculty body, representing an equal number of staff and family members. The School Site Council revises Rancho’s Single Plan for Student Achievement (school plan) annually and submits it to Novato Unified School District (NUSD). The school plan outlines goals and activities for the year and benchmarks progress.
SSC meets once a month and all meetings are open to the public. Agendas and minutes are posted in the Eagle News.
If you would like to join Rancho's Site Council, we are looking for two new community members for the 2021-2022 school year. Please reach out to cnam@nusd.org
The YMCA, a private childcare provider, offers childcare on the Rancho campus.
Scholarships are available to eligible families.
Please reach out directly to YMCA of San Francisco - Marin Branch for additional information.
Address and Phone Number:
1500 Los Gamos Drive
San Rafael, CA 94903
415-492-9622
Contact Name:
Jordan James, Senior Director of Youth Development
Hours Open:
7am -- 6pm Monday-Friday
___________________________________________________________________Rancho offers a variety of after-school programs. Classes are offered throughout the school year and enrollment materials can be found in the school office and publicized via the Eagle News. We are hoping to provide the most of the following programs:
- Girls on the Run
- Yoga
- Spanish
- Chess
- Coding
- And more...
Novato Police Department
- 911 (emergencies)
- (415) 897-4361 (information)
- (415) 472-0911 (use if calling by cell phone)
Marin County Sheriff
- (415) 479-2311 (emergencies)
- (415) 499-7250 (information)
Novato Fire Protection District
- 911 (emergencies)
- (415) 878-2690 (information)
- (415) 472-0911 (use if calling by cell phone)
Novato Community Hospital
- (415) 897-3111
Novato Parks and Recreation
- (415) 897-4323
Novato Library
- (415) 898-4623